The Secrets of Andean Knitting
| Instructor: Gwen Bortner | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Advanced |
Description ~ The Secrets of Andean Knitting
Some of the most beautiful, colorful and intricate knitting patterns hail from South America. What makes these designs so intriguing is not just the bright colors, but also the combination of numerous techniques within a single project and often a single row.
Learn the secrets of how the various techniques are merged to create a beautiful project of your own. Gain hands-on experience while starting a pair of wrist warmers.
Easily Slip Into Color
| Instructor: Gwen Bortner | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Intermediate |
Description ~ Easily Slip Into Color
Color work can be very intimidating. How do you pick colors? How do you read the charts? How do you work with more than one yarn? If you love color work but want to start "in the shallow end", this is the class for you. Learn the beauty and simplicity of slip stitch color patterns. Discover the "rules" for choosing colors. Gain insights into working with charts and what they really mean. Learn the secret for creating beatiful color patterns using only one color per row. Color work does not have to be hard…you can just slip right in!
Round and Round "Wee" Go
| Instructor: Gwen Bortner | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Easy/Beginner |
Description ~ Round and Round "Wee" Go
Knitting in the round on small circumferences can be challenging but it is a skill more knitters need in their bag of tricks. Double points can be intimidating. Using two circulars can be confusing. And magic loop is often a mystery. Learn pros and cons as well as tips and tricks for each of these methods designed specifically for seamlessly knitting small circumference pieces. Cast-on challenges and what to watch for will be discussed and tried for each method. Techniques for switching from one needle to the next will be covered as well. Come to class, try and all three and decide which is your favorite.
Diamonds of a Different Color
| Instructor: Gwen Bortner | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Intermediate |
Description ~ Diamonds of a Different Color
Diamonds, or more specifically argyles, are a classic pattern. But argyles are no longer just limited to socks. We are using the argyle pattern to provide a great introduction to intarsia and duplicate stitch. In this class, make a simple card holder while discovering the basics of intarsia, gaining insights on color selection and learning tips and tricks.
Hand Dyed Solutions
| Instructor: Gwen Bortner | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Advanced Beginner |
Description ~ Hand Dyed Solutions
Are those beautiful hand-dyed yarns just waiting for the perfect project? Do the striping properties or the pools of color create a disappointing finished product. A variety of simple techniques and utilizing multiple yarns can provide outstanding results. Discussion of dye repeats and basic color analysis will also enhance the students of understanding of methods to take that beautiful hand-dyed skein and create and equally beautiful knitted fabric.
An Illusion in the Shadows
| Instructor: Gwen Bortner | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Intermediate |
Description ~ An Illusion in the Shadows
Some folks call it Illusion knitting, other Shadow knitting, but whatever you call it, the results are truly amazing. Start the simplest of patterns (garter stitch and stockinette), add in two-color stripes, throw in some basic charts and presto wonderful designs that only reveal themselves when you look at the fabric the "right" way. Begin learning the basics to creating this magical fabric by knitting a small simple project. Then go on to discover the secrets for creating your own designs. The fabric may be an illusion, but the shadow doesn't have to be the only one who knows how it is done.
Making Stranded Knitting Work for You
| Instructor: Gwen Bortner | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Intermediate |
Description ~ Making Stranded Knitting Work for You
Stranded knitting, often thought to be one of the more difficult techniques in Stranded knitting, doesn't have to be hard! The trick is to figure out which technique variation works best with your natural dexterity and knitting abilities. If you have ever wanted to give stranded knitting a try, but were afraid it would be too complex, this is the class for you. Students will gain sight into stranded knitting techniques including the various options for carrying two yarns at once. All the while, creating a useful and handy can/bottle cozy. This class is designed as a basic introduction to the technique and assumes students will have no experience with stranded knitting although experience with knitting in the round on a small circumference is required.
Fun with Fine Yarns
| Instructor: Gwen Bortner | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Intermediate |
Description ~ Fun with Fine Yarns
Love the beauty of fine weight yarns, but looking for some alternatives other than socks or shawls? Love the feel of fine yarn, but dread the idea of knitting with tiny needles? Gain hands-on experience as you explore a variety of techniques and methods to use fine yarns on not so fine needles. Gain insights on picking yarns and colors to create your own gradients. Utilize a spinning technique to bulk up your yarn without having to manage multiple balls. Uncover the advantages of using fine yarn even when a heavier yarn is required. Knitting with fine yarn can be fun, even if you don't like knitting with tiny needles.
Unraveling the Mystery of Mosaic Knitting
| Instructor: Gwen Bortner | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Intermediate |
Description ~ Unraveling the Mystery of Mosaic Knitting
Mosaic knitting, the result looks complex, but the knitting is simple once you understand the basics. The unique nature of this technique results in a specialized chart and options for stitches and colors. Students will be given the skills required and the opportunity to produce beautiful two color geometric patterns utilizing the mosaic technique. Possibilities for adding the unique two-color technique to knitting projects will also be discussed.