Have you ever wanted to design your own knitting patterns but don't know where to start?

Join me for this 6 week course as we go through the steps of working through an idea, knitting a sample and then writing up a pattern that other knitters can follow.

Here is what we will cover. Zoom calls will take place at 8pm (UK time) on the dates below.

Week 1 - 29/09

• Inspiration - using an image or piece of art as a starting point for your design
• Designer Toolkit - the basics for getting started
• Building your Designer Library - online stitch directories and book recommendations
• Homework - Sketching ideas (you absolutely don't need to have any skills in drawing for this course, it's simply a way to get your ideas down on paper)

Week 2 - 06/10

• Learn the No.1 rule of knitting design!
• Filtering down your sketches to come up with a final idea
• Considering different yarn types and fibres for your design
• Considering colour
• Homework - sourcing your yarn and knitting a gauge swatch

Week 3 - 13/10

• Sizing and measurements - how to use your gauge swatch to calculate the measurements for your cowl
• Considering stitch pattern repeats
• Homework - Writing up the first draft of your pattern

Week 4 - 20/10

• Knitting the sample

Week 5 - 27/10

• Taking photos - tips and tricks for photographing knitting
• Pattern writing - what information to include
• Setting up your designer stylesheet
• Homework - writing up your final pattern

Week 6 - 03/11

• Tech Editing - what is a tech editor and how can they help you?
• Test knitting - where to find test knitters
• Releasing your pattern!

At the end of the 6 week course you should have a finished knitted sample and a final draft of your pattern. During the call on week 6 we will talk about how to prepare your pattern for publishing by using a tech editor and test knitters to help you refine your draft into a polished pattern. We will also talk about the different publishing platforms that you can use to sell your first knitting design!

This course is suitable for knitters who are comfortable with the basics. You don't need to be an expert knitter or be a 'creative type' - all you need is an enthusiasm for knitting!