Craftcruises Australia & New Zealand
Feb
1
to Feb 15

Craftcruises Australia & New Zealand

14-Day New Zealand and Australia Knitting Cruise with Tanis Gray
February 1 - 15, 2026

Get more information here. 

Join Craft Cruises and Tanis Gray on a knitting cruise adventure Downunder! Cruise from Auckland to Sydney, visiting some of the most popular ports, including Tauranga (Rotorua), Napier, Wellington, Timaru, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Hobart, Burnie, and Melbourne. This cruise perfectly balances time in port and relaxing days at sea.

New Zealand is ideally seen from a cruise ship since you only need to pack and unpack once. Arrive early to explore Auckland and its surrounding areas. Sample wines at local vineyards, shop for souvenir yarn or visit Piha's wild black sand beaches. 

Shop for Happy Go Knitty yarn in Auckland at a pop-up shop featuring beautiful hand-dyed yarn using locally sourced merino and alpaca fiber. Learn about New Zealand sheep in Rotorua, and shop and tour Skeinz Natural Yarn Store and mill in Napier. Visit Ashford Wheels and Looms on the South Island, where you will find some of the best yarns produced in New Zealand. Visit Tasmania, one of the most remote destinations on earth, and Melbourne. From Melbourne, the group will enjoy a trip to the beloved Tarndie Homestead to learn about Polwarth sheep and what it is like to farm sheep in the rugged Outback. 

After the cruise, extend your stay in Sydney to see the iconic Sydney Opera House, stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, and shop for gorgeous yarn at Skein Sisters, Sydney's best yarn shop.

  

Tanis will teach a range of classes onboard, including an exclusive stranded colorwork class project designed specifically for this cruise using indie-dyed yarn from Happy Go Knitty in Auckland. Students will be able to preorder yarn to be picked up in Auckland. What a great souvenir! 

Classes include Fair Isle 101, Estonian Inlay with Estonian Braids, Mosaic Fingerless Mitts, Double Knitting 101, 2-Colored Cables, Design Your Own Stranded Colorwork Cowl and Beaded Lace. 

Tanis Gray is known for her innovative patterns and detailed knitting books. With several hundred published designs, Tanis has a diverse portfolio of garments, accessories, and themed patterns inspired by popular culture, architecture, and history. In her recent book, The Fellowship of the Knits, Tanis includes designs inspired by The Lord of the Rings.

 

14-Day New Zealand & Australia Knitting Cruise Highlights

  • Visit Gumtree Gully Alpaca Farm, where you will learn about alpaca farming in New Zealand and shop for yarn.

  • Shop for hand-dyed yarn at Happy Go Knitting just north of Auckland.

  • In Rotorua, visit the Agrodome, a 350-acre working farm where visitors can learn about New Zealand's 26 sheep breeds.

  • Learn about the beautiful Maori culture and how geothermal resources are used at Whakarewarewa, a Living Maori Village in Rotorua.

  • Shop for yarn at Design Spun and learn about the Skeinz mill in Napier.

  • Visit the Stansborough Historic Working Weaving Mill to learn about the NZ wool industry's past, present, and future. Learn about the farm side of movie costumes at Stansborough. This mill has produced wool for Narnia and Lord of the Rings wardrobes.

  • From Timaru, spend the day at Ashford Wheels & Looms, touring the mill and factory, and shopping for yarn at the Ashford Craft Village.

  • In Dunedin, the New Zealand city most reminiscent of Scotland, enjoy a tour of Lanarch Castle or visit the Royal Albatross Visitor's Center.

  • In Fiordland National Park, you can experience dense rainforest, crystal clear waters, towering peaks, wilderness scenery, and marine wildlife.

  • While cruising in Milford Sound, try to glimpse a Fiordland Crested Penguin in the wild.

  • Delight in food, wine, and wool on Craft Cruise's Tassie Wool Lovers Tour in Hobart, Australia.

  • Learn about Polwarth sheep and sheep farming in the Outback at the Tarndie Homestead. This working sheep ranch has been developing and adapting the genetics and color of its sheep's fleece so that it is best suited for Victoria's environment and the demands of hand-knitters.

  • Enjoy a farm-fresh lunch at the Tarndie homestead, with a menu including rustic pies made with lamb and sweet potato and fresh-baked scones topped with clotted cream and homemade jam.

  • Extend your stay in Sydney to see the iconic Sydney Opera House, visit the historic Rocks, or stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens.

  • Shop at Skein Sisters, the best yarn shop in Sydney.

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Kathy's Kreations Spring Fling
Apr
24
to Apr 25

Kathy's Kreations Spring Fling

  • Kathy's Kreations (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join me at Kathy’s Kreations in Ligonier, PA, for their annual 2-day Spring Fling Workshop Weekend!

I’ll be teaching Estonian Inlay with Estonian braids as we knit the A Short Reprise Hat, and slip-stitch colorwork as we work the Regret the Moon Cowl.

Visit here for more information.

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Craftcruises Antarctica, Argentina, Uruguay 2027
Feb
1
to Feb 23

Craftcruises Antarctica, Argentina, Uruguay 2027

Read more here.

22-Day South America and Antarctica Knitting Adventure with Tanis Gray
Feb 1-23, 2027

 

We invite you to join Tanis Gray on this knitting cruise to South America and the "White Continent" onboard the Oosterdam. This itinerary offers spectacular scenic beauty, plenty of yarn shopping opportunities, and many relaxing days at sea, allowing participants time to relax, rejuvenate, and learn new knitting skills.

 

South America is home to some of the world's largest natural fiber producers, including merino wool and alpaca. Knitters visiting South America are happy to find an active knitting scene and yarn everywhere. In Buenos Aires, for example, you'll find a yarn district with numerous shops along the same street. Buenos Aires is also a beautiful city where visitors enjoy people-watching, freshly baked pastries at outdoor cafes, or simply sharing in the excitement of watching a street tango. Some of the most succulent steaks in the world come from cattle raised on the rich grasses of the Argentinian Pampas.

 

Visit the Falkland Islands and see sheep and penguins living cohesively at the Bluff Cove Farm and Penguin Rookery. This region has conditions perfect for sheep; large herds thrive on the pampas â?? a vast expanse of flat grasslands where only low vegetation grows due to the harsh Patagonian winds. In Chile, learn about durable, warm, and lightweight alpaca yarn. There will be opportunities to spot herds of sheep throughout the cruise and visit ranches where you can learn about sheep farming, fiber processing, and the shepherds who work the land and care for the animals.

 

Few people get to experience Antarctica, which is one of the most remote places on Earth. On this knitting trip, you'll visit both the Patagonian region of South America and Antarctica, where you'll be exposed to the rugged, natural beauty of this faraway place. Sea life is everywhere and is visible from the ship and in the numerous wilderness areas, home to some of the largest penguin rookeries in the world. There are 17 penguin species worldwide, with only four living and nesting in Antarctica, where you can get up close and very personal with wildlife and view the breathtaking mountain peaks that seem to stretch on forever.

 

South America is home to yarn companies producing gorgeous yarns, including Manos del Uruguay, Balitex Lanas, and Quintessence Alpaca. Yarn producers here have found success through their color expertise and use of traditional dyeing methods. Yarn shopping and fiber activities abound on this itinerary, including shopping with an English-speaking guide in the Buenos Aires yarn district. On this trip, you will also have the opportunity to learn about yarn production at Manos del Uruguay in Montevideo, visit a sheep farm in the Falkland Islands, and the Bluff Cove Penguin Rookery. Upon disembarking, the group will visit the Quintessence Alpaca Farm before heading to the airport for their flight home. Join us on this knitting cruise, and you'll experience the best of Antarctica and South America.

 

Classes include Top-Down Stranded Colorwork Pullover, Estonian Inlay Hat, Beaded Lace Cowl, Mosaic Colorwork, Bargello Earrings, Darning & Mending with Katrinkles Loom.

22-Day South America and Antarctica Knitting Adventure Highlights

  • Shop for yarn in the Buenos Aires yarn district with dozens of shops stocked with colorful yarn from floor to ceiling.

