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Posted on: 6/8/14 9:49 PM ET
This is an emergency since there is a 50% sale right now! I'm trying to decide between the Linda Lee class and the Marcy and Katherine Tilton class on knits. I'm a total beginner who is kinda scared of knits and still clumsy with sewing in general. I want a class I can grow with, but I'm afraid the Lee class might be too broad for me since it covers a variety of fabrics and I still haven't sewn a t shirt I would wear out of the house yet.
There is one on the site that seems geared toward beginners but I've decided I don't want to take it because it involves pdf patterns and has a section on dying, which is great, but I'm not interested in that right now.

Thanks for any advice! :hug:

Linda Lee Sewing Fashion Knits Beyond the Basics

M and K Tilton The Ultimate T Shirt: Fitting and Construction
-- Edited on 6/8/14 9:52 PM --
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Machines: Janome New Home DC4030P, Singer 15/90, Bernette B68
  
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Posted on: 6/8/14 9:51 PM ET
The best knits class ever is free and it's right here on these boards. It has way more information than I'd bet a beginner class on Craftsy has.

I'll be right back with a link.

Knit Sewalong for beginners
-- Edited on 6/8/14 9:52 PM --
-- Edited on 6/8/14 9:53 PM --
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Mary


  
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Posted on: 6/8/14 10:08 PM ET
In reply to marymary86
Thanks for the link; I'm definitely checking it out. The first page had a pic of a problem I'm having so I hope someone posts a tip for rumply hem messes further along. 52 pages is a lot to read through but I'm sure it's packed with info!
I still want to get one of these classes though! Decisions, decisions...
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Posted on: 6/8/14 10:25 PM ET
In reply to Ubik
Get a craftsy class - just don't get a one on beginner knits!

Lynn Rowe covered details I never saw in sewing books. Check out her reviews and you'll see how great her sewing is.
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Mary


  
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Posted on: 6/8/14 11:17 PM ET
A friend who's newish with knits took the Linda Lee class and said she really got a lot out of it.

I know that she uses more expensive fabrics which may be why you think it's above a beginner class, but the techniques used are still pretty much the same whether it's a silk jersey or a cotton one.

Debbie
  
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Posted on: 6/9/14 7:35 AM ET
I wish I could help but I have taken neither. I have taken Linda's other class and she is a meticulous instructor.
I tool Sarah Veblen's PR Classes- Knits and her More Knits. They are both excellent. Well over 50 samples of knits arrived in my mailbox and she had us touch and analyze each one so we could understand various characteristics before sewing with our selection. The half patterns she provided for us to sew went quickly and were invaluable for nailing the finishing techniques. Using a pattern of your choice, Sarah will hold your hand through the entire project and tell you just how to get the results you want.

That said, I am also quite fond of the Craftsy Platform. I took a Meg McLewen (sp?) knits class and probably should have asked for a refund. I felt like she talked a bit too much about herself studying in Mexico and left too many questions hanging for other classmates to answer. She talked a lot about sewing for her two boys and I was excited that she authored a book about sewing for boys until I learned it covered toys and projects but not boys clothing. Also, I am not into working with PDF downloads- I would prefer getting a pattern in the mail. Others do seem to enjoy her style of teaching and she knows the basics well enough.

I would probably go with the Tilton class as they have more experience at teaching. Linda knows her stuff too but her voice can sometimes put me to sleep!

So which one did you get? I got the sale notice and am taking Katherine's Adjust the Bust class.
-- Edited on 6/9/14 9:39 AM --
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Needlework brings joy and meaning to my life...member of ASG
Now using: Singer 301, Pfaff 6152 & BL Enlighten serger
  
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Posted on: 6/9/14 8:31 AM ET
In reply to Ubik
Haven't taken either of the classes you mention, but I did take Sewing with Knits by Meg McElwee. Probably the course you described (has bonus section on dyeing fabric which I just ignored as I don't expect to do this. Great thing is if I change my mind and want to try, I will have access to this.)

Also, the pdf patterns don't bother me. In fact, I like being able to produce (print) patterns without leaving the house. Taping them together is not a big deal and I wind up with a pattern on sturdier stock than the typical tissue paper pattern.

As far as course content, as a beginner I found this immensely helpful. She discusses different fabrics, tools and machine settings for working with knits, techniques) Those of us who do not yet use a serger can still work with knits.

The instructor was easy to listen to and follow. She walks us through several different garments (hoodie, t-shirts, yoga pants and dress).

Have fun whichever class you choose!
  
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Posted on: 6/9/14 8:50 AM ET
In reply to Agster
Quote: Agster
Haven't taken either of the classes you mention, but I did take Sewing with Knits by Meg McElwee. Probably the course you described (has bonus section on dyeing fabric which I just ignored as I don't expect to do this. Great thing is if I change my mind and want to try, I will have access to this.)



Also, the pdf patterns don't bother me. In fact, I like being able to produce (print) patterns without leaving the house. Taping them together is not a big deal and I wind up with a pattern on sturdier stock than the typical tissue paper pattern.



As far as course content, as a beginner I found this immensely helpful. She discusses different fabrics, tools and machine settings for working with knits, techniques) Those of us who do not yet use a serger can still work with knits.



The instructor was easy to listen to and follow. She walks us through several different garments (hoodie, t-shirts, yoga pants and dress).



Have fun whichever class you choose!

I agree with this! but either you decide, Craftsy and here on PR, you cannot and will not go wrong. both are excellent platforms and with both you have access for life! You cannot beat that. Also, if you are new to sewing knits, try going to Colette Patterns website. They just came out with a new book, and I heartily recommend it.
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Posted on: 6/9/14 9:15 AM ET
Just now see where repeats of Nancy Z's PBS TV shows are airing here: Sewing Knits with Confidence.
You can watch them free online- full of great tips as well.

Part 1
Part 2
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Needlework brings joy and meaning to my life...member of ASG
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Posted on: 6/9/14 9:27 AM ET
I agree with the Nancy Zieman video recommendation.

But if you must have a Craftsy class, sign up for both, watch the first lesson of each. Decide which one you like best and get a refund for the other. Doesn't Craftsy have a money back guarantee? It is time sensitive though, so don't diddle daddle. And don't take my word for it. Read Craftsy's refund policy yourself.
  
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