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New Online Learning Videos with Interweave

You may remember that over the summer, I went to Interweave in Fort Collins, CO to film four classes. This was part of Interweave’s Online Learning video program.  The first one, based off of Stained Glass Rug, was released a couple of months ago.  The others, I’m happy to report, have just come out!  Let me tell you about them!


Short Rows in Crochet: Learn Shaping and Texture Techniques for a Great FitEP12640

This class is based on a method of working short rows that I uninvented.  I’ve been using this technique for a while now, as I love the texture and look it gives crochet fabric.  I also love how shaping can be achieved to create projects that imitate ribbing in knitting, or allow you to play with color.

This class has two free patterns that come with the download or video: Riverbend Skirt and Ski Slope Hat.

In addition to teaching you about short rows, this class also has a great tutorial about using the mattress stitch to seam together crochet stitches.  I think you’ll love it.

You can purchase the class here, for $19.99.

 


Quick Crochet VestQuick Crochet Vest: Learn Broomstick Lace, Short-Rows, Back Loop Stitches & More

I love my Pattern Crossed Arrow Vest, and I think it’s the perfect project for beginners looking to challenge themselves!  Going into the class, the only skills you need to know are how to chain and single crochet.  I take you through the rest.

What I love about this pattern is how, with very little shaping, you create a very flattering vest that works as a great layer piece.  And the best part is, with a bulkier weight yarn, this project just flies by.  With the video you get a free copy of Crossed Arrow, plus my instruction as I walk you through each of the steps to complete this project.

And if you’ve never tried broomstick, this is a great project to start on.  You’ll get the hang of it in no time.

You can purchase the class here, for $19.99.


 

Crochet Barber Pole Cowl: Stranded Colorwork Techniques and MoreCrochet Barber Pole Cowl

My Barber Pole Cowl has been featured in several of my classes, and I’m now glad to bring it to video with Interweave.  Like Crossed Arrow, this is a pattern that’s completely accessible to beginners: if you can single crochet and chain, I can teach you how to make this project!

With a lot of color options, this project is always popular around fall – a perfect pattern for working up in school or team colors, just as the air is getting nippy.

Here, I take you through learning how to crochet through the back loop (can you tell it’s one of my favorite techniques?) and also how to work stranded crochet – which is different than tapestry crochet!  Stranded crochet creates a fabric that is warmer (because of the two layers of yarn) and much stretchier than tapestry crochet.  It’s a fun and helpful skill to have in your arsenal.  In the process of learning this technique, you also learn how to change colors in crochet without making a jog.

If you like the pattern and love my classes, I think you’ll get a lot from this one.  You can purchase the class here, for $19.99.


Got questions about the videos?  I’d love to answer them!  And if you have bought the videos, how did you like them?

 

Upcoming classes at Fibre Space

This weekend I’m teaching four different classes at Fibre Space (in Old Town Alexandria), and I wanted to share them with you.  There’s still spaces available; and I’d love to have you join us!

 

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/karner-butterfly-socksStranded Crochet Cowl is based off of one of my favorite patterns for a quick gift: Barberpole Cowl.  Featuring Stranded Crochet, it’s a fun technique that creates and warm and durable fabric.  It’s also accessible for students that are still new to crochet: all you need to know is how to chain and single crochet – I’ll take care of the rest!

 

 

 

 


 

Finishing Essentials is one of my most in-demand classes, and covers skills such as:

  • weaving in ends
  • seaming
  • preventing or solving problems like curled hems or uneven seams
  • and dozens of tips to make the finishing process easier.

I do a lot of finishing, and I love to give you all my tips and tricks!


 

Intarsia Wrap is based off Frances Wrap, and features a unique way of working intarsia!  We learn:

  • a tubular cast on
  • tubular stockinette stitch
  • and Intarsia Colorwork

The result is a wonderfully modern wrap!

 


Oops! Fixing Mistakes is another one of my foundational classes. If the sight of a dropped stitch, a mixed up cable, or a problem in your lace sends you scrambling for outside help, this class if for you. Learn to fix your mistakes!


 

I’d love to see you in one of my classes!

Adventures in Colorado: Filming with Interweave

Today I’m in Fort Collins, CO, and the looming sight of the Rockies dominates the skyline every-time I go outside.  The air is dryer than I’m used to, and I’m sucking back more water than I expected, and I actually used moisturizer on my face and hands – something I nearly never do.

Some of you may be wondering why I’m hanging at the base of the Rockies instead of tucked away in my home in Ashland, and you’d be right in wondering why I’m here – it has been a while since I wrote.  These two days, today and tomorrow, are the culmination of a crazy two three four months of work – 15 patterns designed and a full roster of teaching in the Spring Fiber Festival circuit.  That’s all capped off this week, where I’m filming four different classes for Interweave’s Online store.

Some of the classes I’m teaching are based around patterns you may be familiar with –  Stained Glass Rug, or Barberpole Cowl.  Some of the classes are based around projects that are due to come out this Fall.  They’re all about crochet.  All of them are on techniques I’m super passionate about: padded crochet, stranded crochet, crochet through the back loop, crochet short rows, and broomstick crochet.  Interweave’s crew has been awesome, and working with them has been such fun.  I’ve always loved the people who are drawn to “backstage” work, and the group at Interweave are great at putting people at ease and making the whole process fun.

Which isn’t to say I got back to my room and promptly zoned out for an hour.  Teaching in front of a camera is hard.  When you teach to a classroom at a fiber festival or shop, there’s an energy and flow that feeds back upon you.  When you get a great class, it’s energizing to teach them.

There’s none of that in film, but you still have to put out the same amount of energy.

Tomorrow we have two more classes to film, and I can’t be more excited!  I promise I’ll update you with more, but drop me a note – it’s been awhile since I’ve heard from people, and I’d love to hear your questions or have you tell me what’s going on!

Two Designs Today: Rosemary & Bay and Barber Pole Cowl

I’m busy preparing to take off for a weekend in DC, to visit family, friends, and teach a little, but I had a quick note I wanted to drop.  I’ve got 2 (count that – two!) designs out today, and I wanted to share them with you.

The first, Barber Pole Cowl, is out with Interweave Crochet’s Winter 2015 issue.  It’s just in the nick of time, being that cowl weather is descending quite quickly.  I love this cowl for a bunch of reasons: it’s stretchy fabric, it’s double-warm fabric from carrying the yarn stranded, and the opportunity for holiday colors.  I’m thinking of doing a crochet-a-long!  Let me know if you’re interested!

The second pattern out today follows my Shakespeare Naming Trend for my self-published designs (because, like I mentioned, I’m a geek).  Rosemary & Bay is a sweet and versatile child dress sized up to 2 yrs old.  It’s a simple and approachable pattern, and completely workable in a quick amount of time – like before Christmas!

I love the little details that make this dress: the slightly ruffled hem, the ribbon around the waist, the buttons by My Garage Art that close the back (or the front: the dress is completely reversible)!  I’ll leave you with a picture: