Sample of Past Sign-Up Classes

Below are classes we have offered so far at Blazing Needles. Based on demand and our customer's feedback, expect a full calendar of classes for 2009!

Beginning Knitting (Knitting 101)

If you always wanted to learn to knit, are a little rusty and want some review. . .
Materials needed: Straight needles size 6, 7, 8 or 9 and light colored yarn (Cascade 220 recommended). Learn to Knit Book costs $4.00.

Dates (2 sessions): Next session TBA

Beyond Knits and Purls (Knitting 201)

Now you're ready to learn ribbing, seed stitch and how to increase and decrease, working with gauge and pattern reading. You will be working on a small project of your choice.
Instructor: Karen York
Cost: $30.00

Dates (2 sessions): Next session TBA

Fearless Socks

Do you want to knit socks but are intimidated? Have you knit socks but had trouble getting them to fit? This class will help you knit a pair of socks that will fit perfectly so you can be a fearless sock knitter.

"It seemed preposterous—that I, who hadn't really knitted in 20 years, would have a hand knit pair of socks by the end of this 4-week class. Not only was it true, but Karen's approach to teaching improved my technique and confidence for other knitting projects as well. Along with Karen's great instruction, the large and lovely Great Room where the class was taught couldn't have been a more inviting space for learning."

Terri Holbrooke, Owner of Knead A Massage

Instructor: Karen York
Cost: $80.00

Dates (4 sessions): Next session TBA

Nantasket Basket Class

This small felted basket works up quickly but has some fun and interesting elements. The finished basket is perfect for holding holiday treats or as a unique packaged gift.
Instructor: Susan Pierce-Lawrence
Cost $35.00

Dates (2 sessions): Next session TBA

Purls of Wisdom

Add a few tricks to your bag with this Purls of Wisdom class. Bring needles--6, 7, or 8--and current projects so that we can all learn from common mistakes and challenges.

Instructor: Laurie Lee-Oberg
Cost: $25.00

Dates (1 session): Next session TBA

Any Hat, Any Yarn

Finish up your holiday gift-giving with a handmade hat. We have a great patterns that will allow you to knit hats in all sizes and all yarns! So once you have one for yourself you can knit gifts for all your friends and family.

Instructor: Teri Pastorino
Cost: $35.00

Dates (2 sessions): Next session TBA

Basic Two Color Knitting

Learn to knit with two hands with two colors at a time.
Instructor: Teri Pastorino
Cost: $40.00
Prerequisite: Must be able to use Double Point Needles and circular needles.

Dates (2 sessions): Next session TBA

Knitted Loafers or Prairie Boots

These can be addictive!
Instructor: Teri Pastorino
Cost: $35.00
Prerequisite: must know knit and purl, picking up stitches. You will also be learning short rows.

Dates (2 sessions): Next session TBA

Don't be Intimidated by Lace

Make the Forest Canopy Shawl
Instructor: Susan Pierce Lawrence
Cost: $55.00
Prerequisite: Must be able to knit and purl and decrease yarn overs.

Dates (3 sessions): Next session TBA

Top-Down Triangular Lace Shawls

This class will introduce you to the basic construction of a top-down triangular shawl. This method has several advantages, including the ability to calculate your progress so you don't run out of yarn. The instructor will provide each class member with a copy of her Forest Canopy Shoulder Shawl pattern or you can bring your own top-down triangular shawl pattern. Ask any Blazing Needles employee for suggestions.

Topics covered in the class will include:
1. Two methods of starting the shawl
2. How to choose a yarn that compliments your pattern
3. Techniques for fixing common lace mistakes without ripping out entire rows
4. Tips for reading charts and marking your progress
5. Using a spreadsheet to calculate the number of pattern repeats you can work without running out of yarn
6. The best cast on and bind off for lace
7. Blocking basics and tips

Participants should have basic knitting skills and familiarity with lace stitches, including working yarnovers and decreases.

Instructor: Susan Pierce Lawrence
Cost: $60.00

Dates (3 sessions): TBA

Finishing Class

You've all been asking for a finishing class. Learn to make your project look great with seaming techniques, button holes and blocking.
Instructor: Teri Pastorino
Cost: $40.00

Dates (2 sessions): Next session TBA

Felted Clogs

Once you make a pair get ready for everyone asking if you will knit them a pair. Great gifts!

Instructor: Teri Pastorino
Cost: $35.00
Prerequisite: Cast on, knit and purl

Dates (2 sessions): Next session TBA

Hemlock Ring Blanket

Come see a beautiful samples in the store and then sign up to make the beautiful Hemlock Ring Blanket with Laurie Lee Oberg.
Instructor: Laurie Lee Oberg
Cost $55.00
Prerequisite: You should know how to knit and purl, but Laurie encourages beginners to join this class.

Dates (2 sessions): Next session TBA

Basic Mittens

Don't get caught out in the cold! Make mittens! Learn the basics of mitten-knitting. Pre-requisite is knitting in the round.

Instructor: Chris Kennard
Cost: $40.00 (OR TAKE BOTH BASIC MITTENS & GREAT GLOVES FOR $65 TOTAL)

Dates: TBA

Glove Love

This is a continuation from what you learned in Basic Mittens, or if you're ready for gloves now, this is your chance.

Instructor: Lori Lewis
Cost: $40.00

Dates: TBA

Beginning Lace Class: Forest Canopy Cowl

Make the Forest Canopy Cowl with Susan Lawrence Pierce. You will learn good lace techniques that will make this project enjoyable! Class includes yarn and pattern.

Instructor: Susan Pierce Lawrence
Cost: $32.00 (Includes yarn and pattern.)

Date: TBA

Fiesta Feet: Two Color Socks

Let the party begin! Knit Fiesta Feet with some of your favorite colors. Call Blazing Needles for details.

Instructors: Candace Krukiel
Cost: $40.00 (Includes pattern.) (Scroll to top of page to sign up and pay online.)

Prerequisite: Must have made socks before and knit in two colors.

Dates: TBA

Needle Felting Decoration and Repair

Make your knitting and felting projects unique by adding needle felting. Its easy, fast and fun. Repair worn holes in your felted slippers, mittens, or other felted items. Personalize special gifts and more. We used the book "Felted Knits" for excellent basic patterns for felting.

Instructor: Chris Kennard
Cost $35.00 (Materials included. You will take your new tools home with you.)

Dates: TBA

Two Socks with Magic Loop

Learn to knit two socks at the same time using the fun new technique of Magic Loop! Join Liat for an all-inclusive class: fee includes three sessions of instruction, self-patterning sock yarn, pattern, and needles. Second-sock syndrome is history!

Instructor: Liat Gat
Dates (we are offering 2 different class schedules so choose 1):

July 8, 15, 22 @ 6pm-8pm (SOLD OUT!)
August 19, 26 and Sept 2 @ 6pm-8 pm (SOLD OUT!)

Cost: $60.00 (includes your class, yarn and needle)
Prerequisite: Intro to Magic Loop is a prerequisite for this class.

Make the Portland Tote

The Portland Tote is a large felted bag, big enough to hold a couple of knitting projects at once and your mad knitting skills! You will learn I-cord cast on and I-cord bind off to create your handles.

Instructor: Laurie Oberg

Date: Sunday, July 19 & 26, 1pm-3pm

Cost: $30.00

Get going on this project now because it is sure to make a great gift for the holidays.

Holiday Head Start on Friday, July 24

Spa Cloth Class @ 10:30am - 1:00pm: $30.00 (includes pattern and yarn).
Introduction to Magic Loop @ 10:30am - 12:30pm: $15.00.
Baby Socks @ 10:30am - 1:00pm: $30.00 (includes yarn and pattern). Learn to make socks with Baby Socks.
Forest Canopy Cowl @ 1:30pm - 4:00pm: $32.00 (includes yarn and pattern). You will learn good lace techniques that will make this project enjoyable!
Foliage Hat @ 1:30pm - 4:00pm: $32.00. Using your new Magic Loop techinque, make the Foliage Hat.
Beginning Crochet @ 1:30 - 4:00: $30.00 (includes crochet hook and yarn). This class will teach you the basics of beginning crochet and introduce you to the granny square and how to use them to make blankets.

Two Socks with Magic Loop

Instructor: Liat Gat
Dates (we are offering 2 different class schedules so choose 1):

Sundays, August 23, 30, & September 6 @ 1-3pm
Saturdays, August 1, 8, & 15 (SOLD OUT!)
Wednesdays, August 19, 26, & September 2nd (SOLD OUT!)

Cost: $60.00 (includes your class, yarn and needle)
Prerequisite: Intro to Magic Loop is a prerequisite for this class.

Introduction to Magic Loop

We are pleased to offer our new "Magic Loop" class that will revolutionize your knitting in the round. This method is fun and fast, and you might never need double point needles again since it allows you to knit 2 socks or 2 mittens at a time.

Instructor: Liat Gat
Dates: Wednesday, September 16 @ 6pm-8pm

Cost: $15 (needles and yarn will be supplied to learn the techinique)

By taking one of these introductory classes, you will be ready for Liat's knitting 2 socks at a time or 2 mittens at a time.

Dye Your Own Sock Yarn

Use your artistic side to dye your own sock yarn. You will use Shibui Sock blanks ready to be dyed. Come join your fellow sock knitters for a fun and creative evening.

Instructors: Susan Pierce Lawrence

Date: Wednesday, September 16 @ 6pm-8pm

Cost: $35.00 (includes all supplies)

Bulky Legwarmers

Make a fun and fast pair of chunky cabled legwarmers to wear over jeans or give as gifts this winter! The bulky leg warmers are a fresh and modern take on the old trend. In this class, you will learn to cable, read a chart, and make buttonholes.

