Knitting in the Portuguese Style
| Instructor: Andre de Castro | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Beginner/Intermediate |
Description ~ Knitting in the Portuguese Style
In this class students will be able to learn through simple samples of stitches the basics of the Portuguese Knitting Style. This includes learning the historical framework of the Portuguese knitting style, how to hold the yarn, the needles, the placement of the hands and the correct tension when knitting to minimize movements and consequently reduce the risk of injuries typical of other forms of knitting.
Students will be able to use this style to knit in a more efficient, quick and simple way. Increases and decreases using Portuguese style will also be covered in a variety of forms including basic increases and decreases, paired increases/decreases, and multiple and complex increases/decreases.
Colorwork Knitting (KAL)
| Instructor: Andre de Castro | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Beginner/Intermediate |
Description ~ Colorwork Knitting (KAL)
This class will be a continuation of the techniques learned in the six hour Knitting in the Portuguese Style. Students will learn to work with more than one color while using Portuguese motifs inspired by ornate tile work and tapestries unique to Portugal.
André will cover all aspects of colorwork. Work on a cowl designed by André de Castro on Portuguese tiles.
Lace by Music
| Instructor: Andre de Castro | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Intermediate |
Description ~ Lace by Music
Lace by music is a type of lace knitting using borders and edgings developed by women in Portugal's most remote villages. André is researching and creating a collection of samples from across the country on the subject.
These lace patterns have the particularity of using purl stitches that create a special code to pass these unique patterns from generation to generation. This "code" is the so-called "music" of the lace and is composed of a series of symbols created by people who at that time didn't know how to read or write.
Knitting with Variegated Yarns
| Instructor: Andre de Castro | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Beginner/Intermediate |
Description ~ Knitting with Variegated Yarns
Every knitter has skeins of variegated yarn that caught their eye. This class teaches students how to make the most of it.
Knitting with variegated yarn can create beautiful, unique patterns but also comes with some challenges. Some include understanding the color patterns, how different types of stitches utilize variations, alternating between solids and variegated yarn, and how knitters can achieve the best results.
Understanding the color patterning to use pooling (same colors clumping together), striping, or flashing (zigzag effects) to your advantage is helpful. Swatching is helpful to see color variations before starting a project. Choosing stitch patterns is also beneficial for maximum results. Stockinette and garter stitch allow the colors to shine, while complex lace or cables can often get lost. Slip-stitch patterns can break up pooling and create a watercolor effect. Alternating solids and variegated every few rows to prevent noticeable differences between skeins.
Slip Tuck and Slip Woven Stitches
| Instructor: Andre de Castro | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Beginner/Intermediate |
Description ~ Slip Tuck and Slip Woven Stitches
Learn how to knit slip-tuck and slip-woven stitches to add texture and color to your work differently.
These slip-stitch techniques create texture and pattern by manipulating slipped stitches. Slip-tuck stitches create a raised or elongated effect and are often used in brioche knitting, fisherman’s rib, and other textured patterns. It produces a stretchy, dimensional fabric with deep texture.
Slip-woven stitches are arranged to mimic the appearance of woven fabric, creating intricate patterns using two or more colors. These stitches frequently appear in mosaic knitting or slip-stitch colorwork, where slipped stitches interact with contrasting colors to form a woven-like structure. The fabric remains firm and structured, making it ideal for decorative elements or color-patterned textiles. Examples include linen stitch and honeycomb slip-stitch producing woven-like effects.
Bavarian Twisted Stitches
| Instructor: Andre de Castro | Class Capacity: 25 | |||
| Class Level: Intermediate |
Description ~ Bavarian Twisted Stitches
Bavarian twisted stitches are a type of knitting technique that creates intricate, raised patterns by twisting stitches on every row or round. These stitches are commonly used in Bavarian, Austrian, and German knitting traditions, often seen in socks, mittens, and bodices of traditional garments and folk costumes.
Bavarian twisted stitches create sharp, precise motifs that resemble vines, braids, or geometric shapes. They differ from cables in that they maintain a leaner, more structured look.