Book Talk: Knitspeak: An A-Z Guide to the Language of Knitting Patterns

During the writing of the indispensable reference book, Knitspeak: An A-Z Guide to the Language of Knitting Patterns, author Andrea Price interviewed store owners and staff and held focus groups of knitters of different ages and levels. During her book talks, she speaks about why she wrote the book and what some of her discoveries were. The fun begins when she throws out a variety of knitting trivia questions to test the mettle of the audience.

Duration: 45 minutes
Maximum number of participants: None.
Prerequisites: None.

Knitspeak 101: De-Mystifying the Language of Knitting Patterns

There is an amazing and vast world of knitting patterns in books, magazines, vintage pamphlets, and on the web – if only we could make sense of them! This workshop is designed to help knitters move from confused to confident so they can access this wonderful universe. During the writing of the book Knitspeak: An A-Z Guide to the Language of Knitting Patterns, the author spoke with knitters at every level as well as shop staff to discover tips and tricks she shares with participants.

The class covers:

• Identifying trouble spots in patterns BEFORE beginning to knit
• The 20 most common abbreviations found in patterns
• How words are used: syntax, punctuation, pictures and prose
• Exercises to build confidence in reading complex directions

Duration: 1.5 hours
Maximum number of participants: 15
Prerequisites: Knowledge of knitting terms at the most basic level: knit, purl, etc.
Room set-up: newsprint or whiteboard would be handy

Knit Here Now: Meditative Knitting

This workshop draws on Jewish, Buddhist, and Christian concepts to move participants into a contemplative frame of mind and to draw on their own traditions and family histories of craft and fiber work. Together, participants experience the joy of simple accomplishment, explore knitting as a vehicle for calming and self-care, and practice techniques for knitting heartfelt gifts for ourselves and others.

Duration: 3 hours
Maximum number of participants: 6-15
Prerequisites: Basic knitting skills: comfortable holding yarn and needles, cast on, knit stitch, keeping stitches even.
Room set-up: A quiet space, newsprint

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To schedule a book signing or workshop for your store, group, or knitting guild, contact andrea@knitspeak.com