Winter/Spring 2020 Class Schedule

January 13, 2020
2 Comments

Thank you all for your patience awaiting this schedule! I am excited to get this out to you; this schedule comprises of many favorites, both old and new. As I have been deep in recovery mode lately, it has afforded me time to not only knit A LOT, but also to ponder what I want to teach and share with you. Without a doubt and probably unsurprisingly, I can affirm that I really, truly love knitting. When things felt really difficult and dark, I was so grateful to have knitting to focus on, bring me joy, and fill the hours. I know knitting brings comfort and solace to many of you, too; my hope is that my classes, groups, and community enrich and extend the joy knitting already brings to your life; I’m so grateful to be a part of it.

After reading through the schedule, including the registration information, please contact me directly to register through email (karyn@knithero.net) or text (801.391.9669). I teach all of the Knit Hero classes listed on this schedule at my location, Knit House. Once you have contacted me to register, I will give you the address of the house and directions to find me. To stay in touch digitally, you can find me most regularly on Instagram (@knit_hero), but also on Ravelry (KnitHero) and Facebook (Knit Hero).

Printable Version of 2020 Winter/Spring Class Schedule

Knitting Support Group (beginning January 14th)

Knitting Support Group is the perfect place to get the help you need while enjoying the support of other knitters in a friendly group atmosphere. I love leading this group, instructing and supporting all knitters–whether it be to help with a specific pattern, answer general or specific knitting questions, rescue knitting emergencies, or provide support while working on a challenging project. All KSGs take place at Knit House.

When: Weekly Tuesdays from 3:00 to 4:30 PM and Thursdays from 8:30 to 10:00 AM (please mark your calendars that there will be no KSG February 13th, May 21st, or 28th)

AND: Every second and fourth Monday evening of each month from 6:30 to 8:00 PM (please mark your calendars that KSG will take place Monday, May 18th instead of May 25th)

Cost: 1 class for $10 or 6–session punch card for $50 (expires six months after first use; all existing punch cards will be extended two months to account for my time off)

Sweater Classes:

Some of my very favorite classes to teach as Knit Hero have definitely been leading various sweater classes. I love having the opportunity to expand knitters’ skills beyond basic top-down construction, simple shaping, and straightforward stitch patterns. Each of the sweaters listed below contains interesting techniques, brilliant design, and will help expand your skills as a sweater knitter. For you as a knitter, committing to knitting a sweater in a group setting is ideal, because having scaffolded class times ensures that you will have support, instruction, camaraderie, accountability, and goals throughout the sweater knitting process to ensure you not only finish your sweater, but also love how it turns out. If you have taken my Essentials of Sweater Knitting class (or can demonstrate the required skills based on my approval), either of these sweater classes could be the perfect second (or third or fourth+!) sweater option for you this winter.

Knit.Love.Wool Colorwork Sweater 

Jennifer Steingass’ colorwork sweaters seem to be all over Ravelry these days. It seems like every sweater she designs is even better than the last, doesn’t it? In this class, you will have the opportunity to choose one of three top-down patterns depending on what yoke pattern you love the most: Darkwater, Hinterland, or New Leaf. If you have completed at least one successful color work project and want to broaden your skills on a larger project, this class is perfect for you. 

When: Saturdays, February 8th & 22nd, March 7th & 21st, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM

Cost: $90

Absolutely Classic Atelier

This brilliantly designed top-down Atelier sweater features interesting construction and lovely details throughout. From i-cord edgings (including i-cord cast ons, bind offs, and vertical edgings), picking up stitches to create the unique shoulder construction, adding garter stitch details, perfect pocket installation, and how to read a more complex pattern, this sweater is a beautiful combination of skills that will engage you while on your needles and delight you once it’s off and part of your wardrobe. 

When: Saturdays, March 14th & 28th, April 18th, and May 2nd, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM

Cost: $90

Just Finish It Already!

Finish your UFOs (unfinished objects) so you can start new projects guilt-free! I cannot even count how often knitters tell me they can’t sign up for any new classes because they “first have to finish their ______ (fill in the blank) project.” Of course, many knitters lack the motivation, time, or skills to finally get that project off the needles and into their wardrobe. I’ve developed this new class for all you knitters out there who need help getting that project (or two or four or six!) DONE. This class is similar to Knitting Support Group in that everyone will be working on different projects, but this class will focus more explicitly on goal setting, learning project-specific skills, helpful finishing techniques, and proper celebrations when it’s all done. 

When: Saturdays, January 25th, February 29th, March 28th, and April 25th, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM

Cost: $65

Laughter & Lace Gathering

Advanced Lace Workshop has a new name! This class is open to all lace knitters who would like to expand their lace knitting skills and have a ball in an incredibly social, supportive group atmosphere. While you do need to have basic lace knitting skills, you do not need to have knit advanced lace before. I will provide an array of traditional and modern pattern choices for a variety of different knitting levels, but you are free and encouraged to choose any lace shawl that excites, inspires, and challenges you as a knitter. I will provide support, guidance, and instruction as needed (and plan to knit my own lace shawl alongside you!).

When: Fridays, February 7th, March 6th, April 10th, and May 1st, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Cost: $65

Bonny Bonnet Workshop

Goodness, this Beloved Bonnet is fun to make. Always interesting, but never too challenging, this is an adorable little project just packed with approachable, useful skills: i-cords, increases, decreases, and short rows. Using just one skein of worsted weight yarn for even the largest size, you may find that you want to make everyone you know one of these bonny bonnets!

