W-1 Spinning and Knitting Estonian Lace

A Duet for Two Teachers with Judith Mackenzie McCuin and Nancy Bush.

Estonia has a lace tradition spanning nearly 200 years. Learn about the fiber and yarn, the stitch patterns and construction, and the history of these lovely garments. This workshop will begin with a focus on spinning a fine yarn for knitting Estonian lace. Students will learn what fleeces and commercially prepared fibers are suitable for spinning this particular type of yarn. Spinning will be done on the wheel, but students will be encouraged to use traditional spindles as well. Learning how to spin consistently and to a given lace diameter, learning how to spin both a single and a two ply, and how to create a stable lace yarn will be the focus of this part of the class. In the second part of the class, students will learn the techniques for knitting Estonian lace; making the main pattern with some unique stitches and adding several styles of edges. Students will have the skills to make a shawl at the end of class.

Students should bring: a wheel with all the parts and extra drive band material, dog brush, flicker or mini combs, medium or fine hand cards, a light to medium weight spindle, if you have one (we'll have ones for you to try). 10" # 3, 4 and 5 single point wooden knitting needles, 8" #3, 4, and 5 double point wooden knitting needles (multiple sizes so students will have a choice of size of needle) stitch markers, partial skein of worsted weight cotton yarn, a G or H crochet hook, and the usual knitting supplies.