Classes for May and June 2015

Classes for May and June 2015

Thankfully, it's finally spring!  Even though we're out and about more, there's always a reason to be knitting. Maybe you want to retire the projects from the winter that you never quite finished. Maybe you want to try out some new summer-weight yarn. Or maybe you want to learn a new skill. Well, come along with us for one last session before the summer settles in.

Discount for multiple classes: Because I know we all need to pinch our pennies (so we'll have more for yarn!), I give a discount of $5 per class, whenever you sign up for more than one class in a session.

Discount for introducing someone new to Knit With Judy: Receive $5 off a class for every friend who signs up for a class or private session for the first time, upon your recommendation.  

Register right away: Some of the classes may fill up quickly, so be sure to let me know right away if you see something that interests you.

Knitting Fundamentals - $75

Section 1: Five Mondays from 9:30 to 11:00 am

     May 11 and 18, June 1, 8 and 15 (no class 5/25)
Section 2: Five Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:00 pm
     May 12 and 19, June 2, 9 and 16 (no class 5/26)

It's a good idea to begin with this course, even if you have knit before.

While working on an easy project, you'll learn how to hold the yarn "continental style," as well as how to make knit and purl stitches, cast on and bind off, increase and decrease, and begin to read patterns. You'll learn about yarn substitutions, the importance of gauge swatches and explore some repair techniques.

All in a stress-free environment with compatible learners, like yourself.

Note: Many students take fundamentals courses more than once, advancing as they go and working on projects that make use of the skills gained. No classes are exactly the same because they are driven by the needs and progress of the particular group and the questions that are raised. A discount of approximately 20% is offered for repeats of the same fundamentals course.

Make a Lacy Summer Sweater - $65

Five Sundays from 3:30 to 5:00 pm

     May 3, 10, 24 and 31, June 14

You know that all the "real" knitters really get going in the summer. We just switch to smaller projects and lighter yarn. So..... come along and make this beautiful lacy summer vest to throw over a dress or tank top.

We'll help you find the right yarn and get the best fit. You'll learn an easy lace pattern and get comfortable with classic sweater design elements. The class is designed to have a couple of two-week gaps to allow you to get ahead and clear up any problems at the next meeting.

Your Project - $50

Five Sundays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm

     May 3, 10, 24 and 31, June 14

This is a support class, with no specific teaching curriculum. Students are expected to have a facility with the concepts taught in the beginning fundamentals course. Bring your ideas for something you want to try. Bring your problems with getting the right fit or understanding the pattern. Learn how to sew up and finish that project that has been bugging you.

PRIVATE SESSIONS - All levels

$35/hour

• For the absolute beginner who wants individual knitting or crochet instruction.
• For the student at any level who needs some additional help with a technique.
• For anyone who is stumped by a pattern or wants to get some new ideas.

• A great way to start.
• Get additional help during classes or with a specific project.

Tip: If you are new to knitting or crocheting, and don't have the time for a full class, a good option is to sign up for a "package" of three lessons for $100. Or come with a friend for $50/hour and split the cost.

Classes for January and February 2015

Discount for multiple classes: Because I know we all need to pinch our pennies (so we'll have more for yarn!), I give a discount of $5 per class, whenever you sign up for more than one class in a session.

Discount for introducing someone new to Knit With Judy: Receive $5 off a class for every friend who signs up for a class or private session for the first time, upon your recommendation.   

Register right away: Some of the classes may fill up quickly, so be sure to let me know right away if you see something that interests you.

Knitting Fundamentals - $75

Five Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:00 pm

January 13, 20 and 27, February 3 and 10

It's a good idea to begin with this course, even if you have knit before. While working on an easy project, you'll learn how to hold the yarn "continental style," as well as how to make knit and purl stitches, cast on and bind off, increase and decrease, and begin to read patterns.
You'll learn about yarn substitutions, the importance of gauge swatches and explore some repair techniques.
All in a stress-free environment with compatible learners, like yourself.

Note: Many students take fundamentals courses more than once, advancing as they go and working on projects that make use of the skills gained. No classes are exactly the same because they are driven by the needs and progress of the particular group and the questions that are raised. A discount of approximately 20% is offered for repeats of the same fundamentals course.

Socks - $45

Three Sundays from 1:00 to 3:00 pm

January 11 and 25, February 8

For intermediate to advanced students. At the first session, we will decide on a pattern and get you started with an amazing flexible cast on.
At the second class (two weeks later), you will turn the heel and make the gusset.
Finally (two weeks later), you will finish your first sock, using the kitchener stitch to close the toe.
You will learn all the skills you need to make socks for yourself or someone special, using either two circular needles or four double pointed needles (maybe even "magic loop").

Your Project - $50

Five Sundays from 3:30 to 5:00 pm
January 11, 18 and 25, February 1 and 8

This is a support class, with no specific teaching curriculum. Students are expected to have a facility with the concepts taught in the beginning fundamentals course.

