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I worked with Lionel Blais from 1958-1961. He was a mechanical genius. He was able to increase the speed of the knitting machines without missing a stitch (trade secret at the time), thus the name Tricnit for 'trick knitting'.

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Interesting etymology of that name. Hope he was well compensated for his contributions.

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My mother worked for Tricnit in the 1940s and was impressed with Lionel Blais' skills. I think he was the highest paid employee and when I was there in the late 50s he was applying for patents on his trade secrets. Patents were assigned to him and not to the Thayers or Tricnit.

I'd like to know what made the Thayers go into sock making. Young Phil Thayer might know, he lives in his grandfather's house and sells firewood. I'm sure you know him.

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