So module 1 is completed and I passed, yay!
There were 9 activities in this module broken down into 2 sections, Knitting and Underpinning Knowledge.
Activity 1 – Samples of Cast-ons and Cast-offs
In this activity I had to work a number of cast-ons and cast-offs. A real eye opener for me as I had always stuck to the same method for each before.
Sample 1 – Long tail cast-on / Knitted cast-off – these are the 2 methods that I had always used.
Sample 2 – Knit cast-on / Knit 2 tog cast-off
Sample 3 – Picot stitch cast-on / knit and purl cast-off
Sample 4 – Invisible cast-on / Sewn cast-off / Knit 1 Purl 1 rib
Sample 5 – Knotted edge cast-on / Picot edge cast-off
Sample 6 – Cable cast-on / Double crochet cast-off
Activity 2 – Selvedges
Another new area for me.
Sample 1 – Chain Selvedge
Sample 2 – Double slipped garter selvedge
Sample 3 – Picot selvedge
Sample 4 – Eyelet selvedge
Sample 5 – Double chain selvedge
Activity 3 – Hems and Edgings
In this activity I had to work a number of edgings, hemmed and decorative.
Sample 1 – Hemmed Edge
Sample 2 – Seed stitch ruffle
Sample 3 – Picot wave hem
Sample 4 – Petite Shells Edging
Sample 5 – Scalloped leaves
Sample 6 – Fan edging
Activity 4 – Tension Swatches
This activity explored how to accurately measure tension using different yarns and stitch patterns.
Sample 1 – Smooth Yarn
Sample 2 – Textured Yarn
Sample 3 – Textured stitch
Activity 5 – A Test Sample
Here I used a number of different needles with the same yarn to swatch the best gauge.
Activities 6 and 7 looked at underpinning knowledge. I had to report on any exhibitions, museums or galleries I had visited and take lots of photos for future inspiration and start a reference file of local yarn stores and collect items that I might consider for future use.
Activity 8 looks at Designer Makers – I chose to research Steve Plummer as I was inspired by his ‘Illusion Knitting’ techniques.
Here is a sample I made from Steve Plummers ‘Squares that Look Round’ wall hanging pattern. When viewed straight on the circle cannot be seen, however through the use of raised stitches when viewed from an angle you can clearly see the shape.
Activity 9 – Yarn File
This activity focuses on the properties of pure wool, mohair and silk. A report was written on each fibre detailing how they are produced, their properties and care.
Wool Sample 1 – Chunky wool
Wool sample 2 – Merino wool
Wool sample 3 – Chunky stitches
Wool sample 4 – Fine wool stitch sample
Mohair sample 1 – Basic sample
Mohair sample 2 – loose gauge
Silk sample 1 – Basic sample
Silk sample 2 – Lace
Overall I really enjoyed this module and although it’s only the first one I learnt so much! I have now completed module 2 and will post pictures of this once it has been returned from assessment.
If anyone is considering undertaking this course I would highly recommend it! The course I am doing is run by Fiona Morris at ‘Distance Knitting’. There is a lot of work involved but if you love knitting as much as I do then you will really enjoy it.
Module 1 – Completed!