Selvedge

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!