Best Knitting Classes Near Me: Find In-Person & Virtual Training

Learn More About Knitting Courses

What is Knitting?

Knitting is a craft that involves interlocking yarn with needles which has become an increasingly popular hobby for a wide range of people. The process of knitting can result in various items as well, such as cozy scarves and sweaters as well as smaller items like socks and gloves. You can even create household items by knitting, such as pillows and blankets. The technique requires a level of patience and hand-eye coordination to complete your project, but there are many different styles of knitting that you could explore, such as continental, English, level, Portuguese, and shetland. Each requires a different type of dexterity and attention to detail, as well as looping methods, hand movements, and techniques. This is a unique, versatile, and mind-sharpening hobby that many people from different backgrounds, ages, and interests partake in.

The history of knitting dates far back and has been a hobby throughout centuries. Many believe the origin of knitting started in the Middle East or Mediterranean region, with some of the oldest knitted relics coming from 11th-century Egypt. Knitting was initially seen as a practical skill used to produce items that were durable enough to withstand a long time but also warm enough without being too heavy. However, over time and thanks to the industrialization of the fashion industry, knitting has shifted from a necessary skill to an enjoyable hobby and art form. With more yarn options now than ever, it’s easy to create intricate pieces with flashy designs ranging in all sorts of colors and sizes. People feel drawn to knitting as a creative outlet as well as a way to unwind and take their minds away from work, screen time, and other daily stressors. It’s a rewarding hobby with a rich history that will be around for as long as people need to have clothing or other household goods that are durable, cozy, and cute.

Why Learn Knitting?

You may have considered learning to knit for some time but haven’t taken the plunge yet. If you haven’t, there’s no time like the present. Learning to knit comes with multiple benefits that range from mental and physical to personal and professional. Mental, knitting enhances cognitive function and concentration as it requires a great level of attention to detail. The repetitive movements help improve fine motor skills and provide a pacifying way to spend some downtime. Moreover, there are many physical benefits as well. Of course, when you feel relaxed and calm, your body reflects it. Your blood pressure may drop and your muscles may feel less wound tight. Likewise, the combination of mental agility and physical engagement makes knitting an all-around useful skill that stimulates both the body and mind.

Knitting could be considered a sustainable life skill that negates the need to contribute to the fast fashion industry. When you purchase yarn and put in the time and effort to craft your own clothing pieces, you are not only creating something personalized and memorable but something that will sustain itself far longer than a cheaply made article of clothing. Knitting allows you to reduce your environmental impact and surpass the typical lifespan of an everyday item, such as gloves, scarves, hats, sweaters, and socks. It’s no secret that fast fashion negatively impacts the planet, so with your contribution and desire to veer from its allure, you are making an environmental and financial statement all in one.

Of course, if you master the art of knitting, you’re opening up a world of opportunities to start a side hustle, small business, or just make memorable gifts for loved ones. You can open an online shop on Etsy and share your hand-crafted creations with the world or set up a tent at a local vendor market in your community. Either way, knitting allows you to turn your hobby and interest into a more financially profitable endeavor. Additionally, the handmade nature of gifts is incredibly special. By putting in the time and effort to knit a customized piece for a loved one, you are showing them just how much you value their relationship with you. This personal touch can strengthen bonds, create items to pass on through generations or help you develop into a well-rounded business person.

What You’ll Learn in a Knitting Class?

In a knitting class, you’ll learn several foundational skills that will differ depending on the level of depth and complexity. In a beginner class, you will start with the basics and work your way through the levels of difficulty. For instance, you will need to be able to hold the needles properly before anything else. Then, you may explore different types of yarn and the various ways to care for each. Beyond that, you will likely explore basics such as casting on and binding off. You will also learn different stitches, such as the knit stitch and purl stitch. In some entry or intermediate-level courses, you will even practice combining some of these stitches to create a more elaborate piece. With these skills, you’ll be able to create simple pieces like infinity scarves or socks before moving on to more complex items.

