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AM2 - Portuguese Knitting: From Basics to Colorwork

Instructor: Ana Campos
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Description:

Learn how to knit Portuguese style!

Because Portuguese knitting is more efficient and easier on your joints, it can help reduce strain and fatigue. In this style of knitting, the yarn is tensioned either around the neck or using a knitting pin. This unique method of tensioning the yarn allows both knit and purl stitches to be created with a simple flick of the thumb.

In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of Portuguese Knitting, and then use your new skills to learn stranded colorwork. Portuguese Knitting makes it easier to control the tension of your floats, making for easy stranded knitting.

Included in the Class:

Electronic handout, which includes pattern for Souhegan River Cowl, (will be emailed approximately two weeks before Yarnover)

Supplies Needed:
  • set of 2 Portuguese knitting pins (available for purchase from instructor during class or click here to purchase online from instructor’s website)
  • 100 yards each of two contrasting colors of bulky weight yarn (example: Malabrigo Chunky or Circulo Merino Sweet Supreme) Note: Please be sure to get bulky, not super bulky!
  • US10 (6.00 mm) 16” (40 cm) circular needles or size needed to obtain gauge. (You may want to also bring US 9 (5.50 mm) and US 10.5 (6.50 mm) 16” (40 cm) circular needles, as you may find your gauge is different when knitting in this new style)
  • stitch marker for beginning of round, extra markers to keep track of pattern repeats
Homework:
  • Using Main Color, cast on 72 stitches. Join in the round, being careful not to twist, and place a marker for beginning of round.
  • Please print the handout prior to class or have it open on an electronic device. The handout will be emailed to you approximately 2 weeks before Yarnover.

PM2 - Finish like a Pro: Steeks and Buttonbands

Instructor: Ana Campos
Skill Level: Intermediate
Description:

Come learn how to steek your knits! It’s not that scary, we promise.

In this workshop, you will learn how to create a crochet reinforcement for your steek and how to cut your steek. You’ll also learn how to pick up stitches for a button band, and how to always pick up the perfect button band – no more guessing how to space out your stitches!

As a finishing touch, you’ll learn how to hand-stitch a ribbon to the inside of your steek.

Included in the Class:

Electronic Finish Like a Pro: Steeks and Buttonbands handout (handout will be emailed approximately two weeks before Yarnover)

 
Supplies:
  • completed homework swatches
  • extra worsted weight yarn for knitting button bands
  • contrast color yarn in a sport or fingering weight
  • US 8 knitting needles
  • Size D (3mm) crochet hook (Size of the hook isn’t critical, in the range of 2.5 to 3.5 mm is fine)
  • 12” of ribbon for stitching inside your steek
  • tapestry needle
  • hand-sewing needle and thread
  • sewing pins
  • sharp scissors
Homework:
    You need something to steek! You can bring something you have ready, but please also bring the following two practice swatches.
  • Make two swatches as follows: Using smooth, worsted weight wool and US 8 needles, cast on 19 stitches. Work in stockinette until your piece is 5” long and bind off. Note: resist the urge to make your swatches longer! Trust me.
  • If you don’t have any crochet experience, please spend 10-15 minutes practicing how to do a crochet chain.
  • Please print the handout prior to class or have it open on an electronic device. Handouts will be emailed to you approximately 2 weeks before Yarnover.