Back in February, we had no idea that it would be July before the first Sievers class of 2020 would take place. In May, we weren’t sure when and if we could hold a class. Then guidelines were issued and we hoped some of our classes would work with precautions in place. Many factors are being taken into consideration for each class. Can an instructor teach from a six-foot distance? Depending on the subject, how many students can be accommodated in the studio? Are students using any shared equipment? What level of comfort is there from all involved in travelling and gathering with others?
All that being said, we have so far been able to hold two classes, Quilt Design with Ellen Graf and Fair Isle Knitting Techniques with Mary Germain. Both had five students, which provided for distancing within the studio.
The Quilt Design students all knew each other, having shared the same class in previous years. During the week they worked on individual projects (returning and new) with advice and guidance from Ellen.
Starting a new quilt, learning a new technique, renewing old blocks into something more modern and bringing show and tell quilts are all part of Ellen’s class.
Fair Isle Techniques was taught solo this time by Mary Germain. In order to learn the traditional methods for knitting a Fair Isle sweater, students knit a teddy bear-sized sweater using five balls of our Jamieson & Smith 2-ply jumper weight yarn in six different colorways curated for the class.
Directions for the wee sweater along with Fair Isle techniques is in Sandy De Master and Mary’s book, “For the Love of Fair Isle Knitting”. (We do have some available in the shop at $15.00 each.) With instructions in hand and the sun shining, the knitters used the perfect weather to spend much of their time knitting outside.
We are not sure how many classes will be held this year. We know the experience wasn’t quite the same for either class as it has been other times, but coming through just the same, we hope, was the essence of Sievers…sharing the joy of creating and making with new and renewed friends.
It was a wonderful gift to spend time with everyone at Sievers. Thank you!
Having you here for class was a gift for us! Take care and see you next time!
Thanks for sharing. ❤️Kay
Missing you and the start of Jeanette’s class today!
So happy that you are able to offer some of the classes. I love hearing any news from the Island. I think of you all often and miss our special times together. I hope to visit you next year or whenever this ends.
Just wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts. Please stay safe and well.
Love, Linda
It won’t seem like summer without time on the island and enjoying everyone at Sievers. Thanks for the continuing news and pictures. Until next time, take care.
Thanks, Teresa! We will miss seeing the three of you this year. We’re waiting for “next time” already! Keep quilting!
Hi Linda, It was such a good feeling to see everyone and to have the studios open with learning and laughter. We’re thinking of you too and can’t wait to see you! We’ll be waiting with open arms!
Love, Carolyn, Ann and Cindra
Karen Beautiful quilts and such talent in the knitting classes. Great work as usual from Sievers students.
Thanks, Karen! They are all definitely “Sievers Achievers”.
So many beautiful projects! And so many changes. We are missing all of you, the island, and Sievers. The photos are wonderful Carolyn and carry us over until we can meet again. Stay safe ❤️
Thanks, Karen. We are missing all of you, too! So many dear friends that we have to wait until later to see…and hug! We’re so glad we can stay in touch through the Sievers news. Take care, Carolyn