Additionally, you’ll learn pattern recognition and reading. Many classes will teach with books, handouts, demonstrations, and tutorials that give you a better visual aid to fall back on, which is immensely helpful for a hands-on activity such as knitting. You may feel challenged while reading knitting patterns and remember all the different symbols and abbreviations to follow along with the instructions. Some abbreviations indicate that you use a certain type of needle set whereas others direct you to cast on or bind off. Likewise, many symbols indicate that you have to wrap the yarn around the needle twice to continue with the project. Once you nail down the symbols and abbreviations, knitting becomes far less challenging.

You’ll even have to choose the right needles and yarn before starting a project. Many classes will discuss the differences between yarns, including why you would choose some types of yarn over others based on the design. You may need a heavier yarn to create a sweater than you would a pair of socks and need a more durable yarn for items like pillows and blankets. The choice of need can also affect the project outcome as well. You will likely learn about straight, circular, and double-pointed knitting needles, since these are some of the most common, and explore ways that they determine the outcome of a design. While this will vary from class to class, these are generally some of the skills and lessons you will focus on in a beginner or intermediate-level course. Some advanced courses will skip over this entirely and just focus on creating an intricate piece.

Of course, patience is a virtue when it comes to knitting. You will likely spend time in class re-doing the same stitch over and over again before you feel like you’ve mastered it. This is not only normal but expected, which is why many classes and instructors emphasize the importance of patience and problem-solving. As you navigate the class and different projects, you will make mistakes, but what matters is that you focus, center yourself, and remain calm. Sometimes knitting requires approaching issues with creative solutions, meaning you may not always have to unstitch the yarn but can instead move forward with a new, unique design. With the right mindset, instruction, and tools, you will easily be able to achieve the knitting goals you have.

How Long Will it Take to Learn Knitting?

The time it takes to learn knitting varies from person to person. You will have to factor in a few key aspects before estimating your learning time. First, the quality of instruction is imperative. You will want a hands-on course with an experienced instructor if you want to speed up the learning process. There are self-help books and online tutorials, but these make the learning process far longer. Additionally, if you have previous or relevant experience, it won’t be as challenging to learn and will therefore take less time. For example, if you know how to sew, you may already know a few basics that can help you speed up the knitting process. In general, if you are a total beginner, you can expect to spend a few weeks or months mastering knitting. This involves learning the symbols, stitches, abbreviations, needle types, designs, yarn distinctions, and the physical act of knitting. With continued practice and ample patience, you may likely learn in less time. However, it’s important to pace yourself and focus while learning how to knit, so do not feel defeated if it takes considerable time.

What are the Advantages of Taking a Knitting Class?

There are many advantages of taking a knitting class that goes beyond finding a fun activity. Although that is true, knitting can also sharpen your mind and keep you alert, focused, and disciplined. It’s a mental challenge to follow along with patterns, shapes, and textures to create the perfect product. In addition, you have to keep track of the stitches and count them properly, so memorization is strengthened as a result. Moreover, you may have to correct any mistakes you make, which helps with overall mental agility. This hobby is a perfect form of mental stimulation that is rewarding and beneficial in many ways.

Plus, knitting is a calming hobby that can not only strengthen your mind but reduce any mental health matters you may experience. The rhythmic motions of knitting help your stress levels and keep your busy mind occupied when you feel like the world becomes too overwhelming. Many people find it beneficial to knit on their commute to and from work as a way to decompress before or after a busy day. Knitting is akin to mindfulness, which is proven to reduce signs of stress and anxiety, and provides an excellent way to constructively and safely handle your emotions. Instead of partaking in a quick fix or relying on something detrimental as a crutch, you can use knitting as an outlet for all your worries.

In addition to the immediate mental and physical benefits, it’s a practical skill that is worth learning and can lead to learning other related skills, such as sewing or crocheting. If you practice knitting enough, you could branch out to learn sewing, needlepoint, or crocheting, which are similar but have distinct differences. You may even study more complex crafts such as textile arts and garment construction. The possibilities are endless once you open up your mind to the world of knitting, so you can find the right mix of creative hobbies to keep you mentally strong, physically agile, and interested in exploring more.

