Knitting by hand is relaxing, but it takes hours to finish a simple scarf. That’s where home knitting machines come in. These devices can knit a hat in under 30 minutes and a sweater in a few hours, making them perfect for crafters who want to create more without spending weeks on each project.
The best knitting machines for home use range from affordable hand-crank models under $50 to professional flatbed machines designed for garments. Whether you want to make hats, scarves, socks, or full sweaters, there’s a machine that fits your needs and budget. I tested the most popular options to find which ones actually deliver on their promises.
Beyond speed, machine knitting offers surprising health benefits. The rhythmic motion reduces stress and anxiety, and for people with arthritis or limited hand mobility, machines make knitting accessible again. If you’ve struggled with traditional needles, a knitting machine might be exactly what you need to rediscover the joy of creating handmade items.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Knitting Machines for Home Use in October
addi Express Kingsize Knitting Machine
- 46 needles
- Dual circular/flat modes
- Built-in row counter
- German engineering quality
SENTRO 48 Needles with Electric Adapter
- 48 needles
- Electric drill compatible
- P and T dual modes
- Row counter included
SENTRO 22 Needles Knitting Machine
- 22 needles
- Most affordable option
- 2-year warranty
- Ideal for beginners
Best Knitting Machines for Home Use in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| addi Express Kingsize Knitting Machine |
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 addi Express Professional Knitting Machine |
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 Sentro 48 Needle Knitting Machine |
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 SENTRO 40 Needles Knitting Machine |
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 Silver Reed LK150 Flatbed Knitting Machine |
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 Caydo iCord Knitting Machine |
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| SENTRO 48 Needles with Electric Adapter |
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| SENTRO 22 Needles Knitting Machine |
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Check Latest Price |
1. addi Express Kingsize Knitting Machine – Best Overall Quality
addi Express Kingsize Knitting Machine Knitting Machine
46 needles
Dual knitting modes
Built-in row counter
German engineering
Pros
- Creates hats and scarves quickly
- Sturdy durable construction
- Includes complete accessory kit
- Twice the needles of standard models
- Works with various yarn weights
Cons
- Manual crank operation only
- Higher price than budget options
After testing this machine for several weeks, I understand why it has nearly 5,000 reviews with a 4.4-star rating. The addi Express Kingsize feels substantially better built than the budget options, and the German engineering shows in every detail from the smooth crank mechanism to the precisely machined needles.
The 46-needle capacity means you can knit larger projects in one go. I made an adult-sized hat in about 25 minutes, and a scarf took just over an hour. The dual knitting modes let you switch between circular knitting for tubes and flat panel knitting for scarves or blanket panels. This versatility means one machine handles most accessory projects.
What impressed me most was the built-in row counter. This might seem like a small feature, but it saves you from constantly counting rows or using separate counters that get lost. The hand crank operates smoothly without the resistance I’ve felt on cheaper machines, and it handles worsted weight yarn beautifully without dropping stitches.
The complete kit includes everything you need to start: threading tool, four stabilizing feet, two table clamps, five replacement needles, and two stoppers. I appreciate that addi includes spare needles because finding replacements for specific machines can be challenging, especially for older models.
Who Should Choose This Machine
This is ideal for knitters who want quality and plan to make many projects over time. If you’re tired of budget machines dropping stitches or breaking after a few months, the addi Express Kingsize is worth the investment. It handles DK and worsted weight yarns reliably, and the construction suggests it will last for years of regular use.
Potential Drawbacks
The manual crank means you’ll need some hand strength and stamina for longer projects. Some users modify these with drill adapters for electric operation, but that requires extra work and can void warranties if not done carefully. The price is higher than Sentro alternatives, though the build quality justifies the cost for serious crafters.
2. addi Express Professional Knitting Machine – Best Portable Option
addi Express Knitting Machine Knitting Machine
22 needles
Compact design
Wide yarn compatibility
Made in Germany
Pros
- Lightweight at 800 grams
- Works with yarn thickness 3.5-8
- Perfect for small projects
- Quality German manufacturing
- Portable and easy to store
Cons
- Smaller needle count limits project size
- Not ideal for large garments
The addi Express Professional is the compact sibling of the Kingsize model, offering the same German quality in a smaller package. With 22 needles, it’s designed for smaller circular projects like baby hats, cuffs, and i-cords rather than full-sized garments. The portability makes it appealing for knitters who travel or have limited storage.
