Kitty Knits: Cat Motif Lace Scarf
For years I tried to learn how to knit lace, and was frustrated as I failed each time. I finally gave up because I wanted to have fun knitting and enjoy my hobby. I thought I would never be able to knit lace, until I stumbled onto a few simple secrets that gave me the confidence and practice I needed to ease into lace knitting. If I learned how to knit lace after years of frustration and failure, I know other knitters can, too! In this workshop we will discuss the tools and yarns used to knit lace, learn how to follow lace charts, and make a practice swatch. Students will then move on to making a scarf with a cute cat-motif.
Explore Japanese Knitting
Japanese knitting books are hot right now. Although the patterns are written entirely in Japanese, they are not impossible for American audiences to read. Very light on text and very heavy on charts and schematics, with a cheat sheet of translations, any adventurous knitter can enter the world of Japanese knitting. In this class we will learn how to read Japanese patterns, focusing on the charts and schematics. Because Japanese patterns usually are written for one size -- small or extra-small -- we will also learn how to resize the patterns for larger American bodies. In addition, we will learn a few interesting Japanese stitches and techniques that can be used to add an extra level of finesse to any project.
The Knitted Rug: Amish Oval Rug
In this class, we will learn to make an oval knitted rug inspired by Early American braided rugs. Made from old rags, these early rugs represent frugality and parsimony, but their flamboyant colors speak of a love for beauty. This workshop gives you the chance to bring the classic braided look into your own home. This rug can be made in all Garter stitch (for beginners) or of alternating Garter and short-row Stockinette Stitch strips (for more advanced knitters).
Explore Japanese Knitting
Japanese knitting books are hot right now. Although the patterns are written entirely in Japanese, they are not impossible for American audiences to read. Very light on text and very heavy on charts and schematics, with a cheat sheet of translations, any adventurous knitter can enter the world of Japanese knitting. In this class we will learn how to read Japanese patterns, focusing on the charts and schematics. Because Japanese patterns usually are written for one size -- small or extra-small -- we will also learn how to resize the patterns for larger American bodies. In addition, we will learn a few interesting Japanese stitches and techniques that can be used to add an extra level of finesse to any project.
The Knitted Rug: Amish Oval Rug
In this class, we will learn to make an oval knitted rug inspired by Early American braided rugs. Made from old rags, these early rugs represent frugality and parsimony, but their flamboyant colors speak of a love for beauty. This workshop gives you the chance to bring the classic braided look into your own home. This rug can be made in all Garter stitch (for beginners) or of alternating Garter and short-row Stockinette Stitch strips (for more advanced knitters).
Writing Workshop
Writing exercises to get the creative juices flowing. Bring pen and paper and that's all you need. We will talk about how to avoid writer's block and spend most of the time writing. Those who want to will be able to read their work aloud as well.
April 18, 2009 Yarnover The Minnesota Knitters' Guild 23rd Annual Yarnover - Mark your calendars for the 23rd annual Minnesota Knitters' Guild Yarnover, an all-day event. Featured are a market with vendors from the Midwest and Canada, along with classes taught by nationally known teachers. Check the MKG home page (http://www.knitters.org) in January 2009 for updates.
Explore Japanese Knitting
Japanese knitting books are hot right now. Although the patterns are written entirely in Japanese, they are not impossible for American audiences to read. Very light on text and very heavy on charts and schematics, with a cheat sheet of translations, any adventurous knitter can enter the world of Japanese knitting. In this class we will learn how to read Japanese patterns, focusing on the charts and schematics. Because Japanese patterns usually are written for one size -- small or extra-small -- we will also learn how to resize the patterns for larger American bodies. In addition, we will learn a few interesting Japanese stitches and techniques that can be used to add an extra level of finesse to any project.
2-day Design Your Own Sweater workshop
In this class we will use the techniques from Ethnic Knitting Discovery and Ethnic Knitting Explroation to design our own sweaters. Each student will select one type of sweater: drop shoulder, modified drop-shoulder, raglan, or yoke style and we will work through the necessary steps to design a sweater. When the class is over, you will be ready to knit a sweater from your own design. After the Friday class, we will shop for yarn at the market. Includes two online follow up sessions (free) for sleeves and finishing, about 1 and 2 months afterwards, to make sure everyone stays on track with such a large project!
June 20 and 21, 2009 Tricolaine
Geneva, Switzerland
Lace Knitting 1-2-3
In this workshop we will discuss the tools and yarns used to knit lace, learn how to follow lace charts, and make one swatch in worsted-weight yarn and one in sport-weight yarn. Students will then be ready to knit a lace-weight swatch on their own, and move on to making a simple project such as a lace scarf or hat. We will also work on more complicated lace patterns and design a border pattern.
Morning: Beginner lace.
Afternoon: Advanced lace.
Explore Japanese Knitting
Japanese knitting books are hot right now. Although the patterns are written entirely in Japanese, they are not impossible for American audiences to read. Very light on text and very heavy on charts and schematics, with a cheat sheet of translations, any adventurous knitter can enter the world of Japanese knitting. In this class we will learn how to read Japanese patterns, focusing on the charts and schematics. Because Japanese patterns usually are written for one size -- small or extra-small -- we will also learn how to resize the patterns for larger American bodies. In addition, we will learn a few interesting Japanese stitches and techniques that can be used to add an extra level of finesse to any project.
June 27 and 28, 2009 Woolfest
Lake District, England
American Knitting Traditions (US, Canada, and South America)
