Knit Design Online:

City & Guilds Distance Learning Hand Knitting Courses
with Loraine McClean


Level 3 Hand Knit Textiles Modules 7716-16


Module 1: Focusing on Texture, explored in yarn, stitch and artwork. Sampling basic techniques - casting on / off, selvedges, tension samples, blocking and pressing; begin a study on fibres / yarns with wool; outline the tools / equipment used in knitting; Health & Safety.

Module 2: Colour - theory and exercises; using inspiration to devise unusual colour combinations; striped knitting; slip-stitches; hems; yarn study: animal fibres; start collecting information on knitting trends and well known designer-makers.

Module 3: Increasing, decreasing, shaping and sampling a variety of different stitch types that use these techniques; Swiss Darning and embroidery onto knitting; yarn study: silk; selecting inspiration; experimental mark-making; expressive Line; Rhythm and Movement in design; printmaking.

Module 4: Intarsia (picture knitting) and Fair Isle strand / weave techniques; using stitch-related graph paper; yarn study: cotton; explore organic / geometric shape and formal / informal pattern and use these to develop original design work.

Module 5: Sample Aran-type travelling and crossing stitches, understand how these are developed and can be adapted; added-on knitted embellishments; yarn study: linen; use PVA and paper manipulation techniques to explore 3-dimensional Form; look at body shapes and style suitability for designing knitwear.

Module 6: Short rows; moodboards; from inspiration to stitch; designing the assignment items; design briefs; working drawings; decorative paint effects - spattering, sponging, stencilling; etc.; using the Elements and Principles of Design; Design Unit: Texture assignment.

Module 7: Production techniques - seaming & making-up; pattern-writing; design, make & evaluate the Item for Interior Use; yarn study:Viscose.

Module 8: Sample different methods of creating openwork and lace knitting - ladders, elongated stitches, slits and slots, eyelets, faggoting, knitted lace; cut paper designs; creating void and removing colour; Design Unit assignment: Line; yarn study: yarn styles.

Module 9: Picking up stitches / necklines; taking measurements; drafting a basic body block; toiles; design & make the assessment Sweater and evaluate the process.

Module 10: Modular / patchwork knitting; reversible stitches; grafting; bead knitting; knitting with wire; decorative trims - appliqué, fringes & pom-poms; design & make the Fashion Accessory; Design Unit assignment: Colour.

Module 11: Drafting a raglan block; pattern-writing for raglans; decorative / rever / shawl collars; pockets; design & make the assessment Cardigan; Design Unit assignment: Shape.

Module 12: Gores; godets; pleats; knitted skirts; batwing sleeves; sideways knitting; cardigan / jacket assignment; collate the trends / designers information file; information on knit trade shows and colour / yarn predictions; Design Unit assignment: Form; evaluate the course.