2018 Workshops
If you are an instructor interested in submitting a proposal for a 2018 workshop, please complete the form below and return it no later than December 1, 2017.
2018 Workshop offerings will be posted here in January of 2018.
2018 Workshop offerings will be posted here in January of 2018.
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Registration Policies
In the event that you must withdraw from a workshop that you have purchased, please contact bjohnson@estes.org. There is a $25 cancellation fee per cancelled workshop. You will receive a refund less the cancellation fee for workshops cancelled on or prior to May 1, 2017. Cancellations will not be accepted after May 15, but you may transfer your workshop to another person. If another person takes your place in a workshop, please contact us so that the workshop instructor can be notified. If you have any questions, please call Barbara Johnson at 970.577.3902 or email bjohnson@estes.org.
Interested in providing a short demonstration at the Wool Market? Complete the demo application below and return it no later than April 1, 2018
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Workshops listed below were offered in 2017. While it's too late to attend them, this list should provide an idea of the type of workshops offered at this event. Check back in January for the 2018 workshop schedule!
1 Day Workshops - Thursday, June 8
All About Cables |
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Patricia KalthoffEmail the Instructor Patricia has been knitting and spinning since college, and designing almost that long. She has been published in such magazines as Interweave Knits and Knitter's, and has combined her love of travel and teaching at shops, guilds and regional workshops for the past 15 years (including Taos and Estes Park). |
INSTRUCTOR: Patricia Kalthoff
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: 50-100gms of smooth worsted weight yarn in two colors, knitting needles for your yarn, cable, knitting necessities such as markers, tapestry needle, scissors, etc.
DESCRIPTION: Simple or complex, cables are a great way to liven up your knitting. We will cover the basics of working cables; with or without a needle, straight line and infinite loop. Learn to avoid common cable pitfalls, and how to incorporate color and lace into cables, add cables to existing patterns and techniques for designing with cables.
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: 50-100gms of smooth worsted weight yarn in two colors, knitting needles for your yarn, cable, knitting necessities such as markers, tapestry needle, scissors, etc.
DESCRIPTION: Simple or complex, cables are a great way to liven up your knitting. We will cover the basics of working cables; with or without a needle, straight line and infinite loop. Learn to avoid common cable pitfalls, and how to incorporate color and lace into cables, add cables to existing patterns and techniques for designing with cables.
Aran Knitting Made Easy |
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Stefania IsaacsonEmail the Instructor Stefania has been a life-long knitter, and started spinning and dying to supply herself with "the best yarns in the world!" She got her Certificate of Excellence in Handspinning from the Handweaver's Guild of America in 1997. Since then she has opened her own business called Handspun by Stefania and taught numerous workshops dealing in natural dyes, spinning, knitting, and basket making. She has spoken about the fiber arts to numerous groups, and has appeared on Home & Garden TV as a guest on the Carol Duvall Show. She sells handspun, natural hand dyed yarns, original knitting kits,using her own yarns and patterns, hand dyed roving dyed with natural dyes, and handmade baskets. She was previously a high school English teacher, and now enjoys teaching spinning, dyeing, and knitting to fiber enthusiasts. Most recently, Stefania has authored a book on natural dyeing, titled In Search of the Perfect Green-And Orange, Too! |
INSTRUCTOR: Stefania Isaacson
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate
MATERIALS: $25 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Size 7 or 8 knitting needles (can be straight or circular), cabling needle or double point needle
DESCRIPTION: Have you wondered how to keep all those Aran Knit patterns straight without losing it? This class will cover all the basic patterns that Irish knitters used to make those wonderful sweaters for their loved ones. It will let you know the meanings and feelings behind the patterns so that you will be able to design and create the personalized and special sweater for someone special. You will learn to "read" the sweater as you are working, so that you won't have to rely on a chart or pattern. This way, you can just enjoy the knitting and the satisfaction in the act of creating. In the class, we will work on samples of all the patterns, and then put them together in a sampler. You will go home with instructions for each of the patterns and samples of each. Also, you will begin a sampler which can easily be turned into a pillow top or wall hanging.
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate
MATERIALS: $25 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Size 7 or 8 knitting needles (can be straight or circular), cabling needle or double point needle
DESCRIPTION: Have you wondered how to keep all those Aran Knit patterns straight without losing it? This class will cover all the basic patterns that Irish knitters used to make those wonderful sweaters for their loved ones. It will let you know the meanings and feelings behind the patterns so that you will be able to design and create the personalized and special sweater for someone special. You will learn to "read" the sweater as you are working, so that you won't have to rely on a chart or pattern. This way, you can just enjoy the knitting and the satisfaction in the act of creating. In the class, we will work on samples of all the patterns, and then put them together in a sampler. You will go home with instructions for each of the patterns and samples of each. Also, you will begin a sampler which can easily be turned into a pillow top or wall hanging.
Charted Entrelac |
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Annie ModesittEmail the Instructor Annie's work has appeared in Interweave Knits, Vogue Knitting, Knitters Magaazine, Cas On, Family Circle, McCalls Needlework, Parents, and many international fiber and yarn oriented publications. She teaches worldwide and across the United States. Annie knits using the Combination Method and believes that there truly is no wrong way to knit. She lives in St. Paul, MN with her husband, kids and assorted pets. |
INSTRUCTOR: Annie Modesitt
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate & beyond
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: At least 2 balls of worsted or sport weight yarn (Variegated is fine) in different colors, circular needles of any length to work well with your chosen yarn.