Dates: Oct 4th & 11th @ 1pm-3pm

Instructor: Liat Gat

Cost: $25

Prerequisite: knit, purl
Recommended materials: 2 skeins of burly spun yarn

Sock Secrets

Take your sock knitting skills to a new level. Students will learn tips, tricks and techniques for casting on, working a heel flap, picking up stitches, and Kitchenering toes. Your top-down socks will look more polished and will fit better. Because the class will reinforce concepts taught in beginning sock-knitting classes, students should be familiar with the basics of sock knitting and should have completed at least one pair of socks prior to the class. We will knit a mini sock using double-pointed needles.

Date: Oct 7, 6pm-8pm

Instructor: Susan Lawrence

Cost: $15

Recommended Materials: Casacade 220

One or Two Mittens at a Time with Magic Loop

Watch the magic happen. Two mittens at once to keep you and your loved ones warm this winter.

Dates: Wednesday, October 7 @ 6pm-8pm & Wednesday, October 14 @ 6pm-8pm

Instructor: Liat Gat

Cost: $25 + supplies

Prerequisite: Intro to Magic Loop is a prerequisite for this class.
Recommended Materials: 1 skein Shibui Baby Alpaca dk

Team Spirit Hat

Show your support for you alma mater by knitting a winter cap with a two-color stranded pattern that you design yourself. Students will learn how to adjust a generic hat pattern to include a two-color stranded panel with the name of their favorite team. We’ll also learn how to knit with two colors simultaneously by holding one color in the left hand and one color in the right hand.

Date: Sept 26, 1pm-3pm

Instructor: Susan Lawrence

Cost: $20.00 (includes the Amber Hat pattern, my Live Dangerously, Don't Swatch top-down hat pattern, and a sheet with the alphabet on it)
Recommended Materials: Cascade 220 or Shepherd’s Wool; one skein of each color

Moebius Bowls

You will learn how to cast on a five-twist moebius, and create three sizes of felted twisted-rim moebius bowls for notions, keys, paperclips, home accessorizing, and felt them! The smallest size bowl requires proficiency with magic loop. We will do the large bowl in the class, but learn the technique for all three.

Instructor: Liat Gat
Dates: Saturday, September 12, 19 @ 1pm-3pm

Cost: $30 plus supplies

Skills taught: Casting on and knitting a moebius, creating multiple twists in a moebius, picking up and knitting stitches, knitting in the round, felting, reading a pattern, increasing and decreasing.

Two-hour Toe-Up Sock with Magic Loop

With this class, you will know how to make worsted weight socks for holiday gifts and winter with ease. Learn the technique of toe-up socks with a quick baby sock. Do the whole sock in one class! Techniques learned include Judy's magic cast-on, the Fleegle Heel, and a stretchy invisible bind-off. Learn to knit two socks at the same time using the fun new technique of Magic Loop.

Dates (choose 1 date):

Wednesday, September 23, 6pm-8:30pm (SOLD OUT!)
Sunday, September 27, 1pm-3:30pm

Instructor: Liat Gat

Cost: $20 (includes pattern; adult toe-up sock pattern in multiple sizes will be included with the class).

Recommended Materials: One skein Debbie Bliss Rialto; needles size 6 40" circulars.
Prerequisite: Intro to Magic Loop is a prerequisite for this class.

First Socks

For anyone who feels daunted by socks, this class will help you understand the construction and process of knitting any sock. Knitting it with worsted weight yarn will get you through quickly and give you skills to do it again.

Dates: Tuesdays, Sept 22 & 29 @ 6pm-8:30pm

Cost: $43 (includes yarn and pattern; everyone will need their own size 6 double point needles)

Prerequisite: Knowing how to knit on double point needles

Needle Felting Decoration and Repair

Date: October 17, 1pm-3pm

Instructor: Chris Kennard
Cost $35.00 (Materials included. You will take your new tools home with you.)

Chevalier Mittens

These mittens are perfect for the upcoming cold weather. You will learn to cable without a cable needle. Really fun!

Dates: Sunday, October 18 @ 1pm-3pm & Sunday, October 25 @ 1pm-3pm

Instructor: Alicia Morrell

Cost: $25.00 + supplies

Recommended Materials: 1 skein Shepherd's Wool
Prerequisite: Need to be able to knit on double point needles

The Perfect Christmas Stocking

Fine gauge or chunky, fair isle or classic intarsia - this class will help you design the perfect Christmas stocking...or copy an heirloom! Are you in a hurry? Would you like a simple, chunky, soft stocking? Or would you prefer one exactly like the one you had as a child, maybe to copy for a new family member? Have you been looking at the fingering weight stockings and thinking they're close, but not perfect?

The first class will focus on mapping out what's most important to you - gauge, style, color, symbols, knitting style and other factors. We'll chart it out, chat about materials, pick a size that allows you to knit comfortably. We'll choose a heel style and plan for it. You'll be ready to start! The second class will be a problem solving class, and if there are no problems, we'll just knit together. The third class will cover the afterthought heel and basic toe. The fourth class will be a finishing class - covering blocking, lining, and hanging.

This class will be all about you and your perfect stocking.