When: Saturday, February 22nd, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Cost: $35

Bee Smart Beeswax Hat

Increase your cabling skills as you knit this cabled honeycomb Beeswax Hat that is almost as incredible as the structures bees create. Filled with hundreds of mini two-stitch cables, this hat provides the perfect opportunity to try cabling without a cable needle or try the new-to-me ‘slip and switch’ method.

When: Fridays, February 28th & March 13th, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM

Cost: $45

Sheep, Rams, and a Steek–Oh My!

By popular demand, I’m finally offering this class in which we will knit this quintessentially cute, classic Rams and Yowes Blanket by designer Kate Davies. Knit in a tube using nine shades of jumper weight wool to create the many layers of sheep and rams, we will then cut our steeks, pick up lots of stitches, knit a beautiful garter edging, and finally finish our blankets off with an i-cord detail along the outside edge. This finished blanket promises to be the perfect accent to all of our sheep-loving homes. 

When: Tuesdays, March 3rd & 17th, and April 7th & 21st, from 12:30 to 2:30 PM

Cost: $90

Sweeping Landscape Shawl

I have knit hundreds of shawls. Honestly, though: this is the one I wear almost every day. This gloriously large triangular Landscape Shawl is like a knitted sampler, highlighting the beauty of various knit stitches with growing sections of stockinette, reverse stockinette, garter, seed, and moss stitches with jaunty edge picots. Having knit three of these shawls, I will share lots of tips and tricks for keeping track of all that is simultaneously going on in this shawl, guaranteeing a relaxing, successful experience. 

When: Mondays, March 9th & 23rd, and April 13th, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM 

Cost:  $65

Tweaking the Toe Up Sock Recipe

Got the basic Karyn’s Toe Up Sock Recipe down? Are you ready to play with the pattern a bit, adding a little of this or a little of that to really make your socks special? If you’re curious to know how to incorporate another pattern’s stitch pattern into this recipe, want to fine-tune the fit of your socks, or if you want to know how to make a wider range of sizes beyond the three included in the pattern, this workshop class will help broaden and expand the way in which you can use Karyn’s Toe Up Sock Recipe to make the socks of your dreams. You should already be familiar with the basic pattern and have knit at least one successful sock to get the most out of this class.

When: Saturday, April 25th, from 12:00 to 3:00 PM

Cost: $35

Knit Hero Registration Details

Classes are filled on a first come, first served basis after receiving my approval that the requested class is an appropriate level for you. It is very important to me that my students find classes that will be challenging and interesting, and yet still accessible and enjoyable for them. In order to reserve your spot in a class, payment must be made in full via cash, check, or payment online (via Venmo or Square) before the beginning of the first class. Please contact me directly to sign up: karyn@knithero.net or (801) 391-9669. Payment includes, but is not limited to: all listed sessions for your class, all email and class information, and instructional video links of skills and techniques learned in class. Once class begins, I am sorry that I cannot offer a refund if you miss a class. I work very hard to prepare for the classes I teach and want to be fairly compensated for my time. This also gives students on my waiting list the opportunity to sign up and attend. Classes must have a minimum of three students to run at the above listed rate. Once class begins, I offer make up classes at my private session rate of $30 per hour. Knitting Support Group is also a great space to catch up and get the information you missed in class.

At Needlepoint Joint, I will be teaching:

Essentials of Sweater Knitting 

Are you ready to knit your first sweater or have you knit sweaters that didn’t quite work out? This class will cover sweater-making essentials and focus on getting started right, so you have a successful experience. From choosing the right yarn and making a gauge swatch, to keeping track of your progress in your project and Ramona Cardigan pattern, to finally finishing and blocking, this comprehensive class covers it all. There will be five workshop sessions spread over eight weeks that will take you from the planning of your sweater to the finishing stages. This class also includes a private session with Karyn to get complete, accurate body measurements before starting your sweater and video support on skills and techniques learned in class. 

When: Saturdays, January 18th, 25th, February 8th, 29th, and March 14th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Cost: $115 (To register for this class, please stop by the shop or give them a call at (801) 394-4355.)

Fall 2019 Class Schedule

August 22, 2019
5 Comments

Happy Almost-Fall! My family is all back at school, days’ beginnings and endings are feeling cooler, and I’m starting to block my knits to get them ready to wear this coming season. I am excited to share my newest class schedule with you. I hope you find something within that will inspire and excite you to learn something new along with me. After reading through the schedule, including the registration information, please contact me directly to register through email (karyn@knithero.net) or text (801.391.9669). I will teach all of the Knit Hero classes listed on this schedule at my location, Knit House. Once you have contacted me to register, I will give you the address of the house and directions to find me. If a class is missing from this schedule that you were really hoping for, please do let me know and I will try to add it to my next schedule–or, if you just can’t wait that long, we could always coordinate a private or semi-private session or two together this fall. To stay in touch digitally, you can find me most regularly on Instagram (@knit_hero), but also on Ravelry (KnitHero) and Facebook (Knit Hero).

*Please note that these classes are in addition to the classes I am teaching at Needlepoint Joint and STITCHES SLC (listed at the end of this schedule). *

I look forward to knitting with you soon!

Printer-Friendly Version of Fall 2019 Class Schedule

Knitting Support Group (beginning September 3rd)

Knitting Support Group is the perfect place to get the help you need while enjoying the support of other knitters in a friendly group atmosphere. I love leading this group, instructing and supporting all knitters–whether it be to help with a specific pattern, answer general or specific knitting questions, rescue knitting emergencies, or provide support while working on a challenging project. All KSGs take place at Knit House.

When: Weekly Tuesdays from 3:00 to 4:30 PM and Thursdays from 8:30 to 10:00 AM (please mark your calendars that there will be no KSG Thursdays, October 3rd, 17th, or November 28th)

AND: Every second and fourth Monday evening of each month from 6:30 to 8:00 PM.