  • Take a tango class and dine on succulent Argentinian steak in Buenos Aires.

  • Shop for Manos del Uruguay yarn and locally made knit garments at their outlet in Montevideo while learning about how women here have banded together to translate their knitting and spinning skills into sustainable incomes.

  • Learn about wine production in Uruguay.

  • Take knitting classes with expert Tanis Gray.

  • In Puerto Madryn take a cruise line tour visiting Estancia San Guillermo for shearing demonstrations or Estancia San Lorenzo, a family-owned sheep station that is also home to over 2,000 nesting Magellan penguins.

  • Get up close and personal with a penguin at the Bluff Cove Sheep Farm & Penguin Rookery in Port Stanley and shop for Falkland Wool.

  • Enjoy unbeatable nature viewing opportunities with on-board experts and up to four days just exploring in Antarctic waters.

  • Expect 20 hours of daylight while visiting the White Continent allowing maximum viewing time of this gorgeous wilderness area.

  • See whales, elephant seals and fur seals in their natural environment.

  • Cruise around Cape Horn and through Glacier Alley and the Chilean Lake District.

  • In Ushuaia take an excursion to see the scenic beauty of Tierra del Fuego National Park.

  • Watch sheep shearing on a cruise line tour at the Fitz Roy Farm in Punta Arenas, tour farm's museum, stop at the La Cruz Hill observations point for a panoramic view of Tierra del Fuego and the Straight of Magellan. and stop for a photo of the Shepherd Monument honoring those who herd sheep.

  • In Puerto Montt meet local fiber artists, see wool dyeing, spinning & loom weaving demonstrations organized by Chucao Lanas, a local fiber co-op.

  • While in Santiago take a knitting tour and shop for Quintessence Alpaca and learn all about these magnificent animals at the Quintessence Alpaca Farm.

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Knitting in the Shetland Islands
Apr
28
to May 7

Knitting in the Shetland Islands

Sign up here!

Click here for more information on the tour!

Important Note: Attractions, workshops and demonstrations may change according to availability and

scheduling.

Day 1: Welcome to Edinburgh, Dovecot Studio and the Scottish Textiles Showcase

Our tour begins in the lobby of the hotel where we introduce you to our experienced tour guide and your new

travelling companions! Begin your tour today and meet with your experienced tour guide along with your knitting

tour host, acclaimed knitwear designer Tanis Gray! After a brief orientation, visit Dovecot Studio which is a

centre dedicated to contemporary art, craft and design and has a long association with beautiful handwoven

tapestries and rugs. After lunch (included), we take a short journey to the Scottish Textiles Showcase, specialising

in Scottish provenance and craftsmanship. There will be time for you to refresh and relax before your welcome

dinner in your Edinburgh hotel this evening.

Overnight Edinburgh area, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 2: Dundee and Overnight Ferry to Shetland

Today, leave Edinburgh and travel towards Aberdeen to catch an overnight ferry to Shetland. En route, we stop

in Dundee to visit The V&A Dundee and the RRS Discovery. The V&A Design Museum first opened in 2018,

the first dedicated design attraction in Scotland. Situated overlooking Dundee’s waterfront, you can learn all about

design from the past, present and future through the stunning displays on exhibit. After lunch (included), we visit

the RRS Discovery and Discovery Point Museum. This museum explores one of the most heroic voyages of

exploration, that of Captain Scott and Ernest Shackleton. We then continue our journey to Aberdeen where we

board the overnight ferry to Shetland. Once on board, we have comfortable cabin accommodation as well as a bar,

lounge, restaurant and gift shop. Breakfast is available the following morning before disembarking.

Overnight Northlink Ferries, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 3: Shetland – Burra Bears and Shetland Pony Experience

On arrival in Shetland, we disembark the ferry at Lerwick and after dropping our bags at the nearby hotel, set off

to explore the island. Our first stop is at Burra Bears, nestled in a tranquil landscape where each individual Burra

Bear is created using a specially designed Fair Isle fabric, knitted locally using 100% Shetland wool and filled

with re-cycled wool scraps.Every bear is given his or her very own unique name! No visit to Shetland is complete

without getting up close and personal with the friendly Shetland ponies for a once in a lifetime opportunity in The

Shetland Pony Experience! Enjoy lunch with scenic views (included), leaving the remainder of the day free for

Page | 1you to explore town of Lerwick. Enjoy a meet and greet with one of our Shetland knitting instructors before

dinner.

Overnight Shetland, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 4: Fair Isle Knitting Workshop, Silly Sheep Fibre Company, Shetland Jewellery

Today, enjoy a morning Fair Isle workshop with Tanis. In this class, you will cover basic Fair Isle knitting

techniques for English, Continental, and Combination knitters, chart reading, tackle common issues, proper

technique, how to trap floats, Fair Isle history, all while creating a trip-exclusive hat and cowl set (knit one or

both—your choice!). After class and lunch at a nearby restaurant (included), visit the Silly Sheep Fibre Company

who create beautiful fibre and knitting yarns from their own flock and those of their friends and neighbours. Travel

to Shetland Jewellery studio, where they make stunning Shetland, Nordic and Celtic influenced jewellery by

hand, with the most amazing view! This evening relax in the hotel with a Knitting Circle hosted by Janette Budge

or one of our other talented instructors.

Overnight Shetland, Breakfast Lunch and Dinner included

Day 5: Knitting Belt Workshop with Janette Budge and Jarlshof

This morning enjoy a knitting class with the famous Shetland Knitting Belt! Receive your own special needles

and leather belt, handmade on Shetland. Janette Budge will teach us to work with a knitting belt – an essential

tool for generations of knitters who had the task of hand knitting for their families down through the years. After

lunch (included), we journey to the very southern tip of the island to see some stunning views at the ancient

settlement of Jarlshof. Staying around Sumburgh Head in the south, enjoy some free time exploring the nature

reserve, with incredible wildlife, flora and fauna. If we are lucky, we may get to meet the puffins! Return to the

hotel for relaxation and dinner.

Overnight Shetland, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 6: Shetland Lace with Elizabeth Johnston, Nielanell Studio and Shetland Textile Museum

After breakfast, we meet Elizabeth Johnston for a class on Shetland Lace. Elizabeth will teach you the skills

required to plan your own Shetland-inspired lace design. Our next stop will be at Nielanell Studio, where we

will meet Niela Kalra, a textile designer who specializes in contemporary knitwear, homeware and accessories.

Finally, after some lunch (included), we take a short trip to the Shetland Textile Museum, which is run by the

community. It is the only one of its kind completely dedicated to the heritage of Shetland textiles and knitting. It

features examples from the historic to the contemporary, all embracing Shetland skills.

Overnight Shetland, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Page | 2Day 7: Shetland Museum & Archives and Ferry to Aberdeen

This morning after checkout, we will enjoy a special Archive Textile Talk and Tour at the Shetland Museum

and Archives. Spend some free time in Lerwick enjoying lunch (not included) and last minute shopping and yarn

buying! Board the overnight ferry with an evening sail from Shetland and a return to Aberdeen.

Overnight Northlink Ferries, Breakfast and Dinner included.

Day 8: Glamis Castle, Kilt Making Demonstration

Enjoy breakfast on the ferry before disembarking at Aberdeen. Our first stop of the day will be at Glamis Castle

which is the ancestral seat of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne.This castle was the inspiration for

Shakespeare’s Macbeth and was also the childhood home of H.M. Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.The

gardens surrounding Glamis Castle are beautiful all year round. We continue on towards Perth to Askival of

Strathearn for a Kilt Making Demonstration! Here we can experience the process of traditional tailored kilt

making, hear all about the history of the kilt and Highland attire, the tartans and the construction of the kilt.

Discover the difference between good and bad kilts, how to tell a well-made tailored kilt and how it should fit!

Continue to Edinburgh where there is time to relax or explore before dinner.

