Holding strands together, aka making marls, is a wonderful way to create striking handknits. Knitters of any level can use marls to add visual interest, create unique fiber blends, and make extraordinary multi-color pieces. This virtual class will cover why marls have such a distinctive look, simple color theory for marls, tips for managing multiple balls of yarn, and prototyping pieces with. The students can choose to follow along and make their own microswatches between the two sessions if they desire, and a pattern will be provided for students to make their own multi-color marled cowl.

Technique Requirements: knit/purl, cast on/bind off, working in the round, have knit a few accessories, basic finishing techniques

Homework is optional and the homework assignment will be given in the first session, to be done between sessions.

OPTIONAL If you want to experience how to use microswatches and to make a marl piece to practice concepts from the class, you will need 6 different colors of heavy lace weight yarn and a 16" circular needle in a size that works well for your yarn doubled. I'll use Ito Kinu and Isager Tvinni yarns for my examples in class. Ito Kinu doubled works well on a US4, and Isager Tvinni works well on a US6. A good set of colors for learning, and that will be used as a example in class, are the six colors from the CMY color wheel: purple, blue, green, mustard, orange, and red. In Ito Kinu these are Denim 380, Capri Blue 392, Mint 491, Mustard 487, Cayenne Red 360, and Chili Pepper 361. In Isagaer Tvinni these are 25, 54, 37s, 22s, 1s, and 32. One cone or skein of each color is more than enough yarn to make microswatches and a small cowl. There are many other heavy lace weight yarns that would also work well.