I bought this Addi because I had the micheals loops and thread knitting machine. The micheals knitting machine kept jamming when I crank it. It was very toy like, i made 1 hat, it was a child size. Yet it didn’t take bulky yarn. I was just not pleased with it . So, I decided to go and buy the Addi. I saw so many reviews on how much people loved it and was wondering what the hoopla was about. I must say the machine is just beautiful. You really have to buy one to experience what others have said about it. It’s a very hands on experience, as words can’t describe it, you must see it to believe it, as I just got it in the mail. Exceptional service from the seller, as it came early then expected. The wait was excruciating but worth it, the seller told me that this takes 7 to 20 business days to deliver, As this machine is coming from Germany. It’s also made in Germany. ( please find something to do while you wait for this to arrive, crochet if you have too! ) upon opening the box was exciting, I did receive everything as described ( a pattern book, the express hook, stoppers, and replacement needles, the machine and leg clamps and legs) i did not get the dvd. This is the Rolls Royce of circular knitting machine, very well built. Does not look toy like , like some other knitting machines. Made of durable plastic. Crank easily, there is 3 black hooks, unlike the 1 black hook on the micheals knitting machine, the addi Looks delicate still, you can’t go crazy with it. Heard you can make hats in 30 mins. Please, please appreciate it and care for it as it seems it will last a lifetime, if well maintained. Not light weight, it is a little heavy but portable.You are making a great investment on this, as this machine is not cheap. Please shop around for best price. Not everyone can afford it. After experimenting with it, it’s not that easy to use like many people have said in their reviews, this takes time getting used to the feel of it, if you’re a beginner like I am. If you have no idea then it will seem hard to use, Seems like you need some knowledge and experience, but i am going to refer to YouTube as to how to properly use this . In the pattern book, everything inside looks beautiful, but looks very hard to do unless you are an expert at using the addi knitting machine. The instructions manual is hard to understand. But there are better written ones in the beginning pages of the pattern book that was included with my order. After getting my own addi, i have to say i do recommend this to anyone who enjoys yarn work, crocheting,knitting, loom knitting to purchase one. or you know someone who loves yarn and needlework .. this makes a great gift, they will enjoy immensely. Please Enjoy what this can do. Have fun with it. As I know I will.