Spend the afternoon with Georgie focusing on the two techniques that often turn knitters away from patterns; Kitchener stitch (which is often called grafting) and short rows. 

Teacher: Georgie Nicolson

Workshop Duration:  Half Day

Description:  If you’ve ever baulked at a pattern because it contained either Kitchener stitch or short rows, then this is the class for you.

Kitchener stitch is commonly used to provide a neat finish to cuff-down sock toes, longies and soaker crotches and joins live stitches flawlessly and invisibly. This technique class explores how to Kitchener stitch in both stocking stitch and garter stitch, as well as explaining what is actually happening when you join those live stitches. After this class you will never need to google instructions again!  

The second half of this class will de-mystify short rows. Short rows are basically used to create wedges in knitting, these are used to shape shoulders, heels, hemlines, shawls and create extra ease in the bust area. We will explore a number of different ways to work short rows. We will look at the traditional wrap and turn, German Short Rows (a personal favourite), yarn over short rows and Sunday short rows. We will also look at tips for resolving short rows in circular knitting.

Materials to bring: Participants will need to prepare a couple of swatches for this class. Please knit these in a light coloured DK/8ply weight wool and bring to class still on the needles. Do not cast them off.

Kitchener swatches: 
- two swatches each of 40 stitches and 30 rows in stocking stitch
- two swatches each of 40 stitches and 30 rows in garter stitch

Short row swatch: 
Cast on 40 stitches. Work 6 rows of garter stitch. Then work 16 rows of stocking stitch. 

Darning needle and yarn in a contrasting colour

Takeaway: Skills and techniques to finesse your knitting forever.

Level:  Intermediate

Prerequisites: Ability to cast on, knit and purl and work basic increasing and decreasing. An understanding of basic knitting terminology.