Reservations 877·97·CRAFT  (877·972·7238)

Knitting in Both Directions

Instructor: Gwen Bortner       Class Capacity: 25
Class Level: Intermediate      

Description ~ Knitting in Both Directions

Most of us knit in one direction, but what would happen if you could knit in EITHER direction?  Bobbles would pop out faster, entrelac would be even more fun, edgings would be added quicker and your yarn would be less tangled.  Some call it knitting back backwards, but regardless of the name, it is a great skill to have in your knitting arsenal.  You can learn the basics to knitting (and purling) in "the other direction" regardless of the way you knit now!  All it takes, as with most things, is a little bit of practice.


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Charting the World of Knitting

Instructor: Gwen Bortner       Class Capacity: 25
Class Level: Intermediate      

Description ~ Charting the World of Knitting

Charts are called the "universal language" of knitting, but there is no universal standard. While learning the basics of reading charts, students will review a variety of charting styles and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each. Multiple symbol sets will also be presented including options utilized in various software programs designed specifically for this purpose.


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Mobius Mysteries Untangled

Instructor: Gwen Bortner       Class Capacity: 25
Class Level: Adv Beginner/Intermediate       Class Fees Included: Yes

Description ~ Mobius Mysteries Untangled

The Mobius has long been held as one of the unique forms in geometry, as a three-dimensional object with only one side. But create it in a simple knitted fabrics and it can becomes a beautiful project. The secret to creating a Mobius is found at the beginning of the project. Students will gain an understanding of each of the three different methods for creating this mysterious shape while at the same time gaining insights of how knitted fabric is created. A simple cowl will be started during class.


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Fabulous Fabrics Just for Jackets

Instructor: Gwen Bortner       Class Capacity: 25
Class Level: Intermediate      

Description ~ Fabulous Fabrics Just for Jackets

A knitted jacket is the perfect item to add to your wardrobe. Wear it to the office over a skirt and shell or toss it on with a t-shirt and jeans for a day of shopping. However, knitting a jacket can be different than knitting a sweater. Learn what makes a good jacket fabric along with methods to achieve the desired result. Try a number different stitch pattern possibilities and learn how to identify good possibilities early. Finally, begin developing a gauge swatch for your own jacket.


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Measurements Matter

Instructor: Gwen Bortner       Class Capacity: 25
Class Level: All Welcome      

Description ~ Measurements Matter

Standard sizing is a bit of a misnomer. Very few of us are exactly the measurements use as industry standards - we are all unique. The key to knitting a garment really fits is understanding how your measurements relate to the pattern. Class begins with a measurement clinic, learning what measurements to take, how to take them and practicing on one another. Now see how your measurements compare with the "standards". Finally, learn tricks for choosing the "best" option and adjusting where required.


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No Wrong Side - Reversible Fabrics

Instructor: Gwen Bortner       Class Capacity: 25
Class Level: Beginner to Intermediate       Class Fees Included: Yes

Description ~ No Wrong Side - Reversible Fabrics

Reversible fabrics are great for blankets, shawls, scarves, even sweaters, but what makes a fabric reversible? And more importantly, how can you hide the ends so both sides can truly be the right side? Learn the of secrets to creating truly reversible fabrics as well as their "reasonably" reversible counterparts along with tips and tricks of finishing reversible projects.


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Simple Sewing: Luxurious Linings

Instructor: Gwen Bortner       Class Capacity: 25
Class Level: Intermediate      

Description ~ Simple Sewing: Luxurious Linings

Few items in your wardrobe are more luxurious to wear than a beautifully lined jacket. But the sewing has to be difficult, right? THINK AGAIN! You can line your own hand knitted jacket with the most basic of sewing skills. If you can sew on a button, you can line a jacket. Learn all of the basic skills required for lining a jacket without the worry of messing up the "real thing". Practice attaching the lining to the fabric, encasing the seams and finishing the lining along the edges. Learn tips and tricks along with the biggest secret of them all - you do not need to be a seamstress to create a lined jacket. When complete, you will have a small silk lined purse. But most importantly, you will be ready to tackle lining a jacket of your own.


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Introduction to Kumihimo Braiding

Instructor: Gwen Bortner       Class Capacity:
Class Level:       Class Fees Included: Yes

Description ~ Introduction to Kumihimo Braiding

The ancient Japanese craft of Kumihimo creates a beautiful unique cord, perfect for using up left over bits from various fiber art projects. Class is focused on learning the basics of creating a Kumihimo braid. A variety of samples showing the possibilities of combining of colors, fibers will also be provided. Once inspired, let the creative juices flow to the boundless possibilities all with small amounts of leftover fiber!


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Designing Set-in Sleeves That Fit

Instructor: Gwen Bortner       Class Capacity: 25
Class Level: Intermediate      

Description ~ Designing Set-in Sleeves That Fit

Set-in sleeves have long been considered one of the more difficult tasks in designing a sweater. Although proper fitting sleeves are challenging, there are guidelines that make this is a skill that can be learned. If you can design a basic tank top, you can design a sweater with a fitted set-in sleeve. Start with a fabric swatch, take your measurements and learn the calculations required to design a set-in capped sleeve that will fit... Every time! Class will move quickly so it is assumed that students are already familiar with basic design concepts such as gauge, ease and garment construction.


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