Schedule

Learn the basics of this method for creating jogless stripes in the round and then dive with me into the deep end as we explore new and exciting ways of using this technique, including shaping and incorporating stitch patterns into our work. In class you will be making wrist cuffs (or a water bottle cozy) and you will leave class with basic information to incorporate this exciting twist into your everyday knitting.

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Anyone who can knit and purl can learn how to make beautiful knitted lace by following both written instructions and charted designs. In this class we will cover various decreases, yarn overs and how to follow a pattern. We will start with completely written out instructions and progress to charts. Better yet, learn to correct basic mistakes everyone makes without ripping out and starting over. Students will leave class with a swatch and pattern to work the Patina Lace Scarf.

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Join Alissa and Rita to learn the basics of shuttle tatting. Tatting is a series of knots, worked with a shuttle, tied in patterns to create lace. In this class you will learn the only two kinds of knots you need to know. Students should leave able to create the scissor dangle shown. No prior tatting experience is required.

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Have you ever wished you could knit faster? Learn to knit continentally! “Picking” your stitches with the yarn held in your left hand is widely regarded as the fastest way to knit—and who doesn’t wish they could knit faster? We will make a fingerless mitt (knit flat and sewn together) in class while we learn.

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How many of us have projects languishing in the back of the closet because we have lost our way, forgotten or lost the pattern, the needles are gone or stitches dropped. Consider a crafter’s journal to be the Captain’s Log—it can be as detailed or decorative as you wish, but the main purpose is to keep track of what you have done. A love note to your future self, if you will. Having detailed notes has saved many a crafter’s bacon, but how do you know what to record? Alissa will provide a template sheet as well as show examples and hints on how to tailor your journal to your own needs.

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Knitted or crocheted, until you do it properly, your work doesn’t live up to its potential. Learn different ways of blocking specific to projects and how to treat various fibers. This is a hands-on class; you will need to bring at least three swatches—no smaller than 6″ square. At least one of your swatches should have a fiber content of 70% or more wool. Any size yarn works for these swatches, just use the appropriate sized hook or needle. Use this opportunity to try out a stitch; your imagination is the limit! This class is appropriate for any level needle-person.

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Have problems trimming your projects without puckers or ripples? Want more ideas for some trims? Trims put a “frame” around any project, so this finishing touch is that final touch that can take something from home-made to hand-made. Get the skinny on some interesting, new and different ways to dress up all kinds of crochet. There is no need to go through contortions for fancy-schmancy intricacies that can overwhelm a project. There is no need for really large stitch multiples for huge pattern repeats. These are fun and simple yet accessible.

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Have a ready-to-wear garment that you love? Does this garment fit you like a glove? Would you like to interpret it as a hand-knit or hand-crochet? See how to copy this garment and create a pattern from the original. Learn how easy it is to translate it as a knit (or crochet) without even doing much math!

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Most crocheters avoid seaming like the plague. When working pieces such as strip afghans, the sewing seams daunting. Learn how to join as you go for many situations. Join a new piece to the left of an existing piece, to the right of an existing piece, or to the top or bottom of an existing piece. It’s even possible to work colorblocking without intarsia!

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Learn all the little secrets to make crocheting life easier and better. Find out how to work a foundation chain that is not too tight. Join a new skein of yarn or a new color without losing that first stitch. See ways of attaching buttons as you work. Create invisible circular joins where the beginning and end are absolutely imperceptible. Weave in those little ends that are too short to put through a darning needle. Take away lots of small “fix-its” and improve those details.

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Have you always wanted to learn to knit but just can’t handle two needles? Use a crochet hook instead! Knitting offers more flexibility and stretch as well as more drape and uses less yarn. Don’t be left out just because you’ve never mastered knitting before. Use a tool you’re more comfortable with, however. We will cover knitting and purling both back and forth as well as circularly in the round. This means stockinette stitch, ribbing and garter will be mastered. Really, any knit-purl combination will be attainable such as seed stitch, moss stitch, etc. Cables will be discussed as well as Fair Isle or two-color knitting.

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Most of our garments have traditionally been worked from the bottom up in pieces—back, front(s), and sleeves—then sewn together afterwards. Working from the top down, however, means being able to try on as you go. It also means no seaming! See how to plan and execute such top-down raglans. Learn how to incorporate this using different stitches. Chart out the shaping to keep track of where you are at all times. Ensure a perfect fit every time. Come away with a miniature sample or two to whet your appetite.

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When you read the words “analogous” or “split complementary,” do you hear Charlie Brown’s teacher saying “Wah, wah, wah, wah, waaaah”? Why not really learn how colors work together to create beautiful combinations by using dyes, in person! This workshop is open to all levels of color intimidation and you’ll go home with a dyed practice skein, notes, and a color wheel of your very own. Please wear dye-worthy old clothes, closed-toe shoes, and, if you are a messy dyer, an apron. Also, bring something to write with.