Each student will begin (or continue) a personal project, such as a scarf, hat, sweater, jacket, vest, or bag. As needed, we will address yarn and needle choices, gauge swatching, pattern modification, trouble shooting, repairs, finishing, blocking, you name it.

You will receive individual help and benefit from the issues raised by others. The course may be repeated as often as desired, to get continuing ideas and hands-on assistance.

PRIVATE SESSIONS - All levels

$35/hour

• For the absolute beginner who wants individual knitting or crochet instruction.
• For the student at any level who needs some additional help with a technique.
• For anyone who is stumped by a pattern or wants to get some new ideas.

• A great way to start.
• Get additional help during classes or with a specific project.

Tip: If you are new to knitting or crocheting, and don't have the time for a full class, a good option is to sign up for a "package" of three lessons for $100. Or come with a friend for $40/hour and split the cost.

Provisional Cast-on, Cables

The Fundamentals II class has begun for the March-April session, and what a good group it is! An enthusiastic and perfect blend of students from prior classes.

We're starting with this hat, designed by Alexandra Virgiel and appropriately called "Coronet." You can get the pattern yourself from Ravelry by clicking here.

.
With this one hat, we will have the opportunity to learn all this:

1. How to read pattern stitches in a pattern
2. Provisional cast-on (and, with the method I use, we first need to learn to crochet a chain stitch)
3. Picking up stitches along the edge
4. Joining and knitting in the round
5. Using the "magic loop" technique for knitting in the round
6. Regularly spaced decreases
7. Kitchener stitch
8. Pompoms

We got started with my favorite version of provisional cast-on. It involves using a crochet hook to make some chains, then chaining across the needle. There are so many ways to make provisional cast-ons, and each knitter has a favorite. Frankly, I found some of the ones that do it with two needles (rather than a crochet chain) to result in a loose mess.  Then, the method where you first crochet a chain and then insert the knitting needle into some of the loops is tantrum-throwing difficult.

Here are a few of the provisional cast-on methods, ending with my fave:

Two-needle ziggy-zaggy
Crochet a chain and dig in
Chain stitch around the needle (my fave)

March-April Classes

Synopsis: By request of the students in last session's fundamentals class, I'm doing a Fundamentals II class to expand on the skills and learn cables, colors, working in the round etc. Join us if you want to learn all that in one fell swoop.

New Classes: I'm trying out two new classes this term: "Finish that UFO (Unfinished Object)" and "Make a Spring Vest Using Just Your Stash." Please consider joining us.

Discount for multiple classes: Because I know we all need to pinch our pennies (so we'll have more for yarn), I will give a of $5 per class, whenever you sign up for more than one class in a session.

Register right away: Some of the classes may fill up quickly, so be sure to let me know right away if you see something that interests you.

Advanced Knitting Fundamentals - $75

Five Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:00 pm

March 27, April 3, 10, 17 and May 1 (no class April 24)

Prerequisite: Persons taking this class will have a good grasp of the skills taught in the Level One Knitting Fundamentals course.            

Advance your skills while working on representative projects. You will learn how to knit in the round (including “magic loop”), create cable stitches, explore the fun of lace knitting, and experiment with color techniques like intarsia and fair isle (where you hold one color in each hand). Become confident at pattern reading, substituting yarns and making repairs.

 

Finish that UFO (Unfinished Object) - $65

        Five Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm

        March 25, April 1, 8, 15 and 22

We've ALL been here

Most of us have something we have worked on and even finished – that is except for the actual ”finishing” part.  We can’t figure out how to set in the sleeves, how to sew the seams, how to pick up stitches for the button or neck band, what to do about all those yarn ends, how to make those button holes, or put in that zipper. And just what is a kitchener stitch, anyway?

 Might as well admit it: You got stalled and, out of frustration, just started something else. Well, no more. This spring, right now, we are going to tackle those UFOs. If you have something in this category (ahem), take it out of your “to do” basket and into this workshop so we can get some closure.  (Psst, once these are completed, there’s nothing to stop you from starting something else).  

Make a Spring Vest Using Just Your Stash - $65

        Five Sundays from 3:30 to 5:00 pm

        March 23 and 30, April 6, 20 and 27 (no class April 13)

Working from side-to-side, create your unique vest, using only yarns that you have on hand. Make it warm and cozy, using mostly thick yarns. Or light and airy with thinner yarns. Make it brightly colored, or maybe muted. What does your stash say about you. Bring it all in and get help picking just the right combination for this project.

Liza and her many-colored wonders

Although we will all work with the same pattern outline, you will alter it to create something that is tailored to your shape and needs and is uniquely yours.
There is no mistake that can’t be made into a fashion statement.

Your Project - $50

        Five Sundays from 5:00 to 6:30 pm

        March 23 and 30, April 6, 20 and 27 (no class April 13)

This is a support class, with no specific teaching curriculum.  Students are expected to have a facility with the concepts taught in the beginning fundamentals course (knit or crochet).

Each student will begin (or continue) a personal project, such as a scarf, hat, sweater, jacket, bag or socks. We will address yarn and needle choices, gauge swatching, pattern modification, trouble shooting, repairs, finishing, blocking, you name it. 