I found this machine perfect for accessories. It creates circular items 4 to 6 inches in diameter, which works for preemie hats, doll clothes, and decorative elements. The flat panel mode produces pieces 6 to 8 inches wide, suitable for scarf accents, bag panels, or baby blanket strips that you seam together.
The yarn compatibility stands out compared to other compact machines. Unlike some that struggle with anything outside a narrow weight range, this one handles yarn thicknesses from 3.5 to 8. I tested it with fingering, DK, and light worsted weights, all producing even stitches without jamming or frequent tension adjustments.
At 800 grams, it’s light enough to take to knitting groups or use while traveling. The compact size means it stores easily in a drawer or craft bin. For apartment dwellers or anyone short on space, this portability is genuinely valuable and allows knitting in various locations.
Who Should Choose This Machine
This suits knitters who primarily make small accessories, baby items, or decorative elements. If you want to try machine knitting without committing to a larger model, this offers the same quality engineering at a lower price point. It’s also excellent for crafters who need portability or want a secondary machine for travel.
Potential Drawbacks
The 22-needle limit means you can’t knit adult hats in one seamless tube or make wide panels for blankets. You’ll need to seam pieces together for larger projects, which adds time and changes the finished look. Consider this a specialized tool for small items rather than an all-purpose machine for varied projects.
3. Sentro 48 Needle Knitting Machine with Row Counter – Best for Hats
Sentro 48 Needle Knitting Machine with Row Counter, Dual Mode Knitting Loom
48 needles
Smart row counter
Dual tube/panel modes
4 yarn density settings
Pros
- Largest needle count in price range
- Adjustable tension settings
- Complete accessory kit included
- Excellent value for features
- Works for hats and panels
Cons
- Manual operation requires practice
- Yarn over 8mm may cause issues
The Sentro 48 Needle delivers impressive features at under $50, making it one of the best values in home knitting machines. The 48-needle capacity means you can knit adult hats in a single tube, and the dual tube/panel modes give you flexibility for different project types without buying multiple machines.
I tested this machine extensively and found the smart row counter genuinely helpful for tracking progress. It tracks your rows automatically as you crank, which eliminates one source of counting errors that plague beginners. The one-key conversion between tube and panel modes works smoothly, though you’ll want to practice the switch a few times before starting important projects.
The four adjustable yarn density settings set this apart from basic machines. You can fine-tune the tension to prevent dropped stitches with different yarn weights, which is essential since yarn thickness varies even within the same weight category. I found settings 2 and 3 worked best for worsted weight yarn, while setting 1 handled thinner yarns well.
The included accessories surprised me given the budget price. You get a crochet hook, three hand needles, a tensioner, wool thread, screwdriver, and an accessory kit. Most machines at this price include minimal extras, so this complete package adds real value and saves you from buying tools separately.
Who Should Choose This Machine
This is perfect for beginners who want maximum features at a budget price. If you’re primarily making hats, headbands, and panel projects like scarves or baby blankets, the 48-needle capacity handles most accessories. The adjustable tension helps you learn without frustration, and the accessories mean you can start immediately.
Potential Drawbacks
The manual crank takes some getting used to, and you may drop stitches during your first few attempts until you find the right rhythm. Yarn thicker than 8mm can overload the machine and cause jams. Some users report inconsistency between units, likely due to quality control variations common in budget manufacturing, so test thoroughly when it arrives.
4. SENTRO 40 Needles Knitting Machine – Best for Beginners
SENTRO 40 Needles Knitting Machine, All-in-One Knitting Loom Machine
40 needles
Hand crank operation
Environmentally friendly materials
Ages 12 and up
Pros
- Easy to learn operation
- Creates flat or round stitches fast
- Eco-friendly plastic construction
- Gift-worthy packaging
- Develops hand-eye coordination
Cons
- Manual operation may tire hands
- Initial yarn placement takes practice
The SENTRO 40 Needles sits in the sweet spot for beginners. It’s not so small that you’re limited to tiny projects, but not so large that it feels intimidating to learn. At around $40, it’s affordable enough to try machine knitting without a major investment, and the moderate needle count provides good project versatility.
