Knitting from scratch

Sharpen your knitting skills with our special workshop, designed to help build your confidence through a series of simple exercises.

This practical day, where you'll learn as you knit, is led by knitting expert Alison Ellen. It is suitable for all those able to do basic knitting stitches. Be prepared to forget knitting patterns - and with the tutor's guidance, explore hand knitting and discover new possibilities, all with basic knit and purl stitches. We will look at knitting in different directions, which may lead towards designing a piece to be completed later.

Alison Ellen has been designing and making hand knitted clothes since the 1980s, dyeing and tie-dyeing yarns for colour and pattern. She experiments with stitches and with knitting construction to make wearable innovative designs. She teaches short courses in knitting design, which has led to her publishing three books on the subject.

Please bring a notebook and an assortment of knitting needles and yarn (these can be found in charity shops), including double-ended needles and a crochet hook.