KANG 2024 Spring Retreat
Time for Retreat registration is fast approaching!! Sign-up begins on February 1st at noon and ends at the end of the month. Space is limited, but there will be a waiting list if all slots are filled.
A weekend full of fun awaits us at Camp Lone Star in La Grange, TX starting on Thursday, March 14th and ending Sunday, March 17th. The Retreat theme this year is “The Perfect Fit For You!” There will be interactive workshops throughout the weekend in both knit and crochet to tailor a garment recipe for you!
Although there will be some homework ahead of the retreat, our knit programs are led by Marla Morris and will kick-off Thursday evening with terminology, schematics, and measuring. Friday will lead us on a journey showing us the processes of shaping and work working with increases and decreases. We will talk swatches, top-down sweaters, and experiment with various needles and yarns to create a recipe for the perfect sweater for you!
Saturday morning, Linda Pietz will teach us the art of creating fabric using Tunisian Crochet. We will learn to crochet four pieces of fabric needed to make a top that is flattering to all. The afternoon will be open free time.
The Specifics
The Retreat is a benefit available to KANG members who are current on their membership dues. You will need the password on the back of your membership card in order to access the registration form.
Cost is $400.00 per member which includes 7 meals, lodging, programs and activities. Payment is done through a PayPal account or on the PayPal site with a credit card.
Arrival at Camp Lone Star will start at 1PM on Thursday, March 14th and dinner will be served at 5:30PM. Registration is based on single occupancy. Each room has a private bathroom.
A table will be set up in the common room for snacks. Please bring some to share. This has been a fun and tasty way to have access to treats in-between meals. Suggestions include candy snack size bars, granola bars, cookies, a bag of chips, popcorn, lollipops, and M&M’s. Adult beverages are allowed. Please store those drinks in your room. Coffee, tea, ice and water are always available.
Scheduled Programming
Knitting Workshops by Marla Morris
Does Knitting a sweater seem daunting? Have you started a sweater pattern and thrown up your hands in frustration, thinking there’s no way this will fit? Or did you complete your project and wish you could improve techniques you weren’t completely comfortable with?
If a sweater seems overwhelming, join us at the retreat! We will have several short classes to study sweaters, sweater construction, and learn a variety of techniques to make them successful. You’ll be knitting your summer wardrobe before you know it!
Among the topics covered on Thursday and Friday:
- Types of sweater patterns and terminology (positive and negative ease, sweater parts, top down, bottom up, etc)
- How to choose a sweater pattern for *you*
- How to read schematics and knit a sweater that fits
- How to measure yourself for a sweater
- The dreaded short-rows, increases & decreases, provisional cast-on
- Experiment with a variety of yarn and needles
What you need to bring:
- Needles: circular needle, sizes 6, 7 and 8. 24”- 40” length (for Modern Cotton)
- Homework: To be provided post-registration
- Bring multiple needle sizes to experiment with. An interchangeable set with extra cords would be ideal.
- Regular notions, including scissors, ruler or tape measure
Crochet Workshop by Linda Pietz, co-author of Knitted Baskets
Linda Pietz will teach us the art of creating fabric using Tunisian Crochet. We will learn to crochet four pieces of fabric needed to make a top that is flattering to all. Hooks and yarn will be provided.
What you need to bring:
- A notebook & writing utensil or method for taking notes
Optional class: Knitter’s Counting Bracelet
Don’t you love beautiful jewelry? Even for your knitting or weaving? This bracelet is designed to keep track of rows, repeats, cables, increases/decreases—whatever your heart desires. In addition, we’ll make and attach coordinating stitch markers and progress keepers! The typical setup lets you track 3-4 items easily, and there will be supplies for more.
Marla will bring all the tools, beautiful European glass beads, fun shaped beads, metal charms, and findings to let you create this piece in class. Instructions for use are included.
If you are quick, you can purchase another kit [$20 each] and make more.
What to Bring: your reading glasses, your drink, and your friends.
Cost: $45 for class and supplies, paid separately at the Retreat to instructor
Marla is the Texas rep for Theodora’s Pearls Yarns. She will be bringing items that the local shops don’t carry—prototype colors, discontinued bases, wool bases, and kits. In addition, she will bring knitting jewelry and notions that we sell at shows. She will take special orders since there is not a Houston show this summer, as well. [The Quilted Skein in La Grange is a Theodora’s Pearls dealer and carries a large selection of bamboo.]
…And More
Saturday afternoon has been designated as free time. We are looking forward to trip to The Quilted Skein (Yarn) Shop & Museum in La Grange. The Kaffee Fassett exhibit will be showing at the Texas Quilt Musuem next door. There is nearby hiking and various dinner options in town. Dinner is own-your-own.
Sunday morning, we will eat breakfast at 8:30am and enjoy a bit more knitting before we set out for home at 11am.
Toss in a puzzle or three, a quick class on creating a felted character, games and prizes, a firepit, St. Patrick’s Day Shenanigans, and a good time will be had by all.
See you there!
REGISTRATION
Once live, click the link above to go to the Members-Only section to register.