DESCRIPTION: What is this crazy way of creating a basketweave pattern by knitting in tiny sections? Is it easy? Do I have to knit backwards to do it? All is revealed in this exciting workshop which uses charts to explain Entrelac. One of the most popular, and misunderstood, knitting methods is Entrelec (seen in the instructor's Lumiere skirt, IK Summer 2009). This wonderful technique allows the knitter to create stunning fabrics and incorporate repeating patterns in unexpected ways, and is especially satisfying when using a long-space dyed yarn like ModeKnit Yarn's FLOW colorways.
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate & beyond
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: At least 2 balls of worsted or sport weight yarn (Variegated is fine) in different colors, circular needles of any length to work well with your chosen yarn.
DESCRIPTION: What is this crazy way of creating a basketweave pattern by knitting in tiny sections? Is it easy? Do I have to knit backwards to do it? All is revealed in this exciting workshop which uses charts to explain Entrelac. One of the most popular, and misunderstood, knitting methods is Entrelec (seen in the instructor's Lumiere skirt, IK Summer 2009). This wonderful technique allows the knitter to create stunning fabrics and incorporate repeating patterns in unexpected ways, and is especially satisfying when using a long-space dyed yarn like ModeKnit Yarn's FLOW colorways.
Continuous Strand Weaving |
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Cheryl JuntillaEmail the Instructor Cheryl Juntilla started playing with yarn as a 4-H kid when she learned to knit long, long ago in a small town far, far away. Her interest in natural fibers led her to llamas and alpacas and over the years she has added spinning, weaving and felting to her activities. She has been active in local, regional and national llama and alpaca associations and is a certified llama judge. She enjoys demonstrating triangle loom weaving at fiber festivals and craft fairs because it is an easy and fun way for people to make unique fiber creations. |
INSTRUCTOR: Cheryl Juntilla
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $50 (collected by instructor at class, $25 of this will be applied to the price of a loom if student decides to purchase at the end of class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Paper for taking notes, pencils and a calculator. Students who already own a three-foot travel loom may bring it and their material fee will be reduced to $25. Students who own larger adjustable triangle looms should contact the instructor in advance to make sure there will be enough room for them.
DESCRIPTION: Continuous Strand Weaving on a Triangle Loom. This is a fun and easy weaving method in which the warp and weft are created simultaneously from a single strand of yarn. Participants in the class will learn how to design their own patterns and calculate the yardage needed. Each student will have a loom to work on as they learn basic plain weave, color changes, and more advanced techniques such as leno lace and twill. No prior experience in weaving or any other fiber art is required.
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $50 (collected by instructor at class, $25 of this will be applied to the price of a loom if student decides to purchase at the end of class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Paper for taking notes, pencils and a calculator. Students who already own a three-foot travel loom may bring it and their material fee will be reduced to $25. Students who own larger adjustable triangle looms should contact the instructor in advance to make sure there will be enough room for them.
DESCRIPTION: Continuous Strand Weaving on a Triangle Loom. This is a fun and easy weaving method in which the warp and weft are created simultaneously from a single strand of yarn. Participants in the class will learn how to design their own patterns and calculate the yardage needed. Each student will have a loom to work on as they learn basic plain weave, color changes, and more advanced techniques such as leno lace and twill. No prior experience in weaving or any other fiber art is required.
Designing Noro Style Yarns |
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Gwen PowellEmail the Instructor Gwen Powell holds the HGA Certificate of Excellence Master in Handspinning. Gwen began teaching basketry at age ten and all the other fiber arts she picked up along the way. Currently she teaches young children and adults to knit, crochet, weave, spin and sew. Working with Henry Clemes together they re-invented the carding board into a safe useful tool for fiber preparation for handspinners and felters. Gwen is occasionally published in PLY Magazine, Spin-Off and is the author of Blending Board Basics and Beyond. |
INSTRUCTOR: Gwen Powell
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class), Included in fee: Dark base color, Light base color, misc. fibers for enhancements.
STUDENTS TO BRING: Hand carders, drum carder or blending board if the student has them, scissors, selection of misc. clean colored fiber of approximately ½ pound. 18 wide scraps of cotton fabric to carry their preparation home in. This can be torn up sheets. Enough colored fibers to complete their project. If the student has any type of blending board, they are encouraged to bring it but blending boards are provided for all students.
DESCRIPTION: Noro yarns are more popular than ever. If you are not familiar with them, they are specialty yarns that have interesting colorways that have extremely long repeats. Noro yarns come in many fibers and colorways but the colors and styles you want might not be available and they are very expensive. In this workshop, you will learn to design and prepare fiber into a roving that is ready to spin to create a Noro style yarn of your own. Drum carders and Blending Boards will be provided for use in class to prepare the fiber.
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class), Included in fee: Dark base color, Light base color, misc. fibers for enhancements.
STUDENTS TO BRING: Hand carders, drum carder or blending board if the student has them, scissors, selection of misc. clean colored fiber of approximately ½ pound. 18 wide scraps of cotton fabric to carry their preparation home in. This can be torn up sheets. Enough colored fibers to complete their project. If the student has any type of blending board, they are encouraged to bring it but blending boards are provided for all students.
DESCRIPTION: Noro yarns are more popular than ever. If you are not familiar with them, they are specialty yarns that have interesting colorways that have extremely long repeats. Noro yarns come in many fibers and colorways but the colors and styles you want might not be available and they are very expensive. In this workshop, you will learn to design and prepare fiber into a roving that is ready to spin to create a Noro style yarn of your own. Drum carders and Blending Boards will be provided for use in class to prepare the fiber.
Exploring the Drum Carder |
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Henry & Roy ClemesEmail the Instructors This class will be taught by the tag team of Henry and Roy Clemes. A lifelong woodworker and small business owner, Henry has been building fiber art equipment for over 45 years and drum carders for 38 years. Roy grew up in his family's woodshop and is one of the few 30-year-olds with 25 years of experience in his field. Together they have introduced many innovations to the fiber arts community and their equipment is known for being not only thoughtfully engineered but visually pleasing and durable as well. They regularly consult and instruct spinners, felters, fiber growers, and professional fiber artists in the use of drum carders for fiber prep. |
INSTRUCTOR: Henry & Roy Clemes
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner & Intermediate
MATERIALS: $30 (collected by instructor at class), covers all fiber carded during class
STUDENTS TO BRING: An attitude for learning. All materials and equipment will be provided by the instructors.
DESCRIPTION: Drum carders are a mystery to the average fiber artist: fiber is fed into the carder, ends up on the big drum, and magically turns into a batt. In our 'Exploring the Drum Carder' class, students begin the day by learning the history of drum carders, how they work, and why they function the way they do. The fun goes hands on for the rest of the day as we delve into the differences of woolen and worsted carding, explore the many tools that make drum carding more efficient, and crank out five different batts. The first batt will be hand cranked before switching over to Electric Drive for the duration of class.
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner & Intermediate
MATERIALS: $30 (collected by instructor at class), covers all fiber carded during class
STUDENTS TO BRING: An attitude for learning. All materials and equipment will be provided by the instructors.
DESCRIPTION: Drum carders are a mystery to the average fiber artist: fiber is fed into the carder, ends up on the big drum, and magically turns into a batt. In our 'Exploring the Drum Carder' class, students begin the day by learning the history of drum carders, how they work, and why they function the way they do. The fun goes hands on for the rest of the day as we delve into the differences of woolen and worsted carding, explore the many tools that make drum carding more efficient, and crank out five different batts. The first batt will be hand cranked before switching over to Electric Drive for the duration of class.
Grand and Glorious Gradients |
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Peggy DoneyEmail the Instructor Peggy Doney has been fascinated with color since her first box of crayons. For many years, she has been discovering fiber dye color recipes using triad studies. These studies allow exploration in hue as well as value and support Peggy's special interest in making accurate recipes that are starting points for matching colors in nature. Peggy's skill with the dye pot has led her into the Treenway Silks team as one of their regular dyers. |
INSTRUCTOR: Peggy Doney
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Students should bring a pen or pencil and wear weather-appropriate clothes they don't mind dyeing, an apron, and closed-toe shoes.
DESCRIPTION: We've drooled over gradient yarns and items made from their gorgeous colors. Learn a method for doing two-color dye gradients to create your own drool-worthy colorways. You will leave with 36 sample swatches, sample cards with recipes, notes and a helpful spreadsheet.
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Students should bring a pen or pencil and wear weather-appropriate clothes they don't mind dyeing, an apron, and closed-toe shoes.
DESCRIPTION: We've drooled over gradient yarns and items made from their gorgeous colors. Learn a method for doing two-color dye gradients to create your own drool-worthy colorways. You will leave with 36 sample swatches, sample cards with recipes, notes and a helpful spreadsheet.
Let's Felt a Tote Bag |
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Deb TewellEmail the Instructor Deb is the organizer of the Felter's Rendezvous, an annual event that brings world-class felting instructors to Colorado. She has been awarded ribbons at the Taos Wool Festival for her own work and been juried into numerous shows. She has been teaching felting for eight years. |
INSTRUCTOR: Deb Tewell
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: Who doesn't need another tote bag? When you can learn felting basics while creating your very own tote, we all need another one! This class is especially for beginners and will cover several techniques: laying out fiber for a dimensional object, cords, pockets, and surface embellishment. You'll be surprised how, by combining a few basics, you'll be able to create something sturdy, useful, and beautiful.
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: Who doesn't need another tote bag? When you can learn felting basics while creating your very own tote, we all need another one! This class is especially for beginners and will cover several techniques: laying out fiber for a dimensional object, cords, pockets, and surface embellishment. You'll be surprised how, by combining a few basics, you'll be able to create something sturdy, useful, and beautiful.
Nordic Art Slippers, Denmark 1765 |
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Linda GeorgeEmail the Instructor Linda George’s artwork has been greatly influenced by her Nordic heritage. Being first-generation Swedish/Norwegian, she grew up and was surrounded by the cultural traditions her parents were so proud of. She was taught to knit at the age of 10 by her Aunt Elsa from Sweden. Living on a tree farm in Windsor, CO with her husband of 41 years, the couple has raised two sons and a daughter and they continue to instill Nordic traditions in their grandchildren. |
INSTRUCTOR: Linda George
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Four size-9 and size-10 double-point needles, large embroidery needle, scissors, usual knitting supplies
DESCRIPTION: Enjoy relaxing moments while knitting with a natural palette of warm and soft Icelandic wool. These slippers are fun and easy to create on four doublepoint needles using basic knitting skills. Instructions also provided for beautiful embroidered flowers. Join me in knitting a child's pair, fun history and Danish almond cake!
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Four size-9 and size-10 double-point needles, large embroidery needle, scissors, usual knitting supplies
DESCRIPTION: Enjoy relaxing moments while knitting with a natural palette of warm and soft Icelandic wool. These slippers are fun and easy to create on four doublepoint needles using basic knitting skills. Instructions also provided for beautiful embroidered flowers. Join me in knitting a child's pair, fun history and Danish almond cake!
Off Grid Fleece Preparation |
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Jennifer GreenEmail the Instructor Jennifer Green is the Head Shepheredess at Desert Garden Farms located in Weiser, Idaho. She has been teaching spinning and fiber arts for 10 years. Jennifer specializes in producing fibers, by hand, from start to finish. She is passionate about spinning, especially using drop spindles. She raises Shetland sheep and makes her living, along with her three girls, in the fiber arts industry. |
INSTRUCTOR: Jennifer Green
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: This class will cover methods of washing and dyeing fleece using techniques that promote low water and alternate energy source methods. We will cover tips and tricks for making the most of limited water supply, using fire as a heat source, fermented suint method and more. This course will be interesting for those who are in off grid homesteading situations as well as for those who are looking to cut down on their water usage. Class will wash and dye fleece using several methods and will be able to take home samples of their work. Be prepared to lift, stand and possibly get wet or dirty.
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: This class will cover methods of washing and dyeing fleece using techniques that promote low water and alternate energy source methods. We will cover tips and tricks for making the most of limited water supply, using fire as a heat source, fermented suint method and more. This course will be interesting for those who are in off grid homesteading situations as well as for those who are looking to cut down on their water usage. Class will wash and dye fleece using several methods and will be able to take home samples of their work. Be prepared to lift, stand and possibly get wet or dirty.
Terrible or Teriffic: How to Get it Right |
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Jenifer StoeszEmail the Instructor Owner of Jeny Originals LLC which dyes and sells "The Wyoming Collection," custom-dyed variegated and textured yarns. Jeny is also a weaver and has a PH.D. in Education (Art, Music, Theatre, Dance) and is now taking architecture classes (as a senior citizen!). "Design is everything." ~Jeny |
INSTRUCTOR: Jenifer Stoesz
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate to Advanced
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Please bring 3-5 variegated or textured yarns for "show and tell." These will only be viewed and not used.
DESCRIPTION: Use textured and variegated yarns in knitting, crocheting and weaving projects to make aesthetic choices resulting in items that look like designer originals rather than thrift store specials. Jenifer will bring several examples of successful projects and students will make "planning ball" by needle felting several types of yarns to see what works and doesn't. It is a fun day of critiquing and planning. Jenifer is also the owner of Jeny Originals and will have many hand-dyed and textured yarns available for sale at the marketplace on Saturday and Sunday.
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate to Advanced
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Please bring 3-5 variegated or textured yarns for "show and tell." These will only be viewed and not used.
DESCRIPTION: Use textured and variegated yarns in knitting, crocheting and weaving projects to make aesthetic choices resulting in items that look like designer originals rather than thrift store specials. Jenifer will bring several examples of successful projects and students will make "planning ball" by needle felting several types of yarns to see what works and doesn't. It is a fun day of critiquing and planning. Jenifer is also the owner of Jeny Originals and will have many hand-dyed and textured yarns available for sale at the marketplace on Saturday and Sunday.
Twined Bags |
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Caroline Spurgeon
Email the Instructor Caroline has been weaving for more than 40 years. She is the designer of C. Cactus Flower Miniature looms and various other weaving related products. Her current book is "Weaving The Navajo Way, How to Create Rugs, Minitature and More." She has taught workshops on Navajo weaving, twining, and other off-loom techniques throughout the west. Now, actively retired from the manufacturing of C. Cactus Flower looms, she devotes her time between weaving, teaching, and the designing of new weaving products. She believes "the more people I teach to weave, the better chance we have to preserve the art." Caroline has a MS in Textile Science from The University of Arizona and currently resides in Southwest Colorado. |
INSTRUCTOR: Caroline Spurgeon
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS: $30 (collected by instructor at class), includes twining loom and materials for class project
STUDENTS TO BRING: scissors and imagination!
DESCRIPTION: Twining is an ancient technique that is quick and easy to do. Twining is suitable for a variety of projects and adaptable to many materials. Twined bags have many uses depending on the size and material used. They may be simple and durable bags for shopping, knitting or book bags, or elaborate bags made with fine yarns and intricate in design. Students will be working on their own adjustable loom. We will begin with the warping process and continue with the basic techniques and complete with finishing ideas. Students will leave class with a finished bag, their own loom and ideas for twining more of these useful bags. Workshop participants need only to bring scissors and their creativity! Instructor will furnish looms, warp and weft yarn and items to accessorize your bag.