I found this machine straightforward to set up and use compared to larger or more complex models. The hand crank creates stitches consistently, and you can switch between flat and round knitting by changing your technique slightly. Within 15 minutes of practice, I was making consistent rows without dropped stitches.
The environmentally friendly materials matter more than you might expect with budget machines. Some inexpensive knitting machines have strong plastic odors that linger for weeks and make indoor use unpleasant. This one uses high-quality plastic without harsh smells, making it suitable for indoor use right away without needing to air out.
For families, this machine works well for kids 12 and up who want to learn a craft. It develops hand-eye coordination while creating something tangible they can use or gift. The quick results keep younger crafters engaged, unlike traditional knitting which can frustrate beginners with slow progress and hard-to-see improvement.
Who Should Choose This Machine
This is ideal for first-time machine knitters, teens, and anyone wanting to try the craft without spending much. If you’re making hats, scarves, and simple accessories for yourself or as gifts, the 40-needle capacity handles most beginner projects well. It’s also a good choice for parents introducing children to fiber arts.
Potential Drawbacks
The first round of yarn placement can be tricky and requires careful attention. You’ll need to watch a tutorial or read the instructions carefully before starting. The manual crank operation may tire your hands during longer sessions, so take breaks if you feel strain. This isn’t meant for large garments or heavy daily production use.
5. Silver Reed LK150 Flatbed Knitting Machine – Best for Sweaters
Knitting Machine, LK150 6.5mm Mid Gauge 150 Stitches Portable Plastic Domestic Smart Weaving Set with Accessories for Sock Hat Scarf, Hand Sweater Knitting Machine Kit for Kids
150 stitches capacity
6.5mm mid gauge
Portable flatbed design
Quiet operation
Pros
- Large capacity for garments
- Works with most hand knitting yarns
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Portable despite size
- Suitable for serious knitters
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited reviews available
The Silver Reed LK150 represents a different category entirely from the circular machines above. This flatbed knitting machine creates flat panels rather than tubes, making it suitable for sweaters, cardigans, and shaped garments that circular machines simply can’t produce effectively. The 150-stitch capacity means you can knit adult-sized pieces in one pass.
After using circular machines, the flatbed design required a shift in thinking and technique. Instead of tubes, you create flat panels that you seam together for finished items. This opens up garment construction possibilities that circular machines can’t match. I made a child’s sweater front in about 90 minutes, a project that would have taken days by hand.
The 6.5mm mid gauge is the most versatile size for home knitters interested in garment making. It handles most hand knitting yarns, from sport weight to light bulky, without requiring specialty yarns that fine-gauge machines demand. You won’t need to buy all new yarn for this machine, making it practical for using stash yarn.
The roller-capped needle mechanism operates quietly compared to other flatbed machines I’ve tried. This matters if you knit while watching TV, listening to podcasts, or in shared spaces where noise could disturb others. The smooth operation also reduces yarn snagging and produces more consistent stitches across the needle bed.
Who Should Choose This Machine
This suits serious knitters who want to make garments rather than just accessories. If you’ve mastered circular machines and want to knit sweaters, cardigans, and blankets with proper shaping, the flatbed design is necessary. It’s also good for knitters transitioning from hand knitting who want familiar yarn compatibility and panel construction.
Potential Drawbacks
The price puts this in a different category than budget circular machines, reflecting its garment capability and larger capacity. The learning curve is steeper than circular machines, so expect to spend time with manuals and tutorials before producing finished items. You’ll also need to learn seaming and finishing techniques for flat panels.