Cost:  1 class for $10 or 6–session punch card for $50

Advanced Lace Workshop

Inspired by Study in Lace, my 2018 year-long offering in which we traveled through the lace traditions of Shetland, Estonian, and Orenburg, this class is open to all lace knitters who would like to expand their lace knitting skills. While you do need to have basic lace knitting skills, you do not need to have completed Study in Lace, or even knit advanced lace before. I will provide an array of traditional and modern pattern choices for a variety of different knitting levels, but you are free and encouraged to choose any lace shawl that excites, inspires, and challenges you as a knitter. I will provide support, guidance, and instruction as needed (and plan to knit my own heirloom shawl alongside you!).

When: Fridays, September 13th, October 11th, November 15th, and December 13th from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Cost: $65

Essentials of Sweater Knitting

Are you ready to knit your first sweater or have you knit sweaters that didn’t quite work out? This class will cover sweater-making essentials and focus on getting started right, so you have a successful experience. From choosing the right yarn and making a gauge swatch, keeping track of your progress in your project and pattern, to finally finishing and blocking, this comprehensive class covers it all. There will be five workshop sessions spread over eight weeks that will take you from the planning of your sweater to the finishing stages. This class also includes a private session with me to get complete, accurate body measurements before starting your sweater and video support on skills and techniques learned in class. 

When: Saturdays, September 14th, 21st, October 12th, 26th, and November 9th, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM

Cost: $115

Beginning Colorwork Banff Hat

I have just fallen in love with using this happy tree hat to teach the basics of stranded colorwork. In this class, we will take the time to experiment with various ways of holding two strands of yarn at the same time until we find a way that works best for you. We will also discuss basic color theory, understanding color dominance, and learn how to read a chart and keep track of your pattern while launching into knitting this fantastically accessible, attractive hat together. After knitting this hat, you will be ready to tackle most any two-color colorwork project.

When: Saturdays, September 14th & 21st, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM

Cost: $45

Embrace Your Creativity! Caro Wrap KAL

From the moment many of us saw Shawnery’s completed Caro shawl, we have been inspired to knit our own. Mixing and matching three or more colors of fingering weight yarn, we will begin our adventure with a picot cast on, and from there we get to enjoy the wonders of garter, lace, striping, and mosaic knitting, ensuring we never grow bored. We will knit the two sides separately from the picot edges in and  then brilliantly join them together in the center. Generally, I am known to avoid the monotony of rectangular shawls, but this one has such interesting construction and so much going on, I am super excited to knit along with those of you who want to join me on this rollicking ride!

When: Fridays, October 25th, November 8th, 22nd, and December 6th from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Cost: $75

Gauge: The Ultimate Dating Game

Many knitting failures are the result of not correctly matching the right yarn with the right project. In fact, the very first decisions you make before you even start knitting will determine whether your project is destined for success or failure: selecting the right pattern for the right yarn with the right needle size. Perfect for beginning and advanced knitters alike, this comprehensive, hands-on class will encompass all topics to help demystify gauge, including what gauge means, a complete survey of different yarn gauges, how to read ball bands and do a gauge swatch, and an inquiry into how gauge and yarn choice (including fiber, ply, and spin) relates to your project. The goal of this class is to help you feel more confident and be more successful choosing your yarn, pairing it with a project, and selecting appropriate needles in order to help you create the finished object you imagined. 

When: Saturday, November 23rd, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM

Cost: $30 (includes tactile yarn gauge guide to keep)

Norwegian Mittens

These cozy colorwork mittens are a wonderful project for those of you wanting to expand your colorwork repertoire. Knit using DK or light-worsted weight yarn, these mittens involve engaging colorwork, an optional Latvian Braid, and classic mitten shaping–without being too intimidating. You should be able to comfortably knit small circumference in the round (either on magic loop, two circulars, or DPNs) and have knit at least one colorwork project to be successful knitting these mittens. 

When: Saturdays, October 19th, November 2nd & 16th, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM

Cost: $65

Aurelia Cowl

Just before the holidays, many of us can feel completely overwhelmed and as a result rarely take time to take care of ourselves. Treat yourself to a few hours of self-fulfilling, nurturing knitting and make this delightful, delicately beautiful cowl along with me. The lace within this cowl is intuitive enough to be a relaxing project for more experienced lace knitters, but is also the perfect project to learn knitting lace. Featuring a classic garter tab cast on and alternating lace sections with straight-forward stockinette stitch, this cowl is a satisfying, fun knit that you will love wearing (or gifting) when it is complete.

When: Saturdays, December 7th & 14th, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM

Cost: $45

Knit Hero Registration Details

Classes are filled on a first come, first served basis after receiving my approval that the requested class is an appropriate level for you. It is very important to me that my students find classes that will be challenging and interesting, and yet still accessible and enjoyable for them. In order to reserve your spot in a class, payment must be made in full via cash, check, or payment online (via Venmo or Square) before the beginning of the first class. Please contact me directly to sign up: karyn@knithero.net or (801) 391-9669. Payment includes, but is not limited to: all listed sessions for your class, all email and class information, and instructional video links of skills and techniques learned in class. Once class begins, I am sorry that I cannot offer a refund if you miss a class. I work very hard to prepare for the classes I teach and want to be fairly compensated for my time. This also gives students on my waiting list the opportunity to sign up and attend. Classes must have a minimum of three students to run at the above listed rate. Once class begins, I offer make up classes at my private session rate of $30 per hour. Knitting Support Group is also a great space to catch up and get the information you missed in class.

