Course dates 2019
Course Completed
Profile
Carol Meldrum is a textile designer, workshop tutor and author of many popular knit and crochet titles.
Carol also works under the name of beatknit, creating a range of knit and crochet accessories inspired by Scottish themes and textile. You can find out more on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beatknit/?hl=en,
Since graduating from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in Dundee, she has worked within the textile industry as a designer for High Street fashion outlets as well as internationally renowned hand knit label Rowan. Her latest design work can be found in The Knitter and Simply Knitting magazines.
Carol is a successful workshop tutor with a full calendar throughout the year travelling UK and worldwide teaching all aspects of knit & crochet in an informal environment to both groups and individuals.
Carol will work with you on the lovely poncho shown here on the right. And, in response to our guests’ requests, she will also be demonstrating how designs like this can be altered for different heights, body shape, arm length and necklines. And there’s an additional mini-project, a knitted or crocheted corsage inspired by the Watermill’s gardens.
You will also have the perfect opportunity to make new friends in the company of like-minded people learning new knitting techniques and tips from Carol... and enjoying the true, unspoilt Bella Vita.
Here’s a comment from a student who has been on several of Carol’s previous courses: “I have thoroughly enjoyed myself and I've always learnt something new.”
Knitting projects
In 2019 you'll be working with Carol on a specially designed project, incorporating cable knitting and sequence knitting. You will work together on the lovely poncho, designed by Carol's friend, Sarah Hazell, and also learn how a design/pattern can be adapted to fit different heights, body shape, arm length and necklines.
This will involve recording measurements, making decisions about sleeve and body length, selecting a stitch pattern and working on a neckline. The project is worked from side to side with a simple moss (seed) stitch border with front and back alike. The shoulders are then seamed and stitches picked up in the round for the funnel neck.
Our guests on Carol's course will have the opportunity to select their own stitch pattern for the body of the garment and Carol adds: “I will also be talking to you about the best way to finish and block your project. We will be working with a cotton-mix Aran and you will each receive 8 x 100g balls in a colour of your choice. The accompanying notes will have general tips on how to alter the fit of a knitted garment for future use.
“This is a relaxing knit that will help you to acquire some technical expertise along the way!”
One afternoon we might like to take some inspiration from the beautiful gardens at the Watermill and the flower stalls up in the nearby mediaeval walled town of Fivizzano, and create a knitted or crocheted corsage. Carol will bring some interesting and colourful yarns and beads to get our creative juices flowing and by the end of the session you will have made a unique embellishment for your poncho!
Praise
“Such a wonderful trip, Carol 's a great tutor, passing on her tips and techniques. She's really helped me improve my knit and crochet skills. Have enjoyed the journey and pulling my design together!” - Sandra - France 2018
“Can't thank Carol enough for all her help and patience, keeping me on track with my stitches throughout the week.” - Fiona - Faroe Island tour 2016
“Carol is an enthusiastic tutor who is very knowledgeable in both knitting and crochet techniques. Within the theme of the course she caters for both the beginner and the more confident knitter/crocheter. I’ve attended a number of Carol’s courses and have thoroughly enjoyed them and always learnt something new”. - Mandy - 2014 to 2018