Note times list below are in Eastern Standard Time (ET): click here to convert to your local time if needed.

Thursday, January 23
6:00pm: Retreat Welcome!
6:30-8:00pm: Charity Knit Night Event for WUA!

Friday, January 24
8:45-9:00am: Morning Check-in
9:30-10:30am: Sponsor Presentation
11:00am-1:00pm: Friday Class Block 1
   - Tubular Cast Ons with Keith Leonard
   - Swatching & Gauge with Nina Machlin Dayton
   - Makers Mindset - An Adaptive Thinking Workshop with Beth Gorishek
   - Cooler Cast-Ons, Better Bind-Offs with Amy Snell
   - Entrelac Unlocked with Shaina Bilow
   - Inspiration to Admiration: Creating a Story Yarn with Kim McBrien Evans
1:30-2:30pm: Mindful Knitting for Makers  
3:00-5:00pm: Friday Class Block 2
   - No Fear Brioche with Keith Leonard
   - Flawless Finishing with Nina Machlin Dayton 
   - Introduction to Fair Isle with Pru Raymond
   - Fascinating Finishes: Embroidering Your Knits with Amy Snell
   - Confident Cables with Shaina Bilow
   - Breaking the Rules: Building Unique Shawl Shapes with Kim McBrien Evans
5:30-6:30pm: Roundtable with Pru Raymond
7:30-9:00pm: Evening Sponsor Presentation

Saturday, January 25
8:45-9:00am: Morning Check-in
9:30-10:30am: Roundtable Event
11:00am-1:00pm: Saturday Class Block 1
   - Short Row Fun! with Keith Leonard
   - Bead Your Knitting with Nina Machlin Dayton
   - Beyond the Yarn: Transforming Knits into Wall Art with Adaptive Thinking with Beth Gorishek
   - Delve into Design Cowls with Amy Snell
   - How to Design Knitted Hats with Shaina Bilow
   - Secrets from the Skein: What Your Yarn Forgot to Tell You with Kim McBrien Evans
1:30-2:30pm: Mindful Knitting for Makers
3:00-5:00pm: Saturday Class Block 2
   - WOW! Now I'm a Continental Knitter(with Combination Tricks!) with Keith Leonard
   - Duplicate Stitch with Nina Machlin Dayton
   - Simple Socks with Pru Raymond
   - Knitwear Repair: Resurrecting Your Damaged Knits with Amy Snell
   - Mosaic Mania! Stunning Colorwork Made Easy with Shaina Bilow
   - Sweaters That Fit! with Kim McBrien Evans
5:30-6:30pm: Virtual Drop-In with Nina Machlin Dayton
7:30-9:00pm: Evening Sponsor Presentation

Sunday, January 26
10:00-10:30am: Final Check-In & Giveaways!
11:00am-12:00pm: Keynote Speech by Kim McBrien Evans

Click here to download the full retreat brochure.

We're here to help!  
Please contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Team at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102 with any retreat related needs.
Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8AM - 4PM ET (excluding federal and/or Massachusetts state holidays), and on-call staff will be available throughout the duration of the retreat. All calls, voicemails, and/or emails will be answered as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!

Shaina Bilow
Shaina Bilow inspires joyful knitting through engaging workshops and thoughtful designs. In her workshops, you’ll find a patient and encouraging instructor who loves seeing the “lightbulb moments” as students start understanding tricky techniques and learning new concepts that they can apply to their knitting projects. For over 20 years, Shaina has had extensive experience in the knitting industry as a teacher, yarn shop employee, yarn shop owner, professional knitwear finisher, knitwear designer, small-batch yarn dyer, and more! Shaina has worked with thousands of knitters and brings an expert understanding of the craft to her workshops, helping students advance their skills while having a great time. Discover more about Shaina and explore her designs by visiting her website at shainabilow.com/, her Ravelry page www.ravelry.com/designers/shaina-bilow, or by following her on Instagram @shaina.bilow. 

Beth Gorishek
Beth Gorishek, known as The Adaptive Knitter, is a passionate advocate for inclusivity in crafting, dedicated to empowering crafters of all abilities. Born with a congenital limb difference, she understands firsthand the challenges faced by those with disabilities and has made it her mission to break down barriers in the knitting world. Beth believes that "adaptation is its own form of creativity," showing that knitting can be adapted to fit each individual's needs, turning limitations into opportunities for creative expression. Through her teaching and personal experience, she inspires others to embrace adaptation as a tool for both creativity and self-expression. Find out more about Beth’s work at www.adaptiveknitter.com or by following her on Instagram @adaptiveknitter.

Keith Leonard
Keith began his knitting journey when he joined a lunch time knitting program in elementary school. Once the knitting bug bit, the itch never went away. After graduating from college, he started a knitwear finishing business called Knits All Done, completing hundreds of finishing projects for clients all over the United States. His finishing expertise organically transitioned into teaching knitting classes, and he has taught his skills to thousands of knitters throughout the country. In 2019 Keith started his own yarn line, yarnsnobyarns.com, and he currently spends his days producing astonishingly vibrant skeins to put in the hands of knitters.