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We’ve all drooled over gradient yarns, fiber, and items made from their gorgeous colors. Join us as we explore, hands-on, a method for building a 36-color gradient from two base colors. After covering some basic equipment and dye stock mixing, you will measure out sample colors from stock solutions using the formulas provided. Experience the wonder of the hues and values as they shift across the gradient study. Students will paint a skein of yarn. Everyone will leave with their own recipe book and 36 sample swatches, painted skein, notes, and a link to helpful spreadsheets that can do the math for them.

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This workshop is a gentle introduction to on-purpose color dyeing. After covering some basic equipment and dye stock mixing, you will use the recipes and dyes provided to mix some of the 24 sample colors from three basic Tropical hues. Students will paint a skein of yarn using some of the 24 new recipes. Everyone will leave with their own recipe notebook and 48 sample swatches (I will provide as a bonus 24 pre-dyed Earth-tone color wheel swatches), sample skein, notes, and a link to a helpful spreadsheet that can do the math for you.

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Double knitting (i.e. reversible stockinette) is an unfairly feared technique that produces a flat fabric with no wrong side. While it can be used for a whole garment, it also works great for button bands, collars, hoods, or other areas where both sides will show. And it makes fabulous color work blankets with no floats waiting to be snagged! If you can knit 1×1 ribbing, you are ready to learn basic two-color, negative mirror-image, stockinette-on-both-sides double knitting.

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What’s your favorite way to knit small circumferences in the round? In this class, we will explore knitting in the round with double-pointed needles, a small circular needle, two circular needles, a magic loop, and Addi Flexiflips. We’ll even look at some very clever ways to make big i-cords (such as glove fingers) and how to work two tubes (socks, anyone?) at the same time. By the end of class, you’ll know what you do and don’t like! If you are a new knitter, this class can save you money. Hint: You do not need a circular needle in every length increment.

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Are you ready for some stunning stunt knitting? Would you like to knit an entire sweater in only 10 or 20 rows? This class will walk you through how to knit labyrinth fabric based on the work of Debbie New. This fabric can show off multicolored yarns to wonderful effect and create kaleidoscopic effects from Fair Isle patterns. Impress your knitting friends and yourself! Pattern for Twist & Turn Cube and Zig-Zag Cube included with class.

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Seams can bedevil even the best knitter and make a great project merely good. Tame the beast now! In this class students will seam stockinette stitch, garter stitch, and ribbing in pattern. We’ll practice grafting for sock toes, and end with two different versions of three-needle bind off.

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It seems brioche is having a moment, especially in the work of Stephen West or Nancy Marchant. Do the directions look like Greek to you? How do I “bark” or “burp” in knitting? What does it mean to work the right side twice without turning? What’s knitting in the stitch below? Students will leave ready to work brioche patterns regardless of how they are described.

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If you’ve ever made a cabled scarf or blanket, you know how it is only partly satisfying. One side is an array of beautiful cables, and the other side is obviously the wrong side. What if there were a way to make both sides good without resorting to double knitting? But there is! This class will cover simple reversible cables as well as ribbles. Alas! These tricks don’t work for all types of cables, but we will look at when they can and can’t be applied. Handout includes pattern for Legerdemain scarf.

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Based on my article for PLY Magazine, this class explores how different fibers behave when treated similarly. We will spend 3 hours sampling and playing with different fiber types using the same techniques to discover how they are similar and different in the way they “like” to be handled. If you are an “All Merino All The Time” spinner and want to stretch your wings, a new spinner wanting to Try All The Things, or a spinner who just wants to Expand Your Horizons, this class is for you. We will explore 5–7 different fibers in this class and maybe even discover a new favorite!

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Tired of your usual and predictable barber pole skeins? In this class, we will look at hand-dyed fiber braids differently. Create spectacular skeins by learning to control the color repeats in your fiber through fractal spinning. We will prepare and spin samples to find our new favorites.

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In this class we will compare, contrast, prep, and spin the fleece of 3–5 heritage or rare breeds of sheep, learning both history and applications for today.

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In this class we will compare, contrast, and swatch the yarn of 3–5 heritage or rare breeds of sheep, learning both history and applications for today.

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In this class, we will be going over the basic stitches of one-color brioche, then move on to exciting two-color brioche, all knit in the round. One-color brioche is a great way to teach your hands the muscle memory of the technique without the complications of two different yarns, and is a fantastic introduction to two-color brioche. Two-color brioche is very fun, and it can be easier to see the anatomy of brioche stitches, so we will be focusing on this for the remainder of the class. Yarn choices and color will be briefly discussed. You will learn my favorite cast-on and bind-off techniques to use with brioche knitting, the basic brioche setup, and work on something you could take home to keep practicing!

