Traditional Gansey Techniques

An in-person class with Beth Brown-Reinsel

Nov 12, 2:00pm-5:00pm & Nov 13, 1:30-4:30pm PST

Ganseys were worn by fishermen in the UK in the 19th century. Knit a sampler gansey sweater to learn how to construct a full-size version, incorporating classic gansey methods, such as the Channel Island Cast-on, underarm gussets, and more!

Learn how to construct a Gansey, a sweater prevalent in the 19th century and early part of the 20th century among the fishermen of the British Isles. A small-scale sweater will be knitted using traditional construction techniques including the classic Channel Island Cast-on, split welts, seam stitches, traditional knit/purl patterns, the underarm gusset, the perpendicular shoulder strap and join, picked-up sleeves, and three choices for the collar. Alternative methods to these techniques will also be explored. Apply these techniques to your modern garments!

Special skills or knowledge needed to take this class
Student must be proficient with double-pointed needles, Magic Loop, or working with two circulars, working in the round and flat.

Supply List
• One set of four 8″ long (shorter is OK) double-pointed needles, US 5 (3.75mm)
• One set of four or five 8″ long (shorter is OK) double-pointed needles, US 7 (4.5mm)
• 1–2 oz. plain-textured, solid, light-colored worsted-weight yarn (approximately 80 yards).
• Knitting Basics: Sharp scissors, Notebook, Pen or pencil with eraser, Stitch markers, Tapestry needles (large and small), Tape measure, Small calculator, Needles and crochet hooks of various sizes

Optional:
• 11-1/2″ or 12″ (30 cm) circular needle US 7 (4.5 mm)
• Stitch markers
• Contrasting waste yarn
• Sticky notes or magnetic board to aid in reading the chart.
(If you prefer using the Magic Loop or 2 circulars, bring appropriate needles.)