This class offers an in-depth look at traditional sweater construction techniques, with a focus on methods that often include steek stitches and stranded colorwork. You'll gain a better understanding of how classic sweaters are built—and how colorwork patterns are thoughtfully integrated into the garment's overall structure.

Students can choose from three motif options: a simple stranded pattern, a more advanced stranded design, or a single-color motif for those not yet comfortable with two-color knitting. One of the main objectives of the class is to confidently cut at least one steek panel and pick up stitches around the opening—an essential skill for bringing your sweater to life.

Varian Brandon began knitting at age eight, but a trip to the British Isles later rekindled her love of color and sparked a lasting interest in Fair Isle design and construction. She now designs stranded colorwork patterns for various yarn companies and her own website, with her work featured in publications such as Yarnwise, PLY, and Interweave Knits. Varian is also the author of Waiting, a collection of colorwork hat patterns. Based in Saluda, North Carolina, she has taught stranded colorwork and related techniques for over 19 years at local yarn shops, fiber festivals, and retreats—including the long-running Kanuga Knitting and Quilting Retreat.

$180 -$215

Additional Supply Fee:  None. 

Scholarship Available: No.

Level: Intermediate. Students must know the knit stitch, have a general knowledge of sweater construction and stranded knitting

Minimum Number of Students: 9 by January 31, 2026

Maximum Number of Students: 15

Required Supplies:

• Yarn: DK or Sport weight solid color yarn. Not novelty.
  • Sweater Options 1 and 2
    • 3 colors – 1-dark (100 yrds), 1- light (100 yrds), 1-accent (50 yrds)
    • Possible color options: Dark grey , light grey, medium pink OR Medium brown, light brown, turquoise OR Black, white, red OR Medium blue, light blue, apricot
  • Sweater Option 3 (250 yards)
  • Needles: US 2 and US 4 - 16” circulars, or 2- 24” circulars. Note: If you are working on Option 1 or 2, bring US 3 and 5 as well.
• Additional Supplies:
  • Small sharp scissors
  • Yarn or Tapestry needle
  • Stitch markers (at least 2 different colors)
  • Stitch holders (or lengths of contrasting waste yarn)
  • Medium sized crochet hook (size E or G)

Class Schedule: The class will be in person at the SEFAA Center on Friday, February 6 from 10 am - 5 pm, and Saturday February 7 from 10 am -1 pm 2026.