Overnight Edinburgh, Breakfast and Dinner included

Day 9: Kathy’s Knits, Lucy Hague, Scotch Whisky Experience and Amber Restaurant Farewell Dinner

This morning we visit Kathy’s Knits, a small independent yarn and knitting store, where we meet with Lucy

Hague. Lucy is a well-known pattern designer and author of Celtic Cable Shawls and Illuminated Knits. Take

some time to browse through an array of yarns, patterns and accessories in stock at Kathy’s Knits.

This afternoon enjoy free time to sightsee, shop or just relax and knit! We all get together for the Scotch Whisky

Experience and a wee dram, before a Farewell Dinner in the Amber Restaurant, in the shadow of Edinburgh

Castle.

Overnight Edinburgh, Breakfast and Dinner included

Day 10: End of Tour

shopping.

After breakfast, transfer to Edinburgh airport in plenty of time to check in and some last minute duty-free

Page | 3Included in This Tour:

 Transfers on day of tour start (April 28th

of tour start) and tour finish (7th May)

- no later than 9:00AM arrival into Edinburgh Airport on day

 Luxury coach with experienced driver

 Experienced guide/tour manager

 All your knitting and craft workshops including materials, yarn AND your own knitting belt!

 Hotel accommodation, all ensuite with breakfast included

 Welcome Dinner on Day 1

 Return Northlink Ferry with your own cabin, dinner and breakfast included

 5 x 3 course hotel dinners

 Farewell Dinner at Amber Restaurant

 Entrance to the following attractions: V & A Dundee, RRS Discovery and Discovery Point Museum,

Shetland Textile Museum, Shetland Museum and Archives, Jarlshof Settlement, Jamieson & Smith

Wool Brokers, Glamis Castle

 Lucy Hague Knitwear Designer Talk

 Burra Bears

 Shetland Jewellery Studio – watch them at work

 Neilanell Studio visit

 Shetland Ponies Experience

 Fun with The Silly Sheep Fibre Company

 Askival of Strathearn Kilt Making Demonstration

 The Scottish Textiles Showcase, Edinburgh

 The Scotch Whisky Experience

 All local taxes and charges

Workshops Included:

 Fair Isle Workshop with your tour host, Tanis Gray

 Shetland Lace Class

 Shetland Knitting Belt Workshop (includes Shetland Knitting Belt).

 Evening Knitting Circle with local knitting instructor and Tanis Gray

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Virtual Weekend Workshop with YarnSmarts
Nov
14
to Nov 15

Virtual Weekend Workshop with YarnSmarts

  • Google Calendar ICS

Join me virtually for a packed weekend workshop with YarnSmarts! Sign up here.

Stranded Colorwork 101:
Friday, 11:00am-1:00pm  
Freaked over Fair Isle? Curious about stranded colorwork techniques? Intimidated by multiple strands of yarn in multiple colors? Not sure how gauge works or how to trap those floats? This is the workshop for you! We'll cover basic Fair Isle knitting techniques for English, ontinental, and Combination knitters, tackle common issues, proper technique, how to trap floats, Fair Isle history, and set good Fair Isle knitting habits. We'll put everything we learned into practice while knitting up either the Torchy Hat or the Torchy Cowl (knitter’s choice!). No previous colorwork experience necessary.

Design Stranded Colorwork Cowl:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Ready to move beyond basic stranded colorwork? Interested in trying your hand at designing? Let your imagination and creativity take over in this Design Your Own Stranded Colorwork Cowl workshop! Working with simple graph paper, we’ll start your very own design from scratch, beginning with inspiration, sketching, moving onwards to design, figuring out how to manipulate the math, and finally start knitting your own work of art! Worried that you’re not an artist? All you need is an idea, a love of knitting, and the desire to try something new.

Roosimine Estonian Inlay:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Learn the art of Estonian Inlay, or Roosimine in this hat workshop! Originating from the western Estonian island Muhu, this stranding technique has been used for centuries to embellish knitting. Sharing similar characteristics of stranded colorwork, intarsia, and embroidery, this beautiful technique adds texture and color to your knits.
You’ll have the option to make a 2-colored hat, or a 3-colored hat with 2-colored Vikkle Braids. We will also cover twisted ribbing, blocking, and finishing techniques, and knit A Short Reprise Hat.

Intro to Double Knitting:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Join colorwork master Tanis Gray for a Double Knitting workshop! A truly magical technique, Double Knitting creates a double-thick, double-sided fabric with no visible wrong side and inverted colors simultaneously! A cousin to stranded colorwork and intarsia, Double Knitting requires no stranding, no float trapping, no bobbins, and allows for larger motifs to be knit with ease without worrying about puckering. If you can knit and purl, you can Double Knit! We’ll cover basic Double Knitting techniques, chart reading, fixing simple mistakes, and binding off a swatch. By the end of our time together, you’ll be Double Knitting like a champion!
Ability to knit and purl in the round. Previous colorwork experience not necessary, but helpful.

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Row House Camp Knit-A-Way
Sep
19
to Sep 21

Row House Camp Knit-A-Way

  • Row House at Laurel Island (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Read more information here.

Join us for Camp Knit-a-way!  We're hosting a special weekend on Laurel Island in East Hampton, Connecticut from September 19 to 21, 2025.  We'll take over the whole island for Camp Knit-a-way, and attendees will have access to the island's amenities, including hammocks (!), kayaks, SUP, pedal boats, swimming, volleyball, bocce, giant Jenga, private and group decks, board games, yard games, sauna, and more.  There will be plenty of knitting (or crocheting) time, as well as s'mores and a fire pit at night, group and weather willing.  The weekend includes all meals, drinks, and snacks, catered by a private chef. 

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Virtual String Theory Workshop
Jun
8
3:00 PM15:00

Virtual String Theory Workshop

Join me virtually for a stranded colorwork workshop as we knit with the Torchy Hat or Torchy Cowl. Sign up here.

This class is Virtual at the comfort of your own location.  

Date(s): June 8

Time: 2:00-4:00pm Central Time (1:00-3:00pm EST)

Location: It's virtual!

Description:   Freaked over Fair Isle?  Curious about stranded colorwork techniques?  Intimidated by multiple strands of yarn in multiple colors?  Not sure how gauge works or how to trap those floats?  This is the workshop for you!  We'll cover basic Fair Isle knitting techniques for English, Continental, and Combination knitters, tackle common issues, proper technique, how to trap floats, Fair Isle history and set good Fair Isle knitting habits.  We'll put everything we learned into practice while knitting up either the Torchy Hat of the Torchy Cowl (knitters choice!).  No previous colorwork experience necessary.  

Supplies: 

For the hat or cowl

  • 2 Highly contrasting shades of DK-weight yarn 

  • US 3 16" circular knitting needles

  • US 5 16" circular knitting needles

  • Stitch Markers

  • Tapestry Needle

  • Sticky Notes

  • Pattern provided in class

Note: If you would like to knit BOTH the hat AND cowl you will need 2 skeins of your MC and 1 skein of your CC

Homework for Hat (MC is navy and CC is white in sample):

• With MC and smaller circular needles, Longtail CO 120 sts, join into round being careful not to twist, pm for BOR

• Work [knit 1 round, purl 1 round] three times.

• Switch to larger needles.

Homework for Cowl (MC is navy and CC is white in sample):

• With MC and smaller circular needles, Longtail CO 140 sts, join into round being careful not to twist, pm for BOR

• Work [knit 1 round, purl 1 round] three times.

• Switch to larger needles.

The zoom link will be emailed prior to class. 


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Virtual Rowan Connect Counterpanes Workshop
May
31
9:30 AM09:30

Virtual Rowan Connect Counterpanes Workshop

Times listed are EST.

Sign up here.

A knitted counterpane inspired by Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones, this blanket is knit piecemeal square by square to invoke an old-world design with a modern twist. Tanis Gray will help you work from a written pattern to create textured squares on the bias with only knits, purls, increases, and decreases, cover slip-stitch crochet seaming, counterpane history, how to create a picked-up and knit border, Russian bind off, and proper blocking techniques. This is a perfect travel project designed for knitters on the go!

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Beaded Lace Cowl Workshop
May
23
11:00 AM11:00

Beaded Lace Cowl Workshop

Join Tanis at the Manassas Central library as part of the Evolution of the Traditional Crafts of the 18th century to a Modern day Artform program. Sign up here.

