Knitting Friends Archives ⋆ Knitting with Anita

Here's one New Year's Resolution that's worth keeping - learning to knit. You've been talking about it for years. for you. Now is the time! I will be teaching three classes during the first quarter of 2026 at Yarn Alchemy in Bentonville. A yarn class is hands-on, relaxed, and very practical. Whether it’s knitting, crochet, or a general fiber arts class, here’s what a student can realistically expect walking in the door. Here's what to expect: A beginner-friendly pace Good yarn classes assume mixed skill levels. Even if you’ve never held needles or a hook before, the instructor usually starts with the basics and moves slowly enough that no one gets left behind. Questions are expected, not awkward. Learning the tools and materials You’ll learn what the tools actually do. That means how to hold needles or a hook, how to manage yarn tension, and why one yarn works better than another. Students usually come away understanding yarn weight, fiber types, and why the label matters more than you thought. Core skills you can practice immediately Most classes focus on fundamentals you can use right away. That might include casting on, basic stitches, counting rows, fixing simple mistakes, or reading a pattern without panic. You’ll practice these skills during class, not just watch someone else do them. Personal help, not just demos This is one of the biggest benefits. While online videos can often be good for beginners, personal instruction provides direct instruction. Instructors circulate, correct hand position, untangle mistakes, and explain things one-on-one. Everyone messes up. That’s normal, and it’s part of the learning process. A small project or sampler Many classes include a simple project like a dishcloth, scarf start, granny square, or stitch sampler. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s confidence. You leave knowing you can actually make something. Finishing a product isn't the goal of a beginners' class; learning the techniques, having questions answered, and realizing that you can do whatever craft you're learning is the goal. A low-pressure, social atmosphere Yarn classes are usually friendly and conversational. People chat, compare projects, and swap tips. For many students, the community aspect is just as valuable as the instruction. Even after your class ends, help is always available at a local yarn store! No judgment; just experienced, welcoming knitters/crocheters/yarners who are always willing to help. What you’ll leave with By the end, a student should expect: Basic working knowledge of their craft Confidence to practice at home Fewer fears about “doing it wrong” A clear idea of what to try next In short, a yarn class isn’t about mastering everything in one session. It’s about getting comfortable, learning the essentials, and realizing that yarn work is supposed to be enjoyable, not intimidating. Here's My Schedule I will be teaching classes on Saturday, January 10 and March 7, I’m teaching Beginning Knitting. (All of my classes begin at 1:00 p.m. and end at 3:00 p.m.) Needles and yarn are included in the class fee of $45.00. We will learn to cast on and the knit stitch, and possibly increasing and decreasing if time permits. Pattern will be provided free of charge. On Saturday, February 21, I will be teaching a “Beginning Cables” class. Knitters must have some basic experience with knit and purl stitches for this class. Students should bring their own needles and yarn, but a cable needle will be provided for each student. Pattern will be provided free of charge. You can check out the other classes at Yarn Alchemy here. Come Get Acquainted Y’all come by Yarn Alchemy some Saturday after the first of the year and visit/craft with us! If you want to check out signing up for one of the many classes offered at Yarn Alchemy, follow this link to the sign-up page on Yarn Alchemy's website. I hope to see you there!/ Happy Knitting! Anita