Needlepoint Joint Fall Classes

I am also pleased to be teaching at Needlepoint Joint this fall. I will be teaching two classes at the shop in addition to the classes I am teaching on my own through Knit Hero–including a bonus Essentials of Sweater Knitting class!  I hope between the two schedules, you find some classes that encourage you to broaden your skills and engage your mind. To register for NPJ classes, please stop by the shop or give them a call (801) 394-4355.  For a complete NPJ class list, please go to: https://www.needlepointjoint.com/classes.

At Needlepoint Joint, I will be teaching:

Essentials of Sweater Knitting

Are you ready to knit your first sweater or have you knit sweaters that didn’t quite work out? This class will cover sweater-making essentials and focus on getting started right, so you have a successful experience. From choosing the right yarn and making a gauge swatch, keeping track of your progress in your project and pattern, to finally finishing and blocking, this comprehensive class covers it all. There will be five workshop sessions spread over eight weeks that will take you from the planning of your sweater to the finishing stages. This class also includes a private session with me to get complete, accurate body measurements before starting your sweater and video support on skills and techniques learned in class. 

When: Saturdays, October 26th, November 2nd & 16th, December 7th & 14th, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM

Cost: $115

Toe Up Socks

Socks are the perfect portable project, especially when you’re not tied to following a step-by-step pattern. After knitting hundreds of various socks in many different ways, I truly think this is the ideal sock pattern: perfectly fitting and easy to customize. Once you learn to cast on the toe, turn the heel, and master the stretchy bind off, you can knit these toe-up socks anywhere–in any size using any weight yarn! We will be knitting these socks with fingering weight yarn, using the magic loop method, and knitting one sock at a time.

When: Saturdays, November 9th & 23rd, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Cost: $45

STITCHES SLC CLASSES

I am thrilled and honored to be teaching for STITCHES this coming October. I encourage everyone to attend; even if you choose not to take any of the fabulous classes at the event, there is plenty to admire, experience, and gleen from attending a huge event like this one. For a complete list of STITCHES SLC classes and for more information, please go to: https://www.knittinguniverse.com/SaltLake2019. 

At STITCHES SLC, I will be teaching:

 Adventures in Cable Knitting

Cabling is a beautiful way to add texture and interest to your knits—and it’s fun to do, too! In this class, immerse yourself in the world of cable knitting as you learn how to cable with and without a cable needle. You will also learn strategies on how to easily keep track of cable charts, how to read your cable knitting, how to keep your cables tidier, and you will even learn how to fix miscrossed cables.

When: Thursday, October 3rd, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM

Cost: Please refer to website for current class pricing

Master Perfect Finishing

Fear finishing no more! This class will take your knitting to the next level and give you the skills you need to finish your projects beautifully and easily. Beginning with an investigation into the anatomy of a stitch and the interconnectedness of stitches in knitted fabric, learn to use that knowledge to finish your knits skillfully. In this class you, will learn to master mattress stitch, invisibly weave in your ends, perfectly pick up stitches, and effortlessly block your work. Once you gain confidence in these skills, you will agree that finishing can be fun. 

When: Friday, October 3rd, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM

Cost: Please refer to website for current class pricing

Knit Hero Summer 2019 Class Schedule

May 23, 2019
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 Printer Friendly Version

Printable Calendar of Summer Class Schedule

While summer is often busy with travels, yard work, golf, and kids at home, I couldn’t let the season go by without offering a few classes I’m hoping will tempt you to take some time for yourself and frolic with me, other kind knitters, and some beautiful yarn. Between knitting on the plane, in the shade of my backyard, or by the campfire, summer truly is one of my favorite times to knit. Try it; I think you’ll agree.

After reading through the entire schedule, including the registration information, please contact me directly to register through email (karyn@knithero.net) or text (801.391.9669). I teach all of the Knit Hero classes listed on this schedule at my location, Knit House. Once you have contacted me to register, I will give you the address of the house and directions to find me. I look forward to knitting with you!

To stay in touch digitally, you can find me most regularly on Instagram (@knit_hero), but also on Ravelry (KnitHero) and Facebook (Knit Hero). 

Knitting Support Group

Knitting Support Group is the perfect place to get the help you need while enjoying the support of other knitters in a friendly group atmosphere. I love leading this group, instructing and supporting all knitters–whether it be to help with a specific pattern, answer general or specific knitting questions, rescue knitting emergencies, or provide support while working on a challenging project. All KSGs take place at Knit House.

When: Weekly Tuesdays from 3:00 to 4:30 PM, Thursdays from 8:30 to 10:00 AM, and every second and fourth Monday evening of each month from 6:30 to 8:00 PM through August 6th (unless otherwise noted on calendar).

Cost:  1 class for $10 or 6–session punch card for $50

Advanced Lace Workshop

Inspired by Study in Lace, my 2018 year-long offering in which we traveled through the lace traditions of Shetland, Estonian, and Orenburg, this class is open to all lace knitters who would like to expand their lace knitting skills. While you do need to have basic lace knitting skills, you do not need to have completed Study in Lace, or even knit advanced lace before. I will provide an array of traditional and modern pattern choices for a variety of different knitting levels, but you are free and encouraged to choose any lace shawl that excites, inspires, and challenges you as a knitter. I will provide support, guidance, and instruction as needed (and plan to knit my own heirloom shawl alongside you!).

When: Tuesdays, May 28th, June 25th, and July 30th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

 

Cost: $50 (Pro-rated to $35 for remaining two sessions if you would like to join in!)

 

Just Finish It Already!

