Machine Knitting: Slip Tuck and Lace

About this course

Learners develop a simple garment, such as an adult sweater, kimono or child’s item, using a single-bed domestic knitting machine. The course covers measuring, shaping, blocking and construction, including hand stitching and joining on the machine. Teaching combines tutor demonstrations, practical work, technical handouts, group discussion, show and tell, critique, and individual or group feedback.

What you'll learn

• Prepare a tension swatch by knitting and measuring it
• Calculate stitch and row quantities for specified measurements
• Shape knitted pieces with fully fashioned increases and decreases
• Apply short-row shaping where appropriate to a design
• Block garment pieces before construction
• Assemble a garment using hand stitching and machine joining

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners who already have basic machine-knitting skills, so it is not presented as an introduction for complete beginners. Participation combines practical machine work with tutor demonstrations, discussion, show and tell, group critique, and individual feedback.

• Basic machine-knitting skills are expected
• Learners take part in both individual work and group discussion
• The machine carriage needs to be moved repeatedly across the needle bed

Before you go

• The college provides single-bed standard-gauge Brother knitting machines, some chunky-gauge machines, a selection of suitable yarns, stitch-related graph paper, and blank punch cards and punchers.
• Learners may bring specialist yarns or other materials for their designs, along with a sketchbook or notebook, pens or pencils, and reference images.
• The machines are stored in cupboards and can be heavy. Learners with back problems can ask the tutor for help with setting up and packing away.
• The textile studio is accessible by stairs, lift and chair lift. A moderate level of fitness is needed to move the carriage across the needle bed. Learners with mobility support needs should contact the college before enrolling.