Dates: Wednesday, November 18; Tuesday, November 24; Wednesday, December 2nd, 6-8pm
Cost: $60
Instructor: Chris Kennard
Prerequisite: Knitting in the round and stranded knitting

Fiber Trends Felted Clogs

The Fiber Trends felted clog pattern is just about perfect: it's extremely comfortable, relatively fast, and comes in sizes ranging from toddler to supersize adult. Come learn how to make and felt these wonderful slippers, and don't be surprised when everyone on your Christmas list wants a pair! To make them even more personalized, we'll cover needle felting decorations on them at the end of the second class.

Dates: Sunday, November 15 and Sunday, November 22, 1pm-3 pm
Cost: $35
Instructor: Chris Kennard
Homework: just have your yarn, pattern and needles ready! If you're knitting a smaller pair, have your yarn divided into two balls.
Prerequisite: Cast on, knit, purl. Chris will teach short rows

Cast-On Class

Bring a ball of light-colored DK or worsted weight yarn and appropriate sized needles. This class will cover several different ways to cast on to make stretchy and decorative edges, including 3 ways to work a provisional cast on.

Date: Sunday, November 29, 1:00pm-2:30pm

Cost: $12.00

Instructor: Susan Lawrence

Prerequisite: Must know how to work a long-tail cast on.

Leafy Mitts

Leafy Mitts are a great 1-skein project with comfy ribbed cuffs and embossed leaf motifs. You will learn how to create thumb gussets and how to read charts.

Date: Wednesday, December 2, 6pm-8pm

Cost: $15

Instructor: Susan Lawrence

Homework: Complete the ribbed cuff

Prerequisite: Knitting in the round on dpns

Beginning Crochet

Have you ever wanted to learn to crochet? How about crocheting edges on your knitted items? Learn the basics by making a dishcloth.

Date: Saturday, December 5, 1-3pm taught
Cost: $15
Instructor: D’Ann Gayler

Materials: Cotton sierra or sublime organic cotton. Size G or H hook

Bella Mittens (from Twilight)

These beautiful, classy long mittens were worn by Bella when Edward saved her from being hit by a car in the movie, Twilight. In addition to being a great way to learn to cable, anyone you make these for (yourself or friends) would love them!

Date: Saturday, December 5, 1p-3pm (SORRY--SOLD OUT!)
Cost: $15
Instructor: Chris Kennard

Prerequisite: Working on DPNs (double point needles)

Materials required: 2 skeins of Cascade 128 chunky

Moebius Cowl

A great, quick knit for a winter cowl that lays great and looks great with the Moebius effect. Learn the multiple techniques and mysteries of knitting a Moebius. A cowl like this is a great alternative to knitting a scarf.

Date: Wednesday, December 9, 6-8pm (SORRY--SOLD OUT!)
Cost: $15
Instructor: Susan Pierce Lawrence

Materials: 1 skein of lanaloft & 47” 11 needles

Introduction to Cabling without a Cable Needle

Knit the Koolhaas Hat, no previous of knowledge of cabling needed!

We'll start with an hour of cable basics - how to read a chart, what the symbols mean, cable 'rules' and tips and tricks to make cabling easier. We'll then start the cable portion of the Koolhaas Hat and cover how to cable without a cable needle for those interested. This hat has a pretty easy chart, is easily memorized, and gives you plenty of chances to practice cables!

Dates (1-day class; choose one date only)

Saturday, November 21, 2pm-4pm
Wednesday, December 9, 6pm-8pm

Cost: $15
Instructor: Chris Kennard
Homework: Cast on 104 on the smaller needle and knit 10 rows of K2P2 ribbing as per the instructions.
Materials required: One skein of Shepherd's wool or another larger worsted weight yarn. Size 6 and 8 16" needles and size 8 dpns. The gauge listed in the pattern is taken over the cable section, so give it your best guess and go down a needle size if that's what you usually do. The pattern can be found in the 2007 Holiday Interweave Knits, the 2009 Interweave Knits Accessories Magazine (available at Blazing Needles), or from online.

Introduction to Magic Loop

Date: Saturday, January 9, 2pm-3:30pm

Cost: $15 (needles and yarn will be supplied to learn the techinique)

Instructor: Liat Gat

By taking one of these introductory classes, you will be ready for Liat's knitting 2 socks at a time or 2 mittens at a time.

Moebius Cowl

Moebius Cowl A great, quick knit for a winter cowl that lays great and looks great with the Moebius effect. Learn the multiple techniques and mysteries of knitting a Moebius. A cowl like this is a great alternative to knitting a scarf.

Date: (SORRY, SOLD OUT!) Wednesday, January 13, 6pm-8:30pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Susan Pierce Lawrence

Materials: 1 skein of lanaloft & 47” 11 needles

Bella Mittens (from Twilight)

Date: Wednesday, January 13, 6pm-8:30pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Chris Kennard

Prerequisite: Working on DPNs (double point needles)

Materials required: 2 skeins of Cascade 128 chunky

Knitting 201

We'll cover common increases and decreases, ribbing, pattern reading, circular knitting, how to choose the best yarn for your project and we'll save some time for your individual questions.

