Brother KH 801

Brother KH-801
Manufacturer	Brother
Model	KH-801
Gauge	Standard
Type	Domestic
Patterning	24 stitch punch card
Needles	200
Release Year	1973
Accessories	Lace Carriage, Extensions, 24-Stitch Punch Cards
Also Known As	Jones KH-801

The Brother KH-801 is a landmark standard gauge (4.5mm) knitting machine. It is historically significant as the first Brother model to feature the 24-stitch punch card repeat, establishing the industry standard that would remain in use through the end of Brother's machine production in the 1990s.

Historical Context

Following the 12-stitch repeat of the KH-800, the KH-801 doubled the patterning width. This leap allowed for much more complex Fair Isle motifs and more intricate lace patterns. The 24-stitch card introduced with this machine is physically compatible with almost all subsequent Brother punch card models (KH-820 through KH-894).

Key Features

• 24-Stitch Punch Card: The first model to use the "standard" Brother cards. It includes the "Stop/Start" and "Single Motif" settings that became staples of the Brother line.
• Integrated Sinker Posts: Unlike earlier "flat bed" machines, the KH-801 features sinker posts (also known as gate pegs) that help hold the knitting down, though weights are still recommended for most fabrics.
• Lace Carriage: Bundled with an early version of the Brother lace carriage. Unlike later "fashion lace" carriages, this model often requires separate passes for transferring and knitting.

Technical Specifications

• Gauge: 4.5mm (Standard)
• Patterning Width: 24 stitches
• Needle Count: 200
• Construction: All-metal bed and internal gearing.

Maintenance

• Sponge Bar: Uses a standard 4.5mm Brother sponge bar.
• Old Grease: Because these machines are over 50 years old, the internal "drums" that read the punch card often suffer from dried-out grease. If the patterning feels stiff or needles aren't selecting correctly, a deep clean of the carriage and the card reader unit is required.