The Handiworks: Knitting and crochet classes in Singapore

Our latest "uniform" knitting adventure

2012-01-31T13:03:00.000+08:00

If you have been following the other blog, you would know that the resident enabler aka Emy ("moi") loves to knit and crochet.

That said, often the customers who come for their lessons get the first hand updates and access to the latest WIPs on my needles.

And once in a blue moon, there'll be a project I am working on that gets everyone excited and then we'll get a mini KAL or CAL going.

Let us show you the creations of our customers.

Recognize these?

The above FOs are knitted by Jenny and Chai Beewho fell in love with the project the minute they saw me knitting it.

They are replicas of the "Dropped leaves" sleeveless top that I've is knitted for my sister.

They both liked the design as they find that:

the project is modest for office wear, yet has some interesting details
it has large sections of rib for coverage but with slimming effect
and the project is knitted in the round

And so the quest started. Esther also joined in at the starting line. (I just kept forgetting to take photos of hers!)

All of them decided on choosing the yarn from the same cotton collection which makes this piece easy to wear in our Singapore tropical humid climate but in different colors.

It helps when all of them are commencing the project around the same time as the instructions were dispensed as scribbled notes -- cryptic to most but effective for my advanced customers.

It also helps that the ladies have been with us for a few years now and are very familiar with deciphering instructions that requires them to calculate and measure as the pattern grows so that they can custom fit to their own body shapes. No spoon feeding required -- we empower and entrust.

It took them a relatively short time to get their garments completed. Perhaps 2 lessons in between?

Here is a close up shot of Jenny's piece.

And Chai Bee's.

And so this sums up another classic piece that would be known as our "uniform" to those in our group.

Now I really wished I would have the energy to re-knit a second piece for myself but I just much rather not do that!

Great modelled capelet shawl

2012-01-17T10:00:00.000+08:00

Photography is not a strength of ours. Want proof?

Here are some photos one of our customers have taken of their own FOs (which I have reproduced here with permission).

See how real human modelling makes a whole world of difference?

Chai Bee's really good with photography! In fact, the above shows the true color of the yarn which I haven't been able to capture.

You can compare these to the ones I have taken.

Here's how the original pattern looks like.

More details of the project are posted here.

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Here's wishing everyone a Happy Lunar New Year!

Limited weekend slots for Jan 2012 in view of CNY

2012-01-09T17:00:00.000+08:00

Dear customers, please note there are limited weekend slots this month.

However, weekday daytime and evening sessions are still available so this notice is really meant for those customers with weekend lesson preference to plan and book ahead.

The following weekend dates are currently available:

Jan 14 (Sat ): 10am - 12pm
Jan 15 (Sun): ~~1 - 6pm~~ <Edited to add: only 4-6pm slot left>
Jan 21 (Sat): 10am - 12pm
Jan 28 / 29 (Sat/Sun): 10am - 6pm

During the CNY festivities, we will be closed from 21 Jan (Sat) 12pm onwards and we'll be available for lesson bookings on 27 Jan (Fri).

For those of you who have previously attended our preview sessions and would like to book your first lesson, please do kindly ensure that you book a slot with a 3hr minimum (so that you can factor in time for your project pattern and yarn selection during the session itself!) As mentioned, selected weekday daytime slots are still mostly available.

I would strongly suggest that you consider booking prior to CNY as it's likely you have time to work on your project during the festive period.

[I do that all the time whenever I house visit -- my relatives have gotten used to seeing me knit even as we chit chat or sit around and watch TV. The only *complaint* I have got was when my grandma was still alive -- she chides me for "purportedly doing work" (how can knitting be considered "work"; I have no idea...)

But anyways, my rebuttal? "Grandma, I am wishing for your absolute longevity as I knit/crochet miles and miles of "good wishes for your health!" (*big smile*) [Just don't brandish the scissors!]

PS. Our Feb previews will be on Feb 04 (Sat, 10.30am) and Feb 19 (Sun, 10.30am) so please do RSVP if you intend to commence your knitting and crochet before our Mar 01 lesson package fees increase!

PPS. Happy Lunar New Year to all
(in case I don't get around to any blogging prior; we'll try our atmost!)

Knitting prep for a baby's arrival (part 3)

2012-01-03T12:00:00.000+08:00

Hope all you readers had a great Christmas as well as a New Year break!

***************

Now that the head and feet are suitably covered, the next item on the list is the baby blanket.

As we all know, babies are often preciously wrapped and nestled in cosy blankets when they first leave the hospital.

Following the color conventions, Jasmine opted for a light baby pink for the blanket.

We went along with a conventional square blanket as we tried to balance the projects Jasmine had on hand -- the booties required more attention and she could certainly use some mindless knitting on the square blanket since no shaping is involved.

It comes in an all-over repeat pattern which can be easily memorized.

And also creates an interesting texture on its reverse side.
It looks really nice, doesn't it?

(The pink in the first picture is the true colour. Somehow, the Sony TX camera I have doesn't quite perform as well indoors; often washing out the colors!)

Even though many find the heat in Singapore incredibly hard to bear, almost all will agree that our shopping malls' indoor airconditioning are set at freezing temperatures.

But given the rainy wet season we experienced just in December last month, this blanket definitely comes in handy.

The baby blanket took some time as it was knitted on 3mm needles. And it's trimmed with lace edgings all around to complete the look. The trimming did take Jasmine quite some time.

In fact, she had this started along with the previous projects. Talk about multi-task knitting! Multi-project knitting works for some of our customers who are rather active on-the-go knitters.

Actually, I am a multi-project person too! What about you?

PS. Thanks for the sign up for the Jan 08 preview! Apparently, interest is overwhelming so the seats are fully taken even before January 01, 2012! I have just added 2 seats so if you wish to join us, please do so!

