Monday, November 24, 2014

KAL (Knit Along) FAQ

How do I join the KAL?

There is no sign up. During the month of the KAL, you go to the KAL website at Knitpurlhunter.com where the clues are posted every Thursday at 9 am EST for four weeks.

How many KALs are there in a year?



Four. One each in January, April, July, and October, starting on the first Thursday of the month. 

How much does the KAL cost?

Nothing. It is free. The pattern for each KAL is free, too.

Do I have to use the specified yarn?

No.

Is the KAL a mystery?

Yes and no. You will not see photos of the project until the Clue Two (the second week's clue) is posted. You will know the basics -- that it is a scarf or mittens or a hat, etc; what sizes you can knit; what yarn, needles, notions to use; what the gauge is.

Are there clues to the mystery?

Yes. Usually designer Michelle Hunter announces clues. For example, she might indicate that there will be cables, or you will do two color knitting, or the project showcases a new cast on, or a lacework pattern.

Is the knitting hard?

No, but you do need to know how to knit. The directions are detailed and guide you through each stage of the project. If you are a beginner who has accomplished several projects and likes a challenge, these KALs are a great way to further your skills.

How good are the directions?

Excellent. Michelle's directions are detailed and excellent, right down to the number of grams of yarn left at certain stages of the project!  You can print the directions for your personal use. Michelle's online videos back up all of her directions, too. You can follow the comments on the KnitPurlHunter KAL website and you can also join Ravelry.com and follow the knitting there.

Do I need a laptop to follow the KAL?

No. Many knitters use their smartphones to keep up with the clues. You can take a screen shot (or two, or three!) of the directions and have them handy on your mobile wherever you knit.

What if I don't like mystery knitting?

Mark your calendar for the second or third Thursday of the KAL month and take a look at where the KAL is going. There is nothing that says that you must start knitting on the first week with the first clue. Start later, when the mystery has been revealed and you know where the project is going. You will still benefit from all of the instruction and design information.

How do I get started?

Get organized for the KAL. Order the yarn, needles, and supplies indicated. Or round up the yarn and needles that you have that you think might work for the project. Knit a swatch and check for gauge. Be ready for the Thursday at 9 am EST clue to be posted.

Who sponsors this series?

Skacel, a family owned business based in Seattle, sponsors Michelle's design work with the KALs. Skacel has been supplying quality yarns and needles to the knitting world for two generations. 

Do I have to use the yarn specified?

No. But as in taking any class, you will get consistent results by purchasing the suggested materials for the class. Michelle's KALs are definitely learning experiences and using the specified yarn is a great way to learn from a professional knitting educator and designer. By knitting along with Michelle Hunter, you pit your skills against hers as you learn new techniques and new tricks in knitting.

Are all KALs like this?

No. The methodology described in this FAQ covers the KAL sponsored by Skacel and designed by Michelle Hunter.

How is Graywood Designs related to this KAL program?

Skacel is one of our yarn suppliers. We offer premium knitting products on our website and are proud to bring their knitting expertise and products to our online and walk in studio customers.


Information as of December 2, 2014