Workshop Info

Does knitting a gauge swatch mystify you? Have you knit a gauge swatch and it ‘lied’ to you? Thought you had gauge, but your finished sweater grew or shrunk and didn’t fit? Do you think you have tension issues in your knitting (or aren't sure if you do or not)? Well then, this class is for you!

We will learn the ins and outs of gauge swatching, accurately measuring our gauge so that it doesn’t ‘lie’ to us, and how to identify and remedy common tension issues. Knit up some swatches and join us! Skills students will learn: Knitting a proper gauge swatch, measuring gauge accurately, identifying tension issues, and some ways to combat common tension issues.

Skill Level Required: Beginner - Cast on, bind off, basic knit stitches.

Homework:

Three small swatches. A wool blend yarn is preferred for these, as it responds to blocking better. Use a solid, light tone, color for these swatches - that will make seeing the stitches easier. We will be assessing your tension and practicing measuring gauge with these.

Swatch one: Cast on 20 sts and work in garter stitch, knitting every row. Work for 20 rows. Bind off. Label swatch with a tag as "knitted". Do not block.

Swatch two: Cast on 20 sts and work in garter stitch, this time purling every row. Work for 20 rows. Bind off. Label swatch with a tag as "purled". Do not block.

Swatch 3: Cast on 30 sts and work in Stockinette st (knit one row, purl one row) for 5". Bind off. Block this swatch by submerging in lukewarm water, letting sit for 20 minutes. Remove from water, roll in towel to remove excess water gently, lay flat to dry, trying to unroll the selvedges edges as best you can. You may pin the swatch if you wish. Take care not to stretch the swatch as you block it.

Please email instructor with questions about workshop content: hs@heatherstorta.com

Note: Images are a representation of the workshop project.

There is no material fee associated with this workshop.

Students must bring:

• Homework swatches (tagged).
• Knitting needles - size 7 or size appropriate to yarn.
• Yarn: worsted weight yarn - a wool blend is preferred.
• Ruler
• Pen or pencil
• Calculator
• Waste yarn
• Tapestry needle 

We also suggest bringing a battery operated light should you need additional lighting.

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