Homemade to Handmade: Gauge and Blocking with Lisa Stuart (10/1/22 AM)

Take your hand knits to the next level. In this class you will learn about gauge and how to make changes to get correct gauge in order to ensure correct sizing and fit. You will also learn blocking techniques, including a study of fiber content. Proper blocking is the difference between the home made look and the professional me made garment.

Supplies:

• Worsted weight or heavier yarn in a natural fiber (wool, silk, wool blend, etc)
• Appropriate needles of your choice
• Pen and paper for notes
• Calculator
• Cellophane tape or masking tape
• Metal or plastic ruler
• Homework swatches 1-4
• Patterns (optional – for discussion)
• Finished garments (optional – for discussion)

Homework: 

• Knit 2 swatches (Swatches 1 and 2) using worsted weight or heavier yarn in a natural fiber (wool, silk, wool blend, etc) and appropriate needles of your choice. Swatches 1 and 2 should be identical in yarn choice and needle size.
• Make the first swatch three inches by three inches in size (3”x3”).
• Make the second swatch with the same yarn and needles but make the swatch at least six inches by six inches in size (6”x6”).
• Knit 2 more swatches (Swatches 3 and 4) using the same yarn and needle size as swatches 1 and 2.
• This time, however, make the third (6”x6”) swatch in a patterned 2x2 rib.
• Make the fourth (6”x6”) swatch with the same yarn and needles but make the swatch in a pattern of your choice (cabled, lace, slip stitch, etc).
• Bring a garment or knitted swatch for which you found it difficult to measure the gauge. We’ll use these samples to facilitate our discussion. Novelty yarns will also be discussed so bring in your eyelash scarves and other examples. If you bring a unique swatch, make sure it measures at least 6 inches by 6 inches.

Skill Level:  Beginner: Can knit, purl, cast on and cast off.

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