From yarn to knitted fabric
Flatbed knitting machines allow one person to produce knitted fabric efficiently while retaining control over yarn, tension, stitch structure, shaping, and color.
This three-hour workshop introduces the fundamentals of machine knitting through close, individual instruction. The workshop is limited to five participants so that each person can work directly with a machine and receive hands-on troubleshooting support.
The session also explores the role of knitting frames and mechanical knitting in Scots-Irish cottage industry and later Appalachian textile production.
Participants will learn
- the history of mechanical knitting in Britain, Ulster, and Appalachian cottage production
- the relationship between hand knitting and machine knitting
- the basic parts of a flatbed knitting machine
- how the needle bed, carriage, tension mast, and yarn feeder work
- how yarn weight, twist, and fiber content affect machine performance
- how to cast on, knit basic fabric, shape, change color, and bind off
- how to read the machine and identify common problems
Hands-on activities
Each participant will:
- work at an individual flatbed knitting machine
- examine needle positions and machine settings
- practice an e-wrap, open-edge, or closed-edge cast-on
- knit a basic stitch-sampler panel
- introduce stripes or simple yarn changes
- practice increasing and decreasing
- bind off and finish the sample
- receive individual troubleshooting and instruction
What is included
- use of one Blue Thistle flatbed knitting machine per participant
- yarn samples in several weights and fiber types
- cultural-history handout
Who should attend
This workshop is suitable for complete beginners, hand knitters interested in machines, textile artists, designers, and anyone curious about small-scale knitted-fabric production.
Hand-knitting experience may be useful but is not required.
What to wear
Wear comfortable clothing. Avoid loose sleeves, scarves, bracelets, or jewelry that could catch on the machine. Closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Workshop details
Date: June 12th, 2027. Time: 9:00 am – Noon
Duration: 3 hours
Capacity: 5 participants
Location: Blue Thistle Fibers, 314 Main Street, Gauley Bridge, WV
Experience level: Beginner
Machine and materials: Included
Scholarship seats
Because this workshop has only five seats, the number and handling of scholarship seats should be confirmed before the product is published. I would not automatically reserve two of the five unless that is specifically included in your grant implementation plan.
This project is made possible by Mid Atlantic Arts’ Central Appalachia Living Traditions program.