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS: $30 (collected by instructor at class), includes twining loom and materials for class project
STUDENTS TO BRING: scissors and imagination!
DESCRIPTION: Twining is an ancient technique that is quick and easy to do. Twining is suitable for a variety of projects and adaptable to many materials. Twined bags have many uses depending on the size and material used. They may be simple and durable bags for shopping, knitting or book bags, or elaborate bags made with fine yarns and intricate in design. Students will be working on their own adjustable loom. We will begin with the warping process and continue with the basic techniques and complete with finishing ideas. Students will leave class with a finished bag, their own loom and ideas for twining more of these useful bags. Workshop participants need only to bring scissors and their creativity! Instructor will furnish looms, warp and weft yarn and items to accessorize your bag.
Weaving on a Rigid Heddle Loom |
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Shirley Ellsworth Email the Instructor Shirley is the owner and manager of Lambspun of Colorado. She has been in the fiber arts business for 30 years. With her staff she has been teaching the art of watercolor felted shawls, scarves, purses,… for the past five years. Lambspun teaches Beginner and Advanced weaving techniques including pattern weaving and tapestry. Wool Market students will be encouraged to sample and try these techniques with nurturing instruction and entertaining demonstrations. |
INSTRUCTOR: Shirley Ellsworth
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: scissors, darning needles (optional)
DESCRIPTION: You will learn to weave on a 10” or 15” Cricket loom, these are inexpensive looms that range up to $195. You will weave on a pre-warped loom available for purchase if desired. We will demonstrate warping and finishing. Each student will create a sampler incorporating hand-controlled patterns emphasizing color and texture.
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: scissors, darning needles (optional)
DESCRIPTION: You will learn to weave on a 10” or 15” Cricket loom, these are inexpensive looms that range up to $195. You will weave on a pre-warped loom available for purchase if desired. We will demonstrate warping and finishing. Each student will create a sampler incorporating hand-controlled patterns emphasizing color and texture.
Weaving With a Bow |
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Joy KammererEmail the Instructor Joy Kammerer has been involved in fiber arts since high school. Starting with crocheting and knitting, she then moved into spinning and weaving. Over the years, she has raised sheep and at one time ran a carding business with a friend. Joy belongs to spinning and weaving guilds in Rapid City, and teaches individuals and small groups interested in fiber arts. With family members, she attends fiber art shows with Joy's Wool Bag. The booth showcases felted hats, other felted items, and handmade articles. Joy enjoys teaching and certainly is a fiber fanatic. |
INSTRUCTOR: Joy Kammerer
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: Learn the ancient art of bow weaving (bow as in bow and arrow). Bracelets make a very nice accessory. This class will explore creating a small scale tabby weave with beads on a very portable loom. You will construct the loom in class and learn the technique for weaving the bracelet and finishing. A kit for the bracelet and loom will be provided with a choice of colors for beads, warm and weft.
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: Learn the ancient art of bow weaving (bow as in bow and arrow). Bracelets make a very nice accessory. This class will explore creating a small scale tabby weave with beads on a very portable loom. You will construct the loom in class and learn the technique for weaving the bracelet and finishing. A kit for the bracelet and loom will be provided with a choice of colors for beads, warm and weft.
1 Day Workshops - FRIDAY, June 9
Advanced Twining |
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Caroline Spurgeon
Email the Instructor Caroline has been weaving for more than 40 years. She is the designer of C. Cactus Flower Miniature looms and various other weaving related products. Her current book is "Weaving The Navajo Way, How to Create Rugs, Minitature and More." She has taught workshops on Navajo weaving, twining, and other off-loom techniques throughout the west. Now, actively retired from the manufacturing of C. Cactus Flower looms, she devotes her time between weaving, teaching, and the designing of new weaving products. She believes "the more people I teach to weave, the better chance we have to preserve the art." Caroline has a MS in Textile Science from The University of Arizona and currently resides in Southwest Colorado. |
INSTRUCTOR: Caroline Spurgeon
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate
MATERIALS: $10 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: Take the art of twining to the next level! We will explore twined forms including three color twining, twined rugs, using twining in combination with other types of weaving, and twined belts, cinches and straps. If you have a loom, bring it warped up. If not, don't worry as we will have plenty of looms to practice on. We will discuss and practice twining techniques and make a mohair belt/cinch in half size. This is an intermediate class so you should have taken the beginner class or had some experience in twining.
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate
MATERIALS: $10 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: Take the art of twining to the next level! We will explore twined forms including three color twining, twined rugs, using twining in combination with other types of weaving, and twined belts, cinches and straps. If you have a loom, bring it warped up. If not, don't worry as we will have plenty of looms to practice on. We will discuss and practice twining techniques and make a mohair belt/cinch in half size. This is an intermediate class so you should have taken the beginner class or had some experience in twining.
