FAQs on lessons & bookings

Friday, November 11, 2005

posted by emy at 1:29 PM | link

Here's a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) that I receive:

1. What are 1-1 sessions about?
1-1 lessons mean I teach you as an individual on a one-to-one basis. The advantage is you sit right next to me and get a close up view of the techniques and how I handle the yarn, needles and stitches. Then you get to do it yourself.

2. What do you teach?
In broad terms, I teach knitting and crochet. Specifically, I teach basic techniques of casting on, knit/purl or crochet. More importantly, I also go into custom fitting - you'll learn how to read schematics and how to adapt/modify to suit your own body better.

3. I am a beginner. What projects can I start with?
Anything you want -- it's your own comfort zone, really.

Some students prefer to start with scarves, bags or phone pouches. Others have started with stuffed toys as gifts for their kids or simply because they like teddy bears themselves -- here's an adorable Hello Kitty doll.

Garments such as full sized sweaters, cardigans or tank tops are also first projects for my students -- you can see them here, here & here. [The Flickr gallery on the right also show the various finished projects.]

I'll help you assess the level of complexity if you already have a pattern in mind.

A suggestion would be to start on a project that you'll have use for or that you'll like so that the progress is enjoyable.

4. What are the fees? How many lessons does one need?
[In addition to our current private 1-1 format, we have just introduced the semi-private group format; please read this for more information.]

The number of lessons needed varies depending on the project selection, complexity as well as your absorption levels. [Packaged deals can be found here or if you have other requirements, please email me. Please note our requirements for trial or drop-in sessions. ]

5. Can we choose just to attend group lessons only?
As mentioned in point #2, 1-1 lessons allow me as an instructor to pay more attention and help you to make garments that will fit you better; especially for beginners.

Hence, all first sessions are to be on private 1-1 instructional basis.

Once your progress is determined, we'll move you along to switch to a semi-private group setting if you wish. That way, it's more fun since you get to get to know the rest of the students and enjoy your knitting in a more relaxed setting. (Why do I know? I have run some group sessions and find that the participants laugh, chat and are generally more lively.)

6. How long usually is the first session?
Standard slots are 2hrs duration.

So far, the experience has been this:
- Within the first 2hrs, you'll be taught to cast on/knit/purl.
- Learn about the use of the various tools and yarn.
- Understand basic garment/bag/toy construction (depending on your project selection)

However, do note that on a need-to basis, your first lesson can be extended accordingly.

7. What do I need to bring along for my first session?
A fresh mind. A I-can-do-it attitude. Please do not arrange your first lesson at the end of the week as your brain may be too tired to absorb any new concepts or techniques. This becomes counter-productive.

If you have some patterns that you like, please bring them along as well.

8. Can I bring my own yarns and needles for the lessons?
We do not recommend you doing so as you may purchase yarns and needles which are unsuitable for your project needs. Yarns and needles are available for sale during the first visit.

If you own some knitting needles, you are welcome to bring them along but we'll assist you with the selection of yarns for purchase appropriate for your project from our collection.

9. Will I be able to start my garment in the first session?
For those wanting to work on a custom-fit garment, my recommendation is that you have 2 x 2hr private 1-1 format sessions (i.e. 4hour slots) if you wish to cast on and start your garment on your first visit. The second 2hr block will be spent on working out the gauge, doing measurements and casting on!

[We're referring to custom-fitting adult size garments here.]

10. Do you charge extra for custom-fitting?
As long as you purchase yarn materials from us* and attend sessions, the custom-fitting service is our value-added service which we do not charge extra for (based on already available patterns).

11. I have some uncompleted projects and need help finishing them. Can you do something about it?
As long as you have the pattern sheet as well as yarn for your uncompleted project, you will be required to book and pre-pay for 3hrs of private 1-1 session at S$150. [Package credits are not eligible for use.]

However, please note that depending on the extent of materials or pattern information available, there may be some extra charges to cover time spent on pattern deciphering and so on.

If you require me to finish the item for you, fees for finishing will be quoted.

12. I am an intermediate student and I just need some lessons on better finishing.
The 1-1 lessons provide flexibility for you to decide what you want to learn. So please email me with your requirements and booking. You can now also purchase any of the packages and attend the semi-private group classes instead.

13. I'm ready to start my sessions. What do I do?
First, please refer to the Class Slots and send me an email with the following information:
- Your Name
- Mobile number or a contact number that I can get you on
- The package you are taking (details found here )
- Indicate your preference: knitting / crochet
- Indicate the type of project you are interested in and the level (say: "newbie" if you do not know anything.) - Type of yarn you are thinking of using: merino / cotton / blends / no preference

Once I get your info, I will get in touch with you to confirm your package application and make schedule for your first lesson. Please give me 3 working days' advance notice on all bookings.

14. I just want to come preview and buy some yarn! No lessons needed.
No problem! You are more than welcome to arrange for a yarn preview session. Just let me know the date, time and the number of people who are coming along with you.

* Subject to minimum project yarn purchases of S$80 & above. Otherwise, surcharges apply.

Labels: FYI