Classes at Purl Soho!
The photo above is from our Intro to Double Knitting - Sprout Cowl Class.
All classes are held at our shop in NYC. If you'd like to sign up for a class, please place a call during business hours (Monday-Friday 12-7; Saturday & Sunday 12-6) at 212-420-8796 or you can drop by the shop: Purl Soho, 459 Broome Street (Between Greene and Mercer), NY, NY 10013.
* = New Dates ** = New Class
Beginning Sock Knitting - Baby Socks
Intermediate Sock Knitting - Fraternal Socks **
Adv. Beginning Knitting - Big Herringbone Cowl *
Intro to Cable Knitting - Gigantic Cable Scarf **
Intro to Double Knitting - Sprout Cowl **
Beginning Crochet - Giant Granny Square
Advanced Beginning Crochet - Fabric Rug **
Intermediate Crochet - Wingfeathers Shawl **
Advanced Textured Yarn Spinning
Embroidery Basics - Stitch Dictionary *
Sashiko, Japanese Hand Quilting *
Beginning Machine Sewing - Reversible Tote *
Patchwork Basics - Intro to Machine Quilting
One Day Sewing: A-Line Skirt *
Pattern Making Simplified: A-Line Skirt & Shift Dress Patterns *
Our House is a Very Fine House Pillows
Beginning Knitting for Children and Teens
Knitting & Crochet Classes
Beginning Knitting
$140 for 3 Sessions
In this 3 session class, you will learn how to: cast on, complete the knit stitch and the purl stitch, combine the stitches to create basic patterns (like stockinette, seed and rib), cast off your knitting and weave in your ends. Additional tips will be given for completing your project neatly. No prior experience is required. This class will take you from novice to knitter- in no time!
Required Supplies
- 2 balls of worsted-weight yarn, in different colors
- Set of straight knitting needles, in the appropriate size for your yarn and gauge
- Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
Upcoming Classes
- Mondays - February 13th, 20th and 27th | 7:00-9:00pm with Thomas Duncan
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - (SOLD OUT) as of 1/13/12
- Saturdays - March 24th, 31st and April 7th | 2:00-4:00pm with Mary Lou
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 4 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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Intro to Circular Knitting
$95 for 2 Session Class
This class is designed for those who have recently learned the basics of knitting – casting on, knitting, purling and binding off- and are looking to take their skills beyond the scarf. Together we will explore the multitude of places a basic hat pattern can take us – from a simple rolled edge cap or an all-purpose close-fitting hat, all the way to a sexy, slouchy cashmere or alpaca hat. By the end of this class, you will have mastered the magical circular needle and the mysterious four double pointed needles-- making life so simple without seaming-- and transformed a few rows of decreasing into a fashion statement.
Required Supplies
Free patterns will be provided in the following gauges: 3.5/sts = 1”, 4/sts= 1”, 4.5/sts = 1”, 5/sts = 1”.
- Yarn (in appropriate weight for gauge)
- Circular needles (in appropriate size for gauge + 16" long for a kid's hat / 20" long for adult hat )
- Double Pointed Needles (in appropriate size for gauge)
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
A stitch marker will also be provided.
Upcoming Classes
- Saturday - January 7th and 14th | 2:00-4:00pm
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - (SOLD OUT) as of 1/5/12
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Advanced Beginning Knitting - Big Herringbone Cowl
$95 for a 2 Session Class
Gear up for winter by taking our Big Herringbone Cowl class. A popular post from the Purl Bee, in this class you will learn the techniques necessary to make your own beautiful Big Herringbone Cowl. This is a great project for knitters who are looking to take their knitting to the next level and learn a fun, interesting stitch. Plus, once you put on this soft, squishy cowl, you won't want to take it off!!
Required Supplies
- 2-3 skeins of Blue Sky Worsted Hand Dyes*
- US 17, 24" needle
- Removeable Jumbo Stitch Marker
- Tapestry Needle
*If you would like to complete the cowl with the dimensions noted in the Purl Bee post, please purchase the entire 5 skeins recommended in the Purl Bee's materials list.
Upcoming Classes
- Thursdays - February 16th and 23rd | 7:00-9:00pm with Faye Rubenstein
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 5 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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Intro to Cable Knitting - Gigantic Cable Scarf
$80 for a One Session Workshop
Learn the technique of cable knitting, and also begin your very first cabled project at the same time! This age old process can seem complicated, with bits of knitting weaving in and out of each other, but once mastered it will surely become a favorite. Armed with the Gigantic Cable Scarf pattern, you'll be whipping up these warm, long and surprisingly easy to make scarves in no time! They would make great last minute holiday gifts - so quick to knit you could finish the scarf in a weekend!
You should be able to knit and purl in the same row before taking this class.
Required Supplies
- ~300-400 yards of super bulky yarn (2 stitches/inch) like Cascade Magnum or Blue Sky Bulky
- #15 or #17 US needles (depending on gauge)
- a double pointed needle in the same gauge
Upcoming Classes
- Sunday - February 5th | 2:00-5:00pm with Jill Draper
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - (SOLD OUT) as of 1/23/12
- Sunday - March 4th | 10:00am-1:00pm with Jill Draper
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - NEW! 2/5/12
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Beginning Sock Knitting - Baby Socks
$140 for 2 Session Class
Baby socks are the perfect project for advanced beginners who are ready to venture into 3-dimensional knitting. In this six hour class you'll learn all the skills you need to make a pair of practical and adorable ribbed baby socks, and to take on sock patterns for feet of all sizes. We'll cover frequently-used techniques including knitting in the round, decreasing, short row heel shaping, and grafting (also known as Kitchener stitch) and discuss common features of sock construction. At the end of the class, students may choose to finish their pair of baby socks or begin another sock pattern of their choice.
Students should be comfortable with the knit and purl stitches. All other techniques will be taught.
All supplies can be purchased at Purl! Please make sure you have your supplies prepared and your yarn wound into a center pull ball before the start of the first session.
Required Supplies
- 1 skein dk-weight yarn, such as Koigu Kersti or Alchemy Temple
- 1 set US size 4 6" double-pointed needles
- 1 jumbo tapestry needle
- stitch marker
Upcoming Classes
- TBD
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Intermediate Sock Knitting - Fraternal Socks
$140 for 2 Session Class
Learn to make toe up socks using cozy worsted weight yarn in two colors for these mismatched fraternal twin knee socks. One of the best things about making toe up socks is you can try them on as you go & once you bind off all you have to do is weave in any tails - no kitchener stitching! You will also learn the provisional cast on which has many applications outside of socks and short row toes and heels. These socks will keep legs & toes warm on the coldest of subway platforms.
Students should be able to knit & purl in the round before taking this class.
This pattern is easy to work on 2 circs or magic loop so if those are your preferred sock making methods you are welcome to use them though the techniques will not be discussed.
Required Supplies
- ~200 yards superwash worsted weight wool - Main Color
- ~200 yards superwash worsted weight wool - Contrasting Color
- #5 US double pointed needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)
- #6 US double pointed needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)
- tapestry needle for weaving in ends
Upcoming Classes
- Sundays - March 4th and 11th | 2:00-5:00pm with Jill Draper
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 6 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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Intro to Double Knitting - Sprout Cowl
$95 for a One Day Workshop!
Double Knitting is a great technique that creates a cozy, double sided, reversible fabric with stockinette stitch on both sides. In class, we will work on a swatch to get the basics of the technique down and then cast on to make a cozy, and relatively quick to knit, cowl. Once you try double knitting, you'll be hooked! It's a great way to create colorful scarves with no "floats" or wrong side to the fabric. We'll also be kitchener stitching the two sides together as a way of finishing the cowl - so it a great refresher for those not yet comfortable with that technique.
Required Supplies
- Color A - 1 skein worsted weight yarn ~200 yards
- Color B - 1 skein worsted weight yarn ~200 yards
- #5 US 16" circular knitting needles (or size needed to obtain gauge) - you will need a smaller needle than you would normally use for worsted weight because having both sides of the fabric on the needles can stretch the sides slightly.
- stitch markers
- tapestry needles for weaving in ends
Upcoming Classes
- Saturday - February 25th | 2:00-6:00pm with Jill Draper
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 1 spot remaining as of 2/5/12
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Beginning Crochet - Giant Granny Square
$95 for 2 Session Class
Back by popular demand! Learn basic crochet with this gorgeous and colorful pattern for Joelle's Giant Granny Square Blanket. This is an great project for beginner crocheters, as it requires no seaming. You'll learn a variety of new techniques including: slip knots, chaining, double crochet, and slip stitches.
There are no prerequisites for the class as it is for beginners.
Please note that while you will learn all the skills to complete the blanket, you will not finish the blanket during class.
Required Supplies
for Session One-
- 1 ball of worsted-weight yarn
- J crochet hook, or whichever hook is required to achieve gauge
for Session Two-
- 2 balls of worsted-weight yarn, in different colors
- J crochet hook, or whichever hook is required to achieve gauge
- Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
Upcoming Classes
- TBD
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Advanced Beginner Crochet - Fabric Rug
$95 for a One Day Workshop!
With the most basic of crochet skills (chain and single crochet stitches) you can make your own fabric rugs out of any textile you like! You will learn how to wield a jumbo hook, join your strips, and make a variety of shapes of rugs. Make one for every room in your house, and they're an ideal housewarming gift too! Beginner crochet skills required.
Required Supplies
- Jumbo (15mm or bigger) crochet hook
- Fabric, cut or torn into approximately 1-2" strips. Thicker strips make a thicker rug. Please bring a bag of pre-made fabric strips ready to crochet (it is easiest to tear wovens and cut knits).
- Scissors
Upcoming Workshops
- Saturday - March 10th | 11:00am-2:00pm with Cal Patch
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 7 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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Intermediate Crochet - Wingfeathers Shawl
$95 for a One Day Workshop!
If you already know the basic stitches of crochet (chain, single, and double), it’s time to move up to lacy stitch patterns, shaping, stitch variations, edgings, and working in the round! Cal will also show you how to work from written patterns and charts, using her Wingfeathers Shawl pattern.
Required Supplies
- 1 skein fingering weight or worsted weight yarn
- Assortment of crochet hooks (including a hook to match your yarn gauge)
- A few small balls of yarn for practice swatches
Upcoming Workshops
- Saturday - March 10th | 3:00-6:00pm with Cal Patch
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - NEW! 2/5/12
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Spinning Classes
Introduction to Spindle Spinning
$80 for 2 Session Class
Spindle spinning is an elegantly portable way to make your own yarn. Students will learn essential spinning vocabulary, how to draft fiber, and how to spin their own yarn using a drop spindle. Discussion of different types of wools and spinning fibers, and some basic information on plying will also be covered.
Required Supplies
- Schacht drop spindle
- Abstract Fibers Blue Faced Leicester Wool
Upcoming Classes
- TBD
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Beginning Wheel Spinning
$95 for 2 Session Class
Creating your own yarn on a spinning wheel allows for endless variation and versatility in yarn production. In this introductory class to wheel spinning, students will learn spinning vocabulary, control and use of a spinning wheel, drafting fiber for spinning, and how to make their own yarn. Basic plying information will also be covered.
Required Supplies
Students will use Purl's Schacht Ladybug wheels.
Upcoming Classes
- Thursdays - March 15th and 22nd | 6:00-8:00pm with Cassandra Thoreson
Maximum class enrollment: 4 students - NEW! 2/5/12
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Advanced Spinning - Textured Yarn
$95 for 2 Session Class
Have you learned the basics of spinning and are ready to push the limits of your yarn? Break out of the singles! Single ply, that is- and experiment with textured two-plies, corespinning (spinning the fiber perpendicular onto a support thread), auto-wrapping, cocoons, stacks, embedding objects (insert buttons and felt balls into your yarns!) and more! In this two session class, you will learn many new techniques that can be combined and altered to create an array of awesome yarn-bending possibilities! If you've ever admired handspun art yarns and wanted to know how to create your own usable works of fiber art, this is the class for you.
*Note: All participants must already know how to spin using a wheel and have mastered the basics of spinning. This is an advanced level class.
Required Supplies
- 2 or more colors of wool roving - choose from Merino, Merino/Tencel and BFL
- Genziana wool thread (for corespinning)
- Valdani perle cotton (for auto-wrapping)
- small Purl Soho buttons or small size felt balls (please keep any inflexible inclusions smaller than 3/8" - the Ladybug wheel orifice size)
- quarter yard or fat quarter of fabric
- trims, poms, ribbons - any bits that you'd like to experiment with adding into your yarn
- tapestry needle (preferably with a sharper tip)
Upcoming Classes
- TBD
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Needlework Classes
Beginning Needlepoint
$95 for 2 Session Class
This class explores the foundational techniques of needlepoint as well as a few more decorative elements in the form of a small sampler as shown above. In the first session students will learn about different materials used in needlepoint, how to read a needlepoint chart, and the most essential Continental and Basketweave stitches. Session two teaches four decorative stitches, and discusses finishing options for needlepoint projects. Students will have the option to finish their needlepoint sampler into a pincushion or small pillow!
All supplies are available at Purl!
Required Supplies
- ¼ yard 13 mesh canvas for needlepoint
- 1 skein KPM Needlepoint Yarn in color 0 (or preferred background color)
- 4 skeins KPM Needlepoint Yarn in colors 2100, 2339, 2229, 1155 (or preferred colors)
- 1 package John James Craft Needles
- 1 pair of sharp embroidery scissors
- 1 5” Sajou linen square (for finishing into pincushion/pillow)
- 1 small spool Gutterman thread to match linen square (for finishing into pinchushion/pillow)
Upcoming Classes
- TBD
Teacher: Erin Roberts
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Embroidery Basics - Stitch Dictionary
$95 for 2 Session Class
This beginner’s hand embroidery class will get you stitching right away! We’ll cover the basics of embroidery; all the tools and materials needed, as well as a great variety of hand embroidery stitches. You’ll create a lovely stitch dictionary that is not only decorative, but also a useful reference for your future embroidery projects. Please Note: Embroidery is addictive and you just might find yourself hooked!
Required Supplies
- 6” embroidery hoop
- Linen or cotton fabric (a fat quarter would be suitable)
- 2-3 colors of embroidery thread
- Water soluble pen
- Embroidery Needle (sizes 1-5)
- Scissors
Upcoming Classes
- Wednesdays - February 22nd and 29th | 6:00-8:00pm with Jessica Marquez
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - NEW! 2/5/12
Sashiko, Japanese Hand Quilting
$50 for One Session Class
Students will learn the traditional Japanese technique of sashiko, hand-sewn quilting, and its history. Beautiful samples will be shown to give students an idea of other ways to use the technique, along with: sashiko books, threads, stencils and patterns. Basic stitching techniques will be covered for the whole class, as well as individually, so students emerge with confidence in their stitching and a full understanding of sashiko. This class is great for beginners and works well as a wonderful take along project.
Required Supplies
- geometric sashiko fabric sampler (navy is traditional or you can choose another color, no white for now)
- 1 package of 44 yards sashiko thread (white is traditional or you can choose another color)
- 1 package sashiko needles
- sashiko thimble (optional)
- 12" x 12" square of a solid cotton fabric OR 1/2 yard piece of solid cotton fabric
- white chalk marking pencil for dark fabrics OR blue disappearing (washout) markers for light fabrics
Upcoming Classes
- Sunday - February 26th | 2:00-4:00pm with Susan Sato
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 6 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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Advanced Sashiko, Japanese Hand Quilting
$50 for One Session Class
Using variations of the rice stitch pattern students will learn how to draw a sashiko grid, use four different colored threads in horizontal, vertical and diagonal lines to create this visual pattern. Students must have sashiko experience to move on to this next level of stitching.
Required Supplies
- One 8” x 8” square of solid cotton fabric (not a heavy weight fabric)
- 6.5” square ruler
- 4 different colors of Sashiko thread
- Sashiko needle
- Clover blue water erasable marker (fine). Test on a scrap of your fabric to make sure it
- washes out.
- masking tape (any size to hold down your fabric while drawing)
- fabric scissors
Upcoming Classes
- TBD
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Needle Felting Animals
$50 for One Session Class
Learn to needle felt! Needle felting is a process using a special felting needle to "sculpt" wool into any form. Your completed pieces can be used as little sculptures, toys, pendants/ charms, or brooches. This class is recommended for adults, as the needles are very sharp.
Join us for a special Valentine's edition of Needle Felting Animals and create a Love Bird for your sweetheart!
*Please note, you will only be making ONE Love Bird in class, but will have acquired the skills necessary to whip up another at home if desired.
Required Supplies
- Bheda Wool Roving - an assortment of 2-3 colors depending on your preferences
- Needle Felting Needles
- Needle Felting Foam (for protecting your felting needle and work surface)
Upcoming Classes
- Love Bird - Monday - February 6th | 6:00-8:00pm with Nguyen Le
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 5 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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Needle Felted Jewelry
$50 for a One Session Workshop!
Required Supplies
- Bheda Wool roving
- Felting needles (size 38)
- Needle Felting Foam Pad
- Ribbon
- Tapestry needle (with a wide eye for the ribbon, and sharp point to go through the bead)
- Scissors
Upcoming Classes
- Heart Necklaces - Thursday - February 9th | 6:00-8:00pm with Nguyen Le
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - NEW! 2/5/12
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Sewing & Quilting Classes
Appliqué
$80 for a One Day Workshop!
Join us for an afternoon workshop and learn the basics of hand appliqué. Working with a simple flower pattern, students will learn pattern placement techniques and the classic appliqué stitch. This class is a great introduction to the essentials of appliqué, a versatile technique that can be used to embellish any textile project, from quilts and tote bags to children's clothes.
All supplies can be purchased at Purl! Please make sure you have your supplies prepared before the start of the first session.
Required Supplies
- Multi-size pack of milliner's needles, or milliner's/straw needles size 10.
- 100% cotton sewing thread (not quilting thread) in colors to match your flower/stem fabrics.
- Small, very sharp scissors - 5" Gingher or Clover scissors. The scissors must be able to cut a fine point.
- Clover fine patchwork pins
- Clover Hera marker
- fat quarter for background
- 2 fat quarters or 1/4 yards for flower
- 1-2 fat quarters or 1/4 yards for stems and leaves
*While any fabric can be used for backgrounds, please avoid linen or linen-blends and double-gauze fabrics in your choices for appliqué fabrics. Quilt-weight fabrics are ideal for hand appliqué.
Upcoming Classes
- Sunday - February 12th | 2:00-5:00pm with Cassandra Thoreson
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 6 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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Quilt Making by Hand
$175 for 4 Session Class
This is an ideal class for anyone who wants to learn hand sewing techniques as well as hand quilting as no sewing experience is necessary! Learn all the skills, from cutting squares to piecing Y-seams to quilting. Over 4 weeks, students will learn all the skills necessary to make a small quilt entirely by hand.
All supplies can be purchased at Purl! Please try and have your supplies prepared before class.
Required Supplies
For the first session-
- 1 piece template plastic
- mechanical pencils or several sharpened #2 pencils
- 1 package hand sewing needles - either size 10 milliner's needles or a multi-size of "sharps"
- 1 spool cotton hand sewing thread - in a neutral or medium color to coordinate with fabrics
- sharp fabric scissors
- sharp scissors, for cutting template plastic
- 1 package of fine patchwork pins
- 1 package of 12"X12" quilters graph paper
- Fabrics- 4-5 half yards of quilt weight cotton fabrics you like that work well together
For the last session (hand quilting)-
- Two fat quarters of fabrics, one of which should be a solid color
- 1 round wooden quilting hoop
- 1 multi-size pack (sizes 5-10) hand quilting needles
- 1 spool of hand quilting thread
- 1 quilting thimble
Upcoming Classes
- Tuesdays - January 24th, 31st, February 7th and 14th | 6:00-8:00pm with Cassandra Thoreson
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - (CURRENTLY RUNNING)
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English Paper Piecing
$140 for 3 Session Class
English paper piecing is a technique of stabilizing fabric with a paper template, ideal for multi-pointed shapes like hexagons. The paper provides a nice crisp edge and helps your geometric corners stay sharp. Once you have mastered this technique, you can create endless projects - maybe you'll be even inspired to create a quilt for each shape! Quick, easy and fun, English Paper Piecing makes a great take-along project.
Required Supplies
- 7 fat quarters of fabric
- cotton sewing thread to coordinate with your fabrics
- hand sewing needle
- pins
- paper scissors
- fabric scissors
- a ruler with 1/4 inch markings
Embellishments, quilting threads and borders will be discussed with each student for their individual projects in class.
Upcoming Classes
- Tuesdays - February 28th, March 6th and 13th | 6:00-8:00pm with Susan Sato
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 7 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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Patchwork Basics - Intro to Machine Quilting
$140 for 3 Session Class
A workshop for students who want a quick and simple introduction to the essentials of piecing quilt tops. This class will cover rotary cutting and all of the essential sewing skills for creating patchwork by machine. Students should have basic machine sewing experience - all work will be done in class, no sewing machine is required at home.
Required Supplies
- Fat quarter pack (6 fat quarters) of quilt weight fabrics
- neutral colored sewing thread
- Clover fine patchwork pins
- seam ripper
optional, but recommended:
- medium or large cutting mat
- rotary cutter
- 6.5" x 24.5" Creative Grids ruler
Upcoming Classes
- TBD
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Beginning Machine Sewing - Reversible Tote
$175 for Series
This class presents an introduction to sewing by machine for the very beginner. Students will make a simple, reversible tote bag with a magnetic snap. We will learn essential sewing vocabulary, how to properly thread and sew with the machine, the best way to accurately measure and cut fabric, how to follow a simple pattern and other fundamental sewing skills. No previous sewing experience is necessary.
All supplies can be purchased at Purl. Please make sure you have your supplies prepared before the first session.
Required Supplies
- 1 yard heavy weight cotton fabric for the exterior of your tote
- 3/4 yard mid-weight cotton fabric for the lining
- 1 small spool of 100% cotton thread to match your heavyweight fabric
- A 24X6.5 inch creative grids ruler
- 45mm rotary cutter
- White Clover Chaco-liner or tailor’s chalk
- Clover brand glass head long straight pins
- Clover seam ripper
- sharp scissors for trimming and cutting threads (can be small or large)
- A 1/2” magnetic snap
- Hera Marker
Please wash and press your fabric for your tote, prior to the first session.
Upcoming Classes
- Saturdays - January 21st, 28th and February 4th | 10:00am-1:00pm with Cassandra Thoreson
Maximum class enrollment: 6 students - (SOLD OUT) as of 1/19/12
- Wednesdays - March 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th | 6:30-8:30pm with Cassandra Thoreson
Maximum class enrollment: 6 students - NEW! 2/5/12
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Pattern Making Simplified: A-Line Skirt & Shift Dress
$125 for a one day workshop!
Have you always wanted to make your OWN sewing patterns? It's not as hard as you think to use your own measurements to draft patterns made to fit YOUR body.
In this all-day workshop, Cal will show you two projects using techniques from her book, Design-It-Yourself Clothes. We'll begin with an A-line skirt and then proceed to a sleeveless shift dress*. With this foundation you can go on to making all kinds of garments, and a whole new wardrobe!
*Note: We will not be sewing in this class, but some sewing experience is helpful to get the most out of the information.
All supplies can be purchased at Purl Soho. Please have your supplies prepared in advance.
Required Supplies
- Patternmaking paper (at least 14" wide)
- Pencil, sharpener and eraser (or mechanical pencil)
- Scissors (for cutting paper)
- Ruler (18" clear sewing ruler is best)
- Clear tape
- Tape Measure
- Optional: Hip curve, French curve or other curve tool
Upcoming Workshops
- Saturday - February 18th | 1:00pm-5:00pm with Cal Patch
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students- 7 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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One-Day Sewing: A-line Skirt
$175 for a One Day Workshop!
Required Supplies
- 1 and 1/2 yards of medium-weight woven fabric, such as printed cotton
- All-purpose thread to match
- Bias Tape: You'll need 1-2 yards (your waist measurement plus about 4 inches) of 1/2" single fold bias tape to match. You can make your own bias tape, but it must be made before class.
- 7" (or longer) invisible zipper to match
- Basic sewing kit: Scissors, pins and cushion, seam ripper, tape measure, tailors' chalk (or other marking tool)
Upcoming Workshops
- Sunday - February 19th | 11:00am-5:00pm with Cal Patch
Maximum class enrollment: 6 students- 5 spots remaining as of 2/5/12
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Felt Flower Pin Cushion
$50 for a One Day Workshop!
Upcoming Workshop
- Tuesday - February 21st | 6:00-8:00pm with Susan Sato
Maximum class enrollment: 8 students - 8 spots remaining as of 2/3/12
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One Day Sewing: Insect Cape Costumes
$50 for a One Day Workshop!
Make a felt ladybug, grasshopper or beetle cape! Great to make as a gift for your favorite kid on Halloween or playing dress up anytime. We will use wonderful 100% wool felt and add appliquéd spots for the ladybug and machine stitched veining for the grasshopper or beetle. Basic machine appliqué and free motion sewing will be covered. Plan to take home one finished cape in the insect of your choice!
Required Supplies
- A Fat 1/2 Yard Piece of 100% Wool Felt
- 1 18" square piece of 100% Wool Felt in Black for the ladybug wings only.
- 1 package of Medium Felt Buttons
- 2 yards Bias Tape (We like the Polka dot style!)
- 1 spool 100% Cotton Thread, to match the Bias Tape
- 1 spool 100% Cotton Thread, contrasting color from the felt for the grasshopper or beetle, black thread for the ladybug wings.
Upcoming Workshop
- TBD
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Kids' Classes
Our House is a Very Fine House Pillows
$95 for a one day workshop!
Required Supplies
- Scissors / Rotary Cutter
- Ruler
- Colored pencils
- Large Paper & Pencil
- Wool Felt Bundle
- 1 sheet of 18x18 wool felt
- Sewing thread and Embroidery floss (Coordinating and contrasting)
- Embroidery needle
- Fiber fill (poly, cotton, or bamboo)
Upcoming Classes
- TBD
Beginning Knitting for Children and Teens
$75 for a 3 Session Class
Hooray! A Beginning Knitting class designed especially for your kids and teens- ages 8 to 14 years old- who want to learn to knit! In class one, students will learn how to cast on and the knit stitch. In the second class, they will learn how to complete the purl stitch and combine both the knit and purl stitches to create basic stitch patterns. In the last class of the series, students will learn how to bind off and complete their work neatly. Class size is limited to 6 students so sign up today!
Required Supplies
- 1 ball of worsted-weight yarn, such as Manos del Uruguay Classica
- Set of straight knitting needles, if using recommended yarn- please use size 10 needles
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
Upcoming Classes
- TBD
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About Our Teachers
Cassandra Thoreson
Cassandra Thoreson is a textile and fiber artist who is inspired by innovation everywhere she finds it. She has been teaching in the NYC area for 19 years. She has lectured in Manhattan and Long Island, and conducted workshops at the Brooklyn Museum in her mission to share her love for handwork and the textile arts. For the past 5 years, she has devoted her teaching time exclusively to Purl, where she loves to help her students experiment with their ideas and creativity. All of her classes include projects custom-designed for her students. In her spare time she spins, knits, sews, makes quilts and loves to play with color and design.
Cassandra teaches: Applique, Quilt Making by Hand, Quilt Making by Machine, Free Form Patchwork, Beginning Machine Sewing- Reversible Tote, Intro to Spindle Spinning, and Beginning Wheel Spinning.
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Mary Lou Risley
Mary Lou Risley has been knitting since her great-grandmother gave her a pair of needles and a ball of yarn when she was only eight years old. When the first project Mary Lou made on her own was a pair of argyle socks, she discovered that nothing was beyond her ambition and skill. Mary Lou is a whiz at pattern creation and takes on many commissions. She is a specialist at “recreating” treasures such as a much-loved sweater that’s seen better days. Her latest commission is a series of sweaters for one of the best-dressed dogs on Park Avenue! She also created warm hats for Young Runners in a charity program sponsored by the Road Runners Foundation. Mary Lou has been teaching knitting to beginners at Purl Soho since 2007. She particularly enjoys teaching beginning knitting because she sees the creative spark come to life in each student she meets.
Mary Lou teaches: Beginning Knitting and Intro to Circular Knitting.
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Cal Patch
Cal Patch has been a maker since she was a Girl Scout in the seventies. She sews, crochets, spins, embroiders, knits, prints, makes patterns, dyes… hence the name of her label: "hodge podge". Cal has taught all of these subjects for the past ten years, and loves showing people new skills. After seventeen years of being a New York City dweller, Cal recently relocated to the Catskills where she is becoming a crafty farmer. Her first book, Design-It-Yourself Clothes: Patternmaking Simplified, is out now from Potter Craft. You can see what she’s up to at http://hodgepodgefarm.net
Cal teaches: Crochet a Rag Rug, Pattern Making- Button Down Shirt, One Day Sewing: A-line Skirt, and Pattern Making Simplified.
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Susan C. Sato
Second-generation Japanese American, Susan Sato has been sewing since age 14. The oldest of five children, she started sewing her own clothes and later for her daughter, Jana. She became a quilt maker in 1994. When Susan came across her grandfather’s kimono and obi, she knew that sewing in the traditional Japanese style was the path she wanted to follow in her quilting. She began quilting with Japanese fabrics and incorporating the sashiko form of hand sewing. She started teaching basic quilting classes in sashiko, and then branched out to Japanese free-form design classes. After learning the Japanese techniques of Shibori and Indigo dying she has started to incorporate them into her quilts.
The Brooklyn Museum of Art commissioned Susan to create pillows for their gift shop. Her creations are also sold in Brooklyn shops. A member and past co-president of The Quilters’ Guild of Brooklyn, Empire Guild, NYC MOD Quilt Guild, her work has been featured in exhibits throughout the Northeast. She teaches quilting at shops and quilting guilds in the tri-state area.
Susan teaches: Sashiko (Japanese Hand Quilting).
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Jessica Marquez
Jessica Marquez is a Californian loving life in Brooklyn, NY. She is the maker behind Miniature Rhino, her full time creative job and obsession. Her embroideries have graced the pages of InStyle Magazine, Bust Magazine, Daily Candy NY and countless lovely blogs! A self-taught, passionate embroideress, Jessica loves to teach, but when she’s not working needle and thread she likes to explore NY, eat vegan treats, bake, rescue street cats, plan her next travel adventure, and of course, craft. You can also find her on her blog, twitter, flickr, and etsy shop.
Jessica teaches: Embroidery Basics- Stitch Dictionary.
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Deborah Fisher
Deborah Fisher grew up sewing dolls and odd things and watching her mother make quilts. She studied fiber at Maryland Institute College of Art and Cranbrook Academy of Art. After 15 years as a fine artist she returned to sewing and now designs one of a kind dolls, pillows, and other odd things for kids and other silly people.She is the director and quilt designer for the Bright Hopes Collaborative Quilt Project, which she co-founded with her mother. Through their QuiltGIVING, QuiltCOMMUNITY, and QuiltWORKS programs, Bright Hopes offers on-site quilting workshops to individuals living in shelters and group homes, and donates handmade one-of-a-kind quilts to families living in temporary housing. Deborah has designed over 400 quilts for Bright Hopes.
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Erin Roberts
Erin Roberts has been a stitcher and an all around crafter since early childhood. She learned to cross-stitch before she could write! Erin was lucky enough to be born into a talented and creative family; and has had the opportunity to pick up a wide variety of skills over the years, including sewing, knitting, and all kinds of needlework. One project had all twenty of the ladies in her family embroidering quilt squares for each other!
As a recent transplant to New York, and a new member of the Purl family, she is thrilled to be teaching her own original designs to her students.
In her free time, Erin and her husband enjoy exploring their vibrant new neighborhood, the East Village, and playing with their six and a half year old guinea pig, Woodrow.
Erin teaches: Beginning Needlepoint.
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Nguyen Le
Nguyen Le is a Lancaster, PA native knitting out of her pockets in Brooklyn, NY for the past 3 years now. She knits, felts, sews, and is always excited to create with any new material/technique. Nguyen has been crafting since grade school. She loves teaching, and enjoys seeing all of the fun creations her students dream up.
Nguyen is the designer and maker behind KnitKnit – her full time occupation making witty knitted and felted accessories. Her work has been featured on the Martha Stewart Show, Interweave Felt Magazine, Knitscene Magazine, mentioned on a number of design blogs, and sold in boutiques, galleries, and museum shops throughout the US. You can find her work at www.knitknitknits.com.
When she’s not crafting, she enjoys experimental baking, gulping down tea, and discovering the wonderful gems of NYC.
Nguyen teaches: Needle Felting and Needle Felted Jewelry.
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All supplies can be purchased at Purl Soho, NY or at PurlSoho.com.
We now offer private and individual classes by request! Please contact us at (212) 420-8796 during shop hours (12-7 Mon-Fri, 12-6 Sat & Sun) for more information.
Cancellation Policy:
Any cancellations must be made prior to 7 days before the first session for a full refund. Cancellations made after that time period (7-2 days prior) will receive store credit or the option to transfer to the next available class. As our class sizes are limited for a personal learning experience, any cancellations made within 48 hours of the class will forfeit payment. No make up classes will be offered.