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Cascade Pure Alpaca Yarn[/caption] Alpaca Direct is currently offering a special price for instructor led classes...  Knitting 101 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 find out why knitting is so popular...fun...and addictive! You will start with the very basics and work your way up to something you will be proud to wear.Over 2 classes, we will cover the most basic steps - casting on, knitting and purling and binding off. Did you know all knitting is based on these two stitches? It's how they are used that adds texture and variety.  By the time you leave you will know what stockinette stitch is, what garter stitch is, and the difference between the two. We will also cover the things you need to know to plan your own knitted masterpiece. What is gauge  and why does it matter? Why is yarn divided into different weights and how can I recognize the difference? We will simplify the mystery of patterns, explain common knitting abbreviations and terms, and equip you to knit a project from a written pattern.This exclusive Groupon offer includes 2 weeks of instruction, 1 set of straight Brittany knitting needles, and 1 skein of Cascade Pure 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/pencilBlunt tip tapestry needleSmall (4") sharp pointed scissors Optional items (Available in our store) will help make learning to knit a little easier :)Locking stitch markersCrochet hook- size G or HTape measure - (We have really cute ones!)Stitch Gauge/needle & hook measurement guide Class Dates: * = New class times added! Feb 15th and 22nd, (Sat) 9-11amMarch 12th and 19th, (Wed) 11am-1pm pmMarch 21st and 28th, (Friday) 3-5pmApril 19th and 26th, (Saturday) 9:30-11:30amApril 23rd and 30th, (Wed) 12-2pmMay 10th and 17th (Saturday) 11am-1pmMay 14th and 21st (Wed) 10am-12pmMore classes coming 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."

Elizabeth Zimmerman

Master Knitter