Abstract: A yarn tensioner or brake for textile knitting machines having several tensioners on a support rod, each tensioner having a pair of tension cups which are pressed against each other by compressed springs supported from a stationary support. In a first embodiment, a stationary tension cup forms the stationary support and a floating tension cup alternates with respect to a stationary tension cup of an adjacent tensioner. The stationary tension cups have cylindrical protruding guides which slip fit into and guide the floating tension cups. In another embodiment, a stationary support supports compressed springs on both sides. The stationary support is formed of a circular support wall which has cylindrical protrusions on opposing sides and sized to slip fit into respective floating tension cups. A pair of stationary supports positioned on the support rod to support and guide opposing floating tension cups against each other. Each respective floating tension cup is driven by a respective coil spring.