Date: (SORRY, SOLD OUT!) Saturday, January 16, 2pm-4pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Chris Kennard

Homework: Any yarn, any needles, cast on 20 stitches and knit for about 10 rows.

Prerequisites: Know how to knit and purl

Leafy Mitts

Leafy Mitts are a great 1-skein project with comfy ribbed cuffs and embossed leaf motifs. You will learn how to create thumb gussets and how to read charts.

Date: Monday, January 18 (Martin Luther King Day) 3:30pm-6:00pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Susan Lawrence

Homework: Complete the ribbed cuff

Prerequisite: Knitting in the round on dpns

First Socks

Knit Socks For anyone who feels daunted by socks, this class will help you understand the construction and process of knitting any sock. Knitting it with worsted weight yarn will get you through quickly and give you skills to do it again.

Dates: Wednesday, January 20 & 27, 6pm-8:30pm

Cost: $43 (includes yarn and pattern; everyone will need their own size 6 double point needles)

Instructor: Candace Krukiel

Prerequisite: Knowing how to knit on double point needles

Thrummed Mittens

Banish cold hands forever by learning to make thrummed mittens. Extra warmth comes from the unspun roving that is knitted right into the stitches of the mittens. The roving also makes the inside of the mitten wonderfully soft.

Date: Wednesday, January 20, 6pm-8:30pm

Cost: $35 (Class fee includes yarn, roving and pattern)

Prerequisite: Students should be familiar with knitting in the round on double-pointed needles.

Materials: two sets of double pointed needles, U.S. sizes 3 (3.25mm) and 6 (4mm).

Homework: With smaller (3.25mm needles), CO 40 sts and join into the rnd, being careful not to twist the sts. Work k2, p2 ribbing until cuff measures approx. 3 inches.

Two Socks with Magic Loop

Dates: (SORRY, SOLD OUT!) Saturday, January 23, 30 and February 6, 2pm-4pm

Cost: $65.00 (includes your class, yarn and needle)

Instructor: Liat Gat

Prerequisite: Intro to Magic Loop is a prerequisite for this class.

First Gloves

Learn everything you need to make gloves! We'll be working with worsted weight yarn so the project goes faster. Knit the cuff before class, and we'll start with the exciting part--the thumb gusset. We'll cover common glove pitfalls and how to incorporate color and design for your next pair of gloves.

Date: Wednesday, January 27 & February 3, 6pm-8:30pm

Instructor: Chris Kennard

Cost: $40

Prerequisites: knitting in the round on double pointed needles

Homework: Cast on 38 stitches over three (or 4) needles and knit a k1p1 cuff for 3 inches. Use size 5 needles, or whatever size you need to get a gauge of 5 stitches to the inch.

Two Color Knitting

Learn to knit with two colors of yarn at the same time. We'll go over three different methods of carrying the yarn, how to read the color charts and common pitfalls. The work you do can be finished as a small bag, felted, or even continued into a child's hat or Christmas stocking.

Date: Feb 3rd, 6pm-8:30pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Chris Kennard

Materials: One skein of Cascade 220 in the background color you want, size 7 -16" circular needle

Skill Requirements: Knitting and Purling

Homework: Cast on 64 stitches and work 5 rounds of k2p2 ribbing.

Tuesday Night Cowl

Cowls are practical alternatives to scarves. They are relatively quick to knit and easy to wear. In this two-session class, you will learn the techniques necessary to knit a Tuesday Night Cowl from start to finish, including casting on provisionally, cabling, and grafting.

Date: Wednesday, Feb 3rd & 17th, 6pm-8:30pm

Cost: $40

Instructor: Susan Pierce-Lawrence

The pattern includes instructions for three different weights of yarn (bulky, aran, and worsted), so you can choose the weight of yarn that gives you the look you prefer. Because the cowl is worked lengthwise, you can customize the circumference to make a close-fitting cowl or a looser one.

There is no homework for this class but you should bring yarn, needles appropriate for your yarn, a printed copy of the pattern (available free on Ravelry) and a crochet hook.

Two Socks with Magic Loop

Dates: Saturday, March 6, 13, and 20, 2pm-4pm

Cost: $65.00 (includes your class, yarn and needle)

Instructor: Liat Gat

Prerequisite: Intro to Magic Loop is a prerequisite for this class.

Endpaper Mitts

Learn the Italian tubular cast on and grafted tubular bind off with these beautiful mitts. They have an interesting thumb gusset, too! This class is 2 weeks long.

Date: Feb 24 & March 3rd, 6:00pm-8:00pm -- (SORRY! CLASS IS NOW FULL.)

Cost: $40

Instructor: Chris Kennard

Materials: Two skeins of Jameson's Spindrift, colors of your choice, DPN's in the size that will get you the gauge you want.

Skill Requirements: Knitting in the round on double pointed needle, Two color knitting.

Darning, The Lost Art

You made those great socks and have loved wearing them, but what happens should the yarn wears out? Learn how to repair those socks with the lost art of darning.