Flummoxed by lace or apprehensive about trying it? Then this is the beginner lace workshop for you! Join Tanis Gray and learn a classic leaf lace motif in the round. We’ll be creating both elegant texture and sparkly visual impact by adding beads to our cowl, will learn to read lace charts with comfort, and talk about proper blocking and finishing techniques regarding lace. We’ll work up the Luce Cowl together in class, and you’ll be knitting lace with ease in no time!

 

Materials:

·      1 Hank sport or light DK weight yarn, approx. 285 yds/261 m in superwash or wool (no heavily variegated or fuzzy fibers, please)

·      Size US 5 (3.75 mm) 16-20” circular knitting needles

·      Size US 7 (4.5 mm) 16-20” circular knitting needles

·      Stitch markers

·      Tapestry needle

·      Approx. 300 6/0 mm Miyuki Round Seed Beads (auracrystals.com is a great bead resource – it’s recommended to avoid big box stores due to inconsistency in their manufacturing)

·      .75 mm Crochet Hook

·      Post-it notes

·      Copy of Luce Cowl Pattern available on Tanisknits.com or Ravelry

 

Homework:

·      With smaller circular needles, Longtail CO 144 sts. Join into round being careful not to twist, pm for bor. 

·      Work garter in the rnd (knit 1 rnd, purl 1 rnd) twice.

·      Switch to larger circular needles

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Kathy's Creations Weekend Workshop
Apr
25
to Apr 27

Kathy's Creations Weekend Workshop

Read more information here.

Plans are in the works for our 14th annual Spring Break Knitting Workshop Weekend, April

25 - April 27, 2025, hosted by Kathy Zimmerman.

Internationally-reknowned designer Tanis Gray will be our featured instructor once again. Topics include two-color cable knitting with a cowl project, and Fair Isle/Latvian Braid knitting techniques with a matching hat and cowl project. The event will be held at Kathy's Kreations Friday evening and workshop classes at the Ligonier Town Hall Community Room. At this time, all spots are currently filled.

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Dances With Wool Designer Chat (Copy)
Apr
5
2:00 PM14:00

Dances With Wool Designer Chat (Copy)

More information here.

Join us for our inaugural Dogwood Fiber Trail as we welcome knitwear designer and author Tanis Gray to Dances With Wool.

In this one-hour talk, Tanis will provide an in-depth look into the creation and publication of her latest work, Gilmore Girls: The Official Knitting Book.

As an added bonus, you will have the opportunity to preorder The Gilmore Girls and get a personal signature at the conclusion of the talk!

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Dances With Wool Designer Chat
Apr
5
11:00 AM11:00

Dances With Wool Designer Chat

More information here.

Join us as we welcome knitwear designer and author Tanis Gray to Dances With Wool for our inaugural Dogwood Fiber Trail.

In this one-hour talk, Tanis will share insights from her distinguished career, which includes over 700 published knitting designs, as well as her work on projects with Lusasfilm, Tim Burton, Disney, and Warner Brothers.

As an added bonus, you will have the opportunity to preorder her publication, The Gilmore Girls: The Official Knitting Book—Knit Your Way Through Stars Hollow and Beyond—with a chance for a personal signature at the conclusion of the talk.

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Virtual Rowan Connect Steeking 4 Ways
Mar
23
10:30 AM10:30

Virtual Rowan Connect Steeking 4 Ways

Times listed here are EST.

Register here.

Interested in steeking but nervous about taking scissors to your knitting? Stranded colourwork expert Tanis Gray will guide you through four secure and stress-free steeking methods using swatches, so you’ll feel confident before tackling that sweater pattern you’ve been eyeing! You’ll learn the crochet method (no crochet experience needed), the backstitch method, the needle felting method, and the sewing machine method. Some experience with colourwork and knitting in the round is recommended.

FOR THIS CLASS YOU WILL NEED:

• Swatches in Pebble Island or equivalent worsted weight yarn - see homework

• 4mm/US 6 and 5mm/US 8 needles

• 3.75mm/US 5/Size F Crochet Hook

• 20 metres of 4ply/ fingering weight wool (100% wool – no superwash)

• Sharp scissors

• 16 Removable stitch markers

• Optional: needle felting tool and mat

• Optional: sewing machine set up with brightly coloured thread

HOMEWORK:

2-4 colourwork swatches in the round depending on how many steeking techniques you wish to try. An optional chart for the swatches will be emailed to you upon registration for this class - or you may choose to make swatches in a single colour in the round. Please do not make flat swatches.

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Virtual Rowan Connect Stranded Colorwork Workshop
Mar
22
9:30 AM09:30

Virtual Rowan Connect Stranded Colorwork Workshop

Times listed here are EST.

Register here.

Freaked over Fair Isle? Curious about stranded colourwork techniques? Intimidated by multiple strands of yarn in multiple colours? Not sure how gauge works or how to trap those floats? This is the workshop for you! We'll cover basic Fair Isle knitting techniques for English, Continental, and Combination knitters, tackle common issues, proper technique, how to trap floats, Fair Isle history and set good Fair Isle knitting habits. We'll put everything we learned into practice while knitting the Green Lane Cowl Version 2 by Kaffe Fassett. You may prefer to work a swatch to learn the technique rather than knit the class project. No previous colourwork experience necessary.

FOR THIS CLASS YOU WILL NEED:

•Felted Tweed to make Green Lane - click here

•Oddments of Felted Tweed in 2 highly contrasting shades if you wish to only make a swatch

•4mm/US 6 circular needle no more than 80cm/31” long for cowl or

41cm/16in circular if making swatch

•Stitch Markers

•Tapestry Needle

•Sticky Notes

HOMEWORK:

Using 4mm (US 6) circular needle and yarn A cast on 312 sts for the cowl, or if making the swatch, 60 sts.

Break off yarn A.

Joining in colours as required, and placing a marker in first st to denote

beg of rounds, work in rounds as folls:

Round 1 (RS): *Using yarn B K2, using yarn C P2, rep from * to end.

This round forms 2-colour rib.

Cont in rib for a further 7 rounds.

Round 9: Using yarn B, (K77, K2tog, K77) twice. 310 sts.

Pattern and handout will be emailed prior to the event

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Virtual String Theory Workshop
Mar
2
1:00 PM13:00

Virtual String Theory Workshop

Join me virtually for an Estonian Inlay workshop as we knit the A Short Reprise Hat. Sign up here.

This class is Virtual at the comfort of your own location.  

Date(s): March 2

Time: 2:00-4:00pm Central Time (1:00-3:00pm EST)

Location: It's virtual!

Description:   Learn the art of Estonian Inlay, or Roosimine in this hat workshop!  Originating from Tostamaa, this stranding technique has been used for centuries to embellish knitting.  Sharing Similar characteristics of stranded colorwork, intarsia, and embroidery, this beautiful technique adds texture and color to your knits.  You'll have the option to make a 2-colored hat, or a 3-colored hat with 2-colored Vikkle Braids.  We will also cover twisted ribbing, blocking and finishing techniques, and knit the A Short Reprise hat pattern in DK weight yarn! 

Supplies: 

For the hat or cowl

  • 1 skein DK weight yarn approximately 255 yards, MC

  • 2 mini skeins or stash yarn approximately 50 yards each, CC (NOTE: 2 colored hat needs 1 MC and 1 CC.  3 colored hat needs 1 MC and 2 CC)

  • US 6 16" circular knitting needles

  • US 7 16" circular knitting needles

  • US 7 DPNs

  • Stitch Markers

  • Tapestry Needle

  • Sticky Notes

  • Pattern provided in class

Homework 

  • With smaller circular needle using the Longtail CO technique, CO 100 sts in MC (off-white in project picture).  Join in the round being careful not to twist, pm for BOR

  • Rnds 1-10: (k1tbl, p1) to end of rnd

  • Switch to larger circular needles

  • Next rnd (k10, M1L) to end of rnd - 110 sts

The zoom link will be emailed prior to class.

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Virtual String Theory Workshop
Feb
16
1:00 PM13:00

Virtual String Theory Workshop

Join me virtually for a stranded colorwork workshop as we knit with the Torchy Hat or Torchy Cowl. Sign up here.

This class is Virtual at the comfort of your own location.  

Date(s): February 16

Time: 2:00-4:00pm Central Time (1:00-3:00pm EST)

Location: It's virtual!

Description:   Freaked over Fair Isle?  Curious about stranded colorwork techniques?  Intimidated by multiple strands of yarn in multiple colors?  Not sure how gauge works or how to trap those floats?  This is the workshop for you!  We'll cover basic Fair Isle knitting techniques for English, Continental, and Combination knitters, tackle common issues, proper technique, how to trap floats, Fair Isle history and set good Fair Isle knitting habits.  We'll put everything we learned into practice while knitting up either the Torchy Hat of the Torchy Cowl (knitters choice!).  No previous colorwork experience necessary.  

Supplies: 

For the hat or cowl

  • 2 Highly contrasting shades of DK-weight yarn 

  • US 3 16" circular knitting needles

  • US 5 16" circular knitting needles

  • Stitch Markers

  • Tapestry Needle

  • Sticky Notes

  • Pattern provided in class

Note: If you would like to knit BOTH the hat AND cowl you will need 2 skeins of your MC and 1 skein of your CC

Homework for Hat (MC is navy and CC is white in sample):

• With MC and smaller circular needles, Longtail CO 120 sts, join into round being careful not to twist, pm for BOR

• Work [knit 1 round, purl 1 round] three times.

• Switch to larger needles.

Homework for Cowl (MC is navy and CC is white in sample):

• With MC and smaller circular needles, Longtail CO 140 sts, join into round being careful not to twist, pm for BOR

• Work [knit 1 round, purl 1 round] three times.

• Switch to larger needles.

The zoom link will be emailed prior to class. 


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South Carolina Knitting Guild Knit Inn
Jan
30
to Feb 2

South Carolina Knitting Guild Knit Inn

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Greenville Golf Resort & Conference Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Thursday, January 30, 2025, thru Sunday, February 2, 2025

A long weekend awaits us filled with classes, prizes, knitting friends both old and new, gifts, dinner, games, Show & Share, unlimited knitting inspiration, vendors, amazing auction prizes and knitting – lots of knitting! Read more here.

DOUBLE KNITTING: Friday, January 31, 9am-11:30am

STRANDED COLORWORK AND LATVIAN BRAIDS: Friday, January 31, 2pm-4:30pm

DESIGN YOUR OWN COLORWORK COWL: Saturday, February 1, 9am-11:30am

ESTONIAN INLAY AND ESTONIAN BRAIDS: Saturday, February 1, 2pm-4:30pm

CABLING WITHOUT A CABLE NEEDLE: Sunday, February 2, 9am-11:30am

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4 Workshops at Four Purls - Stranded Colorwork, Design Your Own Stranded Colorwork Cowl, Counterpanes, & Steeking 4 Ways
Jan
18
to Jan 19

4 Workshops at Four Purls - Stranded Colorwork, Design Your Own Stranded Colorwork Cowl, Counterpanes, & Steeking 4 Ways

Tanis Gray Stranded Colorwork Saturday, January 18th 9:30am- 12:30pm

Freaked over Fair Isle? Curious about stranded colorwork techniques? Intimidated by multiple strands of yarn in multiple colors? Not sure how gauge works or how to trap those floats? This is the workshop for you!

Tanis Gray will cover basic Fair Isle knitting techniques for English, Continental and Combination knitters, tackle common issues, proper technique, color theory, how to trap floats, how to read charts, Fair Isle history, and setting good Fair Isle knitting habits. We’ll put these techniques into practice while working up a workshop-debuting pattern, the Portent Cowl.

Experience Level: Advanced Beginner – no previous colorwork experience necessary
Skills required: Ability to knit and purl in the round
Skills Covered: Stranded colorwork knitting techniques in English, Continental, and Combination methods, how to read stranded colorwork charts, multiple ways to trap floats, color dominance and its importance, blocking and finishing techniques, basic
color theory, how to tell the difference between the types of colorwork.

Homework will be emailed separately.

Supplies Needed:

• 2 Highly contrasting shades of DK weight yarn, 140 yds of CC1, 175 yds of CC2 needed
• Size US 4 (3.5 mm) 16”” circular knitting needles
• Size US 6 (4 mm) 16”” circular knitting needles
• Stitch Markers
• Sticky Notes
• Tapestry Needle
• A copy of pattern will be supplied in class

Tanis Gray Design Your Own Cowl – Saturday, January 18 1:30pm-4:30pm

Ready to move beyond basic stranded colorwork? Interesting in trying your hand at designing? Let your imagination and creativity take over in this Design Your Own Fair Isle Cowl workshop!

Working with simple graph paper, Tanis Gray will help you start your very own design from scratch, beginning with inspiration, sketching, moving onwards to design, figuring out how to manipulate the math, and finally start knitting your own work of art! Worried that you’re not an artist? All you need is an idea, a love of knitting, and the desire to try something new.

Experience Level: Advanced Intermediate
Skills required: Previous colorwork necessary
Skills Covered: Basic design concepts, color theory, basic knitting math

Homework will be emailed separately

Supplies Needed:

  • 200 yards each worsted weight yarn in contrasting colors (or desired yarn weight –thinner yarn requires more yardage – no fuzzy or novelty fibers, please)

  • Size US 6 (4 mm) 24” Circular Knitting Needles (or two sizes smaller than the desired gauge)

  • Size US 8 (5 mm) 24” Circular Knitting Needles (or size needed to get the desired gauge)

  • Stitch Markers

  • Tapestry Needle

  • Sticky Notes

  • Graph Paper

  • Colored Pencils

  • Pencil

  • Eraser

  • Highlighter

  • Calculator (most phones have one)

    Tanis Gray Counter Panes – Sunday, January 19th 9:30am- 12:30pm

  • Winter is coming! A knitted counterpane inspired by Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones, this blanket is knit piecemeal square by square to invoke an old-world design with a modern twist. Tanis Gray will help you work from a written pattern to create textured squares on the bias with only knits and purls, cover slip-stitch crochet seaming, counterpane history, how to create a picked-up and knit border, and proper blocking techniques. This is a perfect travel project designed for knitters on the go!

    Experience Level: Beginner
    Skills required: Ability to knit and purl
    Skills Covered: Knitting on the bias, counterpane construction, assembling counterpanes, finishing and blocking techniques

    Homework: None

    Supplies Needed:
    • 1680 yds DK yarn
    • Size US 7 (4.5mm) 16” circular knitting needles
    • Size US 6 (4mm) 60” circular knitting needles
    • Size G crochet hook
    • Tapestry needle
    • Sticky post-it notes
    • A copy of pattern will be supplied in class

    Tanis Gray Steeking – Sunday, January 19th 1:30pm- 4:30pm

  • Interested in steeking but the thought of taking scissors to your knitting sends shivers down your spine?

    Tanis Gray will teach you how to secure and cut your knitting 4 different ways with ease on swatches before you tackle that sweater pattern you’ve had your eye on! You’ll learn the single crochet method (no crochet experience necessary), the backstitch method, the needle felting method, and the sewing machine method.

    Prerequisite: Must have previous colorwork experience or have taken Fair Isle 101 with Tanis beforehand.
    Experience Level: Intermediate
    Skills Covered: steeking 4 different methods, button bands, securing fringes, adding steeks to any pullover

    Homework will be emailed separatley

    Supplies Needed:
    • 4 completed swatches in 100% wool (see homework. Only make 3 if you plan on watching the sewing machine technique only)
    • Tapestry needle
    • 20 yards fingering weight wool (100% wool – no superwash)
    • Sharp scissors
    • Size F Crochet Hook
    • US 5 & 7 needles (use the ones you used for the homework)
    • 10-15 Removable stitch markers

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Lancaster Yarn Shop One Day Knitter's Retreat
Nov
16
9:00 AM09:00

Lancaster Yarn Shop One Day Knitter's Retreat

Sign up here and spend the day learning in the Perella Schoolhouse with Tanis Gray in Intercourse, Pennsylvania. Explore colorwork with Tanis in her most popular class ‘Fair Isle 101,’ an after lunch talk: ‘The Science & Theory Behind Color & How We Can Use that In Our Knitting,’ and an exploration of Estonian inlay (Roosimine). Both classes are project based; deepen your knowledge of colorwork while knitting a cowl and a hat! Even experienced knitters will find new strategies and methods in classes with Tanis.