Finish your project(s) this summer so you can start new projects this fall guilt-free! I cannot even count how often knitters tell me they can’t sign up for any new classes because they “first have to finish their ______ (fill in the blank) project.” Of course, many knitters lack the motivation, time, or skills to finally get that project off the needles and into their wardrobe. I’ve developed this new class for all you knitters out there who need help getting that project (or two) DONE. This class is similar to Knitting Support Group in that everyone will be working on different projects, but this class will focus more explicitly on goal setting, learning project-specific skills, helpful finishing techniques, and proper celebrations when it’s all done. Depending on your summer schedule and individual knitting needs, you can sign up for just two sessions or all four. 

When: Saturdays, June 8th, 22nd, July 20th, and August 3rd, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM OR 1:00 to 3:00 PM

Cost: $30 for any two sessions;     $50 for all four sessions.

 

 

Summer Shawl KAL

I have just fallen in love with the beautiful simplicity of Woolenberry’s Mix & Match Rivers Shawl Collection. A collection of three patterns, each shawl has two sections that can be mixed and matched with the other patterns in the collection. So, you can choose to knit one of the shawls as written, or you can swap the body section of one with the border section of another, culminating in the possibility of nine different shawls! Because of the various choices within this collection, I thought it would be great fun to host a Summer Shawl KAL and knit along on similar, yet different, shawls together in an inspired group setting. Also, because of the many choices, this KAL is appropriate for any level knitter who has knit even just a little bit of lace or pattern work before. The focus of this group is primarily fun, social camaraderie with other knitters while creating something beautiful.

 

 

When: Fridays, June 21st, July 5th, 19th, and August 2nd, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

 

Cost: $50

 

 

 

 

 

Knit Hero Registration Details

Classes are filled on a first come, first served basis after receiving my approval that the requested class is an appropriate level for you. It is very important to me that my students find classes that will be challenging and interesting, and yet still accessible and enjoyable for them. In order to reserve your spot in a class, payment must be made in full via cash, check, or payment online before the beginning of the first class. Please contact me directly to sign up: karyn@knithero.net or (801) 391-9669. Payment includes, but is not limited to: all listed sessions for your class, all email and class information, and instructional video links of skills and techniques learned in class. Once class begins, I am sorry that I cannot offer a refund if you miss a class. I work very hard to prepare for the classes I teach and want to be fairly compensated for my time. This also gives students on my waiting list the opportunity to sign up and attend. Classes must have a minimum of three students to run at the above listed rate. Once class begins, I offer make up classes at my private session rate of $30 per hour. Knitting Support Group is also a great space to catch up and get the information you missed in class.

Courageous Vulnerability

September 18, 2017
3 Comments

“Do not think you can be brave with your life and your work and never disappoint anyone. It doesn’t work that way.”

–Oprah Winfrey

I am not good at confrontation. I hate making people mad, I hate it when people don’t like me, and I hate disappointing people. I recognize I’m not alone. I can’t imagine there are many people who revel in disappointing or infuriating others. As uncomfortable as it is, though, it seems impossible to completely avoid. Unfortunately, it seems like despite my efforts to the contrary, I will not always make decisions that everyone agrees with, not everyone will like who I am or what I do, and in living this life, I will never ever completely avoid confrontation.

Recently, I changed the structure of my beloved Knitting Support Group, a group I created four years ago. When I created this group, my goal was to provide a time for knitters to come to the yarn shop where I work and know they could regularly show up and get my help with their knitting. I picked a random time during the week when I knew I could consistently host, which happened to fall on the slowest day and time of the week at the shop. I had no idea if it would colossally fail or if it would take off, but I decided to just try it. For weeks, it was just me and my co-worker, knitting at the back table, hoping someone would eventually show up. Fortunately for me, in the four years since I launched KSG, the group expanded to three or four, to 8, then 10, and then consistently bursting to 16-20 people around our table. As I continued to help knitters, my skills, ability, and confidence developed right along with the group to be able to simultaneously manage picking up dropped stitches, teaching someone how to mattress stitch, giving advice on what to do about a mistake five rows back, offering blocking instructions, walking someone through turning her first heel on a sock, and helping knitters choose their next project, keeping in mind their abilities, personality, and style–all while ensuring a welcoming, positive environment for everyone who took the time to come to my group.

I am incredibly proud of the space I created. I believe the atmosphere and popularity of KSG was not accidental. I wasn’t just lucky and it didn’t just happen. I believe I created that space. Intentionally, I worked very hard to ensure every single person who came to the group felt welcomed and not only got their knitting needs met, but grew tremendously as knitters. Every single knitter who came to KSG is a better knitter because she showed up, knowing she would get the support she needed week after week. I am incredibly proud of that. I loved every single one of my knitters and, in return, I was loved right back.

Recently, though, I was forced to make a change to the group. Because it had grown so much, I wasn’t able to help everyone in the same way I wanted to, even having some new knitters leave because I couldn’t get to them in time. It broke my heart to know a knitter had bravely come to KSG to get help and I wasn’t able to get to that knitter in time to give her the help she needed. In response, my manager and I were forced to have difficult conversations about what to do with the group.  She saw the group as having grown into more of a social group, and because we already host a social knitting group at the shop, she didn’t want to pay me to host another social group through the shop. Because my original intention remains helping knitters with their knitting, I knew I needed to find a way to encourage that facet of the group to flourish. My goal as Karyn Johnston, as Knit Hero, really is to “help knitters knit,” so I decided to continue the group, adding another time and day option, limiting how many people could attend each session, and get paid not through my hourly wage from the shop, but by participants as if they were taking a class. In order to keep it on the shop’s schedule, I pay a fee for the space and for the publicity the published class schedule provides.

