Knitting charts are a powerful way to present patterns, allowing knitters to visualize stitches, repeats, and shaping in a clear and compact format. Yet many knitters find charts confusing or intimidating when they first encounter them.

In this workshop we will demystify knitting charts and learn how to read them with confidence. Together we will explore how charts represent stitches, how row and stitch numbers guide our work, and how keys and symbols translate into knitted fabric. Students will practice reading charts for knitting worked both flat and in the round, and we will look at examples from textured stitch patterns, colorwork, cables, and shaping. Along the way we will discuss common chart conventions, repeated sections, and helpful strategies for staying on track while knitting from charts.

By the end of class you will have a clear understanding of how knitting charts work and the confidence to follow charted instructions in a wide range of patterns.

Technique Requirements: knit/purl, cast on/bind off, increase/decrease, working in the round

With light-colored worsted-weight yarn and appropriately sized needles, cast on 30 stitches.
Work 4 rows of garter stitch (knit every row), followed by approximately 2 inches of stockinette stitch.

Leave stitches on the needle and keep yarn attached to the work. Bring 2–3 additional colors of yarn wound and ready to use.

Light-colored worsted-weight yarn for the homework swatch, plus 2 to 3 additional partial balls of worsted-weight yarn in contrasting colors (smooth wool or wool blends recommended), knitting needles appropriate for the yarn selected (straight or circular needles are both acceptable), stitch markers, notebook, pencil, and the usual knitting notions.

Reminder: Please print any handout(s) prior to class and bring it with you.