Workshops
I teach a variety of knitting spinning and sewing workshops. Details of the workshops that I teach can be found below, but I can customise them according to your requirements. I can offer bespoke workshops for a small group, or on a 1:1 basis. Please contact me if you would like to arrange a bespoke workshop.
The current workshop schedule can be found here.
Workshop Descriptions:
Hand Spinning on a Drop Spindle.
This 2 hour workshop is designed for the absolute beginner who is curious about how yarn is produced from animal fleece and wants an introduction to hand spinning with a drop spindle. You will learn about fleece, and how to prepare it for spinning, before you get to try spinning for yourself using colourful fibre and a drop spindle that you can take home with you (to practice some more). No previous experience is necessary and you don’t need to bring anything with you except your enthusiasm!
Beginners Knitting for Adults
In the 2-hour “Beginners Knitting” workshop, I will teach you how to start knitting. No previous knitting experience necessary! You will learn how to cast on, how to master the knit and purl stitches, and how to cast off. You will also learn how to read a knitting pattern, including what all those cryptic abbreviations mean.
You will receive patterns for 2 simple spa cloths which will let you practice the techniques learned. Yarn and needles will be provided.
Next Steps in Knitting
If you already know the basics of knitting, but want to learn more, then the “Next Steps in Knitting” workshop is for you. In this 2-hour workshop, I will help you progress to the next stage by teaching you about different types of increases and decreases and how to work some simple lace patterns.
You must already be able to cast on, knit, purl and cast off.
You will receive patterns for 2 spa cloths which will let you practice the techniques learned. Yarn and needles will be provided.
Introduction to Magic Loop Knitting
In this 2 hour workshop, the aim is to teach how to knit a small circumference tube using the ‘magic loop’ technique. You will take home the pattern for a pair of simple wrist warmers which are designed to let you practice the ‘magic loop’ technique. You must be able to cast on, cast off, and have basic knitting skills to get the most from this workshop.
Introduction to Sock Knitting
This 2 hour workshop aims to teach the anatomy of a sock and show how a knitted sock is constructed. You will apply this knowledge to knit a mini sock as a decoration, for which a pattern will be provided. The pattern gives two heel and two toe options.
Please note: this is not a beginner’s workshop – you should be able to knit in the round to get the most from this workshop.
Finishing Techniques for Knitting and Crochet
Good finishing techniques elevate a knitting or crochet project from looking merely homemade to professionally handcrafted.
In this 2-hour workshop you will learn how to finish off your knit or crochet items. We will cover weaving in ends, blocking, seaming, picking up stitches and simple grafting.
All workshops are restricted to 4 attendees so that you get plenty of 1 to 1 guidance as you learn. All materials will be provided for use during the workshop. If you have a specific project that you need help with, please feel free to bring it along!
Sew a Drawstring Bag
In this 2-hour workshop, you will learn how to sew a lined drawstring bag. You must have basic sewing machine skills. As long as you can sew in a straight line, you will be fine. Depending on the venue, sewing machines may be available for your use, but you may need to bring your own.
All materials will be provided. Cotton material for the bag will be available in a choice of patterns, with a contrasting plain fabric for the top and calico for the lining.
The bag that you make in the workshop will be approximately 9 inches (23 cm) wide, 10 inches (26 cm) tall with a base depth of 2 inches (5 cm).