Knitting prep for a baby's arrival (part 2)

2011-12-16T10:00:00.000+08:00

The most frequently requested "learn to knit or crochet" items for babies are usually:

socks

booties

or mini Mary Janes (for little baby girls)

Many customers reckon that due to their small size, they can be easily started and completed quickly.

The truth is far from it.

What few customers realize is that the smaller and the more detailed the items are, it means that:

the shaping requirements are more frequent and
one needs to be reasonably familiar with basic knitting or crochet skills; producing even tension
and knows how to read the instructions which involves turning or picking up techniques

In short, that's probably an intermediate skill level project; unless you are looking at just plain tube socks or leg warmers that just go round and round straight up.

Jasmine decided to create a pair of two-colored faux Mary Jane baby socks.

Ok...imagine a pair.... Most of the time we teach customers the techniques on one and the customers go back home to re-create/finish up the other piece. That's also why you saw single bedroom slippers in the other blog entry.

It took several lessons to get to completion. Of course, the great thing is that we do not limit the number of projects you can have going at any time (no, we do not charge on single project basis) so she was working this along with the bunny hat and other 2 projects during the whole time.

At one point, Jasmine was at my place figuring out how to work the top of the foot as it involved color work and picking up techniques.

That's kinda how they looked at one stage when she brought both of them back for the seaming work. We didn't have the picking up stitches photos as it's just too challenging to manage the camera while both Jasmine and myself are huddled together as I attempt to demonstrate the techniques for her close up learning.

Later, as she moved onto the handling and re-creation, I was monitoring and scrutinizing her movements pretty closely (that's the advantage of one-to-one classes!) to ensure she is executing the techniques properly.

I know it looks huge but in reality it's rather tiny!

Knitting preparation for a baby's arrival (part 1)

2011-12-14T21:30:00.000+08:00

Jasmine who joined us earlier this year, was several months pregnant when she decided she wanted to perfect her rather rusty knitting skills and work magic in creating loving pieces in view of her baby's arrival to this world.

She also realized that it wasn't feasible for her to go to any of the knitting shops as she has tried that previously and felt she didn't get to learn much as she mostly had to sit around waiting due to the number of students.

Besides, in her pregnant state,

She gets tired easily and needed maximum personalized coaching attention during her lesson visits (which can't happen when it's a group setting)

She has a deadline to meet -- to have all her planned items be in time for her baby's arrival which is barely less than 4 mths, I think.

As we all know, babies tend to lost most of their body heat via their heads and limbs -- that's why baby gift sets are often seen consisting of baby hats, mitten and socks. Plus, they come with a baby blanket for the mom to wrap the baby in when they go home from the hospital.

So Jasmine decided on a baby hat. But not just any hat but a bunny ears hat.

It's always insanely cute when the baby hat (or "baby beanie" as some call these) gets topped with animal ears.

In this case, bunny ears.

The ears are constructed in an interesting way. The pink and white parts are knitted together as if they are flat pieces; then the remaining open edges are then seamed together.

The main hat body is just plain knitting. See how cushy the yarn is? I just called it udon or soba noodles -- it's a single strand yarn which is our top seller -- everyone just loves to cuddle and squeeze this irresistably soft yarn. And it comes in a wide array of contemporary colors.

See how everything just comes together for this "awww...so cute bunny hat"?

The most *challenging* part was positioning the ears properly and sewing them on so that they do not look loopy, if you know what I mean!

PS. It seems that my blog is attracting lots of traffic from the local hospitals -- Singapore General Hospital (SGH) to be specific. Maybe all these cute things are attracting the moms-to-be during their hospital visits, the patients or maybe some nurses in the maternity wards. But hey, whoever you are, if you do drop by or attend any of our previews, do identify yourself say hello!

PPS. We have just launched our Facebook Page. Just search for "The Handiworks Singapore" (in the results, you should see us listed in the results) and just "like" to follow us or "share" (bottom left column) our news with your friends!

Not your usual (rectangle) crochet blanket in 2 weeks!

2011-12-05T13:30:00.000+08:00

Angela came and joined us recently. She attended our preview end Oct and immediately commenced her first private crochet class with us the following week.

Why crochet lessons (basic or advanced) are hardly offered these days

That's because, in order to really scrutinize and see if the customer is doing the right actions requires the instructor to sit right next to her i.e. to observe if the crochet hook is put through the right loops, whether the wrapping is done correctly etc.

You would be hard pressed to see this happening in most store settings as they generally do group format classes. Such level of personalized attention would mean the store would either end up handling limited customers or needing to hire extra instructor resources to cope which would not be financially feasible (not to mention there is a very limited expertise pool.)

Again, different instructors have different preferences. I have written about my views before: one knitting/crochet customer at a time.

Generally crochet's first lessons are much longer compared to knitting.

There are many reasons to this.

With knitting, just knowing how to cast on, knit and purl can get you pretty far.

But with crochet, there are much more stitches one has to be familiar with before they can embark on creating exquisite motifs. Even basic granny squares require a minimum of 3 different stitches to be mastered. And with motifs, unfortunately, as it grows, each round takes a longer time to complete, hence the longer lesson time. The differing stitch counts and stitch repeats also does not make it easier.

Add motif joining to the fold and you get the idea.

But of course, if you are just looking at the typical row crochet, that would be much easier to begin with.

Angela signed up with us precisely because we offer crochet instruction classes.

Why crochet?

Angela has attempted knitting before but she prefers the texture and definition that crochet has to offer; especially with the lacey feminine look.

So to kickstart, she decides on this baby blanket.

Contrary to most rectangular/squarish blanket, this one comes in a star shape.

Angela's first crochet lesson

In this case, the pattern she had consists only of written instructions and the pattern was started from the center in a circular approach. (Rounds, not rows.)

As such, apart from learning how to read the instructions and repetitions contained within each round instructions; she also had to learn the various sts.

We also upped the annte by introducing her to Japanese crochet symbols as I drew some of the initial rounds for her while breaking down the instructions so that she can have a firm grasp of what's required -- charting seems to work for customers who are visual-oriented. Others work well by just instruction reading.

Finally, this pattern was flexible enough to allow Angela to crochet on as many additional rounds as required.

This meant she also needed to know how to *grow* the project by extrapolation. By understanding the crochet formulae used this pattern.

Completion

A new crochet speed queen emerges -- she has taken barely less than TWO (2) weeks from start to finish! Considering that she has no prior crochet experience and this is her first project, it's got to be a new record!

You might be thinking how "easy" it is to use the blanket, giving its shape but it does work really well.

Just make sure that the widest point (the diameter) drapes well over the person's lap or the baby stroller.

Seriously, the pace of some customers are really putting me to shame. I really need to get my own knits and crochet projects from my WIP ("work-in-progress") bin soon!

Now she's already onto her next project. Given that she has been exposed to the crochet symbols previously, getting her started on her second project is a cinch!

The only thing she needs to get used to?

The finer gauge since the project is an everyday garment meant to be worn locally in Singapore!

PS. In case you are wondering why we don't publish as many FO ("finished projects") photos, that's because we usually send customers home with instructions to complete their finishing. Which in turn means that unless the customers make it a point to bring their FOs back to show me or email me photos they have taken, I wouldn't get to see them. So for you ladies reading this out there, do remember to email me those FO photos you promised ok? [grin]

PPS. For anyone who is thinking of starting crochet with us, I would really suggest that you start with knitting first as it really helps with improving the coordination and finger reflexes.

Finally.... Thanks to all the 6 ladies who attended our Dec 04 preview over the weekend. For those of you interested, there is an afternoon session tomorrow Tuesday Dec 06 at 12pm. This will be our final preview session for 2011 so if you miss it, you'll have to wait till Jan 2012!

Gina the Knitting Gifter

2011-12-01T10:00:00.000+08:00

While going through my folders and having a feeble attempt at photo organizing, I came across lots of photos that deserve to be posted on the blog.

It's interesting to note that while many of us knitters and crocheters tend to create items for ourselves or our immediate family; Gina is an exception. She has learnt to knit so that she can create fabulous gifts for her friends! Talk about being selfless! Here are some of the knitting projects done by Gina previously.

A little girl toddler's dress

Sorry the photos were a little blurry. If I remembered, this was mms'ed to me so the photos were of a lower resolution so when I tried to resize them, the photos got pixelated.

I know Gina knitted this as a gift for her friend's daughter who eventually managed to wear it after the little gal turned two. So here's hoping Gina actually had an FO photo!

A striped scarf for a galfriend....
Gina loves all projects code-named SIMPLE. She has also knitted a striped drawstring pouch before.

She loves to work on designs that makes the project looks gloriously chic; even with simple stitching.

A baby cocoon
So early this year when she returned to join us, another lucky baby got her attention. She decided on this baby cocoon project.

Apparently, this is the latest trends in baby wraps. Most of the time, we all tend to think blankets and shawls to wrap babies in when bringing them back from the hospital.

As she was working on it, she also learnt some basic crochet to add scalloped edges for a more feminine touch.

These photos are not the final FO shots as I know Gina has done more embellishment work; adding her personal touch to the piece.

If you think that was the last you'll hear from her, this lady just popped by the other day to purchase some yarns for a scarf that she is intending to knit and gift a friend! How thoughtful is that!

PS. My bad.... for not doing the due diligence. If any of you find a fast and efficient way of extracting photos from cameras, uploading to your photo server and then back linking to your blogsite, please let me know. I could sure use some tips!

Crochet, my foot!

2011-11-29T13:00:00.000+08:00

(Pun intended.)

Ok, I know it's not funny but I am running out of blog titles.

This is a finished project photo of the crocheted bedroom slippers that Edith started sometime back in 2009 which I noticed I somehow missed posting. (Yup, that's not the oldest backlog photo I've got, I am ashamed to admit.) As we couldn't find the appropriate leather sole, I suggested she crochet double layer of the soles and have them stitched together (that additional layer provides walking comfort as well as minimize wearing out.) To allow for friction, puffy paint can be applied -- I saw them sold at the Artfriend. Actually she made 2 pairs -- one for herself and the other for her daughter. See how cute they are; side by side!

Christmas gifting using your crochet or knitting skills

2011-11-28T14:00:00.000+08:00

When Christmas is around the corner, many tend to think of quick projects they can create with their hands to gift to their loved ones. This is especially the case if they are crafters; be it scrapbooking, quilting, knitting or crochet. Reasons why they do that are in another blog post (clickable link).

I do both knitting and crochet and both activities do take time, depending on the size and complexity of the projects.

So for Christmas, the top of the lists would be scarves. Although I never really resonated with scarf gifting, unless the intended recipient travels to cold countries often; scarves still seem to be preferred by my customers. Singaporeans are well-travelled, I must say.

Here are some of the past scarves projects our customers have gone with.

[Do note clicking on the photos will bring you directly to the specific blog entry.]

IN THE NOVICE/BEGINNER OR MINDLESS SPEED KNITTING CATEGORY

Frilly scarf for galfriend?
It takes only a couple of hours with just a SINGLE ball! (Yup, one ball of yarn.) And it'll work very well in our summer as it's not wool.

Good ol' knitting?
The random garter rows Paw Chuen used for her baby blankie is another great idea that can be easily applied to scarves.

Working with multi-colored yarns
These yarns can create looks so fancy you wouldn't believe it! (Both link to the same post.)

Fancy stripes?
Try this add-stripes-as-you-wish approach by Yanwei.

Cable goodness
Need I say more?

FOR THE CROCHETERS

Row by row crochet

[Scroll down the entry to the last photo.]

Granny squares turn chic winter scarf wear?

Many think blankets but we think smaller, quicker and faster projects!

A little feminine accent
Floral motifs brighten the day.

Fancy some artistic crochet neck accessory?

Then check out freeform crochet here...

There are lots more but most of them are either projects which I didn't have the opportunity to take photos of or residing in my harddisk at home -- sometimes it's just challenging to be taking photos while conducting lessons at the same time.

If you are looking for something more relevant for Singapore's tropical weather, we have other projects too. We'll share more in the next post.

PS. There's been an additional preview session added - December 06, 1pm. Please check out our preview page to register -- attendance is free.

One knitting/crochet customer at a time

2011-11-22T13:00:00.000+08:00

We often get requests and enquiries from some Membership Clubs, big corporations, schools as well as Community Centers (or CCs as we Singaporeans refer to) and neighbourhood Residents' Clubs (RCs).

As much as we love to gain more customers, we often have to turn down these invitations on the basis of class size. Typical requests range from 10 to 30 persons!

Unlike craft stores that encourages large group of customers with their huge store traffic, here at The Handiworks, we tend to believe that our approach to individual instructional format allows us to pay more focused attention and help customers learn and absorb better; at their own pace and time.

Why we rarely accept housecalls or go to customers' venues

When we teach off-premise, our stock of yarns and various knitting needles and crochet tools, notions etc needs to be lugged to the customers' location to facilitate their project purchase selection. Since there aren't any certified drivers in the house, all that transporting back and forth isn't feasible.

We do housecalls once in a blue moon but with add-on fees to cover travel time and transport; this service is mostly for customers who have taken lessons with us previously and are familiar with our yarn supplies and our modus operandi.

Quantity vs Quality

While we do not have gazillion customers knocking on our doors queuing to sign up for our packages, those who have attended our previews and have signed up to join us, know that we deliver superb value and quality instruction -- our customers' track records and projects speak for themselves. [Do check out the various FOs ("finished objects" as we call them) by clicking on the word cloud on the right.]

Many are shocked when I spell out alternatives for group classes but I am sure you have read my views on those settings.

Working with you one-on-one

Coupled with the fact that our lessons are arranged via appointments, this means that our customers are ensured greater convenience and flexibility. There's no need to hang around to wait for their turns to consult with the instructor. This also means not having to risk missing any fixed scheduled classes and falling behind in pace.

Also, with private individual format, it also means that you can pick and choose a project that you would be excited to work with and not be restricted to just scarves and shawls since they are hardly feasible for use in our hot weather in Singapore. Of course, we'll also offer assistance during your pattern selection to pick up projects that would be suitable for your skill level.

Since lessons are conducted at our residence, your privacy is ensured: there's no need to feel self-conscious as there would not be other customers milling around. We prefer to make the learning experience personal so that you as the customer can relate better to your knitting and crochet while translates to better comprehension and internalization.

The private setting also means that we can break down the steps and take it slow if customers need to. And most importantly, as we always emphasized the need for understanding how to read the knitting and crochet symbols, instruction pattern sheets and to fix or undo mistakes -- that's been our personal experiences.

That's why our knitting and crochet course programs are structured to overcome these issues.

Our beliefs

The old ways of a shifu or master passing down only 70% of her skills is just not relevant these days. If the discipline is determined to master the skills, they would do so, one way or the other.

We always believe that our role is in nurturing and empowering -- it's not the HOW (to knit/crochet) that is important but also the WHY (the mistakes have occurred and how customers can identify and fix them). Our greatest achievement is the joy and satisfaction that our customers share with us.

Don't just believe what we have to say. Just take your time to browse our blog and you will see that our customers do stick around with us. Those who may drop out still do come back from time to time; be it to take on refresher courses to continue from where they last stopped or simply to make yarn purchases from us.

In conclusion

One knitting/crochet customer at a time is our way of coaching. This approach works mostly for customers who are really serious about mastering proper basics and have the passion and drive towards improving their knitting or crochet skills.

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On a side note, it has come to my attention that there has been another person who have recently posted advertisements on some ad portals offering similar home-based knitting lessons. I don't have an issue with that; except that the person has chosen to do major text scrape of the ad I have painstakingly put together as far back as 2006 (this is my version which I believe you may have seen if you came through via an ad site) -- that constitutes plagiarism; in my opinion since it's not just my ad formatting she used but down to text copy where she made some minor modifications.

Please do us a favour -- if the ad is not signed off by Emy, it does not come from us.

Please allow me to introduce myself:

My name is Emy and I am your Singapore knitting and crochet enabler. I have been helping to groom knitters and crocheters in Singapore with personalized private individual 1-1 knitting and crochet lessons as my specialty format since July 2005. Knitting and crochet are my passion; they are not "just hobbies or crafts" -- they are activities I partake on a daily basis, just like brushing and eating!

Limited December weekend knitting and crochet slots availability

2011-11-17T17:39:00.001+08:00

LATEST: We have added another preview session on December 06, 1pm. Please do register via the preview schedule page if you are interested.

----------------------

Dear customers, please note there are limited weekend slots in December.

However, weekday daytime and evening sessions are still available so this notice is really meant for those customers with weekend lesson preference to plan and book ahead.

The following weekend dates are currently available:

Dec 04 (Sun): 12 - 6pm [we are having a preview session in the morning]
Dec 10/11/17/18: 10am-6pm

During the Xmas festivities, we will be closed from 23 Dec (Fri) 2pm onwards and we'll be available for lesson bookings on 27 Dec (Tues).

PS. Our preview session for this Sunday (Nov 20) is fully booked and there are only 2 seats left for the Dec 04 session so please do RSVP if you intend to commence your knitting and crochet lessons before 2012 arrives!

November knitting and crochet lesson bookings

2011-10-31T14:56:00.001+08:00

Just a short note to inform you that:

In view of the busy season, there'll may be only one preview session later part of November 2011 (either weekend of 19/20 Nov or 26/27 Nov). We'll put up the preview date once it is confirmed.

Also, our earliest next available booking timeslot would be from 09 November 2011 onwards.

Thanks for your support and understanding.

Edited to add:

Please do note that apart from requesting that new customers like yourself attend one of our pre-scheduled previews; once you have signed up, all your individual private lessons will be on appointment basis.

Interested? Send us an email with your name, mobile and we will drop you an sms or email once the November preview session dates are finalized.

Basic knitting lessons in Singapore

2011-10-21T14:07:00.001+08:00

Often when customers approach us, they are interested in knowing if we offer basic knitting classes as they have no prior experience.

Most often sound surprised when we tell them we do not have a "fixed" curriculum -- we focus on personalizing the coursework based on each individual customer's learning style and pace. Others are miffed that we do not have a regular schedule of basic group knitting classes.

I mean, if basic knitting is about learning to cast on, knit, purl and cast off; sure, we do that. But we are more concerned if you are exercising proper and even tension with a comfortable posture. These ensures you are well poised for long knitting hours with a finished handknit that you would be pleased with.

Often customers who attempt to learn on their own or from store group classes come to us with no tensioning techniques so they mostly:

have extremely tight knitting
end up hurting their fingers with all that poking

Most of my customers can also attest that tightly-knitted garments often end up hidden in the back of their closets as they are quite uncomfortable to wear.

However, as it is, we find that dedicated attention is required to ensure that customers pick up the proper techniques from the start. It's just so much harder for customers to correct their incorrect needle handling postures and more time is required.

I mean, if you have a child who is learning to write, I am sure you don't send your kid to a group class along with 5 other students and expect the teacher to spend individual time to monitor and correct his/her pencil handling and writing technique right within the limited class time? It is not impossible but it will certainly take several lessons to get there. (That said, it's my personal opinion; having been teaching knitting and crochet for the last 6 years.)

In fact just the other day in the MRT train, I saw a young teenager sitting several seats diagonally away from me who is a knitting novice. I wished I had taken a video to show you but it was obvious she hasn't learn how to handle the needles properly as her fingers were bunched at the needle tips, her shoulders tensed and hunched, as she squinted her eyes real hard; trying to manoeuvre the stitches across the knitting sticks. I feel really sorry for her as I wouldn't really call that knitting.

When Rina joined us, she was very specific. She had picked up knitting during her time in London. She described the place she went to as a quaint little local yarn shop with ladies sitting around and knitting.

While there wasn't any formal structured lessons, the ladies offered to help whenever needed. However Rina felt that she was still very much an outsider as the ladies often chatted amongst themselves and she found it hard to intrude to ask for help.

Even when she did, the help rendered were often done quite offhandedly. These made her more determined to master knitting the proper way.

Rina came with a specific pattern -- a baby blanket as she was pregnant and very much wanted to get a handknit gift ready for her baby.

The pattern looks deceptively simple as she discovered earlier. She realized there was no way that she could have attempted the pattern sheet on her own.

She initially opted for a 3hr trial lesson thinking that she could master the stitches and learn the instruction reading.

As the lesson approaches the end, she decided that it was impossible to get to completion on her own as she wasn't experienced enough to be able to fix any potential mistakes on her own. Also, there was the edging pickup involved for the final enclosing borders.

So she went on to sign on one of our lesson packages and continued on this blankie.

See all that striping randomness? In the beginning, Rina was quite concerned about adhering to the pattern repeats -- as everyone knows, pregnant ladies tend to be more forgetful. I told her to go ahead with the pattern randomness as she has a great eye for aesthetics so she can just switch the pattern striping as she pleases. What's the point of stressing and fussing over proper repeats?

That said, she was extremely relieved when I threw out the notion of pattern conformity.

This blanket is a good size that will act as a throw for her baby while in the stroller -- a definite essential in our air conditioned malls in Singapore!

You bet I am pleased!

Make your knitting work

2011-09-29T22:00:00.000+08:00

An adaptation from Mr Tim Gunn's famous catchphrase "Make it work!" from the hot series, Project Runway.

[That's Stephanie V's first knitting project progress! See below for her story of how she started knitting.]

That's the ultimate aim for everyone who wants to learn to knit. This holds true especially for those who have learnt knitting previously and wants to re-orientate and improve their knitting skills.

But for knitting newbies, the expectations may vary as their goals can range from the conservative (i.e. requesting to knit a simple stockinette scarf before moving onto simple toddlers tops or baby vests; plain or patterned) to the ambitious (i.e wanting to replicate / recreate a highly complex lace dress they saw in a shopping mall's window display or socks or gloves) as their first attempts.

Naturally, as a knitting/crochet instructor (or enabler; as I prefer to see myself as), my role is to help assess and provide guidance to ensure that each individual customer is able to take on projects they can accomplish satisfactorily and upskill incrementally over time.

When Stephanie V joined us in late August*, she had plans. For someone who has never done knitting, she came prepared; armed with several knitting patterns that she's has earmarked; keen for me to peruse and advise on what's appropriate as a beginner project.

I just do not believe in agreeing to teach customers whatever they ask for, especially if the desired projects are clearly too advanced. The whole rationale behind private knitting class settings is to allow us to cater to your specific needs. We guide you to make informed choices, as opposed to giving you no choices. That's our point of view. (Sometimes, my customers will relate their past experiences where they feel pressured into knitting scarves as first projects when they have absolutely no use for.)

She picked out this poncho-like top as she would have use for it during her December trip back home to Europe.

We spent most part of the first lesson getting her to master the basics, and then we move onto the actual project briefing. Apart from the shaping, we also made a modification for the project to be knitted in the round -- something that Stephanie V was very happy with. And I kept emphasizing the need to watch out for the possibility of twisted round joining. It happened to Chai Bee last time but no one really knew.

Alas, happiness can be short-lived. During the time when Stephanie V was knitting at home, I checked-in with her via sms on her progress and she indicated all is well. That is until....

The week before she was scheduled to come in for her next knitting lesson appointment, Stephanie V emailed me some photos of her WIP. She couldn't understand why she can't have the project behave and wondered aloud if it had anything to do with us converting the flat pattern to a knit in the round pattern.

So I had to break the news gently to her and she took it ok, it seems. I really wished that she did the casting on and round joining at my place. That way, I would be able to supervise and ensure that the join is being done correctly to get her off the right footing.

The next time I saw Stephanie V, she had decided to start a new pattern using the yarn from the failed project - a cabled drapey long cardigan (although I swear the designer probably has a better name for it.) Isn't it stunning?

I can't wait to see when it's all completed!

** August was a crazy busy month for us and we could see it happening for October. My lesson slots are getting filled with new customer sign ups as well as existing customers with their Xmas projects commencement -- talk about planning ahead! That's why we only have 2 preview sessions scheduled for next month.

Knitting baby shower gift in just 3 weeks

2011-09-21T17:00:00.000+08:00

June signed up last month, around the time Karen joined us. She decided to pick up knitting again after a 2-year hiatus. Previously, she was pretty much self taught and have had some ad hoc help from her friends.

After her attempts of knitting some garments and having some WIPs on needles, June finally decided that having hands-on personalized knitting guidance would be the way to go -- to learn how to knit properly. So she came armed with a knitting pattern she want to work on.

June's best friend is having a baby due sometime later this year which means she'll also be invited to the baby shower.

So to get a head-start, June decided to create a gift for her friend's baby -- in Singapore, we're allow to do baby gender scans so she knows it's a baby gal.

Back to the gift: Can you identify what this is?

Apart from learning how to read the pattern from scratch, June also had to contend with re-adjusting her knitting tension --She pointed out that she has a completed tank top hanging in her wardrobe which she never got around to wearing as it's too tightly knitted.

Knitting almost became a chore at one stage as she had to battle with the needle pointy ends poking at her fingertips during the entire duration.

After doing posture and needle holding technique correction, June now finds that her knitting is zipping along much faster and more comfortably.

In fact, so much so she got the knitting of the baby girl's sun hat completed in just 3 weeks.*

During the course of her KIP-ping (knit in progress), she came back to have me help review her work and ensure that the project is on track (from a pattern and row count standpoint.)

Impressive speed huh?

June is over the moon with her newfound knitting tension which she swears makes her knitting a breeze (and she wonders why others can knit for hours on end) and especially her ability to create an oh-so-incredibly-adorable baby gift handknit too.

Now, I reckon she needs to slow down her reveal before her mom-to-be friends start issuing her handknits wishlists!

* As with all knitting, your mileage may vary. Knitting completion time is dependent on each individual's knitting speed and time commitment to make speedy finish line crossing a reality.

An adult handknit winter hoodie cardigan in 9 weeks!

2011-09-14T09:30:00.000+08:00

Actually, it's 8 weeks from start to finish in total since Karen actually started her first lesson with an entirely different project using a fine cotton blend yarn (3mm knitting needles) to get her knitting started.

This hoodie was started during her second lesson which she arranged a week later as she was raring to go.

This project came about as a result of her travel due late September to a cold European country. What a better way to motivate oneself to get a project off the ground and towards speedy completion with a looming deadline?

After attending one of our knitting/crochet previews, Karen, who just recently joined us mid July comes with some prior knitting experience. But she concedes that her knitting was done so long ago (ten years, I believe) that she has even given away whatever knitting needles and tools she previously owned.

Here's a quick rundown of the knitting sessions she has to date.

15 Jul	First lesson: knitting re-acquainted with casting on, knit, purl; achieving even tension. 1st project start using lace thin yarn
21 Jul	2nd project start: A cable hoodie cardigan using chunky yarn (the project photo featured above)
03 Aug	Understanding instructions for starting armhole and sleeves
17 Aug	Learning to seam the sides, sleeves as well as joining the sleeves to the armholes
20 Aug	Joining all pieces and picking up to prepare for the hood start
02 Sep	Band pick up and ribbing
08 Sep	Buttonholes placement and creation

However, as proven time and again, knitting like cycling, is one activity that your fingers gain familiarity once you get back onto it. In all honesty, Karen really took to knitting like fish to water.

Not only does she read her instructions carefully, she does a great job interrogating how the shapings are achieved and made it her own task to chart her progress rather than asking for line by line instructions.

This is a photo of her project progress on her second lesson after starting the hoodie project.

The time gaps you see in between Karen's knitting class appointments are the time Karen spends kntting at home with whatever instructions that she was prepped with before she comes along for the project's next step reviews and incremental instructions.

We may not operate a physical knitting shop but we do take our teaching seriously. We're big believers of empowering customers to understand and equip themselves with fundamental basics so that they can comfortably knit and crochet at home.

This is the pattern that we used as our starting point.

It's from Vogue Knitting (or VK as we all prefer to know it) Winter 2005/2006 -- Anna Sui's cabled cardigan.

If you see this closely, you would notice that this project is not a hooded cardigan. That's why it took us an extra lesson session as I had to figure out how the cables would extend into the hood area.

I

The key consideration was extending the design in such a way that it is logical yet aesthetically pleasing -- improvisation just happens frequently around here at The Handiworks.

[Yes, I have been told countless times how anal I am when it comes to details.] Seriously, details are all that makes the difference between a so-so hand knit piece vs a fabulous winner that becomes a regular go-to feature in the wardrobe.

This is a value add service that we offer to our customers. I know most knitting shops in Singapore generally does a standard fit (without any waist or bust shaping) and none would likely be doing any pattern modification of this magnititude. Some of my customers, who are ex-patrons of other knitting stores will attest to that.

That's the reason why our appointment-based lessons work. Customers can choose to work as fast or as slow to accommodate their lifestyles and gifting deadlines and not be bounded to a regular timed-frequency which can be impractical at times.

But *Sheesh* These ladies are really knitting at breakneck speed! Seems like speedy knitting goddesses do exist, even in Singapore - check out the projects by knitters Wendy, Leena, Jamie, Chai Bee etc.

During her last session, upon clarifying how the buttonholes would be positioned and worked, Karen then bundled the entire project home to finish the buttonband cast off as well as tucking in all the tail ends.

If you ask me how this project could be improved, I think the sleeves were knitted at a tension that is a tad tighter than the main body; something that Karen also agrees. But given her excitement and zealousness to get to the finish line, Karen was willing to overlook that point.

Since wool is rather forgiving, both of us are giving the post-wash blocking to do its magic on stretching. If that does not work, then a quick fix plan is in place.

Karen keeps saying that she's never been pleased with her past projects. Nonetheless, up to this point, Karen is incredibly pleased with her FO. She was beaming with joy when her hubby actually took notice and complimented her on how excellent this project was turning out to be.

Now, we can't wait to see the finished post-wash cardigan!

PS. Sorry for the lengthy post and multi-links! Sometimes when the blogging inspiration hits, it's better to let the words flow. And there are just so much great journeys and customer experiences (from way back in 2005 when we started) that we had to share.

PPS. If you like any of our articles, please do share by doing a facebook like! Thanks so much.

Learning to knit lace

2011-09-03T19:00:00.000+08:00

Edited to add the cardigan pattern WIP photo. [Please scroll to the bottom of the post]

We notice a lot of customers love the look of lace. And many just want to plunge straight into it on their first knitting attempt.

It puts a damper and to some, a major setback when mistakes that occur aren't as easily fixed. Hence, we often advise that lacework is only introduced when you are very comfortable with reading basic stitches and understand how the pattern stitches are formed.

Sometimes the road to completion can be arduous and tiring. But eventually we all get there.

Sorry the photo isn't as sharp as I would have liked it to be.

Here's the FO by one of our ex-customers, Francisca -- you can see her starting her first project here. In fact, she came by sometime last year to purchase some yarns to knit up a scarf for her good friend.

******************* Added *******************

For those of you curious how this project looks like, I managed to locate a WIP photo. This is a more accurate representation of the actual yarn and the patten for the cropped mini cardigan.

You really have to see the actual garment -- it just evokes an air of classic vintage ala Audrey Hepburn's garden tea party dress style!

Summer knits ~ Great garments and accessories for Singapore's weather!

2011-08-25T00:49:00.000+08:00

During our previews, many new and would-be customers often tend to ask:

I would like to learn to knit but it seems that in Singapore, that's not a logical hobby as:

Knitting is all about using wool yarn,
The garments tends to be bulky (and we all do not need the bulk)
Most projects are either sweaters, pullovers or cardigans (which unless your office thermostat is set to 18 degrees C, you wouldn't really need them)

Is there an alternative for me to knit garments that are suitable for Singapore's hot and humid weather?

The answer's DEFINITELY!

While many magazines tend to feature conventional long sleeved garments, thick wool, mittens etc; there is also a surprising amount of summer knits/crochet that could wear well in our weather.

I know what some of you would say -- some of these designs are more suited towards the younger crowd. (Hehe, I can be a mind reader.) These are some of my earlier FOs so the phototaking skills are also a little crappy.

But nevertheless, these give you some ideas of what we can achieve.

Simple sleeveless tank tops

Short sleeved crop tops

(This is the project from this entry.)

Or maybe bustiers, anyone?

Of course, to counter the cold airconditioning in the offices, you can also consider knitting shawls like this:

My personal dressing style has evolved since and if you would like to see more, you can hop over to my personal blog. Obviously while you are still around, please do feel free to check out the other gorgeous FOs by our customers!

Major disclaimer though: Most of my latest FOs are still backlogged and queued for blogging so you would see the latest projects at my place if you attend our preview sessions -- since we do not have a physical knitting shop in Singapore, the previews we hold regularly provide opportunities for customers to come by and have face to face conversations with us!

A teen's knitted hoodie

2011-07-07T10:00:00.006+08:00

I think I never got around to posting the completed FO photo of the hoodie vest Karen knitted for her eldest son.

One of my customers was asking me the other day about it.

Doesn't it look cool? We didn't want the hood to end up looking plain so we incorporated the ribbed pattern to have it travel all the way to the hoodie area.

As this is knitted using a cotton blend, the vest can be worn in the air-conditioned rooms and malls or during rainy days.

According to Karen, her eldest son loved it very much as it was very fitting. Wish I could show you a photo of him wearing it. In fact, her second son almost got into a fight with the eldest as he complained about favoritism.

I am sure Karen would get around to knitting one for her second son soon!

Crochet and knitting combined tunic

2011-07-04T10:00:00.023+08:00

Speaking of crocheted skirts, remember the project that Lynn was crocheting back in Oct?

Well, we managed to get the knitting going.

After the main body was knitted, Lynn then joined the smaller round of crocheted squares to the bust area.

As you can see, the project is by no means finished as the tail ends need to be tucked in.

Considering that this is officially her second crochet project and first attempt at knitting, I would say that she is doing a rather excellent job, don't you agree?

I think I might have mentioned this -- Lynn was very motivated when she first saw Jenny's combined knitting and crochet tunic piece. In fact, the concept of combining knitting and crochet seems to be the theme in the recent Japanese knitting magazines [Talk about blurring lines!] back from 2010 and this trend is still continuing strong this year.

However, using crochet as an edging alternative to finish any knitting projects or combining the use of knitting and crochet in a single project is also new at The Handiworks. Below are some past projects where the crochet technique is being employed, alongside with knitting.

Hence, when customers ask "which is easier, knitting or crochet?" (which I have briefly touched on in a much earlier post, I would always encourage them to learn both.

Actually several customers signed up with us immediately upon knowing that we teach crochet (including a left handed customer) as it seems that there are not many places here in Singapore that still offers crochet lessons these days. But as you can see from the examples above, knitting and crochet are complementary skills so that's why we continue to offer knitting and crochet lessons.

The main caveat I would emphasize here however, is that crochet has a slighter steeper learning curve as one needs to master the basic stitches and be reasonably comfortable with symbol or stitch reading before making any granny squares or amigurumi crochet toys/dolls -related patterns.

The reason?

Granny squares uses a combination of various stitches and there are connecting techniques required to join them as you move along.

Amigurumi dolls, on the other hand, usually comprise of multiple individually shaped parts such as head, body, limbs and ears etc -- meaning you have to work at least 6-9 parts before you stuff and seam them all together.

We don't want to put a damper but we much rather prefer to ensure that expectations are aligned. I am sure those who have learnt crochet will agree.

Crochet squares back in fashion

2011-06-30T10:00:00.007+08:00

Or so I think...

I went through my photo storage and found these which I haven't uploaded.

Actually, there are still lots more photos of various WIPs and FOs since we keep having new customers join us all the time with new projects while our current customers also create some fantastic stuff! Thanks to all the ladies who keep egging me to get back onto my blogging track.

Anyway....these crochet squares (otherwise, also commonly known to as "granny squares") made by ~~some of our customers~~ one customer last year.

The crochet square queen title goes to (drum roll...): Joycelyn!

This first photo shows the squares she has color coordinated. I believe they are destined to be part of a cushion set.

These vibrant multi-hued pieces are crocheted using 4ply cotton and will be joined up to form a carrier tote bag.

Finally, these single colored pieces are are meant to be part of a larger table cloth.

See how different the motifs are? Want to see more?

Here are more inspirations from some of the past items and WIPs from some of our other customers.

Customers are often surprised that even with just crochet squares, there are so many design variations. That's why here at The Handiworks, we have always emphasized that it's not just important to learn to "crochet" but more importantly, customers have to be taught to be familiar and to recognize the crochet stitch symbols.

Otherwise, how else would they be able to work through new pattern stitches on their own?

Wouldn't you agree?

That's why shortly after Joycelyn got familar with the various crocheted squares, she proceeded to try something else.

If you can see the pattern sheet, that's a slipper sole she is working on. But unlike Edith's pattern which is written out fully in English, this is a Japanese crochet symbol pattern.

PS. New preview session schedule for July 2011 is already out. Please refer to this blog header for details if you wish to sign up to attend.

Yeah! Back online!

2011-05-08T10:00:00.002+08:00

I know it sounds rather silly but I haven't been able to gain any decent access to my blogger dashboard for the longest time ever since CNY. Not just my blogging dashboard but also other blogspot blogs that I read frequently.

This situation is probably not unique to me as I saw many forums where others have also experienced similar issues. So you can imagine some hair-pulling moments when I really tried all means and ways of fiddling with settings on my PC and not getting any traction.

The solution?

I had accidentally disabled my McAfee firewall and my access to blogspot came back on!

Now, if I can only figure out what's the alternative safe and non-intrusive firewall that's good for installation!

PS. To think that I was also planning a blog migration to Wordpress and was spending a couple of hours on that during the past week too!

See you soon! I've got to get some photos ready for uploading this week!

Our crocheted hand bouquet featured in Style Weddings Mar 2011!

2011-04-06T10:00:00.002+08:00

Sometime ago, Style Weddings magazine editorial Senior Art Director contacted me and mentioned that he had plans to do a hand bouquet spread that features craft materials ala Martha Stewart style. He was keen to have a crochet bouquet featured and asked if I would be interested?

Interested?!

I just jumped at the opportunity!

It is featured in the current Mar - Jun 2011 of Style Weddings -- distributed by MediaCorp.

Wanna see the bouquet?

Isn't the photography and styling simply gorgeous?

Before you get all excited about wanting to order this, please do note that the man hours or labour totals at least 60 hours from start to finish -- actual crochet, seaming and tucking of tails, stemming of the stalks individually, moulding as well as pulling the entire bouquet together.

Just a little background to this bouquet

It is made up of a min. of 20 stalks of roses or rosettes with a mix of 2 colors.
All rosettes are hand crocheted individually using quality 100% cotton.
To make this bouquet more realistic, there is a mix of several sizes.

Everything comes up to a substantial number when we factor in the materials costs, especially the yarns (by now, if you have read our other blog entries, you would know that we are very fastidious about the quality of the yarns we use -- no shedding, no pilling nor furring.)

So we would really encourage that you consider joining our knitting / crochet lessons to learn how to do this if you would like to create similiar for your own dream wedding,

Restart completed!

2011-02-15T10:00:00.017+08:00

An oxymoron -- the title, that is.

But just in case you readers wonder if our customers ever get around to finishing their ripped back knitting/crochet projects, they actually do.

Take Jenny's case for example.

You might be wondering what happened to that crochet/knitting hybrid summer tank top project she started back in 2009, then ripped back to be re-worked when she wasn't satisfied.

Here's an almost complete WIP shot last September.

Where the crochet motifs and knitting meets, the crinkiness will always be there. Until you give the finished item a good wash and iron press.

The ladies joked that Jenny has gotten the *perfectionist bug* from me -- that's why you will see her sometimes with WIPs ready to be ripped back should the slightest hint of imperfection shows!

But hey, that's how one improves their work isn't it?

So here it is. All in its glory!

Sometimes, the ladies struggle to strike a balance between intricate lace knitting and wearability. If there is an all over lace, then the garment is likely not appropriate for office wear (unless you dorn a camisole but even then, some offices will frown upon that.)

But if asked to do plain knitting, we all groan and moan at the thought of mindlessness. Not that it's bad but the end state just seems so faraway.

However, for this sleeveless tunic, given that the crochet motifs and modest eyelets placement are below waist, this tunic can be easily worn to office without raising anyone's eyebrows. I personally like this too!

PS. Did I mention that we came up with this pattern design?