Best Knitting Classes

If you are looking for an easy, quick way to master the essentials of sewing in a short time, consider enrolling in the Sewing 101: Bootcamp at The New York Sewing Center. Here, total beginners can learn the foundations of sewing, including everything from reading commercial patterns and understanding sewing terminology to identifying fabric grain lines and using a sewing machine. This course is taught by an expert with ample knowledge of sewing practices and techniques who will guide you through each project. Some projects include creating a denim tote bag, pajama bottoms, and two different kinds of skirts, such as the A-line and the pencil skirt. You will be provided with all the fabric for the bag as well as the pattern for the bottoms and skirt, but you will need to bring three to four yards of non-stretch fabric (such as wool, crepe, or cotton blends) which is available for purchase at ten dollars per yard on site. The small class sizes make the experience feel more personal, so you will receive ample feedback and feel fully supported while you sew.

The New York Sewing Center also has a Sewing 101: Basics class for those who feel slightly ill-prepared to join a bootcamp. In this course, you will cover essential techniques like how to use the sewing machine for basic projects, reading patterns, and understanding the difference between certain fabrics. You will start from scratch and learn how to sew by hand before moving on to use the sewing machine. The instructor will take a methodical approach and guide you step-by-step through all the essentials so you feel less concerned about making mistakes and more about learning the techniques. In this course, you will learn how to perform practical sewing techniques, such as how to set in a waistband or identify fabric grain lines. You will also learn which fabrics work best for certain garments since no two fabrics are the same. In addition, the instructor will teach you over six different types of stitches and seam finishes that you can make while using a sewing machine. Supplies are provided for the first day, but after, you will be provided a materials list and can purchase supplies for the following classes.

Let’s say you want to learn how to make something specific, such as a pair of socks. At the Brooklyn Craft Company, you can enroll in the Knitting 104: Sock Knitting course to take your knitting skills to the next level. In this fast-paced and advanced class, you’ll master useful tricks and techniques, such as the magic loop and stitch picking. In addition, you will learn how to create a heel flap and graft with the Kitchener stitch. In addition, the instructor will show you how to turn the heel, shape with decreases, and pick up stitches for the sock. Because this is an advanced class, you should feel comfortable with knitting, even if you have never made a pair of socks before. Although you may not finish your socks in class, you will complete the hardest parts and be able to finish them at your leisure thanks to the skills and assistance you gained during the session.

If you are based in Los Angeles and want to pick up knitting as a hobby, you can look to Los Angeles City College to enroll in the Sewing Made Easy, Level 1: Beginning course. The instructor will guide you throughout five sessions, showing you everything from how to set up a sewing machine (which is provided to you through the college) to understanding how it works. In this foundational course, you will discover the proper way to measure, mark, pin, and cut fabric so you can eventually make a customized, comfortable pillow. The instructor will be present 30 minutes before the class as well, so you can ask any questions you may have as well as request feedback on your work. Sewing machines are provided in the classroom, but there is a list of supplies that you will have to acquire before the first day.

Even a beginner can create a beautiful, comfortable sweater with the right instruction. In the Ready to Knit My First Top Down Sweater class from The Knitting Tree, LA, participants will join Annette, an instructor with ample experience, to create a top down sweater that requires zero sewing and only knitting. This class focuses on the entire knitting process, which includes everything from sizing the material properly, constructing the piece, and knitting it all together. Annette will take the students through all the steps, including how to knit a gauge swatch, which is essential for creating a sweater that actually fits. You will need to bring materials such as yarn, circular needles, pens, scissors, tapestry needles, and tape measures. This creative endeavor gives you an outlet to create your own clothing, express your creative side, and avoid using sewing techniques and machines.

Sew Anastasia in Chicago offers a once-a-week Pattern Drafting Stretchy Knits course where participants can design stretchy knitwear with ease. In this six-week course, you will learn how to design all kinds of garments. Within the first week, you will have the skills to craft a bodice and sleeve foundation before moving on to pants, bodysuits, and skirts. Each course focuses on not only crafting the items properly but also engaging with your peers and expressing yourself creatively. This course has a prerequisite that requires students to understand flat pattern clothing design, so it is suggested to complete the corresponding course at Sew Anastasia beforehand. You will be provided with most supplies in the studio but will have to purchase ten yards of stretchy fabric separately.