While I feel buoyed and supported by many, it is hard for me to know there are some who are upset with the change. To those who are upset with me: I am sorry. I am grateful the group I created meant enough to you that you’re sad it has changed. Honestly, the group has always been changing, though. From the very first day I started the group, it has continued to change, to evolve, to grow, and to develop. While I’m proud I created a social space so many loved, there were just as many others who were deciding to no longer come for help, for knitting support, because it had grown so big, so noisy, and so crowded.

To those who continue to support me and my vision: thank you. Seriously. From the bottom of my heart. Knitting Support Group has been small the past couple of weeks, providing a tremendous value to those who attend. I feel good about the amount of support and the atmosphere I’m able to provide in the smaller groups. I, of course, hope it will grow a bit, hoping as classes pick up and the weather turns cool, more will look to join my space, to learn and get help from me.

Until then, I will continue to work my hardest, remain positive, and continue doing the best I know how to do.

Because that’s all I know how to do.

It’s going to be okay.

I trust myself. I trust others. I trust the space we create together.

“Trusting ourselves and others is a vulnerable and courageous act.”

–Brené Brown

The Proof of the Power Within

June 19, 2017
2 Comments

I’ve said it enough that it’s beginning to just sound trite when I say it, but auctioning off these six shawls for charity really may be the best idea I’ve ever had. During each shawl auction, I felt so optimistic and buoyed by everyone’s feedback, by each share and like on Facebook, by each and every bid, and by the very feeling that I was at least doing something. I was so encouraged as I experienced first-hand the profound impact an individual can have in this collective world full of others.

Yes, I had the idea to auction my shawls; I did the knitting and photography; I chose the causes for each shawl to benefit; and, I wrote a blog post about each one. Yes, I did that.

But that’s where my role ended and the rest of yours began.

This idea would have never worked had it not been for the hundreds of people who paid attention, shared my posts, put in bids, won bids, and then donated the pledged winning amount to the chosen cause. If not for each of you, my idea would not have worked. Gratefully, my idea didn’t fail; instead, it took off–and for that I am so, so thankful!

Because of each of you, whether you won a bid or not, my six shawls collectively raised $1,460.

$1,460!!!!

That money went directly to causes I now know definitively that I’m not alone in caring about: Planned Parenthood, ACLU, IRC, NRDC, The Trevor Project, and SUWA.

I am absolutely speechless with gratitude.

Thank you, thank you, thank you to all of you who participated in my Shawl Auctions, either directly or indirectly. This became so much bigger than just one person auctioning off six shawls because of the engagement from so many of you. In doing this, I have made connections, formed friendships, and felt support from a much bigger circle than I ever thought possible.

Perhaps I will do it all again. Or perhaps I will have another idea. Regardless, I am proud of what we all did together. Thank you.

Woulda-Coulda-Shoulda

by Shel Silverstein

All the Woulda-Coulda-Shouldas

Layin’ in the sun,

Talkin’ ’bout the things

They woulda-coulda-shoulda done…

But those Woulda-Coulda-Shouldas

All ran away and hid

From one little did.

Here is a recap of each shawl…

Our Call to Share:

$150 to Planned Parenthood by Maria, who gave her shawl to her mother-in-law, a woman who dedicated her professional life to helping women and children as a Pediatrician. I am so grateful to Maria for jumping into this journey first with me and getting this whole adventure started.

 

The Deepest Thing Inside:

$250 (plus a matching bid of $200 by me) to the ACLU by Marjukka, who after receiving her shawl, told me “I love it and it will always remind me what’s important.” It has made my heart happy to see Marjukka wearing this beautiful shawl since winning her bid.

 

 

At Its Essence:

$140 to the International Rescue Committe by Soley, who bid on almost every single shawl (I think she only missed one?!), and is the only bidder I haven’t gotten to hug yet, since she lives in Colorado–but she’ll get that hug soon enough!

 

The Utmost Care and Kindness:

$300 to the NRDC by Sheri, who extraordinarily bid on this shawl to give as a birthday gift to a very dear friend, a woman who has dedicated her life to advocating for and defending our environment on Capitol Hill. I am honored to be a part of their story.

 

Whoever You Are:

$220 to The Trevor Project by Stacy, one of the most passionate, active advocates I know. Everyone deserves to have her in their corner. It was perfect that her donation will benefit some of the most vulnerable in our world.

 

 

 

 

Requiem to the Red Rock:

$200 to Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance by Louise, who also bid on almost every single shawl and finally won at the very end. Her kind heart and connection to this place we call home made her the perfect grand finale to this amazing experience.



Without

by Gary Snyder

the silence

of nature

within.

the power within.

the power

without.

the path is whatever passes–no

end in itself.

the end is,

grace–ease–

healing,

not saving.

singing

the proof

the proof of the power within.

Thank you once again, everyone!

New Knitalong Alert!

April 14, 2017
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Fancy another Knitalong? We had so much fun knitting along with Helen Stewart’s Shawl Society last year, many of us are clamoring for more! We are ready to begin Shawl Society II.

Six shawls over the next six months. You up for it?!