Midday, we’ll enjoy a delicious catered lunch.

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Crazy For Ewe Workshops
Nov
1
to Nov 2

Crazy For Ewe Workshops

Join Tanis for a Friday night one-hour lecture on the science and theory behind color and how to use that in our knitting.

On Saturday, we’ll learn the art of Estonian Inlay, or Roosimine in this hat workshop! Originating from the western Estonian island Muhu, this stranding technique has been used for centuries to embellish knitting. Sharing similar characteristics of stranded colorwork, intarsia, and embroidery, this beautiful technique adds texture and color to your knits.  You’ll have the option to make a 2-colored hat, or a 3-colored hat with 2-colored Vikkle Braids. We will also cover twisted ribbing, blocking, and finishing techniques, and knit A Short Reprise Hat.

 

Materials:

Note: 2 Colored hat needs one hank of Simply Spectacular DK and 1 Simply Spectacular Smalls or 1 hank of the MC and 1 DK mini. 3 Colored hat needs one hank of Simply Spectacular DK and 2 Simply Spectacular Small or 1 hank of the MC and 2 DK minis.

 

•            1 Hank Emma’s Yarn Simply Spectacular DK (3.5oz/100g ea approx. 255yds/233m, 100% superwash merino, 25% nylon) or any other DK equivalent

•            1 Mini each Emma’s Yarn Simply Spectacular Smalls (.7oz/20g ea approx. 50yds/46m, 100% superwash merino, 25% nylon) or any other DK equivalent

•            Size US 6 (4mm) 16” Circular Knitting Needle

•            Size US 7 (4.5mm) 16” Circular Knitting Needle

•            Size US 7 (4.5mm) DPNs

•            Tapestry Needle

•            Stitch Markers

•            Post-It Notes

•            Copy of A Short Reprise Hat Pattern available on Ravelry or TanisKnits.com

 

Homework:

With smaller circular needle using the Longtail CO technique, CO 100 sts in MC. Join into round being careful not to twist, pm for bor.

Rnds 1-10: [k1tbl, p1] to end of rnd.

Switch to larger circular needles.

Next Rnd: [K10, M1L] to end of rnd – 110 sts.

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Prince Edward Island Fibre Festival
Oct
3
to Oct 5

Prince Edward Island Fibre Festival

  • Delta Hotels Prince Edward (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The PEI Fibre Festival is a celebration of all things fibre including a marketplace, workshops provided by world class instructors, book signings with your favourite designers and Maritime entertainment.

Sign up for my workshops here.


Oct 03 2024: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

MOSAIC KNITTING 101 – TANIS GRAY

Oct 04 2024: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

STRANDED COLOURWORK 101 – TANIS GRAY

Oct 04 2024: 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm

2-COLOURED CABLES – TANIS GRAY

Oct 05 2024: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

STEEKING FOUR WAYS – TANIS GRAY

Oct 05 2024: 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

ESTONIAN INLAY & ESTONIAN BRAIDS – TANIS GRAY

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Knitter's Day Out
Sep
27
to Sep 28

Knitter's Day Out

  • Central Penn College (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Let’s dye some one-of-a-kind yarn! In this workshop, you’re in charge as we ice dye 2 hanks of yarn using powdered dye, our imagination, and ice! Come prepared to try something new, get dirty, and make some magic! Yarn will be available to bring home on Saturday. Please wear old clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.

Date/Time: Friday, September 27, 2024 6:00-9:00 PM

Materials Fee: $30/student. Fee covers the cost of the dye, 2 skeins of fingering weight yarn per student, and soda ash. (Pay teacher directly in class. Exact change appreciated.)

Supplies to Bring:

  • Apron to protect clothing

  • Gloves (medical grade or rubber cleaning gloves are fine)

  • N-95 Mask

  • Safety Glasses

  • Hair Dryer

  • Optional - ear protection for when hair dryers are going

Homework: None

Skill Level: All levels

Take your cable game to the next level by knitting 2-colored cables! The Palace in Wonderland Cowl is packed with technique. Learn the provisional cast-on with two colors, 2-colored cables, chart reading, Kitchener stitch with two colors, cabling without a cable needle, and blocking. It’s a cable game changer!

Date/Time: Saturday, September 28, 2024 9:00 AM-Noon

Supplies:

  • 2 highly contrasting shades of Worsted weight yarn (yarn used in the photo is Kim Dyes Yarn Cannoli Worsted), 400 yds each color - no fuzzy or novelty fibers, please

  • Size US 9 (5.5mm) 24” circular knitting needles (NOTE: If you tend to be a loose or a tight knitter, you may need to adjust your needle size.)

  • Cable Needle

  • Stitch Markers

  • Sticky Notes

  • Tapestry Needle

  • Worsted weight waste yarn

  • Size G Crochet Hook for homework

  • Copy of Palace in Wonderland Cowl Pattern (found on Ravelry or at Tanisknits.com)

Homework: With waste yarn and crochet hook, chain 132 using this method - https://tinyurl.com/48bhcmwz. Be careful not to chain too tightly.

Skill Level: Intermediate, previous colorwork experience not necessary.  Must be comfortable knitting in the round.

Flummoxed by lace or been apprehensive about trying it? Then this is the beginner lace workshop for you! Join Tanis Gray and learn a classic leaf lace motif in the round. We’ll be creating both elegant texture and sparkly visual impact by adding beads to our cowl, will learn to read lace charts with comfort, and talk about proper blocking and finishing techniques regarding lace. We’ll work up the Luce Cowl together in class, and you’ll be knitting lace with ease in no time!

Date/Time: Saturday, September 28, 2024 1:30-4:30 PM

Supplies:

  • 1 Hank sport or light DK weight yarn, approx. 285 yds/261 m in superwash or wool (no heavily variegated or fuzzy fibers, please)

  • Size US 5 (3.75 mm) 16-20” circular knitting needles

  • Size US 7 (4.5 mm) 16-20” circular knitting needles

  • Stitch Markers

  • Sticky Notes

  • Tapestry Needle

  • Approx. 300 6/0 mm Miyuki Round Seed Beads (auracrystals.com is a great bead resource – it’s recommended to avoid big box stores due to inconsistency in their manufacturing)

  • .75 mm Crochet Hook

  • Copy of Luce Cowl Pattern (found on Ravelry or at Tanisknits.com)

Homework: 

  • With smaller circular needles, Longtail CO 144 sts. Join into round being careful not to twist, pm for bor.

  • Work garter in the rnd (knit 1 rnd, purl 1 rnd) twice.

  • Switch to larger circular needles.

Skill Level: Advanced Beginner.  Must be comfortable knitting in the round.

Sign up here.

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Yarn Over
Sep
20
to Sep 22

Yarn Over

  • Minnesota Knitters' Guild (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Friday 9/20

1:00pm – 5:30pm – Yarnover Check-in – Hotel Lobby
5:30 pm – 9:00pm – Opening Night Party – Europa Room

Saturday 9/21

7:30am – 2:00pm – Yarnover  Check-in – Hotel Lobby
8:00am – 5:30pm – Yarnover Marketplace – Regency and Scandinavian Ballrooms
9:00am – 12:00pm – Morning Classes - I’ll be teaching stranded colorwork
12:00pm – 2:00pm – Lunch – Europa Room
2:00pm – 5:00pm – Afternoon Classes - I’ll be teaching double knitting in the round
7:30pm – 9:30pm – Bingo Bash – Europa Room

Sunday 9/22

10:00am – 12:00pm – Minnesota Knitters Guild Meeting – Regency Ballroom

Find out more here.

