Learn to Knit Continental Style with Josh Steger: Lesson 2, Purling Continental

Abstract

Learn to Knit Continental Style is a multi-session individual lesson series designed to break down the basic skills needed to knit a variety of projects. The core skills in this series are divided into 4 lessons that discuss getting started, the knit stitch, purl stitches, increasing, decreasing, working in the round, and finishing. The lessons may be scheduled as you advance at your own pace. No experience with knitting is necessary.

This lesson series is designed for the absolute beginner, however the instructor may customize the content and pace of the material for those students looking to enroll in this series as a refresher course. This course is also appropriate for people who currently knit using the English/Throwing technique, who want to learn to knit Continental Style. Beginners must be able to demonstrate mastery of each skill in order for the first 4 lessons. Supplemental topics that build on these fundamental skills may be selected as desired upon successful completion of Lessons 1-4. 

The 2nd lesson in our Learn to Knit Continental series will start with a review of skills learned in Lesson 1 and introduces following patterns and the purl stitch. Purling is the skill needed to create the reverse of the knit stitch. The alternating combinations of knitting and purling are endless. The core of every knitter's basic skills is to be able to change between knitting and purling to create stockinette stitch.

Homework following Lesson 2 is to complete the swatch started in the lesson and a project as approved by the instructor. Lesson 3 may be scheduled upon successful completion of the homework from Lesson 2.

Materials

Standardized materials for the lesson series are required to facilitate your learning experience. These supplies must be purchased separately. The fee for this class is only for the instruction. The supplies listed are usually available for purchase in our studio.

Supplies you are required to bring:

• 100 grams of worsted weight wool yarn in a solid, light color;
  
• • Preferred choices for the lesson are:
    
  • Super Lamb by Jaggerspun
    
  • Cascade 220
    
• Size 8 US / 5 mm wood knitting needles;
• Standard needles for this lesson series are 10" Dreamz by Knitter's Pride.
• Book: How To Knit by Tina Barrett
  
• This is the primary text for the entire lesson series. This exact title is required to enroll.
• Scissors
• Sturdy Ruler
• Tapestry / Yarn Needle for working in ends
• Removable Stitch Markers
• Flexible or Retractable Tape Measure
• Paper, pencil, post-it notes.
• Project bag and/or cases to organize your materials

If you prefer, a complete material kit with our preferred items may be preassembled for your convenience for a separate fee. Please contact us prior to the lesson for assistance in selecting materials. 

When

Once you complete registration, we will contact you to schedule your lesson and discuss your learning needs. This initial lesson meets for up to 2 hours. Lessons are scheduled within the availability of the instructor. While we make every attempt to be flexible for scheduling, not every request can be accommodated. Please contact Josh with any questions about registration. 

Where

Lessons are held here in our studio at Icon Fiber Arts. Our learning area is reserved for our use in the workroom at buds 'n bloom, our sister company. Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow yourself time to get situated. Lessons will begin and end promptly within the agreed upon times with the instructor as scheduled. Please notify us prior to the class if you need any accommodations. 

About the Instructor 

Josh Steger began his journey as a fiber artist at a young age when he learned to knit, crochet, and sew. Josh always felt inspired by yarn and what you can make with it. It was a natural progression when he started to dye wool, spin it into yarn, and ultimately, create surface designs. In 2013, Josh formally launched his fiber arts studio, Icon Fiber Arts, as a part buds ‘n bloom. Josh's experience as an instructor is well rounded. He formerly worked for United Healthcare in Green Bay as a Trainer and Learning Specialist. He has taught classes for Traveling Treadlers Fiber Arts Guild and the Bay Lakes Knitting Guild. He also provides one on one instruction for knitting, crochet, weaving, felting, hand spinning, and dyeing.

Cancellation & Attendance

A refund will be provided to attendees who cancel 24 hours in advance of their scheduled lesson. There is no refund or partial refund for the class for any missed sessions. In the unlikely event of inclement weather that would prevent the class from meeting, the class will be extended and rescheduled as determined by the Instructor.