The fully-fashioned machinery was made in 1956. Each machine is 60 feet long and 12 tons in weight. They must be kept at a temperature of 84 degrees Fahrenheit in order to function properly. With 16,000 needles per machine they need constant attention and take one hour to produce only 30 legs. After manufacture each stocking is seamed, one at a time.
People often ask why there is a hole at the top of the seam.
Every stocking is manufactured white and must be colour dyed. They must then be 'Boarded' where each stocking is pulled over a flat wooden or metal leg and steamed. This tightens the knit, defines the leg shape correctly and removes creases. Thereafter each stocking is checked for size to ensure pairs match. Such intense work is not financially viable to a large profit inclined company who need to produce as many units as possible in the least space and at the least cost.