Date: Wednesday, February 24, 6pm-8pm -- (SORRY! CLASS HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED.)

Cost: $20

Instructor: Candace Krukiel

Materials: You will need a blunt tapestry needle and a worsted weight yarn that contrasts with your square (see Homework below).

Skill Requirements: none

Homework: Please bring the following square to class. Square can be made with any smooth worsted weight yarn. Cast on 25 sts. Rows 1 – 4: Knit Row 5: Knit Row 6: K2, P21, K2 Repeat rows 5 & 6 until square measures approx 4”. (measurements need not be accurate) Final 4 rows: knit. Bind off. This square will be for hands on learning but students may also bring items that they have darning questions about.

Prairie Boots

prarieboot These adorable boots are one of our most popular projects and a great accessory to wear around the house or, with a leather sole, out on the town. You will learn to knit on two circular needles at a time. It’s magic! You will also be learning short rows and common decreases.

Date: Sunday, Feb 28, 1pm-3pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Chris Kennard

Homework: have one sole knit so we can get started on the short rows

Prerequisites: knit and purl

Decorating with Crochet Flowers

Crochet flowers are easy to make and useful for decorating bags, headbands, and packages. Class members will use all the basic crochet stitches to make two different types of flowers and one type of leaf.

Date: March 17, 6pm-8pm

Cost: $25 (includes Manos silk & wool yarn)

Instructor: Susan Pierce Lawrence

Materials: Please bring a size G (4.00 mm) crochet hook.

Skill Requirements: A basic knowledge of crochet is helpful but not necessary.

Introduction to Magic Loop

Date: Saturday, March 13, 2pm-4pm (SORRY! THIS CLASS IS FULL.)

Cost: $15 (needles and yarn will be supplied to learn the techinique)

Instructor: Liat Gat

By taking one of these introductory classes, you will be ready for Liat's knitting 2 socks at a time or 2 mittens at a time.

Two-hour Toe-Up Sock with Magic Loop

With this class, you will know how to make worsted weight baby sock with ease. Learn the technique of toe-up socks with a quick baby sock. Do the whole sock in one class! Techniques learned include Judy's magic cast-on, the Fleegle Heel, and a stretchy invisible bind-off. Learn to knit two socks at the same time using the fun new technique of Magic Loop.

Dates (choose 1 date):

Saturday, April 17th, 1pm-3:30pm (SORRY! THIS CLASS IS FULL.)

Cost: $20 (includes pattern; adult toe-up sock pattern in multiple sizes will be included with the class).

Instructor: Liat Gat

Recommended Materials: One skein Sublime Extra Fine Merino; needles size 6 40" circulars.
Prerequisite: Intro to Magic Loop is a prerequisite for this class.

Knitting 201

We'll cover common increases and decreases, ribbing, pattern reading, circular knitting, how to choose the best yarn for your project and we'll save some time for your individual questions.

Dates: Saturday, March 27, 2pm-4pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Chris Kennard

Homework: Any yarn, any needles, cast on 20 stitches. Row 1: knit. Row 2: purl. Repeat until you have ten rows (end after a purl row).

Prerequisites: Know how to knit and purl.

Two Color Knitting

2 color knit Learn to knit with two colors of yarn at the same time. We'll go over three different methods of carrying the yarn, how to read the color charts and common pitfalls. The work you do can be finished as a small bag, felted, or even continued into a child's hat or Christmas stocking.

Date: Wednesday, March 31, 6pm-8pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Chris Kennard

Materials: One skein of Cascade 220 in the background color you want, size 7 -16" circular needle.

Skill Requirements: Knitting and purling.

Homework: Cast on 64 stitches and work 5 rounds of k2p2 ribbing.

Your First Sweater through Baby Sophisticate

The Baby Sophisticate is perfect on two counts - it's an extremely cute baby sweater and it's a great way to learn all the skills it takes to make your first top down, raglan, seamless sweater. All you need to know to take this class is how to knit and purl - we'll teach you how to increase, take stitches off, knit sleeves on circular needles, pick up stitches, make YO buttonholes, knit short rows, and EZ's super stretchy sewn bind off! It's small, so the knitting will go fast. Because there's so much to learn, the class will last three weeks. Take the class to learn to make the sweater, or take it to learn the skills - either way you'll be happy you did. They're magic!

Date (3 nights): Wednesday, April 14, April 21, and April 28, 6pm-8pm (SORRY, THIS CLASS IS FULL.)

Cost: $50

Materials: Yarn needles and pattern all available at Blazing Needles.

Skills: Knit and purl.

Introduction to Magic Loop

We are pleased to offer our popular "Magic Loop" class again (it even got a mention in City Weekly) that will revolutionize your knitting in the round. This method is fun and fast, and you might never need double point needles again since it allows you to knit 2 socks or 2 mittens at a time.

Date: Saturday, May 1, 2pm-4pm

Cost: $20 (needles and yarn will be supplied to learn the techinique)

Instructor: Liat Gat

By taking one of these introductory classes, you will be ready for Liat's knitting 2 socks at a time or 2 mittens at a time.

