Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Crochet Skills Workshop: June 14 Meeting Preview

It's summer (finally) and everything just feels lighter and more carefree. In keeping with this idea, instead of offering one intense topic during the education portion of this month's meeting, we thought we'd offer a chance for everyone to practice crochet techniques in an informal setting.

The format will be a little different - after the business portion of the meeting, we'll break into small groups concentrating on a specific skill, each group with a different leader. Then at several times during the meeting, we'll give everyone a change to play "musical chairs" and switch to another table to learn about and practice a new skill. You'll get a chance to pick two or three of the following skills to add to your bag of crochet tips and tricks!
  • Crab stitch, aka reverse single crochet: a great trim for both crocheted and knitted items
  • Foundation stitches: a nice alternative to the twisty, snaking chain stitch traditionally used to start crochet projects
  • Reading crochet charts: a fabulous skill to know, especially when you find the perfect pattern but it's not written in English
  • How to make plastic bag yarn (plarn):  a low-cost material for durable market bags and household items
  • Standing stitches: a great-looking way to start a new row or round, especially with color changes
To get the most out of the meeting, bring several ounces of yarn in a weight you're comfortable using and appropriate hooks. As always, a light to medium solid color yarn is recommended for learning new stitches and techniques - for most of us, it's just easier to see! (Unlike the dark maroon yarn in the picture, it's just happened to be what was on the hook when the photographer had her camera handy.) You can bring plastic bags if you want for the plarn table, we will have some on hand but the more the merrier.

The meeting will be on Saturday, June 14 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Textile Center of Minnesota (3000 University Ave SE, Minneapolis) with Open Crochet from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

If you're working on the CAL (Crochet-A-Long) sweater, remember you can bring your project in with any questions that you might have. And if anyone hasn't started yet, here's a link to the pattern (Mesh Raglan Pullover).

One word to the wise about this meeting date. June 14 is the same date as the Grand Opening of the Green Line Metro light rail so the Textile Center will be extra-busy with many extra activities planned. There will be lots of people around and it promises to be a fun and exciting time but you need to plan accordingly; consider carpooling with friends and allowing extra time for travel and finding a suitable parking spot.

We hope to see you at the meeting!