The Details:

  • Six Gatherings over six months, one for each shawl release. Gatherings will take place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Friday mornings at various locations in the Ogden area, including coffee shops, parks, and NPJ. The dates are: May 5, June 9, July 7, August 11, September 8, October 6.
  • The cost for the entire Knitalong will be $70, which will include knitting support and instruction from me, a chance to win prizes, yummy treats, and comraderie with other friendly knitters.
  • You need to sign up through Needlepoint Joint to participate. You can sign up by stopping by the shop or calling (801)394-4355. Sign ups will be first come, first served, with a maximum of 15 members.
  • In order to purchase the patterns for Shawl Society II, you will need to buy them off Ravelry. Once you are on the Shawl Society II page, click on the ‘1 pattern’ link in the box on the right hand side of the page. It will cost approximately $15 to purchase all six patterns, which will be released one at a time over the next six months, beginning with the first shawl on May 4th.
  • If you are interested in knitting the shawls, but are unable to attend the gatherings, please consider joining us on Ravelry for a virtual knitalong! I have maintained our group on Ravelry for anyone who wants to join us as we knit these shawls. This group is open to everyone whether you have signed up for the physical knitalong gatherings or not. Last year we were joined by knitters all over the world. The more the merrier!

Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

Whoever You Are

March 19, 2017
19 Comments

Wild Geese
by Mary Oliver

You do not have to be good.
You do not have to walk on your knees
for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting.
You only have to let the soft animal of your body
love what it loves.
Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine.
Meanwhile the world goes on.
Meanwhile the sun and the clear pebbles of the rain
are moving across the landscapes,
over the prairies and the deep trees,
the mountains and the rivers.
Meanwhile the wild geese, high in the clean blue air,
are heading home again.
Whoever you are, no matter how lonely,
the world offers itself to your imagination,
calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting–
over and over announcing your place
in the family of things.

I believe every person deserves a place in this world. Every person, regardless of religion, race, sexual orientation, and gender identity, has a right to be happy, free, equal, and safe. I do not assume to know all that there is to know about these issues, and I know I carry certain biases that I may or may not be aware of having, but I do know that at the kernel–at the very core–I feel love.

With this shawl, I am shouting out my love to those whose very identity is questioned, devalued, underrepresented, and judged. This wonderfully bold, amazingly bright shawl is my proclamation that I SEE YOU!

To those of you in the LGBTQ community, I have your back. I will fight for you. I will write and march and call–and I will offer up this shawl in support of the most vulnerable in our community.

You are not alone.

This week, I am auctioning my Exploration Station Shawl by Stephen West in support of The Trevor Project, the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-24.

There is so much hate and misunderstanding being directed towards the LGBTQ community from the current administration, it is my hope that this week, we counter all that hate with a lot of love.

Please join your voice to mine as we shout out our support to youths in the LGBTQ community by adding your bid, knowing that 100% of the proceeds of this shawl will go to help provide a voice on the other end of the line when someone in crisis reaches out.

This shawl is knit out of four colors of Madelinetosh Merino Light, a luscious handdyed in the US 100% merino yarn. It is very large and yet extremely lightweight. It is squishy and soft, vibrant and striking.

It is a gorgeous shawl!

Please feel free to share this post with anyone and everyone, because the higher the bidding goes, the more impact this one beautiful shawl can have.

  • The opening bid starts at $50 and begins NOW.
  • Please bid in whole dollar amounts.
  • All bids need to be within the comment thread of this blog post in order for everyone to keep track of the highest bid.
  • I will close the auction at 7:00 PM MST on Monday, March 27th.
  • When the auction is over, I will send the winner an email; the winner must donate directly to The Trevor Project within 48 hours and then forward the confirmation email to me as proof; I’ll coordinate getting the shawl to you by April 3rd.
  • If the winner lives away, I will cover the cost of shipping the shawl via Priority Mail.
  • Once again, 100% of the proceeds of the winning bid will go towards the cause, this time to The Trevor Project.

Much love to all of you…and happy bidding!

The Utmost Care And Kindness

February 26, 2017
36 Comments

Eagle Poem

BY JOY HARJO

To pray you open your whole self
To sky, to earth, to sun, to moon
To one whole voice that is you.
And know there is more
That you can’t see, can’t hear;
Can’t know except in moments
Steadily growing, and in languages
That aren’t always sound but other
Circles of motion.
Like eagle that Sunday morning
Over Salt River. Circled in blue sky
In wind, swept our hearts clean
With sacred wings.
We see you, see ourselves and know
That we must take the utmost care
And kindness in all things.
Breathe in, knowing we are made of
All this, and breathe, knowing
We are truly blessed because we
Were born, and die soon within a
True circle of motion,
Like eagle rounding out the morning
Inside us.
We pray that it will be done
In beauty.
In beauty.

 

It is with great anticipation that I launch this particular Shawl Auction. This week, I am auctioning one of my most intricate, delicate lace shawls to benefit the National Resources Defense Council, which helps protect our very delicate Earth. The NRDC “works to safeguard the earth—its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends.” I feel particularly invested in this cause, because if we do not have a sustainable Earth on which to live, it is undeniable that none of the other issues really matter.

 

 

In order to have life, we need pure water, clean air, and protected land. We need to ensure we protect our climate in order to sustain all lives who call Earth home. Protecting our land, water, climate, and air should not be a partisan issue. How is caring for our home a political act? We all live here, love here, die here. Our Earth is vulnerable and we need to do everything we can to ensure its survival.

 

 

The only shawl I have knit worthy of such an important cause is my Fragaria Shawl, designed by Alina Appasova. It is truly delicate, light as a feather, with intricately beautiful stitchwork. I knit it out of Jaggerspun Zephyr, a laceweight 50% Merino/50% Silk in the gorgeous Jade colorway. It is one of the smaller shawls I am auctioning, but it is plenty big to wear in a variety of ways or would look stunning accenting a special room. Because it is so lightweight, it is easy to bring along with you in a purse or bag to throw on when you feel chilled or just want to look and feel fabulous.

 

I can honestly say I love this shawl.

 

 

But I love our Earth more.

