"Your Project" workshop offered in June, July and August

Cost: $65
Days: Six Sundays June 16, July 7, 14, 21 and 28, August 4
Time: 5:30 to 7:00 pm
Class size: Limited to 5 students

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 projects.

Be sure to register for this workshop right away, as we limit the number of participants to 5, and this course fills up fast. To be sure, register online here.

Make a Summer Sweater That Really Fits

 

Cost: $75
Days: four Tuesdays June 11 and 18, July 9 and August 13
Time: 6:00 to 8:00 pm
Experience level: Intermediate (the sweater includes a simple lace pattern, which we will learn)
Class size: Limited to 5
 Click here for a convenient way to register.

 

 

If you've ever spent a lot of time on something that just didn't fit right, this is the class for you. We'll all be making the same sweater -- this delightful lacy summer cardigan designed by Cecily Glowik. But, since we don't all have the same dimensions, we'll be making some adjustments as we go.

No more ill-fitting top-down sweaters with necks that sag and underarms that pinch. No more sleeves that drag on the ground and cardigans that won’t close.  In the first couple of sessions, we’ll take body measurements, pick out yarn and swatch to get correct gauge. We’ll make pattern modifications to give the best custom fit and style and get started with learning how to make the beautiful lace stitch. With several weeks in between, further sessions will focus on trouble shooting, tracking modifications, correcting mistakes, and putting the finishing touches on your sweater.

At the New York Sheep and Wool Festival, I studied with Amy Herzog and learned more about making and modifying sweaters that fit. Amy has just released her wonderful book on the subject "knit to flatter." We'll be reviewing it on another post, but if you should have the urge to buy Amy's book right now, here's a link for it.

Special Classes for November-December

Special Course Schedule

I just returned from this year’s Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck and a successful “Fit to Flatter” workshop with Amy Herzog. She confirmed many of the things I have been doing to get the best fit for sweaters, but taught me so much more. I'm excited to pass on the knowledge and help us all achieve the best fit ever for our next sweater.

 

For this session only,the course offerings have been changed to focus more on the intermediate to advanced knitter (or crocheter). Beginners, have no fear; we will offer more fundamental courses in January.

 

Among other things, the "Your Project" class will be suspended for these two months. (If you should need additional help during this time, I'm always available for affordable private sessions -- and amenable to a group, or several-session, rate).

 

Take a look at these courses.  If you see anything that interests you, act now because they won't be offered again for some time.

 

 

CLASSES

 

Beginning Your Next Sweater     $75

4 sessions (2 hours each)

 

Section A: Four Sundays from 5:30 to 7:30 pm

     November 4, 11, 18 and 25

Section B: Four Tuesdays from 6:00 to 8:00 pm

     November 6, 13, 20 and 27

 

We will begin working on your sweater in this class. But, first, we will assess patterns that flatter your figure (or the intended recipient of your sweater), explore yarn types that will work best for the chosen pattern, use swatching to tell us how well a particular yarn will fit your needs, and modify the pattern (if necessary) to give the best custom fit and style.

 

Correcting Mistakes and Finishing     $40

3 sessions (1 ½ hours each)

 

Section A:Three Sundays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm

     December 2, 9 and 16

Section B:Three Tuesdays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm

     December 4, 11 and 18

 

You will learn various methods for minimizing and repairing mistakes (such as using a lifeline, bringing up a stitch in textured fabric, "tinking" and ripping out). You will learn to finish your project with elegance (various binding off techniques, sewing seams, washing and blocking).

 

If you register for both classes, the cost is $110.  When registering, please let me know which day (Sunday or Tuesday) is best for you (or if you have flexibility). That will help me with scheduling.

 

 

WORKSHOP



Top-down Baby Cardigan     $45

 

Saturday, December 1, from 2:00-5:00 pm

 

Persons taking this workshop should be able to knit, purl, cast on, and bind off. Prior experience with circular needles is desirable, but not required. Make an adorable top-down, cardigan for a baby.A pattern will be provided, with help adapting it for a boy or girl.While making this sweater, you will become familiar with the concept of knitting sweaters from the top down, whether for children or adults, and learn why some people prefer this method.

 

 

 

 

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 -- or to get additional help during classes or with a specific project.

·Group or several-session rates available.

 

Open Classes and Field Trip to NY Sheep & Wool Festival

Two KWJ classes still open

If you let me know by Thursday, there is still time to register for these fall late-session classes: "Level II Knitting Fundamentals" and "Embellish with Embroidery and Beads Workshop." Complete descriptions are at the end of this section.

Additional "Your Project" class offered

I'm trying to put together a second "Your Project" class on a week night (the current one meets on Sunday). Right now, either Monday or Tuesday from 6:00 to 7:30 would be a possibility, beginning next week. If you think you might be interested, let me know right away (and mention which evening would work best for you). The cost of $65 for six sessions. Here's a description of the course:

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 very 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 the particular project, as well as 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.

Possible field trip to New York Sheep & Wool Festival, Sunday, October 21.

On Saturday morning, I'll be attending a workshop called "Fit to Flatter," in order to learn more about what shape of sweaters are best for which body types and how to adapt patterns for the most flattering fit. Many of the other workshops still have openings, and you get a two-day admission pass as part of the fee (it's $12/day to attend).

On Sunday morning, if there is sufficient interest, I'll put together a KWJ field trip (leaving New Paltz at 9:00 am and returning by 1:00 or 2:00). Let me know if you would like to come along. You can get more information here: www.sheepandwool.com.  

Level II Knitting Fundamentals (late session) - $50

Three Thursdays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm

                October 4, 11 and 18

Persons taking this class will have a complete grasp of the skills taught in Beginning Knitting Fundamentals. In addition to advancing the skills presented in beginning knitting fundamentals, you will be introduced to cables and lace stitches, and begin working with color (including intarsia and fair isle). In the process, you'll learn how to read stitch charts and improve pattern reading and yarn selection.

WORKSHOPS

Embellish with embroidery and beads - $40

Sunday, September 30: 2:00-5:00 pm

No prerequisites. Learn simple and fun embroidery stitches that will make your projects stand out. Bring a knitted or purchased sweater, tee shirt, hat or bag to class and learn how to make it uniquely yours. No additional purchase necessary, as needles, thread, yarn and beads will be available for your use in class. Okay to bring your own, if you prefer.

PRIVATE SESSIONS – All levels

$30/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.

Early Fall Classes

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.

Level I Knitting Fundamentals - $75

Section A:  Six Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:00 am

Section B:  Six Tuesdays from 7:00 to 8:30 pm

                September 11, 18 and 25, October 2, 9 and 16

It’s a good idea to begin with this course, even if you have knit before.  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 and use of gauge swatches and explore some repair techniques. 

Level II Knitting Fundamentals (early session) - $50

Three Thurdays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm

                September 13, 20 and 27 

Persons taking this class will have a complete grasp of the skills taught in Beginning Knitting Fundamentals.  In addition  to advancing the skills  presented in beginning knitting fundamentals, you will become familiar with using knit and purl stitches to create designs, create cables and lace stitches, learn how to read stitch charts, improve pattern reading and yarn selection, and become comfortable with washing and blocking finished work.

 

Level II Knitting Fundamentals (late session)– $50

        Three Thursdays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm

                October 4, 11 and 18 

Persons taking this class will have a complete grasp of the skills taught in Beginning Knitting Fundamentals.  In addition to advancing the skills presented in beginning knitting fundamentals, you will learn color work (including intarsia and fair isle), become adept at pattern reading and modification, and gain additional finishing and repair experience. 

Crochet Fundamentals – $75

        Six Mondays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm

                September 10, 27 and 14, October 1, 8 and 15 

For the novice to advanced beginner.  You will learn how to hold the yarn and make standard crochet stitches and shapes. You will begin to read patterns and understand when crochet might be preferred over knitting, and see some of the unique things that can be made with crochet. Depending on the progress of the group, you may tackle a simple project. The more advanced student may work with colors, learn how to make squares, work in the round, and/or make flowers and more exotic shapes.

 

WORKSHOPS

Embellish with embroidery and beads - $40

        Sunday, September 30: 2:00-5:00 pm 

No prerequisites.  Learn simple and fun embroidery stitches that will make your projects stand out.  Bring a knitted or purchased sweater, tee shirt, hat or bag to class and learn how to make it uniquely yours.  No additional purchase necessary, as needles, thread, yarn and beads will be available for your use in class.  Okay to bring your own, if you prefer.  

Your Project - $65

        Six Sundays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm

                September 16, 23 and 30, October 7, 14 and 21 

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 very 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. *A second session will be scheduled, if there is sufficient interest.

Socks – $60

Four Sundays

        September 16: 3:30-5:00 pm

September 23: 2:30-5:00 pm

October 7: 2:30-5:00 pm

October 21: 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 or circular needles.  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 sock.

 

PRIVATE SESSIONS – All levels

 

$30/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.

 

 

Knit in Public and summer classes

Knit With Judy classes suspended for summer. As many of you know, I will finally be having surgery on my rotator cuff on June 12. This means I will be out of commission at least until the middle of July. At the moment, I'm suspending classes, although I may reconsider and offer a couple of classes or workshops in August. Stay tuned.

Knit in Public & classes at White Barn Sheep and Wool.

June is "knit in public" month. I encourage you to participate in these events that are being organized by Paula Kucera from White Barn Sheep and Wool.  I'll try to get down to sit in, but won't be knitting:

1. June 9-17: "Yarn bombing" at Elting Library. The library has given permission for us to wrap their railing with 5" x 40" strips, so bust your stash and get a strip or two to them by the 9th. After being used on the railings, the usable strips will be stitched together to make a blanket, which will be donated.

2. Wednesday, June 13, 7-9 pm. Knitting at McGillicutty's on Main Street in New Paltz.

3. Friday, June 15, 10-noon. Knitting in front of Elting Library. Bring a folding chair (will be moved inside, if it rains).

Classes at Stickles in Rhinebeck

The lovely and talented Doris Formby has recently signed on to teach classes at Stickles Knitting Garage in Rhinebeck. Doris will be teaching some basic classes, as well as several workshops. Especially if you live on "that" side of the river, you might want to check out her classes. Here is a link to the class schedule: Stickles classes

April and May Course Offerings

CLASSES

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.

Beginning Knitting Fundamentals - $75 
        Six Mondays from 7:00 to 8:30 pm

        April 9, 16, 23 and 30, May 7 and 14

It’s a good idea to begin with this course, even if you have knit before.  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, begin to read patterns, and how to decide what yarns to use for a project. 

Intermediate Knitting Fundamentals - $60 
        Four Tuesdays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm 
        April 3, 10, 17, and May 1 (no class April 24)

Classes at this level will contain a mix of early learners and more accomplished students who will benefit from review.  In addition  to advancing the skills  presented in beginning knitting fundamentals, you will become familiar with using knit and purl stitches to create different patterns, improve your yarn hold for efficiency and comfort, and learn about yarn substitutions, the  importance (and use) of gauge swatches, pattern reading and selection, and additional repair techniques. 

Advanced Knitting Fundamentals – $60
        Four Tuesdays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm
         May 1, 8, 15 and 22

Persons taking this class will already have a complete grasp of the skills taught in intermediate knitting fundamentals.  In this class, you will create cables and lace and do some color work (including intarsia and fair isle).  You will learn to read stitch charts and how to modify a pattern, as well as finishing techniques (sewing together, washing and blocking).

Crochet Fundamentals – $75

       Six Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm

        April 5, 12, 19 and 26, May 3 and 10

For the novice to advanced beginner.  You will learn how to hold the yarn and make standard crochet stitches and shapes. You will begin to read patterns and understand when crochet might be preferred over knitting, and see some of the unique things that can be made with crochet. Depending on the progress of the group, you may tackle a simple project. The more advanced student will work with colors and texture and learn how to make squares, work in the round, and make flowers and more exotic shapes.

WORKSHOPS

Your Project - $65

       Section A: Six Sundays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm

             April 15, 22 and 29, May 6, 13 and 20
        Section B: Six Thursdays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm
             April 12, 19 and 26; May 3, 10 and 17      

This is a support class, with no specific teaching curriculum, so students are expected to have a facility with the concepts taught in the fundamentals courses.

This very popular course is limited to 4 students. Each student will begin (or continue) a personal project, such as a scarf, hat, sweater, bag or socks. We will address yarn and needle choices, gauge swatching, pattern modification, trouble shooting, 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. No discount for repeats.

Top-down Baby Cardigan – For intermediate students - $45
        Sunday, April 29, from 2:00-5:00 pm

Prerequisite: Mastery of the concepts taught in Beginning Knitting Fundamentals.  Make a basic (and adorable) top-down, cardigan for a baby.  A pattern will be provided, with help adapting it for a boy or girl.  While making this sweater, you will become familiar with the concept of knitting sweaters from the top down, whether for children or adults, and learn why some people prefer this method. 

Argyle Socks – For intermeiate to advanced students - $75

Three Sundays (April 15: 2:00-5:00; April 29: 2:30-5:00; May 6: 3:00-5:00)

Prerequisite: Mastery of the concepts taught in Intermediate Knitting Fundamentals.  It is helpful if you have made socks before, but not essential.  While making these socks, you will learn many skills you can use in  other projects, such as  creating a stretchy cast-on, working in the round with double-pointed or circular needles, and intarsia color work with bobbins.  You’ll also learn how to turn a heel with short rows, pick up gusset stitches and finish the toe with kitchener stitch.  We will spread this three-session class out over six weeks to give you an opportunity to make progress on each stage of your socks.

PRIVATE SESSIONS – All levels

$30/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 or to get additional help during classes or with a specific project.

Mindful Knitting Workshop February 4

Judy will be participating in a contemplative knitting workshop at White Barn Sheep and Wool on Saturday, February 4, along with two other people who will help us with body and soul.To register to go White Barn Sheep and wool

Sat Feb 4 12:30 - 3:30 Mindful Knitting, a mini retreat designed to explore the possibilities of knitting, meditation, and self care through making a beautiful silk and merino wrap. $40 includes skein of yarn to begin project and light refreshment.

Description of the knitting section of the workshop:

This afternoon, we will abandon chaos and explore the deep and natural mindfulness of giving ourselves over to our knitting. Meditation and sensory appreciation exercises will be offered as you begin a beautiful and comforting wrap for yourself or a loved one.

Prior experience

Instruction will be given in executing a simple rhythmic pattern, but participants should be comfortable with knitting and purling and be able to cast on.

Materials

Yarn: one skein of Venezia Worsted by Cascade Yarns (70% merino/30% silk) will be provided to all workshop participants. Additional yarn, if needed, is available for purchase.

Needles: #8 "circular" needles with a cord of 36-40 inches.

January-February 2012 course offerings

My goal is to give you all the skills you need to become independent and creative with your knitting and to derive pleasure from the process.

CLASSES

Knitting Fundamentals - For the novice to advanced beginner - $75*

6 Sundays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm
January 15, 22 and 29, February 5, 12 and 19

Classes at this level will contain a mix of new knitters, early learners, and more accomplished students who will benefit from review. It’s a good idea to begin with this course, even if you have knit or crocheted before, to be sure you have a thorough understanding of the fundamentals before continuing to another level.

If you are a beginner, you will learn to knit, purl, cast on, and bind off, plus a myriad of other things as they come up, such as yarn characteristics, importance of gauge swatches, etc. Those who are more experienced will be given additional homework and/or a project.

Many students take this course several times,* advancing as they go, with beginners learning from the more advanced knitters and the more advanced knitters benefitting from reviewing the instruction given to the beginners. No two classes are exactly the same because they are driven by the needs and progress of the group and the particular questions that are raised.

*$60 for students who repeat this class.


Advanced Knitting Fundamentals – $110

8 Thursdays, from 6:00 to 7:30 pm
January 5, 12, 19 and 26, February 2, 9, 16 and 23

You will learn about cables, lace, repairs, yarn substitution, color work, reading and modifying patterns, and finishing.

Persons taking this class will already have a complete grasp of casting on, knit stitch, purl stitch, binding off, two methods of increasing and decreasing, will be able to easily move from garter stitch to stockinette stitch to ribbing, will know what to do if you stop in the middle of a row, and will have a basic understanding of the characteristics of various yarns and the importance of swatching, as well as a basic ability to read patterns. If you feel you know some of these well, but are not sure about others, consider re-taking the basic knitting fundamentals course before proceeding with this one.