Natural Dyes: Exploration, Extraction, Enthusiasm |
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Stefania IsaacsonEmail the Instructor Stefania has been a life-long knitter, and started spinning and dying to supply herself with "the best yarns in the world!" She got her Certificate of Excellence in Handspinning from the Handweaver's Guild of America in 1997. Since then she has opened her own business called Handspun by Stefania and taught numerous workshops dealing in natural dyes, spinning, knitting, and basket making. She has spoken about the fiber arts to numerous groups, and has appeared on Home & Garden TV as a guest on the Carol Duvall Show. She sells handspun, natural hand dyed yarns, original knitting kits,using her own yarns and patterns, hand dyed roving dyed with natural dyes, and handmade baskets. She was previously a high school English teacher, and now enjoys teaching spinning, dyeing, and knitting to fiber enthusiasts. Most recently, Stefania has authored a book on natural dyeing, titled In Search of the Perfect Green-And Orange, Too! |
INSTRUCTOR: Stefania Isaacson
SKILL LEVEL: Any
MATERIALS: $30 (coolected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Heavy rubber gloves, apron, old towels, small plastic bags and marker, notebook and pen
DESCRIPTION: This natural dye class will explore plant materials from garden to field, how to extract the dye, and how to create our own dye pot. WE will use the flowers of Queen Anne's Lace, Goldenrod, Weld, and Marigolds to get yellows, and then we will overdye in indigo and cochineal to get a variety of greens and oranges. Students will become immersed in color theory as well as the dye process. They will take home many samples, instruction, and knowledge of how to dye from nature on their own. As always, enthusiasm for beautiful color and for the fun process will abound!
SKILL LEVEL: Any
MATERIALS: $30 (coolected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Heavy rubber gloves, apron, old towels, small plastic bags and marker, notebook and pen
DESCRIPTION: This natural dye class will explore plant materials from garden to field, how to extract the dye, and how to create our own dye pot. WE will use the flowers of Queen Anne's Lace, Goldenrod, Weld, and Marigolds to get yellows, and then we will overdye in indigo and cochineal to get a variety of greens and oranges. Students will become immersed in color theory as well as the dye process. They will take home many samples, instruction, and knowledge of how to dye from nature on their own. As always, enthusiasm for beautiful color and for the fun process will abound!
Quick and Lofty Yarn |
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Joy KammererEmail the Instructor Joy Kammerer has been involved in fiber arts since high school. Starting with crocheting and knitting, she then moved into spinning and weaving. Over the years, she has raised sheep and at one time ran a carding business with a friend. Joy belongs to spinning and weaving guilds in Rapid City, and teaches individuals and small groups interested in fiber arts. With family members, she attends fiber art shows with Joy's Wool Bag. The booth showcases felted hats, other felted items, and handmade articles. Joy enjoys teaching and certainly is a fiber fanatic. |
INSTRUCTOR: Joy Kammerer
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: spinning wheel and four bobbins; if the student brings their own roving, there will not be a material fee
DESCRIPTION: Learn a new technique to add to your spinning repertoire. This one-handed spinning method will allow you to control over twist and dramatically increase your spinning speed. Learn to let your wheel do the work, relax, and enjoy spinning.
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: spinning wheel and four bobbins; if the student brings their own roving, there will not be a material fee
DESCRIPTION: Learn a new technique to add to your spinning repertoire. This one-handed spinning method will allow you to control over twist and dramatically increase your spinning speed. Learn to let your wheel do the work, relax, and enjoy spinning.
Spinning Art Novelty Yarn |
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Melina BernhardtEmail the Instructor French and German designer, Melina Bernhardt, has been teaching fiber arts at Lambspun of Colorado for the past fifteen years. Spinning is one of her passions and color and texture come to the forefront of her creations. She has been praised for her patience as a teacher, and her ability to transmit her knowledge in a caring and professional way. |
INSTRUCTOR: Melina Bernhardt
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Bring your spinning wheel and its accessories, spinning wheel oil, scissors and carders if you have them.
DESCRIPTION: Are you familiar with the book “Intertwined”? That is the inspiration of this class. We will show you how to recycle fabrics and fibers and use the blending board. We will spin with color and texture (locks, silk, alpaca, metallic, mohair,…) to create art yarn. Aura slub yarns (core wrapping), translucent mohair, felted novelty yarns,... can be spun. Perfect for knitting or crocheting cuffs, small scarves, and brilliant accents.
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS: $15 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: Bring your spinning wheel and its accessories, spinning wheel oil, scissors and carders if you have them.
DESCRIPTION: Are you familiar with the book “Intertwined”? That is the inspiration of this class. We will show you how to recycle fabrics and fibers and use the blending board. We will spin with color and texture (locks, silk, alpaca, metallic, mohair,…) to create art yarn. Aura slub yarns (core wrapping), translucent mohair, felted novelty yarns,... can be spun. Perfect for knitting or crocheting cuffs, small scarves, and brilliant accents.
Spinning with Beads |
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Gwen PowellEmail the Instructor Gwen Powell holds the HGA Certificate of Excellence Master in Handspinning. Gwen began teaching basketry at age ten and all the other fiber arts she picked up along the way. Currently she teaches young children and adults to knit, crochet, weave, spin and sew. Working with Henry Clemes together they re-invented the carding board into a safe useful tool for fiber preparation for handspinners and felters. Gwen is occasionally published in PLY Magazine, Spin-Off and is the author of Blending Board Basics and Beyond. |
INSTRUCTOR: Gwen Powell
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate to Advanced (students should be able to spin a consistent single yarn on the wheel or spindle they bring, and be able to 2-ply a yarn.