Students receive individual help and benefit from the issues raised by others. The course may be repeated as often as desired, to get continuing ideas and help with project.

PRIVATE SESSIONS – All levels

$35/hour

For the absolute beginner who wants individual knitting or crochet instruction. For the student at any level who needs some additional help with a technique. For anyone who is stumped by a pattern or wants to get some new ideas.

A great way to start.  Get additional help during classes or with a specific project.

Tip: If you are new to knitting/crocheting, and don’t have the time for a full class, a good option is to sign up for a reduced-price  “package” of two or three lessons.

Contemplative Knitting Mini Retreat at White Barn Sheep & Wool

Saturday, February 22

12 noon to 4:00 pm

This afternoon I will lead a mini retreat at White Barn Sheep and Wool where we will abandon all chaos and explore the deep and natural mindfulness of giving ourselves over to knitting this beautiful shawl. Sensory appreciation exercises will be offered as you begin a beautiful and comforting wrap for yourself or a loved one. Through the touch of luscious yarn, an easy pattern, and simple meditation, we will bring awareness and reflection to our work, leaving us refreshed and renewed.
     Light yoga stretching will be offered, along with gentle music, and simple refreshments.
     This retreat is suitable for beginning knitters, as well as experienced pros. The pattern requires the basic knowledge of casting on and the knit and purl stitches.
     Four skeins of lovely silk/merino yarn is included with the class. Once you've registered you may contact the shop to choose your color.

Fee- $95

To register, contact Paula at White Barn Sheep and Wool.

Knit With Judy Classes for January and February 2014

Note:  Many students take fundamentals courses more than once, advancing as they go and working on projects that make use of the skills gained.  No classes are exactly the same because they are driven by the needs and progress of the particular group and the questions that are raised.  A discount of approximately 20% is offered for repeats of the same fundamentals course.

Knitting Fundamentals - $75

   Five Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:00 pm

   January 16, 23 and 30, February 6 and 13

It’s a good idea to begin with this course, even if you have knit before.  While working on an easy project, you will learn how to hold the yarn  “continental style,” as well as how to make knit and purl stitches, cast on and bind off, increase and decrease and begin to read patterns.  You will learn about yarn substitutions, the importance of gauge swatches and explore some repair techniques.  All in a stress-free environment with compatible learners, like yourself.

Cables and Lace, etc. - $55

   Three Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm

    January 7, 14, and 21

Prerequisite: Mastery of the concepts taught in the Knitting Fundamentals class.  While working on these, and other representative projects, you will become familiar with using knit and purl stitches to create designs, and explore several styles of cables and methods to create lace, while learning the cable and lace lingo and how to read charts. You will see the special challenges for gauge and learn how to block your work.


Color Work, etc – $55

   Three Tuesdays, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm.

   January 28, February 4 and 11

Prerequisite: Mastery of the concepts taught in the Knitting Fundamentals class.  While working on these, and other representative projects, you will explore color techniques like intarsia, mosaic and fair isle (where you hold one color in each hand). Add spark to your work by combining yarns and adding embellishments. Finishing and repair techniques  will also be covered in this class.

NOTE:  Sign up for both classes at the reduced rate of $100.

WORKSHOPS

Socks – $7
    Four Saturdays
        January 11: 3:30-5:00 pm
        January 18: 3:30-5:00 pm
        February 1: 3:30-5:00 pm
        February 15: 3:30-5:00 pm

Prerequisite: Mastery of the concepts taught in Beginning Knitting Fundamentals.   While making these socks, you will learn many skills you can use in other projects, such as choosing the best yarn, creating a stretchy cast-on and working in the round with double-pointed needles, circular needles, or magic loop. You’ll also learn how to turn a heel with short rows and finish the toe with kitchener stitch.  We will spread this four-session class out over six weeks to give you an opportunity to make progress on each stage of your socks.

Your Project - $50

 Five Sundays from 5:00 to 6:30 pm

 January 12 and 19, February 2, 9 and 16 (no class January 26)

This is a support class, with no specific teaching curriculum.  Students are expected to have a facility with the concepts taught in the beginning fundamentals course (knit or crochet).

This popular course is limited to 4 students. Each student will begin (or continue) a personal project, such as a scarf, hat, sweater, jacket, bag or socks. We will address yarn and needle choices, gauge swatching, pattern modification, trouble shooting, repairs, finishing, blocking, you name it.  Students receive individual help and benefit from the issues raised by others. The course may be repeated as often as desired, to get continuing ideas and help with projects.

PRIVATE SESSIONS – All levels

$35/hour

For the absolute beginner who wants individual knitting or crochet instruction. For the student at any level who needs some additional help with a technique. For anyone who is stumped by a pattern or wants to get some new ideas.

A great way to start.  Get additional help during classes or with a specific project.

Tip: If you are new to knitting/crocheting, and don’t have the time for a full class, a good option is to sign up for a reduced-price  “package” of two or three lessons.