New knitting

A few years ago, at KnitCity Vancouver, I took a class with Diana Twiss to learn to spin with a suspended spindle. Her learn-to-spin class completely opened my eyes to everything I needed to start spindle spinning: choosing a good beginner’s spindle, different drafting methods, plying with spindles, and even choosing a good plying spindle. I left the class with a beautiful, suspended spindle I still enjoy and use and a solid foundation from which to extend my spindling exploration. Diana Twiss, spinning instructor at the School of SweetGeorgia. Learning from Instructor Diana Twiss Diana is an excellent technical teacher, and her enthusiasm is contagious and inspiring. I am so happy I can refer to her SOS class when I come back to suspended spindling. If you have ever been curious about learning to spin, her Spinning with Suspended Spindles course in the School of SweetGeorgia is fantastic to get you started. Not long after the class, I checked Diana’s website, 100 Mile Wear , an...

In this week’s episode, we are excited to welcome Celeste Angello, known as the Cranky Spinster, to discuss her journey into the world of circular sock knitting machines (CSM). They discuss the importance of community, the process of restoring antique machines, and tips for beginners looking to get started in sock knitting. Celeste shares her experiences with crank-ins, the innovations in the CSM world, and the creative possibilities that come with using these machines. The conversation highlights the rich history of sock knitting and the excitement of exploring new techniques and ideas within the craft. Episode Highlights Celeste identifies as a maker, encompassing various crafts. Crank-ins are essential for learning and community building. The best sock machine is one that works, regardless of age. Budget and intended use are key factors in choosing a sock machine. Beginners should focus on mastering the basics of sock knitting. The online community for sock knitting is va...

Ready to start crocheting a beautiful asymmetrical shawl? Charlotte takes us through a few simple steps in this video and written tutorial. Taken from her Crochet Increases and Decreases course, this video covers one of the five unique shawl shapes offered in the course that are perfect for building your skills and confidence. Whether you’re new to crocheting or looking to expand your techniques, our school has you covered. Explore courses like Crochet Basics , Crochet Joins , Crochet Textures , Granny Squares , and Amigurumi: Crocheting Basic Shapes . We’re always adding fresh content to our Crochet Course Library to keep you inspired and learning. Want more tips and techniques? Check out Charlotte Crochet’s articles! Materials & Tools Shown Crochet hook SweetGeorgia Superwash DK  in Wisteria More about Charlotte Lee  Charlotte Instagram Charlotte’s patterns at SweetGeorgia Yarns Explore Charlotte’s courses at the School of SweetGeorgia  Browse Cha...

When planning a project, it’s always a good idea to think about how the ends of the item are going to be treated. Choosing how one is going to do the finishing, both dry and wet, hem or fringe, before starting a project, will allow for some creative approaches to securing the selvedges. The usual methods are to leave a fringe or to hem, but there are other options, too. Considerations with Fringe When leaving a fringe, the weaver can hemstitch while the item is still on the loom. There are several different stitches that can be used. Most weavers have their favourite that they tend to use as their ‘default’. Mine comes from Weaving : A Handbook of the Fiber Arts , by Shirley Held . She shows several different stitches, and I find one of them suitable for most of my needs.  Twisted Fringe Fringe twisting is another end finish that is appropriate for a number of different types of textiles. I find fringe twisting useful for things such as scarves/shawls, blankets, ...

Looking for a vibrant project to brighten up your knitting needles? We’re delighted to reintroduce our beloved Asante cowl pattern—now refreshed in two stunning, hand-dyed yarn palettes! Whether you’re drawn to light, luminous hues or crave the drama of deep, moody tones, each gradient project offers a unique journey through hand-dyed colour. With simple stitches great for all knitters, this classic cowl is quick, satisfying, and endlessly wearable all year round. Dive in and knit your own favourite palette! Cuddle into cozy, soft hand-dyed colour With enough length to pull on extra warmth THE ASANTE KNITTING PATTERN Add a burst of colour to your knitting with the Asante cowl, a fun striped project by designer Lynn Di Cristina. This deep cowl is the perfect project for knitters who crave a colourful and cozy accessory you’ll always want to reach for. Deliciously soft yarn, simple stitches, and an easy construction merge into an enchantingly classic knit that you’ll love to w...