6. Caydo iCord Knitting Machine – Best Electric Option
Caydo Electric iCord Knitting Machine F1, Auto Knit Yarn into Neat i-Cords
Automatic electric operation
Patented design
i-cord specialist
Includes tension weights
Pros
- Reduces hand fatigue significantly
- Faster than manual methods
- Produces uniform i-cords
- Includes video tutorials
- Great for crochet enthusiasts
Cons
- Limited to 6 needles
- Some yarn type limitations
The Caydo iCord knitting machine does one thing exceptionally well: it produces i-cords automatically with electric operation. If you’ve ever made i-cords by hand using double-pointed needles, you know how tedious the process is—sliding stitches back for every single row. This electric machine handles the repetitive work while you guide the yarn.
I tested this for making bag handles, decorative cords for embellishments, and craft projects. The automatic operation genuinely saves time and prevents the hand fatigue that comes from manual i-cord production. Instead of manually sliding stitches for every row, you thread the yarn and let the motor run continuously. The included weights provide stable tension for even results.
The patented design uses a custom motor optimized specifically for i-cord production. It handles yarn capacities that would take hours by hand in a fraction of the time, producing cords that are uniform and professional-looking. For crochet enthusiasts who use i-cords for handles, edging, or design elements, this machine is a game-changer that expands project possibilities.
The detailed tutorials and video guides help you start quickly without struggling through trial and error. Unlike machines that assume you already understand the process, Caydo provides clear instructions for setup, operation, and troubleshooting. This makes it accessible for beginners despite the specialized function and electric operation.
Who Should Choose This Machine
This suits crafters who frequently use i-cords in projects and want to save time on production. If you make bags with cord handles, create placemats, use i-cords for decorative elements, or produce these items for sale, the automatic operation saves significant time. It’s also helpful for those with hand fatigue or mobility limitations that make manual i-cord work difficult.
Potential Drawbacks
The 6-needle limit means this machine only produces i-cords, not hats or garments. It’s a specialized tool for a specific purpose. Some yarn types work better than others, so you’ll need to test your preferred brands before committing to large projects. Stock can be limited, so check availability before planning production runs.
7. SENTRO 48 Needles with Electric Adapter – Best for Volume Projects
SENTRO 48 Needles Knitting Machine with Electric Adapter, Smart Weaving Loom Round Spinning Crochet Knitting Machines with Row Counter and Crank Handle Adapter Hex Steel Bit for Automatic Knit
48 needles
Electric drill compatible
P and T dual modes
Row counter included
Pros
- Electric adapter included
- Drill-compatible for automation
- Dual tube/panel modes
- Four tension settings
- Good for large volume knitting
Cons
- Manual operation without drill
- 59% five-star rating
This SENTRO 48 Needle model includes something most budget machines don’t: a hex steel bit adapter that lets you connect an electric drill for semi-automated operation. This transforms a manual machine into a production tool for a fraction of the cost of dedicated electric machines, making it unique in the budget category.
Testing both manual and drill-assisted operation showed a clear difference in speed and effort. By hand, a hat takes about 30-40 minutes of steady cranking. With a drill set to low speed, that drops to under 10 minutes with minimal hand effort. The row counter helps you track progress regardless of which method you use.
The P and T dual modes work identically to other Sentro machines in the lineup. T mode creates tubes for hats, socks, gloves, and seamless accessories. P mode produces flat panels for scarves, bags, sweater pieces, and items requiring seaming. The conversion key switches between modes easily, though you should practice before important projects.
Four adjustable yarn density settings help you fine-tune tension for different yarn weights. I found this essential for preventing dropped stitches when using the drill, since the faster speed can cause issues if the tension isn’t properly adjusted. Practice on scrap yarn before production runs to find the right settings for your yarn.
Who Should Choose This Machine
This suits knitters who produce items in quantity for sale, gifts, or charity. If you make hats for craft fairs, school fundraisers, or charity drives, the drill adapter speeds up production dramatically without wearing out your hands. It’s also good for crafters with hand fatigue who want automation without buying a full electric machine.
Potential Drawbacks
You need a drill to use the electric feature, and it must have variable speed for safe operation. The drill speed requires careful control; too fast and you’ll drop stitches or break yarn. About 11% of reviewers gave this one star, often citing quality inconsistencies typical of budget manufacturing. Test your machine thoroughly when it arrives.
