9:30am Saturday 27th February 2010
I WOULD never have thought it possible to get so much fun out of a couple of needles and a ball of colourful wool, but on a Saturday recently, I found myself drawn to the world of fine textures and gem-like colours, when I attended a one-day knitting course.
This was held at the Knutsford shop of Fibre & Clay in Minshull Street, an amazing emporium of beautiful crafted fabrics and ceramics.
Years ago, people used to sew and knit their own garments.
I remember as a young girl, my Auntie Pam knitted me the most beautiful, navy blue sweater to wear for school.
Back then, I probably did not appreciate the time and effort it took for her to make it, but I do remember feeling very special when I wore it.
If she were alive today, I am sure she would be delighted at my feeble attempts to follow in her footsteps.
Knitting was not something I thought I would ever venture into.
As I entered the shop I was greeted by the owner, who introduced me to Helen Chatterton the course tutor, a glamorous, energetic woman.
I was led upstairs to a cosy, light room above the shop, and as soon as everyone arrived, refreshments were brought in.
The class was attended by a mix of novice knitters, and total beginners like me, and what I thought was so interesting was the range of ages among the women.
A couple of young girls, Jess and Jessica, had been treated to the day because it was Jessica’s 13th birthday.
After introductions, Helen passed round some course notes and invited us to choose a set of needles with wool already attached for us to begin our knitting.
She talked about the basic steps and very carefully went round each individual to make sure we were on the right track.
A relaxed atmosphere added to the joy of learning to do something creative.
We all chatted amicably and it wasn’t long before it was time for a break and lunch at a nearby coffee house.
After our lunch break, we were down to more serious business, how to cast on and off, and also the need to knit a tension square before embarking on a piece of knitting.
She also talked about the strange short hand symbols used in patterns and how to decipher them.
I have to admit this part went slightly over my head, but the others seemed to understand.
It wasn’t just the knitting that made the day enjoyable, it was the camaraderie of the other women, and by the end of the course, I felt confident enough to buy a pattern, some needles and wool to make a scarf.
I went home armed with my goodies and a determination.
So far I have finished one ball of wool and am aiming to finish the piece by Easter – hopefully!
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