Needles were an essential tool for thousands of years; without this tool, life as we know it would be much different. Mass production of clothing was nearly impossible before the introduction of the mechanised sewing machine some 300 years ago. The process of knitting has also benefitted from advances in technology. Sewing and knitting machines, tools and equipment allow textiles to be produced at a rapid rate, leading to increased product availability and lower prices for the consumer.

Most people have seen a sewing machine and many have used one; beyond that, knowledge is usually pretty limited. An electric motor provides the power necessary to move the needle up and down. The motor attaches to a drive wheel with a belt; as the motor turns, so do the drive wheel and shaft, which, essentially, is all that is needed to move the needle as well as moving cloth through the machine.

Knitting machines, unlike sewing machines, are able to knit several stitches at one time. This is accomplished by placing yarn on a bed equipped with four or five hooks; as the bed moves through the machine, the needle runs the yarn through the loops on the bed, replicating hand knitting. These machines are able to be programmed to make specific patterns, either by using pre-made templates or by using computer software.

Sewing and knitting machines, tools and equipment have revolutionised the textile industry and as technological advances continue to be made, these machines will continue to grow faster and more efficient.