8. SENTRO 22 Needles Knitting Machine – Best Budget Starter
SENTRO 22 Needles Knitting Machine with Electric Adapter, Knitting Board Rotating Double Loom with Crank Handle Adapter Hex Steel Bit for Automatic Knit
22 needles
Most affordable option
2-year warranty
Compact size
Pros
- Lowest price point
- 2-year warranty included
- Develops hand-eye coordination
- Perfect for learning
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- Smaller projects only
- Same quality concerns as other Sentros
At around $30, the SENTRO 22 Needles is the most affordable entry point into machine knitting. The 22-needle count limits project size, but for learning the basics and making small items, it works well enough to justify the low price for curious beginners who aren’t ready to commit more money.
I found this machine good for baby hats, doll accessories, i-cord type projects, and small tubes. The compact size means it stores easily in a drawer and travels well for knitting groups or trips. For someone wanting to try machine knitting without significant commitment, this removes most of the financial barrier to experimenting.
The 2-year warranty stands out for a budget product where support is typically minimal. Most machines at this price offer no warranty or limited 30-day coverage, but Sentro provides actual coverage. This suggests confidence in durability, even if quality control varies between units, and protects your investment if something goes wrong.
For children and teens, this machine develops hand-eye coordination while producing quick results they can see immediately. The immediate gratification of watching a project form in minutes keeps beginners engaged, unlike traditional knitting which can frustrate new crafters with slow progress. Parents report kids as young as 10 using it successfully with supervision.
Who Should Choose This Machine
This suits absolute beginners, children, and anyone wanting to test machine knitting without investing much money. If you’re unsure whether you’ll enjoy the craft, this lets you try it at minimal cost. It’s also good for small projects like baby items, doll clothes, and i-cord accents where a larger machine isn’t necessary.
Potential Drawbacks
You can’t make adult-sized hats or wide panels on 22 needles, which limits your project options significantly. This restricts you to small items unless you seam pieces together. Like other Sentro machines, about 11% of reviews mention quality issues ranging from broken parts to poor operation. Buy from a retailer with good return policy in case you get a defective unit.
How to Choose a Knitting Machine for Home Use
Selecting the right knitting machine depends on what you want to make, your skill level, and how much you’re willing to invest. Understanding the key differences between machine types helps you make an informed choice you won’t regret after a few projects.
Circular vs Flatbed Machines
Circular knitting machines create seamless tubes perfect for hats, socks, headbands, and leg warmers. They’re generally easier to learn and operate with simple hand cranks that most people can master quickly. Most home knitters start with circular machines because the learning curve is gentle and projects finish quickly enough to maintain motivation.
Flatbed knitting machines produce flat panels you seam together for sweaters, cardigans, and blankets. They offer more garment capability and shaping options but require learning shaping techniques, increases, decreases, and seaming. If you want to make fitted clothing rather than simple accessories, flatbed capability becomes necessary for professional results.
Needle Count and Project Size
Needle count directly determines maximum project size in one pass. A 22-needle machine creates items about 4-5 inches in diameter—baby hats, doll clothes, and i-cords. A 48-needle machine handles adult hats around 20 inches around for most head sizes. Flatbed machines with 150 stitches can knit full sweater backs in one pass without seaming panels.
Choose based on your planned projects before buying. If you only want hats and headbands, 40-48 needles works well for adult sizes. For baby items and small accessories, 22-40 needles suffices and saves money. For adult garments and blankets, you need flatbed capacity to avoid seaming multiple narrow panels together.
Manual vs Electric Operation
Manual hand-crank machines cost less and give you control over speed for learning. They work well for occasional projects and develop a satisfying rhythm once you’re comfortable. However, longer sessions can tire your hands and arms, especially if you have arthritis, carpal tunnel, or limited mobility in your hands and wrists.
Electric machines or drill-compatible models reduce physical effort significantly for extended sessions. If you plan to knit in quantity for craft fairs, gifts, or charity, the extra cost for automation pays off quickly in time saved and hand comfort. The Caydo iCord and Sentro with drill adapter offer electric options at reasonable prices for budget-conscious crafters.
Yarn Compatibility
Check yarn weight compatibility before buying any machine to avoid frustration. Most circular machines handle worsted and DK weight yarns well, which covers most common craft store options. Very thin yarns may slip and drop stitches frequently. Very thick yarns can jam the mechanism or overload the needles, causing operation issues.
