Problem project? Things are rarely as bad as they seem. We'll learn to take stock of a new project to avoid problems and determine that all is going according to plan. Re-thinking and revising. Swatches and how to read them honestly. Plan to practice "defensive knitting," to keep your options open. Fundamental techniques will be practiced. Laddering back, knitting downward, duplicate stitch (Swiss darning), mattress stitch, and grafting (Kitchener stitch) without loose stitches. And when all else fails, tips for ripping back.

Technique Requirements: knit/purl, cast on/bind off, have knit a few accessories

Swatches required: In a light, single-color, smooth, wool-rich yarn in a worsted weight or heavier (avoid single-ply or Lopi yarns if possible), cast on 20 sts and work 3” of Stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row), end on completion of a purl row. Cut off yarn and leave the stitches on the needle. Make two identical pieces.

Crochet hook. Scissors. Blunt darning needles. Needles in gauge size and smaller, circs or straight. At least 2 short length (6”) dpns smaller in size than used for your swatch, ideally made from a lightweight material (bamboo or wood). Small amounts of similar weight, brightly contrasting yarn in at least three colors.