Rockin’ the Stockins’!

Everyone loves to knit socks, but have you tried stockings? Elevate your fashion quotient thigh high with stockings shaped and fitted to your very own leg!
Learn to measure your leg properly, then work a simple toe-up construction that allows you to shape the stocking as you go and simply bind off when you reach the height you want. Get a custom fit that assures comfort and wearability. 6 hours

Crochet for Knits

Have no fear; if you can knit , you can also crochet!
Sometimes knits cry out for the stability , prettiness or just the fine finishing touch of a crocheted edge. Learn how to handle a hook and work some simple crocheted finishes that lend added depth to your knitted garments. 3 hours

Whip Your Knits into Shape!

Adding designer shaping touches to your knitted garments is easy once you know a few simple rules and how to apply them. Flatter your figure by shaping any garment as you knit it. Darts, ease, and short row shaping are all important elements for a custom fit. Learn which ones to use to play up your specific body type to it’s best advantage. Students will come away with a complete set of their own body measurements and the skills needed to customize knits to fit their shape. 3 hours

(Note: I offer another, more intense 6 hour workshop based on this class and very worthwhile if you have hard-to-fit customers. Students come away with a custom pattern to fit their body and the know-how to use it to design their own sweaters.)

My Fair-Isle!

Learn the secret of knitting with two colors at a time AND knitting with both hands. This simple technique will also open the door to the Continental style of knitting for those who desire to. Working off of a colored chart and using the knit stitch only, students will make a cute wearable wide headband in class. 3 hours.

Vintage Knitting

Learn about the history of knitting and fashion from the early 20th century to present day. What's old is new again and with just a little tweaking, knitters can use those wonderful retro styles to add vintage flavor to their sweater wardrobe. Uncover the clues in vintage patterns that will allow you to adapt them to our modern bodies. Knitters will work on a mini vintage sweater and learn some techniques from the past. 3 hours

Fundies: Knit Your Own Lingerie!

The lingerie influence is all over fashion runways this year. Go straight to the source and learn how to knit your own undies, nighties and intimate apparel. Joan is a former designer for Frederick’s of Hollywood and the author of the very popular book “Knitting Lingerie Style” (STC Publishing, 2007). She will show you the ins and outs of pretty, feminine under-dressing.
Knitters will make either a lacy vintage inspired wedding garter, or a cute bobbled thong panty in class. 3 hours

Beading for Knits

Joan’s collection of vintage beaded sweaters lend the inspiration for knitters to bead their own items. A plain cardigan or pullover becomes a gorgeous heirloom in a matter of a few hours! Hand beaded sweaters sell for big $$. Learn how to duplicate this luxurious look easily for very little money by making a fancy beaded sunglass case in class. 3 hours

Dress You Up! : Knit a Dress

Combine yarn and fabric to create a unique outfit that you'll never see on anyone else. Learn how to fit a knitted bodice to a fabric skirt and end up with a beautiful dress. Apply this idea to making casual summer dresses, girls dresses, nighties and even a lovely wedding gown! Participants will receive a kit and pattern to make a child's dress in class. 6 hours

Get a Foot Up on Toes-Up!

Learn to knit socks and stockings from the toe up and discover the joy of never having to graft in order to finish. When the knitting is completed, the sock is done! Try on as you go and completely eliminate sizing guesswork. Students will make a child-sized sock in class. 3 hours

Call (916) 247-5580 or email me for more details and a sample contract outlining fees and requirements.