Take your knitting skills to the next level with our "Beyond The Basics" set of knitting classes! Alpaca Direct is currently offering a special price for instructor led classes…  Intermediate Knitting Class on Groupon! Knitting is one of civilizations oldest skills, but has seen a resurgence in popularity the past several years. Come meet the friendly team at Alpaca Direct and rekindle your love of knitting!   You will start with the basic stitches as a refresher and quickly transition into shaping techniques like increases, decreases and yarn-overs while making a beautiful hat you'll be proud to wear at your next outdoor event. [caption id="attachment_1082" align="alignleft" width="243"]

Kelley with a hand knit hat[/caption] Over 2 classes, we will cover intermediate  "Beyond the basics"  techniques – increases, decreases and shaping to create that custom knitwear for your head.   We will also cover the things you need to know to plan your own knitted masterpiece.  We'll revisit what is gauge and why does it matter when knitting your hat?  Why is yarn divided into different weights and how do I recognize the difference? We will review the shaping techniques in hat patterns, explain common knitting abbreviations and terms, and equip you to knit your project from a written pattern. This exclusive Groupon offer includes 2 weeks of instruction, 1 Circular needle, and 1 skein of Alpaca Yarn in your choice of color (take it from me , the colors are beautiful and this yarn is luxuriously soft!)  Keep in mind that alpaca fiber is one of the warmest fibers on earth, rivals cashmere for softness and almost never causes the skin irritation that those sensitive to wool experience. Enrollment Fee: $60 for both both sessions – includes yarn, needles and pattern. Please bring the following materials: Notepad with pen/pencil Blunt tip tapestry needle Small (4″) sharp pointed scissors  

Optional items (Available in our store) will help make learning to knit a little easier

Locking stitch markers Crochet hook- size G or H Tape measure – (We have really cute ones!) Stitch Gauge/needle & hook measurement guide   Class Dates: March 19th and 26th (Saturday) - 10:30am - 12:30pm April 15th and 22nd (Friday) - 10:30am - 12:30pm May 20th and 27th (Friday)  - 10:30am - 12:30pm More classes will be posted soon! Feel free to email or call us if you'd like to sign up for this class.  Our store phone is 208-209-7079 10am-6pm M-F and 10-3 on Saturdays.     Sign up today and learn a skill you will enjoy the rest of your life. “Properly practiced, knitting soothes the troubled spirit, and it doesn’t hurt the untroubled spirit either.”