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class), covers wool, silk, sparkles, beads, buttons, and shells
STUDENTS TO BRING: Flick or hand carders if they own them; blending boards will be provided., but if the student has any type of blending board, they are encouraged to bring it; point wheel, delta orifice wheel or wheel with large orifice; at least three bobbins; scissors; lazy Kate; spool of thread from heavy sewing thread to fine lace weight for plying; bags or some sort of way to label their samples
DESCRIPTION: There are many ways to incorporate beads into our fiber arts. Some are more effective than others. But beads can be a disaster when weight and technique and finished product are not taken into account. Students will learn a number of methods on how to spin beads directly into their single yarns, threaded onto a single strand and plied into a finished yarn and what will work with different weights of beads and fiber. Students will create samples to refer to for future designs.
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate to Advanced (students should be able to spin a consistent single yarn on the wheel or spindle they bring, and be able to 2-ply a yarn.
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class), covers wool, silk, sparkles, beads, buttons, and shells
STUDENTS TO BRING: Flick or hand carders if they own them; blending boards will be provided., but if the student has any type of blending board, they are encouraged to bring it; point wheel, delta orifice wheel or wheel with large orifice; at least three bobbins; scissors; lazy Kate; spool of thread from heavy sewing thread to fine lace weight for plying; bags or some sort of way to label their samples
DESCRIPTION: There are many ways to incorporate beads into our fiber arts. Some are more effective than others. But beads can be a disaster when weight and technique and finished product are not taken into account. Students will learn a number of methods on how to spin beads directly into their single yarns, threaded onto a single strand and plied into a finished yarn and what will work with different weights of beads and fiber. Students will create samples to refer to for future designs.
Sweater Skills |
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Ann McCauleyEmail the Instructor Ann McCauley is the author of The Pleasures of Knitting: Timeless Feminine Sweaters, and Together or Separate: Knitting the New Twinset. Ann can be seen in the Knitty Gritty episode known as Delightful Details. She teaches knitting locally and nationally at yarn shops, guilds, festivals, and large knitting events including Stitches West, Midwest and East. Her first published pattern appeared in the Great American Aran Afghan. She has also designed for Louet, Knitter’s Magazine, Craftsy, and Sixth & Spring ( on the cover of 60 More Quick Baby Knits and 60 Quick Luxury Knits). Ann’s most recent designs can be seen in Jared Flood’s Wool People 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 11 Collections. Ann’s interests in knitting lie with the use of smooth yarn, solid color and creating texture with stitches to design women’s garments. “Ann McCauley’s work first caught our eye because of its gorgeous, well-thought- out details and beautiful finishing.” ~Jared Flood |
INSTRUCTOR: Ann McCauley
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $2 (collected by instructor at class), will include technical handout
STUDENTS TO BRING: Sharp scissors, pen or pencil with an eraser, blunt tapestry needle, flexible tape measurer, cable needle, stitch markers, and needles (US 7 or 8), a set of double pointed needles in same or close to same size may also be helpful, & a mid-sized crochet hook. There is also a homework assignment that needs to be completed prior to arriving at this class.
Download the assignment instructions
DESCRIPTION: Sweaters are my favorite thing to knit and wear! Let’s make sure you are elated when you try on your finished sweater for the first time! The keys are in the details. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, the selvage stitch, swatching, gauge, fiber and needle selection, measuring, fit, preferred increases and decreases, seaming, blocking, picking up stitches, buttonholes and more. Whether you have made a sweater before or not, this class will lead you to a successful sweater result and give you skills that will carry over into other knitting projects. We will explore the equation of techniques + tips + good choices which will never let you down.
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $2 (collected by instructor at class), will include technical handout
STUDENTS TO BRING: Sharp scissors, pen or pencil with an eraser, blunt tapestry needle, flexible tape measurer, cable needle, stitch markers, and needles (US 7 or 8), a set of double pointed needles in same or close to same size may also be helpful, & a mid-sized crochet hook. There is also a homework assignment that needs to be completed prior to arriving at this class.
Download the assignment instructions
DESCRIPTION: Sweaters are my favorite thing to knit and wear! Let’s make sure you are elated when you try on your finished sweater for the first time! The keys are in the details. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, the selvage stitch, swatching, gauge, fiber and needle selection, measuring, fit, preferred increases and decreases, seaming, blocking, picking up stitches, buttonholes and more. Whether you have made a sweater before or not, this class will lead you to a successful sweater result and give you skills that will carry over into other knitting projects. We will explore the equation of techniques + tips + good choices which will never let you down.
Teaching Children Fiber Arts |
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Jennifer GreenEmail the Instructor Jennifer Green is the Head Shepheredess at Desert Garden Farms located in Weiser, Idaho. She has been teaching spinning and fiber arts for 10 years. Jennifer specializes in producing fibers, by hand, from start to finish. She is passionate about spinning, especially using drop spindles. She raises Shetland sheep and makes her living, along with her three girls, in the fiber arts industry. |
INSTRUCTOR: Jennifer Green
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: This class is aimed at parents, grandparents, Elementary teachers, day care providers, Sunday School teachers, Scout and 4H leaders, and anyone else influencing today's youth. We will look at how we can share fiber arts with children of all ages. You will explore terms and vocabulary, history, organization tips, project ideas, stories and more. I will show you how I break instructions down and make them kid friendly. We will complete projects and activities in spinning, dyeing, weaving and felting that you can take back with you to share with your youth. I will share with you some reproducible handouts that you can take home and use. Join us for a day of fun that will inspire you to new crafting with your youth.