Nina Machlin Dayton 
Nina has been immersed in the world of knitting, designing, and teaching for over 45 years. Her journey began in the 1980s with her first professional role, hand-knitting for renowned couturier Joan Vass, and she hasn’t looked back since. A Season 6 Knit Star, Nina also spearheads the team behind Ravelry’s annual Indie Design Gift-A-Long, a beloved event for the knitting community. Originally from New York City, Nina now resides in the picturesque Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts. She shares an old, book-filled Victorian home with her family, her cats, and an impressive collection of yarn and vintage treasures related to knitting, crochet, dressmaking, and millinery. Discover Nina’s designs on Ravelry at www.ravelry.com/designers/nina-machlin-dayton, or follow her creative adventures on Instagram: @ninamachlindayton.

Kim McBrien Evans
Curiosity, exploration and an ever expanding plan for world domination are central to the work of knitwear designer and indie hand dyer, Kim McBrien Evans. Known for designs that turn abstract ideas into colour-filled hand knit reality while simultaneously fitting and honouring every body, Kim aims to revolutionize sweater fit, sizing, and how diverse bodies are represented in the yarn world through research, education, and collaborations with makers worldwide. Her representative body measurement chart for designers - inclusive of 28 - 76” chest sizes - earned her a Top 5 Trailblazer award from Interweave in 2023. Kim believes all bodies are good bodies and deserve clothing that fits. She also believes that clothing should be dynamic and exciting to knit and to wear. You can learn more about Kim’s work on her website: kimmcbrienevans.ca/ or on Ravelry at www.ravelry.com/designers/kim-mcbrien-evans.

Pru Raymond
Pru has sold out knitting workshops and stackable retreats in yarn stores and community centres Australia-wide, and in yarn stores on the east and west coast of USA. Pru combines her expertise as a professional educator and her lifelong passion for knitting to develop original, engaging knitting workshops. As a qualified teacher with almost 20 years' experience, Pru's workshops are supportive, engaging and inclusive of all learners. Pru has an in-depth knowledge of diverse styles and techniques and demonstrates skills in English, Combination and Continental Styles. Pru also designs and publishes knitting patterns, freelances for knitting magazines and has produced a range of knitting themed journals which are available on Amazon globally, and stocked in select yarn stores. Learn more at dearpru.com. 

Amy Snell
Amy is a knitting instructor and designer with an eye for the unusual or unusually captivating. She enjoys teaching techniques and stitch patterns that bring color, contrast, geometry, and texture into knitting in new or interesting ways. Whether teaching locally in the San Francisco Bay area, virtually, or in-person for knitting guilds and events nationwide, Amy loves to help other knitters explore new techniques and expand the way they think about their knitting. Her goal is to make complex concepts approachable for all knitters, while sharing tips that improve your process whether you’ve been knitting for several weeks or several decades. Amy's work has appeared in numerous books and periodicals including Cast On, Interweave Knits, Knotions, I Love Knitting and numerous pattern collections. She frequently shares tips and tricks on her website, www.DeviousKnitter.com, and can be found as @DeviousKnitter on social media.

We're here to help!  
Please contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Team at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102 with any retreat related needs.
Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8AM - 4PM ET (excluding federal and/or Massachusetts state holidays), and on-call staff will be available throughout the duration of the retreat. All calls, voicemails, and/or emails will be answered as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!

Shaina Bilow
Entrelac Unlocked
Offered Friday from 11am-1pm EST
Entrelac is a knitting technique that gives the appearance of interwoven strips of knitting. Learn this interesting technique which includes decreasing, picking up stitches on the RS and WS, and knitting backwards. In this class, we will begin a beautiful scarf or cowl together.

Confident Cable Knitting 
Offered Friday from 3-5pm EST
It’s time to conquer cables and finally take the fear out of cable knitting! Learn basic cabling skills as well as tricks to simplify cable pattern reading during this hands-on workshop. We will learn a whole lot of cables together – everything from simple two-stitch cables to the standard twists to reversible cables that are ideal for scarves, cowls, and blankets.

How to Design Knitted Hats
Offered Saturday from 11am-1pm EST 
Have you always wanted to learn how to design hats for yourself and your loved ones? Then this is the class for you! Come to class prepared with swatches of knitted fabrics and learn how to measure your gauge, measure a head, and combine the numbers to create custom hat designs using templates Shaina provides. This is a great class for first-time pattern writers!

Mosaic Mania! Stunning Colorwork Made Easy
Offered Saturday from 3-5pm EST
Mosaic Knitting is a fascinating form of colorwork, as only one color is used per row or round. Looking much more complex than it is, mosaic knitting is a great way to introduce colorwork to your repertoire. During the workshop, we will explore how many mosaic patterns are written and practice knitting these beautiful patterns.

