Nålbinding — Beginning and Beyond Viking Knitting

This class meets at ASI over six Tuesdays, September 30 – November 4, 6-9 pm each session.

Take a deep dive into the folk art tradition of nålbinding using a handcrafted wooden needle and a continuous strand of wool yarn. Often called “Viking knitting,” this looping technique predates both knitting and crocheting and was developed in multiple places around the world at least 3,000 years ago. Scandinavians have long used wool yarn and nålbinding techniques to produce sturdy, warm garments. In this weekly class, students will continue that Scandinavian tradition and begin by learning basic stitches to make hats, socks, and mittens. Later sessions will focus on advancing to more stitches and techniques to craft scarves, braided trim, and other embellishments. Textile artist Melba Granlund will provide practice yarn and a wooden needle to get you started with a new hobby that will keep your hands busy for the rest of the winter!

Prerequisites:

Physical ability: Some hand strength and dexterity required.

Skill level: Open to all skill levels.

Ages: Suitable for ages 16+.

Tools & Materials:

A $15 materials fee is payable to the instructor at the beginning of class for handouts and practice yarn. Students may purchase a handmade wooden needle from the instructor for an additional $10.

Students also need to bring their own yarn for their final project, guidelines will be provided in class, once students have had a chance to practice with different yarns. Students are welcome to bring dinner or snacks with them to class each week.