The Heart of a Textile Worker

The Heart of a Textile Worker

The roar of the machines is a pleasant symphony; the prosperity of one's career is a precious gift.

Old Li, a veteran worker at a textile mill in the Jiangnan region, reflects through his years alongside circular knitting machines the true transformation of China’s textile industry.

In the 1980s, when Old Li first encountered the circular knitting machine, this colossal piece of equipment was among the newest and most novel objects of its time. Through repeated interactions, growing familiarity, reading relevant materials, and patiently and joyfully exchanging knowledge with colleagues, he gradually realized that this machine operated according to its own set of rules. By following these rules, one could grasp its patterns after some time. Even if initially not adhering to them, over time and with experience, many things would naturally become clear. After spending time studying and recording observations, one would eventually recognize certain truths and inevitably return to these fundamental principles. Persistently going against these rules might mean never truly understanding them.

Of course, those with a university or college background in textile-related fields can integrate into the industry very quickly. However, this does not mean others cannot enter the field. Instead, one should approach it with humility, learning step by step. There will always be people who know more than you do, excelling in specific areas. Seeking their advice and learning from their excellent qualities is one of the fastest ways to get started.

Like Old Li, he began treating the circular knitting machine as his own child, deeply understanding it needed meticulous care and nurturing. Filled with a strong desire, he started by understanding its operation, driven by intense passion and an urgent desire to learn. He also recognized that recording, thinking, and maintaining an active mind were essential.

Every day, he arrived early at the workshop, carefully observing every component of the machine and meticulously recording each operational step. He knew this marked the beginning of his career and the start of an emotional bond with the circular knitting machine. Over time, Old Li gradually grew into a skilled operator of the circular knitting machine. Not only did he master the basic operations of the machine, but he also learned how to adjust its parameters according to fabric requirements. He could accurately judge yarn tension, promptly handle machine malfunctions, and ensure smooth production.

Entering the 21st century, the rapid development of technology meant that upgrades to the circular knitting machine wouldn’t stop. The introduction of computers and fully automatic systems made these machines more automated and intelligent. Diverse market demands required the circular knitting machine to have more functionalities, meaning operating them required increasingly complex knowledge and skills. Facing these challenges, Old Li did not retreat. He actively participated in various training sessions to learn new skills. He understood that only through continuous learning could he keep up with the times. With the help of new machines, Old Li and his colleagues produced more high-quality fabrics, winning the factory more orders.

Young people of the new era continuously enter this industry, injecting fresh blood. For children, watching others knit sweaters is one of the beautiful memories of childhood—a time of curiosity where stitch by stitch, a tangible sweater could be created. Various knitting patterns produce diverse finished products, not only magical but also pleasing to the eye, providing warmth when worn.

Adults often wonder how the beautiful clothes displayed in supermarkets or clothing stores are made. Some may even ponder whether they are still hand-knitted stitch by stitch. It should be understood that the most basic fabrics are woven by various machines, and the circular knitting machine is one of the most efficient among them.

The arrival of the mechanized era made mass production possible. The healthy development of an industry requires precise planning. While marveling at the speed of garment production, one must also maintain a clear head. Only when the industry is healthy can everyone work smoothly.

The infinite expansion of capitalism inevitably has side effects.

Good planning allows for proactive thinking, experimentation, and bold action with foresight. Top talents in the industry can see its future, but they cannot afford to be complacent now nor blindly optimistic. Your input yields output; stable and confident management leads to steady, problem-free development.

Therefore, the industry needs more talent to support it, more vitality, dedication, and effective efforts. We must always maintain confidence and courage to walk well on these paths that can be mastered with extra care and attention.