The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Join a shawl knit-along this Sunday
Knit-a-longs are a fun way for knitters to meet and knit a particular project together. The projects can range from something small to a larger ongoing project. Some are even touted as mystery knita-longs where the project is only revealed once it has actually been finished. The materials list is given out and the instructions are released bit by bit; the mystery slowing revealing itself. It is a wonderful knitting activity for knitters with intermediate to advanced knitting skills, and can be a wonderful way to expand one’s skills.
Our current shop knit along began as a result of a customer, Jacki, coming in during the Thursday night knitting group. Everyone was wowed by her gorgeous shawl, and immediately wanted to begin their own. At this point, I suggested we all start one the following week. Everyone chose their own colors and we started knitting it together.
By this time, Jacki had finished knitting and had blocked her shawl. It is a masterpiece. Knitters continued to be inspired and the Thursday night event expanded to include a Sunday knit-a-long. We have about a half dozen knitters on Sunday; some knitting their shawls using wool, and two others in a linen and cotton blend to wear for summer weddings.
The pattern is actually not difficult since it is written out row by row, with the correct amount of stitches noted at the end of each row, which is very helpful. The best thing about a knit-a-long is that everyone can benefit from everyone else’s experiences during the knitting process, from helpful tips, to even making mistakes.
It’s still not too late for those with intermediate knitting skills to participate in the free knit-along, which will continue Sunday, March 19 and March 26, from 1-3 p.m. The March 26 class will also include a free shawl blocking demo for those who are participating. For those interested in joining the fun, please call 860-482-3979, to register and to see Jacki’s shawl, which is on display in the shop. The hardest part of the shawl will be choosing your colors. Virginia (Ginger) Balch knits, weaves and spins in all things “fibery” at her shop In Sheep’s Clothing at 10 Water St. Torrington www.in-sheeps-clothing. com or phone 860-4823979.