No matter your skill level, if you have yarn, knitting needles and passion, there is room for you at the knit-a-long.
Birch Bark Yarns is hosting their “Sweater Weather knit-a-long”. The virtual knit-a-long will run from January to March 31, 2021. For each sweater completed during this time, the person who made the sweater will be entered into a draw.
The prizes include:
1- A skein of Birch Bark Yarn of your choosing
2- A set of stitch markers
3- A progress keeper
In November Birch Bark Yarns hosted their first knit-a-long called November Mitt knit-a-long.
They had 86 people join the group in November, making a staggering 122 mittens, as well as a number of tuques and scarfs and not to mention many new fibre friends.
Simone LeBlanc, organizer of the event, said they had an amazing response from their first Knit-a-long and decided to host a sweater knit-a-long because it is a nice project to work on during the dark, cold months.
“This pandemic has been difficult for everyone, and periods of lockdown can be extremely isolating,” LeBlanc said. “Those who seem to be handling our situation best are those who have taken this as an opportunity to try something new.”
LeBlanc adds that they will continue to host the events for as long as there is interest from the knitting community.
LeBlanc said the event it is a great way to connect with other knitters and learn new techniques in a safe and supportive space. As well, knitters can get out of their comfort zone and try out new patterns.
Those interested in participating need to join the Facebook group Sweater Weather K.A.L.
The group is intended for all knitters, crocheters and makers from beginner to advanced.
LeBlanc said the pattern they suggest using is a free pattern from TinCanKnits called “Flax”. It is available on the TinCanKnits website and available on the Sweater Weather K.A.L. Facebook group.
The sweater pattern is size inclusive with instructions for every size between newborn to 5XL. There are also a number of tutorials and helpful resources available for the pattern and links to these resources are posted on the Sweater Weather K.A.L. Facebook page.
Participants may also make a different pattern or complete a sweater that is a work-in-progress to be eligible for the prizes. The timeline for this knit-a-long will be a bit more relaxed given the lockdown makes it more difficult to access supplies, therefore participants can start anytime, but must complete their sweater by the deadline.
Participants are encouraged to post pictures of their progress and questions as they go. LeBlanc said they also encourage participants to use yarn from their stash or purchase locally. Birch Bark Yarns also have kits available for all the tools needed for this project and contactless delivery can be arranged.
Each knitter chooses what they wish to do with their finished objects, whether that means keeping the sweater, giving it as a gift or donating it.