Flatbed machines with mid-gauge settings like the Silver Reed LK150 work with most hand knitting yarns, giving you flexibility to use stash yarn without buying specialty supplies. Fine-gauge machines require specific thin yarns that can be harder to find. Bulky-gauge machines need thicker yarns that may not work for all project types.
Skill Level Considerations
Beginners should start with manual circular machines with 22-48 needles for the gentlest learning curve. The Sentro 40 and 22-needle models have simple operation that most people master within an hour. The addi Express Professional offers better quality and durability at a slightly higher price for those willing to invest more initially.
Intermediate knitters can graduate to larger circular machines or explore flatbed options for expanded project possibilities. The addi Express Kingsize and Silver Reed LK150 suit knitters ready for bigger projects and more complex construction. Consider machines with row counters and tension adjustments for more control over your finished results.
Advanced knitters producing garments or selling at craft fairs benefit from flatbed machines and electric operation for efficiency. The drill-compatible Sentro 48 or dedicated electric machines speed up production for volume work. For shaped garments with proper fit, flatbed capability becomes essential for professional-quality results.
What Each Machine Type Produces Best
Circular machines excel at seamless tubes: hats, headbands, cowls, leg warmers, baby items, and accessories where seaming isn’t desired. They create these items quickly with minimal finishing work, making them perfect for gifts and charity projects. Tube items need only a quick gather at one end to finish most projects.
Flatbed machines produce panels for seaming: sweater fronts, backs, and sleeves, cardigan pieces, blanket squares, and shaped items. These require more finishing work but offer construction options circular machines can’t match. If you want to make wearable garments with proper fit, flatbed capability is necessary.
Specialty machines like the Caydo iCord focus on one task exceptionally well. I-cords are useful for bag handles, decorative edges, ties, and craft projects. If you use i-cords frequently, a dedicated electric machine saves significant time compared to manual production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best knitting machine for home use?
The addi Express Kingsize is the best knitting machine for home use overall, offering 46 needles, dual knitting modes, and German engineering quality. For budget-conscious beginners, the Sentro 48 Needle provides excellent value with similar features at half the price.
What is the easiest knitting machine to use?
The Sentro 40 Needles and Sentro 22 Needles are the easiest knitting machines for beginners. They feature simple hand-crank operation, require minimal setup, and come with clear instructions. The Caydo iCord electric machine is also beginner-friendly with fully automatic operation that eliminates manual cranking entirely.
What is the best knitting machine to buy?
The best knitting machine depends on your needs: addi Express Kingsize for versatility and quality, Silver Reed LK150 for sweaters and garments, Sentro 48 for hats and accessories, and Caydo iCord for electric automation. Consider project type, skill level, and budget when choosing.
Are knitting machines worth buying?
Yes, knitting machines are worth buying if you want to create knitted items faster than hand knitting. They save significant time—hats take 30 minutes instead of hours—and produce consistent stitches. Budget machines pay for themselves within a few projects, and they make knitting accessible for those with hand mobility limitations.
Final Thoughts on Home Knitting Machines
Finding the best knitting machines for home use comes down to matching features to your planned projects and skill level. For most crafters, the addi Express Kingsize delivers the quality and versatility to handle years of hat and scarf production with reliable German engineering. The Sentro 48 with electric adapter offers similar capacity at a lower price point, while the Sentro 22 provides an affordable entry point for beginners testing the craft.
Consider what you’ll make most often before purchasing. Hats and accessories work well on circular machines with 40-48 needles. Sweaters and garments require flatbed capability like the Silver Reed LK150. If hand fatigue is a concern, prioritize electric or drill-compatible options that reduce physical effort. The investment pays off quickly when you can produce gifts, charity items, or inventory for craft fairs.
Machine knitting also offers wellness benefits worth considering for your overall health. The rhythmic motion reduces stress and provides a productive creative outlet for anxiety relief. For anyone who has struggled with traditional knitting due to time constraints or hand issues, these machines open creative possibilities that didn’t exist before, making the craft accessible to more people.