SKILL LEVEL: All
MATERIALS: $20 (collected by instructor at class)
STUDENTS TO BRING: n/a
DESCRIPTION: This class is aimed at parents, grandparents, Elementary teachers, day care providers, Sunday School teachers, Scout and 4H leaders, and anyone else influencing today's youth. We will look at how we can share fiber arts with children of all ages. You will explore terms and vocabulary, history, organization tips, project ideas, stories and more. I will show you how I break instructions down and make them kid friendly. We will complete projects and activities in spinning, dyeing, weaving and felting that you can take back with you to share with your youth. I will share with you some reproducible handouts that you can take home and use. Join us for a day of fun that will inspire you to new crafting with your youth.
Toes Go in First |
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Patricia KalthoffEmail the Instructor Patricia has been knitting and spinning since college, and designing almost that long. She has been published in such magazines as Interweave Knits and Knitter's, and has combined her love of travel and teaching at shops, guilds and regional workshops for the past 15 years (including Taos and Estes Park). |
INSTRUCTOR: Patricia Kalthoff
SKILL LEVEL: Advanced
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: A full skein of light-colored, smooth DK or worsted yarn; double pointed needles AND two pairs of circular needles, all the same size for the yarn used; standard knitting necessities such as scissors, markers, holders, tapestry needles and scrap yarn
DESCRIPTION: Learn the ins and outs (or ups and downs) of knitting your socks from the toe up. We will cover several different toe and heel treatments, and learn some tips to make all your sock knitting easier, no matter which direction you knit. Students should be comfortable with DPNs but no sock experience is necessary.
SKILL LEVEL: Advanced
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: A full skein of light-colored, smooth DK or worsted yarn; double pointed needles AND two pairs of circular needles, all the same size for the yarn used; standard knitting necessities such as scissors, markers, holders, tapestry needles and scrap yarn
DESCRIPTION: Learn the ins and outs (or ups and downs) of knitting your socks from the toe up. We will cover several different toe and heel treatments, and learn some tips to make all your sock knitting easier, no matter which direction you knit. Students should be comfortable with DPNs but no sock experience is necessary.
Universal Mitered Bag / Modular Knitting |
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Annie ModesittEmail the Instructor Annie's work has appeared in Interweave Knits, Vogue Knitting, Knitters Magaazine, Cas On, Family Circle, McCalls Needlework, Parents, and many international fiber and yarn oriented publications. She teaches worldwide and across the United States. Annie knits using the Combination Method and believes that there truly is no wrong way to knit. She lives in St. Paul, MN with her husband, kids and assorted pets. |
INSTRUCTOR: Annie Modesitt
SKILL LEVEL: Advanced beginner & beyond
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: at least two different colors of worsted or sport weight yarn (variegated is fine), circular needles of any length to work well with your chosen yarn
DESCRIPTION: Modular Knitting is a general term that embraces several ways of creating multi-directional knit fabric. Two of the most popular modular knitting methods are Entrelec and Mitered (or Domino) knitting. In this class, we'll cover the basics of Mitered (or Domino) knitting, learn ways to visualize color variations available in mitered knitting, and begin The Universal Mitered Bag, which can be completed at the knitter's own pace after the class. Students should be able to knit, purl, increase and decrease. We will learn new techniques for picking up stitches, joining a new yarn and weaving in the multiple ends of a modular knitting project in class.
SKILL LEVEL: Advanced beginner & beyond
MATERIALS: n/a
STUDENTS TO BRING: at least two different colors of worsted or sport weight yarn (variegated is fine), circular needles of any length to work well with your chosen yarn
DESCRIPTION: Modular Knitting is a general term that embraces several ways of creating multi-directional knit fabric. Two of the most popular modular knitting methods are Entrelec and Mitered (or Domino) knitting. In this class, we'll cover the basics of Mitered (or Domino) knitting, learn ways to visualize color variations available in mitered knitting, and begin The Universal Mitered Bag, which can be completed at the knitter's own pace after the class. Students should be able to knit, purl, increase and decrease. We will learn new techniques for picking up stitches, joining a new yarn and weaving in the multiple ends of a modular knitting project in class.
Yarn Buttons and Closures
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Suzanne CorreiraEmail the Instructor Suzanne has been knitting, dyeing and spinning professionally since the late 80s, as Fire Ant Ranch since 1992, and now as Fiber Arts Republic. She has published patterns with Knitter's Magazine, Knitting Digest, Threads and Lion Brand Yarns, and has self-published via Ravelry. She has exhibited and taught at many festivals, including Estes Park, Taos Wool Festival, Big Sky Fiber Festival, Kid 'n Ewe and DFW Fiber Festivals, Interweave Yarn Fest, and Georgia Fiber Festival. Suzanne has been Workshop Superintendent for Estes Park Wool Market and for Taos Wool Festival for many years. She is now happily NOT organizing anything but her OWN workshop and festival schedule. A list of current workshops offered is on the worskshops page. |