Live Online Knitting Classes

There are plenty of online options for knitting classes if you need that additional flexibility. For instance, Knitting for Beginners is a course hosted by 92nd Street Y that dives into the most essential techniques and tools that you will need to become proficient in knitting. Specifically, you will learn purl stitches, pattern reading, and the basics of increasing and decreasing. Moreover, the instructor will guide you on the proper way to get the stitch on and off the needles without disrupting the design. You may learn how to create a beautiful scarf or a nifty cell phone pouch, which can serve as a fun gift or a custom piece to add to your collection.

92nd Street Y also has a Knitting Beyond Basics course if you want to advance to the next level. In this course, you can expand your knitting experience by learning more advanced techniques, such as stitch patterns, shaping techniques, and finishing methods. Over seven different sessions, you will also be introduced to basic crochet techniques that can be used to enhance your knitting designs. The instructor is present to guide students through the sessions, provide feedback, answer questions, and facilitate some fun class discussions. With an online format, you can learn from others all around the country and connect with like-minded individuals who feel just as passionate about this hobby as you do.

At Coastal Design Workshops LLC, their Chunky Knit Blanket course gives you the skills to design and craft a blanket. The materials will be delivered right to your door so all you have to do is sign into the class and learn how to craft a blanket that will be a staple piece on your living room couch during movie night. This is a no-needle knitting class as well, so you will learn how to hand-knit this chunky blanket. Regardless of your previous experience, this is a fun and achievable class. At the end of the class, you will have the coziest blanket and feel confident creating other items with the hand-knitting techniques you will learn.

What better way to pair your chunky knit blanket than with a chunk knit pillow? In the Chunky Knit Square Pillow class, which is also hosted by Coastal Design Workshops LLC, you will learn to use jumbo-sized yarn to create a stunning pillow without the need for needles. Your instructor will walk you through the process, including how to use a simple loop stitch pattern and tie it off to ensure the pillow is secure and complete. This class is a great option for any crafty individual, a team-building activity, or a unique date night. All you need to provide is a pair of scissors -- the rest will be sent right to your door.

Corey Ginsberg

Corey Ginsberg is a professional writer with two decades of experience creating and editing content. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Carnegie Mellon University, graduating with honors. Corey also holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from Florida International University and served as the editor of Gulf Stream Magazine. She has worked with clients such as the Dick’s Foundation, colleges, invention companies, Nike Swim Camp, The Pentagon, The Pittsburgh Robotics Institute, and major design firms. Drawing from a broad creative, technical, and professional writing background, Corey currently writes about a range of technical topics, including computer programming, data analytics, and computer-aided design.

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Featured Classes from Noble Desktop

Top Certificate Programs

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Featured Classes from Noble Desktop

Top Certificate Programs

Featured Classes from Noble Desktop

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

Featured Classes from Noble Desktop

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

Knitting Classes Near Me

The Knitting Tree, LA Beginning Knitting Class

Coastal Design Workshops LLC Chunky Knit a Square Pillow

Coastal Design Workshops LLC Chunky Knit Blanket

Learn More About Knitting Courses

What is Knitting?

Why Learn Knitting?

What You’ll Learn in a Knitting Class?

How Long Will it Take to Learn Knitting?

What are the Advantages of Taking a Knitting Class?

Best Knitting Classes

Live Online Knitting Classes

Knitting Courses by School

The Knitting Tree, LA

Beginning Knitting Class

Coastal Design Workshops LLC

Chunky Knit a Square Pillow

Chunky Knit Blanket

Knitting
Corporate & Onsite Training

Knitting Training Map & Top Locations

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

Top Certificate Programs

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

The Knitting Tree, LA Beginning Knitting Class

Coastal Design Workshops LLC Chunky Knit a Square Pillow

Coastal Design Workshops LLC Chunky Knit Blanket

Learn More About Knitting Courses

What is Knitting?

Why Learn Knitting?

What You’ll Learn in a Knitting Class?

How Long Will it Take to Learn Knitting?

What are the Advantages of Taking a Knitting Class?

Best Knitting Classes

Live Online Knitting Classes

Knitting Courses by School

The Knitting Tree, LA

Beginning Knitting Class

Coastal Design Workshops LLC

Chunky Knit a Square Pillow

Chunky Knit Blanket

Knitting Corporate & Onsite Training Noble Desktop

Knitting Training Map & Top Locations

Knitting
Corporate & Onsite Training