Basic Tatting

Learn the basics of shuttle tatting. Tatting is an early 19th century knotted lace technique used to create beautiful embellishments or decorations. You will learn basic shuttle tatting techniques in creating a simple medallion.

Date: Wednesday, April 7 and Wednesday, April 21, 6pm-8pm

Cost: $50 (includes pattern book, shuttle and tatting thread)

Instructor: Candace Krukiel

Materials: Included

Beginning Crochet

You have all been asking about a beginning crochet class, a skill very useful to knitters. Crochet can be used to edge your knitted garments or just on its own. You will learn the basics and crocheted edges.

Date: Saturday, April 10, 2pm-4pm (SORRY, THIS CLASS IS FULL.)

Cost: $20

Materials: Worsted Weight Yarn, size G crochet hook.

Homework: Cast on 40 stitches and knit for 25 rows with size 8 needles. Bring swatch to class.

Beginning Lace Knitting

Topics covered in the class include:

1. Techniques for fixing common lace mistakes without ripping out entire rows
2. Tips for reading charts
3. The best cast on and bind off for lace
4. Blocking basics and tips

Date: Wednesday, April 14, 6pm-8:30pm and Wednesday, April 28, 6pm-8pm (SORRY, THIS CLASS IS FULL.)

Cost: $70 (includes a copy of Forest Canopy Shawl Pattern, 2 skeins of Malabrigo Silk and wool in your color choice)

Materials: Included.

Skills: Knit, purl, decreases, cast on and bind off.

To the Point Classes

Feb 2nd: Gauge Swatch -- (SORRY! CLASS IS NOW FULL.)

Taught by Candace. What is it, how is it done, and is it really necessary? Find out the whys and hows in this informative session. Homework: CO 20 sts and Knit for 3 inches in stockinette stitch using worsted or DK weight yarn. Bring needles a size smaller and a size bigger than the those used for swatch.

Feb 9th: Knitting with Double Pointed Needles and Circular Needle

Taught by Chris. Learn to use the tools you need to knit hats, mittens, sweaters and more! This is the next step for beginning knitters, and increases your options drastically. Circular needles are a dream come true, and dpn's aren't as hard as they look! Bring a skein of worsted weight yarn and size 7- 16” circular needle and Size 7 Double Point Needles.

Feb 16th: Knitology

Taught by Susan. Spend more time knitting and less time deciphering the instructions. In this class you'll learn to break the code of knitting patterns. Tips on substituting yarn will help you combine your favorite patterns with your favorite yarns. Optional homework: bring a confusing or ambiguous written pattern to class.

Feb 23rd: Blocking and weaving in ends -- (SORRY! CLASS IS NOW FULL.)

Taught by Chris. Blocking improves the look of any knitted project, plus it's easy and is a skill worth knowing.

March 2nd: Oops, I Dropped It Again -- (SORRY! CLASS IS NOW FULL.)

Taught by Chris. Everyone drops something sometimes. Learn to pick up those slippery dropped stitches and turn knits into purls or purls into knits. If you've worked on lace and have lost a yarn over, now you will be able to find it. Or if you need to know how to rip back to get back on track with your pattern, Chris will show you how to put a life line in or decide when to frog what you have been working on.

March 16th: Knitting with Double Pointed Needles and Circular Needle
Taught by Chris. Learn to use the tools you need to knit hats, mittens, sweaters and more! This is the next step for beginning knitters, and increases your options drastically. Circular needles are a dream come true, and dpn's aren't as hard as they look! Bring a skein of worsted weight yarn and size 7- 16” circular needle and Size 7 Double Point Needles.

April 27th: Knitting Continental (SORRY, THIS CLASS IS FULL.)

Taught by Liat. Have you always wanted to learn to knit Continental-style? Also called "pickers" (as opposed to "throwers"), those who knit with the yarn in their left hand say it's ergonomic, lightning-fast, and they're glad they switched! This skill also opens the door to fair-isle knitting. Liat will teach you how to tension your yarn, knit and purl Continental, and help smooth your transition from "throwing" to "picking."

April 20th: Buttonholes

Loose and sloppy buttonholes can ruin the look of a handknit sweater. Learn the trick behind firm, functional buttonholes. The class will also includes tips for evenly spacing buttonholes across a button band.

May 4th: Oops, I Dropped It Again

May 11th: Norwegian Purl

Taught by Susan Pierce Lawrence. WHAT!? Learn to purl without moving your yarn from back to front! We will first review how to work a conventional Continental purl. We will then learn the Norwegian method in which the yarn is not moved to the front of the work. With practice, many knitters find it faster, particularly for ribbing. Skills needed: Should be familiar with the basics of knitting and purling Continental style. Materials: Worsted weight yarn in a light color and needles in a size appropriate for the yarn.

May 18th Emily Ocker's Cast On
Taught by Chris Kennard. The best way to start a circular piece from the center. It looks harder than it is and we'll practice until you can do it in your sleep. You'll be so happy when you start projects like top down hats, the pinwheel blanket, or squares from the center out. No more big holes in the center - it's a great tool for every knitter's toolbox! Please bring yarn and needles to practice with.