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In this class, you will learn the most commonly used two-color brioche increases and decreases needed to create gorgeous brioche lace fabric that will delight and inspire! We will briefly go over basic two-color brioche for a refresher, as well as how to choose the right yarn for your projects! We will be going over the increase and decrease stitches in detail together, while casting on a two-color brioche swatch. Let’s get brioche-ing!

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Gain confidence with your brioche knitting by learning how to fix mistakes, pick up dropped stitches, place lifelines, and add those finishing touches to your brioche projects! Feel free to bring any of your brioche projects you might want to fix or finish, or you can sit back and treat this as a lecture!

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Learn to knit two-color brioche flat and apply it to a project! In this class, I will be teaching my favorite way to design with and knit two-color brioche flat, like I do in all of my shawls and sweater patterns. You will cast on a mini-shawl using basic two-color brioche stitches, as well as brioche increases. No decreasing in this class! I will be going over basic brioche stitches, but please note this is not a beginner brioche class. Color theory and picking out yarn colors will also be covered.

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Look at knitting a bit differently by exploring different textures created by brioche techniques! In this class, we will dive into several distinct stitch patterns using one-, two-, and even three-color brioche knitting. Together we will look at color choices, and cast on a swatch to practice these new stitches. Consider this a special workshop to broaden your brioche horizons!

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In this class, we will be knitting the Deco Mug Mat pattern together, which is a fabulous way to introduce yourself to more intricate brioche increases and decreases. We will go over choosing the right yarns, the specific cast on used in the pattern, and how to incorporate different stitch patterns with brioche knitting.

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What a twist! The ancient exquisite Japanese braiding technique, kumihimo, has gotten a lot of modifications lately. First the addition of beads to the silk strands, and now comes a new idea: kumihimo with wire! This class teaches the delightfully easy tricks to coax this open-work helix out of the braiding stand, the marudai. No previous braiding experience necessary. Students will watch this incredible structure appear, as if by magic, with easy moves. A fun and low-stress class.

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Also called “Viking chain knitting” and “Viking weaving,” this jewelry technique is done with neither knitting needles nor a loom, but instead with thin wire on a stick! Examples of these chains have been found in various archeological sites in Scandinavia dating back to the 8th century AD. This technique can be used to make necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The chain looks exquisite and complicated, but the process is simple and straightforward. This is a great portable handicraft you can work on on the bus or airplane.

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The bow loom is an ancient technique using a simple, portable loom to make narrow, beaded bands. The technique is used in ethnic groups in Thailand to make bands for their exquisite headdresses. The weaving is quick and fun and so portable, you can weave in the park. No previous weaving experience is necessary and the loom goes home with you for many more hours of weaving. This is a great introduction to ethnic weaving.

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Love those diamond shapes called argyle, but are mystified about how to accomplish them? In this workshop, you will learn the classic technique, with tips and tricks, of knitting argyle flat, along with a seaming method that makes the seam nearly invisible and not bulky. Each stage of the construction of an argyle sock will be covered, which is both similar and different to the traditional top-down heel flap sock. Also covered will be how to calculate the size of argyle diamonds for different gauges when designing garments and accessories. There will be two slide shows to inspire you: one on contemporary argyle variations and one on intarsia retro sock designs.

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Slip-stitch patterns can boast amazing colorwork without the hassle of stranding or working with multiple colors in a row! Stunning results such as intricate mosaic designs, textural colorwork like houndstooth, and more are in your future. Along with the basic slip-stitch mosaic knitting technique for garter and stockinette, learn to predict when combinations of variegated and solid-color yarn will work together and when they will not, and how charts are written and read differently for mosaic knitting. Practical tips about navigating the technique and advice regarding the best uses for mosaic knitting are included. Also covered are examples of adding slip stitch to basic garter and progressively adding one, two, and three colors to achieve stunning colorwork results with so little effort!

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Knitting in the stitch below is a stitch that creates a wide variety of textural interest. We will learn and practice the K1 Below technique on a one-color twisted moss pattern practice, on a two-color check pattern and other one-, two-, and three-color textures, and then move on to the more complex hexagon stitch. Also, a complex two-needle cast-on will be taught, appropriate for the hexagon stitch and any other expansive knitted fabric, and appropriate bind-offs will be demonstrated.

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One can spend a knitting lifetime exploring the various lovely twists and turns that make up regular cable combinations. Now add color to that mix! One-color cable patterns against a different background color, different-color cable strands meandering all over and among each other, striped cables, and bi-color rope cables are some of the combinations covered. You will be amazed at how the same cable pattern can produce very different visual experiences by changing which stitch columns receive color. Discover the fun of experimenting with color placement as you learn how to convert a cable chart into a color cable chart using graph paper and/or a charting program.