 

I am hoping this shawl will go to someone who cares equally for this Earth feels drawn to make a donation to help ensure its protection. In return, I will gratefully pass this shawl along to you.

Please feel free to share this post with anyone and everyone, because the higher the bidding goes, the more impact this one beautiful shawl can have.

  • The opening bid starts at $50 and begins NOW.
  • Please bid in whole dollar amounts.
  • All bids need to be within the comment thread of this blog post in order for everyone to keep track of the highest bid.
  • I will close the auction at 7:00 PM MST on Monday, March 6th.
  • When the auction is over, I will send the winner an email; the winner must donate directly to the NRDC within 48 hours and then forward the confirmation email to me as proof; I’ll coordinate getting the shawl to you by March 13th.
  • If the winner lives away, I will cover the cost of shipping the shawl via Priority Mail.
  • Once again, 100% of the proceeds of the winning bid will go towards the cause, this time the National Resources Defense Council.
  • In addition, all donations to the NRDC will be matched for a limited time, so the winning bid for this shawl will have twice the impact!

Much love to all of you…and happy bidding!

At Its Essence

February 12, 2017
8 Comments

Knitting may not, on the surface, seem relevant to engines that run the world, but at its essence, it is actually quite vital. For knitting, which can express so many emotions, most often expresses love. And when all else is lost, love is what most often stays with us.

                                                                                              –Melanie Falick

To console someone who has experienced loss, to celebrate a new life, to nurture someone who is ill, I most often turn to knitting. Usually it is when life is at its most intimate and vulnerable that words fail to express how much I care. And so, it is in the act of selecting the project, picking the perfect pattern and yarn, and sitting down to create something for someone that knitting becomes the only thing I can think of to do.

Every single stitch becomes infused with the love I feel for that person. Thousands upon thousands of stitches culminate into one entity. All my disjointed thoughts, worries, intentions, wishes, and love come together into this one thing. In the case of a shawl, this one thing becomes the literal embodiment of a hug.

Reading the news and following the horror that is real for millions of refugees and immigrants around the world, I ache for a way to help. There are millions of people in crisis right now, and I am just one human. What can I do? Fortunately, there are people and organizations in place to provide appropriate, immediate help.

It is my goal with this next auction to offer one shawl to help raise money to benefit the International Rescue Committee, who “helps people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover and regain control of their future.” It is my hope that my small offering will contribute to a greater good, that it will provide tangible assistance to those in crisis.

The current shawl up for bid is the Color Affection shawl by Veera Valimaki. It is knit out of three colors of a spongy-soft merino wool/nylon blend yarn that is hand-dyed by a local Utah artisan, The March Hare. It is bright, squishy, has a lovely drape, and is easy to wear.

Please feel free to share this post with anyone and everyone, because the higher the bidding goes, the more impact this one beautiful shawl can have.

  • The opening bid starts at $50 and begins NOW.
  • Please bid in whole dollar amounts.
  • All bids need to be within the comment thread of this blog post in order for everyone to keep track of the highest bid.
  • I will close the auction at 8:00 PM MST on Wednesday, February 15th.
  • When the auction is over, I will send the winner an email; the winner must donate directly to the IRC within 48 hours and then forward the confirmation email to me as proof; I’ll coordinate getting the shawl to you by February 27th.
  • If the winner lives away, I will cover the cost of shipping the shawl via Priority Mail.
  • Once again, 100% of the proceeds of the winning bid will go towards the cause, this time the IRC (please click on link to watch video).

Much love to all of you…and happy bidding!

My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.                 

–Desmond Tutu

The Deepest Thing Inside

January 29, 2017
25 Comments

Before you know kindness as the deepest thing inside,
you must know sorrow as the other deepest thing.

–from Kindness, by Naomi Shihab Nye

This week, I have been overwhelmed as I’ve watched and experienced our democracy in action. I have never been a particularly political person and, except for the year I lived overseas, I have never really appreciated or acknowledged what being an American means to me. Very quickly and very clearly, though, I am now recognizing what is at stake.

Instead of hiding behind fear and confusion, I am learning to lean in: I am asking questions when I don’t understand; I am engaging in honest, open dialogue with everyone, even those who disagree; I am marching for what I believe in; I am trying to avoid hyperbole; and always, I side with what is kind and just. I respect others who do the same.

With this focus in mind, I am ready to launch my second shawl auction. For this auction, all proceeds of the winning bid will go to the ACLU. I am also committing to matching the winning bid with my own donation to the ACLU up to $200 (but, of course, I’m open to bidding going higher…). 🙂

This shawl really is one of my very favorite shawls I’ve ever knit. It is the Amulet Shawl, by Helen Stewart. It is knit out of Madelinetosh Merino Light, a 100% merino wool, and I used gold glass beads. It is easy to wear, just the right size, and has lovely drape and just the right amount of lace. It would look equally lovely draped around your shoulders or accenting a favorite armchair.

Please feel free to share this post with anyone and everyone, because the higher the bidding goes, the more impact this one beautiful shawl can have.

  • The opening bid starts at $50 and begins NOW.
  • Please bid in whole dollar amounts.
  • All bids need to be within the comment thread of this blog post in order for everyone to keep track of the highest bid.
  • I will close the auction at 6:00 PM MST on Friday, February 3rd.
  • When the auction is over, I will send the winner an email; the winner must donate directly to the ACLU within 48 hours and then forward the confirmation email to me as proof; I’ll coordinate getting the shawl to you by February 14th.
  • If the winner lives away, I will cover the cost of shipping the shawl via Priority Mail.

Here’s hoping this idea takes flight… Much love to all of you…and happy bidding!

The lovely Maria, in her new Jujuy Shawl: