Neighborhood Notes

There seems to be a blossoming knitting community in Portland, and we wanted to share it with you.  Knitting is definitely another type of art form and a trade a person can learn.  Yarn can be knitted into many things—a bonnet or wash cloth, or even something as advanced as a tote bag or even clothing for dogs!  We spoke with two folks from the knitting community, Cheri Clark from The Naked Sheep and Rose from Gossamer Fiber Arts and Crafts to get a better idea of what they love about teaching, why people should knit, and any advice they have for the community of knitters.

The love of teaching
From speaking to both Cheri and Rose, there was an underlying message of why they love teaching folks in their community. They both expressed the love of sharing knowledge with others -- "We love it, sharing knitting with others and having this social activity where we other can learn a new skill," mentions Cheri.  And it's not all about just learning something, "It's really about passing on this knowledge to the next generation," Rose expresses.  From their voices, you can hear the excitement and gratification they have in teaching.

Cheri Clark knitting at The Naked Sheep

Why knit?
Knitting is all about being part of the community and learning something new. There are a lot of opportunities to do so in Portland too.  At The Naked Sheep, they have opportunities for folks to learn knitting in between classes on their couches they have in their shop.  Cheri mentions, ""Knitting is about being part of the community, and we try our best to provide the community with knowledge. We're Portland's fun and friendly knitting shop."  And to attest to this, Gossamer also provides community projects and events since they're more than a knitting shop -- they're also trying to teach people about embroidery, arts and craft, etc.

Coral Reef Community Project at Gossamer Fiber Arts and Crafts

Advice for knitters
"Make what makes you happy, do what you enjoy. If you want to make wash cloths, then do that -- if you want to make more difficult things, do that," states Rose from Gossamer which attests to the fact that people should do what they love in all aspects of their lives.  And as Cheri mentions, which can span more than just knitting itself, "Just keep learning and stick with it, no pun intended."

Do you have any thoughts, stories, or events that are happening in knitting community? Please let us know, we love hearing from the community! If you want to learn knitting yourself or just want to check it out, the following are folks who teach knitting in the Portland area.

Knitting Classes in Portland

• The Naked Sheep (Overlook)
  This is your place to knit! They are committed to offering knowledgeable, friendly customer service. We do knitting like nobody's business. If you want to learn to knit, or already love to knit, the Naked Sheep is your place to knit.
• Gossamer Fiber Arts and Crafts (Buckman)
  Gossamer is a fiber arts, crafts, and Waldorf supply store. The store carries 100% wool felt, plant dyed felt, brown sheep yarn, needle felting supplies, embroidery thread (wool & linen), beeswax candles, toys and more. They offer fiber art shows and classes.
• Yarn Garden (Buckman)
  Yarn Garden University offers a variety of fun classes. If you are picking up needles for the first time or if you have been knitting for years you will find an exciting project awaiting you.
• All About Yarn (Far Southwest)
  They are very proud of the many classes that we are able to provide for our knitters and crocheters. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned knitter we have a great class for you. There is always something new to learn and the friends you make are priceless.

Visit http://www.teachstreet.com for more information about learning opportunities in your neighborhood. If you have ideas for future posts involving teachers you love, learning or teaching stories, and learning events -- please contact our Community Developer, Joseph (joseph@teachstreet.com) or leave a comment.