Crochet Fundamentals – for the novice to advanced beginner - $65

6 Sundays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm
January 15, 22 and 29, February 5, 12 and 19

You will learn how to hold the yarn and make standard crochet stitches and shape. You will begin to read patterns and understand when crochet might be preferred over knitting, and see some of the unique things that can be made with crochet. Depending on the progress of the group, you may tackle a simple project.

The more advanced student will work with colors and texture and learn how to make squares, work in the round, and make more exotic shapes.


YOUR PROJECT – For intermediate to advanced students - $65

6 Sundays from 3:30 to 5:00 pm
January 15, 22 and 29, February 5, 12 and 19

Prerequisite: For knitters, mastery of the concepts taught in Knitting Fundamentals. For crocheters, mastery of the concepts taught in Crochet Fundamentals.

This very popular course is limited to 4 students. Each student will begin (or continue) a personal project, such as a scarf, hat, sweater, bag or socks. We will address yarn and needle choices, gauge swatching, pattern modification, trouble shooting, finishing, blocking, you name it. This is a support class, with no specific teaching curriculum. 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.  


SOCKS WORKSHOP – For intermediate to advanced students - $60

4 Sundays from 1:00 to 3:00 pm
January 15 and 29, February 12 and 26

Prerequisite: Mastery of the concepts taught in Knitting Fundamentals.

We will spread this class out over six weeks to give you an opportunity to make progress on each stage of your first sock, as we pick out the pattern and yarn, work with double-pointed or circular needles, make the leg, turn the heel, pick up gusset stitches, and finish the toe.


Private Sessions – All levels

$30/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 get started or get additional help during classes or with a specific project.

Late Fall 2011 Courses

Don't delay.  Classes start November 10.  Register online.

We have time for another set of classes before Christmas. Let me know if you want to join in..

We'll be offering a knitting fundamentals course again, as well as the popular projects class. The workshop will focus on hats -- just in time for Christmas gifts.

Knitting Fundamentals - For the novice to advanced beginner - $65*
Thursdays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm

November 10 and 17, skip Thanksgiving, December 1, 18, 15 and 22

Classes at this level will contain a mix of new knitters, early learners, and more accomplished students who will benefit from review. It’s a good idea to begin with this course, even if you have knit or crocheted before, to be sure you have a thorough understanding of the fundamentals before continuing to another level.

If you are a beginner, you will learn to knit, purl, cast on, and bind off, plus a myriad of other things as they come up, such as yarn characteristics, importance of gauge swatches, etc. Those who are more experienced will be given additional homework and/or a project.

Many students take this course several times,* advancing as they go, with beginners learning from the more advanced knitters and the more advanced knitters benefitting from reviewing the instruction given to the beginners. No two classes are exactly the same because they are driven by the needs and progress of the group and the particular questions that are raised. *$55 for students who repeat this class.

YOUR PROJECT (knit or crochet) – For intermediate to advanced students - $65*

Sundays from 3:30 to 5:00 pm
November 13, 20 and 27, December 4, 11 and 18

Prerequisite: For knitters, mastery of the concepts taught in Knitting Fundamentals. For crocheters, mastery of the concepts taught in Crochet Fundamentals.

This very popular course is limited to 4 students. Each student will begin (or continue) a personal project, such as a scarf, hat, sweater, bag or socks. We will address yarn and needle choices, gauge swatching, pattern modification, trouble shooting, finishing, blocking, you name it. This is a support class, with no specific teaching curriculum. 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. *$55 for any student who has taken this class before.

WORKSHOP

HATS! – For intermediate to advanced students - $40

Sunday, December 11, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm

Prerequisite: Mastery of the concepts taught in Knitting Fundamentals.

We will work on a knitted cap that makes use of scrap yarn on a base, with a curly-cue or pompom top. Good for a creative gift, or for yourself -- or just to make use of some of that yarn you've been to get to. Easy. Each one unique. 

Private Sessions – All levels

$25/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.