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Susquehanna Valley Spinners & Weavers Guild
Jun
8
to Jun 9

Susquehanna Valley Spinners & Weavers Guild

  • Central PA Chamber of Commerce Building (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Sat. June 8, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm: Workshop Colorwork: Luminosu Hat or Cowl Pattern with Tanis Gray

Luminosu Hat or Cowl – Ms Gray will use this project to teach us traditional stranded colorwork.

Please visit www.tanisknits.com for pattern descriptions and yarn suggestions.

All of these patterns use DK and/or sport weight yarn. DK (Double Knitting) yarn is in between sport and worsted weight on the yarn weight spectrum. DK is less bulky than worsted weight. Ms. Gray recommends Emma’s Simply Spectacular DK which can be found online at $28/100 gm 255 yard skein of merino nylon blend. ANY DK WEIGHT WOOL BLEND WILL WORK FOR THESE DESIGNS. Check your stash too.
 You must pre-pay to register for the workshop.  Payment of $55 per member.  Non-Guild members $75.

Workshop to be held at the Central PA Chamber of Commerce Building located at 30 Lawton Lane,  Milton PA 17847.

​

Sat.  June 8, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Workshop  History of Knitting Lecture and Bow Tie Pasta Mosaic Fingerless Mitts by Tanis Gray

This workshop includes a brief lecture on the history of knitting before she begins the Mosaic Knitting workshop.

Mosaic knitting: Fingerless Mitts

Bow-Tie Pasta Fingerless Mitts – This project will teach us how to knit the shortcut to stranded color called mosaic style.

​All of these patterns use DK and/or sport weight yarn. DK (Double Knitting) yarn is in between sport and worsted weight on the yarn weight spectrum. DK is less bulky than worsted weight. Ms. Gray recommends Emma’s Simply Spectacular DK which can be found online at $28/100 gm 255 yard skein of merino nylon blend. ANY DK WEIGHT WOOL BLEND WILL WORK FOR THESE DESIGNS. Check your stash too.
 You must pre-pay to register for the workshop.  Payment of $55 per member.  Non-Guild members $75.

Workshop to be held at the Central PA Chamber of Commerce Building located at 30 Lawton Lane,  Milton PA 17847.

 

Sun. June 9, 9 am - 12:00 pm:   Estonian inlay A Short Reprise Hat by Tanis Gray

A Short Reprise Hat – this hat is made using Estonian Inlay and Estonian Braid. Estonian Inlay is a technique where a design appears to be embroidered but is actually strands from underneath the design pulled to the surface.

​All of these patterns use DK and/or sport weight yarn. DK (Double Knitting) yarn is in between sport and worsted weight on the yarn weight spectrum. DK is less bulky than worsted weight. Ms. Gray recommends Emma’s Simply Spectacular DK which can be found online at $28/100 gm 255 yard skein of merino nylon blend. ANY DK WEIGHT WOOL BLEND WILL WORK FOR THESE DESIGNS. Check your stash too.
 You must pre-pay to register for the workshop.  Payment of $55 per member.  Non-Guild members $75.

Workshop to be held at the Central PA Chamber of Commerce Building located at 30 Lawton Lane,  Milton PA 17847.

 
 

June 9, 2:00 pm: Guild Meeting  The Science of Color Theory presented by Tanis Gray

Knowledge of color theory is essential for all fiber artists, not just knitters. We hope to see many weavers and spinners at these presentations also.

Meeting to be held at the Central PA Chamber of Commerce Building located at 30 Lawton Lane,  Milton PA 17847.

​

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Ireland Knitting Tour with Craftours
May
20
to May 29

Ireland Knitting Tour with Craftours

  • Google Calendar ICS

Come away with me to Ireland! Register here.

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

  • Round-trip international airfare from New York City to Dublin, Ireland. (Airfare available from your closest international airport for an additional fee. First/Business class upgrades available)

  • First-class hotel accommodation in Galway, Killarney, and Dublin. (Suite upgrades available)

  • Private deluxe motor coach and professional driver/guide the entire time.

  • Professional knitting instructor, Tanis Gray as our special guest.

  • Two half-day knitting workshops with our master instructor Tanis.

  • Panoramic city tour of Galway including driving past the Galway Cathedral.

  • A drive through the famous "Burren" area on the West Coast of Ireland.

  • Shopping opportunities for purchasing Irish yarn.

  • Delicious Irish breakfast served daily and some dinners.

  • Sightseeing to Ireland's “Natural Wonder of the World,“ the Cliffs of Moher.

  • Shopping opportunity on the famous Grafton Street in Dublin.

  • Optional cooking lesson to learn how to make home-made Irish scones.

  • Transfers to/from the airport/hotel in Ireland for full package guests.

  • An optional show to see the Irish song and dance review, Celtic Steps.

  • A welcome dinner, introductions, and orientation meeting.

  • Visiting the family-owned Avoca weaving facility.

  • An evening presentation of Irish Lace Making with local lacemakers.

  • Panoramic city tour of Dublin with a local professional guide.

  • Professional Craftours travel manager available throughout your entire journey.

  • Shopping in the seaside craft village of Spiddal.

  • Visiting the extraordinary Kylemore Abbey and walled gardens.

  • Participating in a traditional “dry felting workshop”with a local Irish artist.

  • Photo opportunity in Killarney to see the ruins of Ross Castle.

  • Visiting the Connemara Sheep and Wool Center to see a wool demonstration.

  • Sheep herding demonstration and visit to the Glengowla Mines.

  • Stopping at the Blarney Woolen Millsfor great souvenir shopping.

  • Touring the unique and beautiful Brigit’s Garden.

  • A hands-on  Brigid's Cross Workshop with a local Irish instructor.

  • An opportunity (for a nominal fee) to kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle.

  • Touring the historic and entertaining Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.

  • A Craftours lanyard, luggage identifier, and commemorative gifts.

  • All taxes are included in this package, and insurance is highly recommended.

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Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival
May
4
to May 5

Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival

  • Howard County Fairgrounds (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Tanis for a weekend of workshops at Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival! Sign up here for the below classes.

may 1, 9am-12pm

Stranded Colorwork & Latvian Braids 101 with Tanis Gray

Freaked over Fair Isle? Curious about stranded colorwork techniques? Intimidated by multiple strands of yarn in multiple colors? Not sure how gauge works or how to trap those floats? This is the workshop for you! In my most popular workshop, we’ll cover basic Fair Isle knitting techniques for English, Continental and Combination knitters, tackle common issues, proper technique, color theory, how to trap floats, how to read charts, how to combat puckering, Fair Isle history, and setting good stranded colorwork knitting habits. We will also learn Latvian braids going in both directions. We’ll put all these techniques into practice while working up either the Luminosu Hat or the Luminosu Cowl (knitter’s choice!). No previous colorwork experience necessary.

Materials, Equipment, and Supplies the Student Must Bring to Class

Materials for Hat:
-2 Highly contrasting shades of DK-weight yarn (sample uses Plucky Knitter Primo DK)
-Size US 2 (2.80mm) 16” circular knitting needles
-Size US 3 (3.25mm) 16” circular knitting needles
-Size US 3 (3.25mm) DPNs
-Stitch Markers
-Tapestry Needle
-Sticky Notes
Materials for Cowl:
-2 Highly contrasting shades of DK-weight yarn (sample uses Plucky Knitter Primo DK)
-Size US 2 (2.80mm) 16” circular knitting needles
-Size US 3 (3.25mm) 16” circular knitting needles
-Stitch Markers
-Tapestry Needle
-Sticky Notes

Materials Fee (to be paid directly to the instructor)

$8

Homework

Purchase a copy of Luminosu Hat & Cowl pattern: https://www.tanisknits.com/hats/luminosu-hat-cowl or https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/luminosu-hat--cowl

Skill Level

Beginner

May 1, 1-4pm Steeking 4 Ways with Tanis Gray

Interested in steeking but the thought of taking scissors to your knitting sends shivers down your spine? We’ll learn how to secure and cut our knitting 4 different ways with ease on swatches before you tackle that sweater pattern you’ve had your eye on! You’ll learn the single crochet method (no crochet experience necessary), the backstitch method, the needle felting method, and the sewing machine method making you a more powerful knitter!