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Knitting in the stitch below can produce a variety of effects, including creating stunning vertical stripes with a thick, soft, supple fabric while knitting with only one color per row or round. In this class, we will cover and practice the K1B technique to create the column stitch with both flat knitting and knitting in the round. The column stitch becomes vertical stripes when using two colors. Experimentation with variegated colors and textured yarns can add further interest and pizzazz. Suitable cast-ons and bind-offs for this soft, expanded fabric with be taught, as well as tips for attractive edges. Students will practice both versions of the technique, on a swatch for flat knitting and on a hat project for knitting in the round.

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To make this cute little basket you will explore the technique of tapestry crochet in the round, similar to mochila-style bags. During this class you will learn how to work with two colors of yarn, read three different graphs, and create an unusual border using reverse single crochet. Come join the fun in learning new techniques using single crochet stitches.

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Explore weaving on the Kiss Looms square, rectangle, triangle and hexagon weaving looms. Many sizes are available to try out during the class. You will learn how to weave on each type of loom as well as seaming techniques to make them into larger projects, such as pillows, scarves, blankets, bowls and shawls. Yarn and looms will be available during the class. Looms will be available for purchase after the class.

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Using parts of old aluminum knitting needles we will be making three pairs of earrings—keep them all or gift some! Jennifer will provide all findings, tools and materials to explore basic jewelry making using “beads” cut from the old needles. Join in and make some light, colorful fiber-centric bling!

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Students will learn to needle felt beautiful fairies made in the Waldorf school style (blank faces). These tiny friends can be hung in holiday decor or hold on to a finger; there are many ways to decorate them and make them your own. They are needle-felted wool over a simple wire armature. We will aim to make two to three fairy people in the class. Students will have extra fiber and basic felting pads and needles to take with them. Enjoyable for all skill levels.

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Learn to make your own stitch markers in a variety of styles and some basic jewelry making skills.

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Would you like to build a snowman? We will be needle felting the cutest little snowman or snowwoman ever! Hands-on needle felting project and skill building; we will use wire armatures and finish our snowpeople with charming scarves, hats and rosy cheeks. Students will leave with a finished snowman or snowwoman and means to make others. Enjoyable for all skill levels.

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Teaching the students basic lace knitting skills: pattern reading, reading charts.

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This class will give you the opportunity to learn the traditional craft of punch needle rug hooking. Una will teach you from stitch gauge to finishing and you will go home with two completed projects. First you will make a mug rug to get used to the stitch lengths (don’t worry, there are only two!) before continuing on to our main project. Our main project will be project on a pre-stretched frame, ready to hang and admire!

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Always wanted to learn how to knit? Experiencing pain in your wrists from needle knitting? Loom knitting is great for those just starting out or those who have been knitting for years! This Beginner Basics of Loom Knitting class is for first-time loom knitters. We will start with casting-on techniques and how to do knit and purl stitches for flat-panel and in-the-round knitting as well as binding-off techniques. You will also learn how to adjust gauge for different projects and how to set up for double knitting. This is a great class to get your feet wet. We will use the adjustable Kiss Looms for the class and you will get a small-gauge 30-peg loom with 7 peg ends, a great starter loom with room to add on later. Whether you’ve been knitting with needles for years or have always wanted to knit, you’ll love working with an adjustable loom. It’s easy on your hands and gives you lots of versatility!

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We all love beardy, little red-hatted fellows! Learn to needle felt your very own gnome. Never needle felted before? No problem, this class is fun for all skill levels. We will use long natural wool locks for beards and make cute noses and pointy hats from sheep fiber. You can go in so many directions with these, you’ll want to make a bunch. Supplies will include fiber, specialty locks for beards and simple felting needles and a 5″ × 5″ felting. You are encouraged to bring your favorite felting multi-tools if you have them, but there will be some for sharing as well.

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Students will learn techniques for making Orenburg shawls.

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In this class, participants will learn how to knit a sock on a rotating-cylinder circular sock machine (CSM). Designed for beginners (even those who have never used a CSM before), we will go through every step of how to crank out a cuff-down sock including casting on and the basics of knitting a tube, changing yarns and using a ravel cord, hanging the hem, turning a short row heel and toe, and kitchenering the toe closed from the purl side. We’ll also provide troubleshooting and repair tips, and cover how to crank out socks that will fit. The class will be taught on Dean and Bean’s Sock Machines, and loaner machines and tools will be provided for all participants. Each participant will leave with one knitted sock in a woman’s shoe size of their choice and the other half of the skein of yarn.

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