An in-person class with Lorilee Beltman

Aug 3, 9:00am-12:00pm

Continental knitting for new and experienced knitters alike.

When you knit in the continental style with the yarn held by the left hand, you may minimize your hand motions for a more comfortable, and perhaps speedier way to knit. Each finger has a job to do. Understand exactly which motions have a bearing on stitch size (it’s not what you think!).

Learn to even out your knitting by sizing your knits and purls equally so that “rowing out” is no longer an issue. Learn how your choice of tools affects the outcome. Practice the knit stitch, purl stitch, and ribbing, where continental’s efficiency of motion really pays off. We will briefly try some increases and decreases. All are welcome, whether a brand-new knitter or someone with fifty years experience knitting by another method. We will all be trying something new together.

Please realize there is no single “best” way to knit, but trying different methods may potentially turn you on to something that suits you better than your current style. Be adventurous and give continental knitting a try.

Special skills or knowledge needed to take this class
Interestingly, one can not predict whether a new knitter or someone with fifty years experience will have better success in this class. All are welcome. Basic understanding of knitting by any method is helpful.

Supply List
• About 50 grams worsted-weight wool or wool-blend yarn that has some spring to it for the homework swatch and class work. Avoid fuzzy or splitty yarn, and choose a color that is easy to see. Acrylic or cotton yarns are too difficult to learn on. Lorilee will have some spare yarn in case it’s needed.
•  A slippery, steel circular needle (even if you are not used to them) in a size US 5 to US 7 (3.75 – 4.5 mm) that is about 32 inches long. Lorilee will have spare needles to borrow if needed. Straight needles and wooden needles will hinder your progress in this class.

Limited pre-class work required.