May 25th: Navigating Your Knits

Taught by Candace. Learn how to decipher the codes when you knit lace from charts. Once you have cracked the codes you will find this to be an easier way to knit successfully. You may bring to class any charted lace pattern that has you perplexed. Recommended materials: light colored worsted or DK weight yarn and appropriate size needles.

June 8th: Knit Back Backwards

Taught by Candace. Purl without purling??? Learn the technique to knit back backwards that will make knitting a breeze. Knitting backwards eliminates having to constantly flip your knitting and can make projects like entrelac a breeze. Bring size 8 needles and some light colored worsted weight yarn.

Beaded Wristlets

Add a little glamour to your wrists and your knitting with these beaded wristlets. Why wear bracelets when you can have beaded wristlets? They are fun, fast and fabulous.

Date: Wednesday, May 12, 6pm-8pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Laurie Oberg

Materials: Pattern (includes all 3 designs) Shibui sock yarn in your color choice, beads and beading needles. All supplies available at Blazing Needles.

Skill Requirements: Knit and purl.

Homework: Have your beads on your yarn.

Two Socks at a Time Top Down

Date: Saturday, May 15th, 29th & June 12th 2-4pm

Cost: $65 (includes your class, yarn and needle)

Instructor: Liat

Materials: Students must stop into Blazing Needles before class to select their yarn color and be equipped with needles.

Skill Requirements: Must know Magic Loop basics
Homework: none

Needle Felting

Date: Saturday, May 22nd

Cost: $35 (includes materials)

Instructor: Chris Kennard

Materials: foam starter block kit, and fibers

Homework: none

Two Hour Sock on Two Circular Needles

This class will introduce you to the technique of top down socks knit with 2 circular needles. Explore yet another technique for circular knitting by knitting with 2 circulars. Double points will become a thing of the past. You can also use this technique to knit 2 socks at a time. We will knit a baby sock on DK weight yarn in class.

Date: Wednesday, June 2nd, 6pm-8pm

Cost: $20

Instructor: Candace Krukiel

Materials: 2 circular needles: either 1-16” & 1-24” or 2-24” in size 4; 1 skein Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino

Skill Requirements: Experience knitting magic loop or on double point needles is helpful

Homework: none

Beginning Lace Knitting

Topics covered in the class include:

1. Techniques for fixing common lace mistakes without ripping out entire rows
2. Tips for reading charts
3. The best cast on and bind off for lace
4. Blocking basics and tips

Date: Wednesdays, June 2 and 16, 6pm-8pm

Cost: $70 (includes a copy of Forest Canopy Shawl Pattern, 2 skeins of Malabrigo Silk and wool in your color choice)

Materials: Included.

Skills: Knit, purl, decreases, cast on and bind off.

Bookmark Crochet Scarf

In the first part of this class, we will learn the basics of crochet: the chain stitch, single and double crochet, and how to read a crochet pattern! You’ll have time for lots of practice so that in the second class you can make a beautiful , creative scarf. If you’ve always wanted to learn to crochet, or you want to refresh your skills, this is the class for you. Learn how to use a pattern for a tiny bookmark to make a lovely long scarf from just one skein of luscious yarn!

Date: Wednesday, June 9th & 23rd, 6pm-8pm
Cost: $40.00
Instructor: Cordelia
Materials: One skein Malabrigo Worsted Merino, one size H or I crochet hook
Skill Requirements: A desire to learn to crochet.
Homework: none

To the Point Tuesdays: 1 technique for 1 hour

Easy, fast skills to add to your repertoire. Each hour long session costs just $10

All times 5:30pm-6:30pm on dates outlined below.

June 8th: Knit Back Backwards - SORRY. THIS CLASS IS NOW FULL.

June 15: Oops, I Dropped It Again

June 22: Gadgets

Taught by Candace. Stitch markers, bent tip needles, coil less safety pins…why on earth do I need these things? Come explore the wonderful world of knitting gadgets and learn which are essential and which should be added to your wish list. We will also discuss knitting bags and methods of organization for all these items.

June 29: Combined Knitting - SORRY. THIS CLASS IS NOW FULL.

Taught by Susan. Are you a Continental knitter who struggles to work Stockinette Stitch at an even tension? Are your purl rows noticeably looser than your knit rows? Do you find purling awkward and time-consuming? The technique that has been christened "Combined Knitting" could be your solution to these problems. In this class, you'll learn a method of working Stockinette Stitch that is faster and results in a more even stitch tension. Skills needed: Proficiency at the Continental style of knitting (i.e. working yarn held in the left hand). Homework: Using light-colored, worsted-weight yarn, cast on 25 stitches and work in Stockinette Stitch (knit 1 row then purl 1 row) for 10 rows.

Private Lessons

Class times don't work for you? Private Lessons are available at $25.00 per hour. Call the store at 801-487-5648 for more information.