Materials, Equipment, and Supplies the Student Must Bring to Class

• 4 completed swatches in 100% wool (see homework. Only make 3 if you plan on watching the sewing machine technique only)
• Tapestry needle
• 20 yards fingering weight wool (100% wool – no superwash)
• Sharp scissors
• Size F Crochet Hook
• US 5 & 7 needles (use the ones you used for the homework)
• 10-15 Removable stitch markers
• Clover Needle Felting Tool
• Clover Needle Felting Mat
• Optional sewing machine (I will be demoing this in class, but if you’d like to do it on your own with me, have your machine out and set up with brightly colored thread)

Materials Fee (to be paid directly to the instructor)

$5

Homework

Note: Completed swatches for homework are a must for this workshop! You will not be able to steek in class without them. The swatches are knit in a small circumference, so use whichever method you are comfortable with – DPNs, 2 circulars, or magic loop. Swatches should be knit in 2 shades highly contrasting worsted weight. If you wish, use different color combinations to mix it up!
• CO 45 sts with US 5 needles. Join into round being careful not to twist, pm for beginning of round. Work [knit 1 round, purl 1 round] three times.
• Switch to US 7 needles and work rounds 1-25 of chart.
• Switch to smaller needles and work [knit 1 round, purl 1 round] three times.
• BO knitwise.
Chart for swatch (click to enlarge):

Skill Level

Intermediate

May 2, 9am-12pm Estonian Inlay with Tanis Gray

Learn the art of Estonian Inlay, or Roosimine in this hat workshop! Originating from the western Estonian island Muhu, this stranding technique has been used for centuries to embellish knitting. Sharing similar characteristics of stranded colorwork, intarsia, and embroidery, this beautiful technique adds texture and color to your knits. You’ll have the option to make a 2-colored hat, or a 3-colored hat with 2-colored Vikkle Braids. We will also cover twisted ribbing, blocking and finishing techniques, and knit a hat pattern in DK weight yarn!

Materials, Equipment, and Supplies the Student Must Bring to Class

- Yarn: DK yarn (255 yards) of the MC and 2 DK minis (50 yds each).
- Needles:
Size US 6 (4mm) 16” Circular Knitting Needle
Size US 7 (4.5mm) 16” Circular Knitting Needle
Size US 7 (4.5mm) DPNs
- Additonal Supplies: Tapestry Needle, Stitch Markers, Post-It Notes

Materials Fee (to be paid directly to the instructor)

$5

Homework

Purchase a copy of A Short Reprise Hat available at tanisknits.com or Ravelry

Skill Level

Advanced Beginner

May 2, 1-4pm 2-Color Cables with Tanis Gray

Take your cable game to the next level by knitting 2-colored cables! The Palace in Wonderland Cowl is packed with technique. Learn the provisional cast-on with two colors, 2-colored cables, chart reading, Kitchener stitch with two colors, cabling without a cable needle, and blocking. It’s a cable game changer!

Materials, Equipment, and Supplies the Student Must Bring to Class

- Yarn: 2 Highly contrasting shades of Worsted weight yarn (yarn used in sample is Kim Dyes Yarn Cannoli Worsted), 400 yds each color
- Needles:Size US 9 (5.5mm) 24” circular knitting needles
- Additional Supplies:Stitch Markers, Sticky Notes, Tapestry Needle, worsted weight waste yarn, Size G Crochet Hook

Materials Fee (to be paid directly to the instructor)

$5

Homework

Purchase a copy of Palace in Wonderland Cowl available on Tanisknits.com or Ravelry

With crochet hook and waste yarn, chain 145 (be careful not to chain too tightly)

Skill Level

Advanced Intermediate

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Kathy's Kreations Yarn Shop
Apr
26
to Apr 28

Kathy's Kreations Yarn Shop

Saturday Morning Class: Ride or Die Cowl Workshop (3 hours)

Class Description: “Ride or die” is a term used to describe a person who is willing to do anything for their partner, friend, or family in the face of danger, or who stands by your side unconditionally. Join Tanis Gray and learn a unique lace brocade stitch and make the Ride or Die Cowl together as a class. We’ll be pulling stitches up from below to create both texture and visual impact, learn to read lace charts, and talk about proper blocking and finishing techniques regarding lace. Want to work in a thicker yarn or make a shorter cowl? No problem! We will talk about adjusting the pattern to suit your style.

Materials:

·      1 Hank fingering weight yarn, approx. 438 yds/401 m (sample shown uses The Lemonade Shop Sparkle Sock in Rainbows + Clouds) in superwash or wool (no heavily variegated or fuzzy fibers, please)

·      Size US 1 (2.25mm) 24” circular knitting needles

·      Size US 3 (3.25mm) 24” circular knitting needles

·      Stitch markers

·      Tapestry needle

·      Post-it notes

·      Copy of pattern will be supplied in class

·      NOTE: If working with a thicker yarn, there will be different yardage. Use the recommended needle size for the yarn chosen, plus an additional needle two sizes down from the recommended size for the ribbing

Homework:

·      With smaller circular needles, Longtail CO 248 sts. Join into round being careful not to twist, pm for bor. NOTE: If adjusting size to make the cowl less wide, CO a multiple of 4 sts, or email Tanis for assistance.

·      Work [p2, k2] across rnd for 6 total rnds.

·      Switch to larger circular needles.

·      Set Up Rnd: P1, move m here for new bor, p1, [k2, p2] to last 3 sts, k2, p1.

·      Work [p1, k2, p1] for 3 rnds total.

 

Saturday Evening Class: Confectionary Cowl Workshop (3 hours)

Class Description: Who wants ice cream? Join Tanis Gray and learn a sweet and unusual lace pattern while we knit up the Confectionary Cowl as a class! We’ll wrangle constant stitch amount changes, borrow a skill from Estonian knitting for our decreases, wield a crochet hook with confidence (no crochet skills required!), learn to read lace charts, and talk about proper blocking and finishing techniques regarding lace.

Materials:

·      1 Hank fingering weight yarn, approx. 463 yds/423 m (sample shown uses Kindred Red Rad sock in Lavender and Lightening) in superwash or wool (no heavily variegated or fuzzy fibers, please)

·      Size US 1 (2.25mm) 24” circular knitting needles

·      Size US 3 (3.25mm) 24” circular knitting needles

·      Small crochet hook for decreases

·      Stitch markers

·      Tapestry needle

·      Post-it notes

·      Copy of pattern will be supplied in class

Homework:

·      With smaller circular needles, Longtail CO 240 sts. Join into round being careful not to twist, pm for bor.

·      Work [k2tbl, p2] across rnd for 8 total rnds.

·      Switch to larger circular needles.

 

Sunday Morning Class: Choose Your Own Cable Adventure Workshop (3 hours)

Class Description: Embark on a magical twisty cabled adventure with Tanis Gray! In this workshop we’ll learn all about cable anatomy, the history behind certain cabled patterns, how to read cable charts more easily, decode cable symbols, cabling without a cable needle, and talk about proper blocking and finishing techniques. We’ll take all this cable knowledge and pick and choose from a variety of cable patterns to design and execute our very own cabled wrap, scarf, or cowl – knitter’s choice – using multiple cable patterns with varying repeats.

Materials:

·      Preferred yarn for swatching (DK, worsted, or aran are recommended) in a light color (no heavily variegated or fuzzy fibers, please)

·      Recommended needle size for above yarn

·      Pencil and eraser

·      Stitch markers

·      Post-it notes

·      Cable needle

·      If planning on starting your cable design, project yarn and recommended-sized needles (no heavily variegated or fuzzy fibers, please)

Homework:

·      If planning on starting your cable design, make a 6 x 6” blocked stockinette swatch with the needle size you like best in the yarn you plan on using for your design. This may mean trying out a few different sizes to get the perfect-for-you swatch!

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