I'M BACK!

I can't believe it's been almost a year since my last post. My life has been busy and I've been doing things I have always wanted to do. Doors have been opening and it may take two posts to bring you up to date. So let's get started.

In my last post I talked about Beyond Yarn and how I was introduced to the owner, Theresa and became a part of the Beyond Yarn family. I've always liked teaching people to knit and I have the opportunity to do that at the shop. There is something about seeing someone knit their first stitch and then their first row. The excitement and feeling of accomplishment the student feels brings me a feeling of joy. I have taught several classes and I think you'll see my classes show how much I like patterns written by Bronwyn also known as @Cassapinka.

The first time I taught what I call an official class, I had four students and they made the No Need To Panic Sweater. I had made the sweater once but I was a nervous wreck at the taught of teaching it. My philosophy for teaching is I have to have made the item being taught before the class to make sure I understand the pattern, can point out things to pay attention to and can answer questions. I also knit another one with the class. Yes I knit the pattern twice. I also stick with the student until they finish their item. I love seeing them model their garment in front of the Beyond Yarn backdrop. The pride on their face is priceless. Also, we must have fun. Yes, lots of fun.

The other classes I've taught are The Scotlander Cardigan, Rear View Window Sweater, Margo Poncho and The Powder Wrap. All designs by Casapinka except for the Margo Poncho by Elizabeth Smith. I was fortunate enough to test The Rear View Window Sweater and model it with Bronwyn when she came to the store to teach two classes. I'm currently getting ready to teach The Scotlander Cardigan for the second time and yes I'll be making a third sweater. This one will be made using one of my favorite yarns Wonderland Alice. I had requests to teach it again and have seven students. I am also available for private classes and will teach a student Woven Shadows by Yumiko Alexander a summer tee and surprise it's not by Casapinka. I like Casapinka's patterns because they are explained very well and you always learn new stitches.

I am also teaching once a month at a local library and just started teaching a knitting class at a local Senior Center. Both of these experiences were exciting but also caused some anxiety. I'm right handed but spend some time learning to knit left handed. I wanted to cover all the bases. The group at the senior center just started and I have 11 students ranging from beginners to intermediate skill levels. I look forward to see them all progress.

Bzyshowers is another excited opportunity I am a part of. I work with five awesome ladies Laverne of BzyPeach.com, Erin Von Holdt of thecwordcrochet.com and www.themoderndream.com, Yolanda of @EyeStoneFlowers, Sarah @thewhimiscalspinner and Veronica @knit1purr2 www.twitch.tv/knit1purr2.

We host showers for small businesses of color on Instagram. The recipient gets to show their business to a wide audience. There's so much fun with games and yes a registry to send gifts to the business. For information and applications go to @BzyShowers on Instagram. Our next recipient is @WillieNillieknits willienillieknits.square.com .

WOW.........I covered a lot and I haven't touched on my four day adventure at Rhinebeck. Well that will definitely be shared in my next post. It's good to share what's been happening in my life. Enjoy the pictures of some the garments taught in my classes. Until next time peace, love and unlimited yarn.

#blackknittersofinstgram

#crochetersofinstgram