Beth Gorishek
Makers Mindset - An Adaptive Thinking Workshop
Offered Friday from 11am-1pm EST
Unlock the world of knitting in a whole new way. Join Beth for a unique hands-on experience where you'll gain insights into how to quickly adjust your thinking and problem-solving approach in response to our changing bodies and abilities over time. You'll be guided to explore adaptive knitting techniques, adjusting traditional methods to suit your specific needs and abilities. You'll learn to think about making in a way that accommodates your personal circumstances, making crafting accessible to all. You will also learn more about Beth’s story, shedding light on how knitting became a form of self-expression, therapy, and advocacy. Bonus: A free copy of Beth’s “Born This Way” shawl pattern and a copy of her “Pillars of Inclusion” belief statements that the pattern is based on.

Beyond the Yarn: Transforming Knits into Wall Art with Adaptive Thinking
Offered Saturday from 11am-1pm EST 
Explore new ways to bring beauty and meaning into your space with this unique workshop where creativity meets adaptability. In this class, you will be guided through the process of converting pre-knitted pieces into art for your walls. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned knitter, or someone who’s taken a break from knitting due to physical changes, Beth’s approach is all about seeing creative potential in what you already have. We’ll explore adaptive techniques that allow everyone to get creative, hands-on, and expressive, honoring the materials and stories behind each special handmade piece. Beth will also share her own journey as a disabled knitter and adaptive maker, highlighting how creativity and adaptability have kept her connected to the craft in new and meaningful ways. This class is a celebration of adaptive thinking and the power of making. Whether your piece is a memory-filled shawl, a special swatch, or even a gifted (but unflattering) sweater, join us and turn it into a personal work of art that brings new warmth into your home.

Keith Leonard
Tubular Cast Ons
Offered Friday from 11am-1pm EST
The Tubular Cast On is Keith’s FAVORITE method for beginning a 1x1 and 2x2 rib. This is the same technique that is used on high-end machine made knitwear. It’s almost as if the stitches appear out of thin air with no beginning or ending in sight! Fine details like these give your knitting a truly professional look, especially on cowls, hats, socks, sleeve cuffs, sweater hems, and necklines. There are multiple ways to do this cast on; Keith has tested them all and is here to show you the BEST while breaking down the steps to make the techniques easy and manageable. We will be using two different methods for casting on 1x1 and 2x2 ribbing. In addition, Keith will give you tips to make your Tubular Cast On pristine and keep your edges crisp. After taking this workshop, you’ll love working the Tubular Cast On so much that you’ll use it anywhere you can!

No Fear Brioche
Offered Friday from 3-5pm EST
Brioche stitch is all the rage! Gazing upon a brioche pattern may be intimidating, but this class will break down its components as you begin to master this unique and oddly constructed stitch pattern. Brioche stitch makes for a lofty and squishy fabric that is perfect for sweaters, scarves hats and blankets. Come join the fun and learn some new knitting abbreviations such as "Bark" and "Burp"!

Short Row Fun
Offered Saturday from 11am-1pm EST
One of Keith’s favorite aspects of knitting is that there are many ways to get to the same place. For example, there are many different methods for casting on, increasing, decreasing, binding off, etc. However, when it comes to short rows, German Short Rows have proven over and over to be the EASIEST while looking the BEST! Many patterns, however, are still written using traditional wrap and turns. In this class we will review wrap and turns in order to better understand how and why German short rows are preferred. We will then master the German Short Row technique and learn how to translate patterns (Including The Lizard Ridge Afghan) so you can use German Short Rows in ANY pattern.

WOW! Now I’m a Continental Knitter (with Combination Tricks!)
Offered Saturday from 3-5pm EST
Do you "throw" or knit English Style (with the yarn in your right hand?) Have you gazed upon Continental Knitters and wished you had the slick speed with which they knit? If so, THIS is the class for you. As an English Style Knitter, it was important for Keith to learn Continental Knitting in order to demonstrate different techniques to different knitters. However, he quickly learned the AMAZING advantages of knowing and using both knitting styles. So join Keith as he teaches you to speed up your knitting by "picking" or knitting Continental Style! PLUS, he is also going to show you some Combination Tips that will help you tweak your knitting and make your knitting look more professional.

Nina Machlin Dayton
Swatching & Gauge
Offered Friday from 11am-1pm EST
A gauge swatch will tell you everything you need to know about the final outcome of the hours you'll spend with some beautiful yarn and your favorite needles. In this class, students will dissect the elements of a properly knit gauge swatch including stitch count, row count, fabric characteristics, swatching for even patterned fabrics and uneven patterned ones like lace, swatching for in-the-round patterns, and the best way(s) to block your swatches for best results. Your knitting wants you to take this class!

Flawless Finishing
Offered Friday from 3-5pm EST
Many a beautifully knit sweater or accessory falls short in the finishing process. We'll examine best practices for the steps that make our projects more polished looking - Seaming (vertical to vertical, horizontal to horizontal, and vertical to horizontal for the dreaded set-in sleeve!), blocking, and weaving in ends. Take your projects to the next level by learning the techniques and tricks that make them look impeccable!

Bead Your Knitting
Offered Saturday from 11am-1pm EST
Add some beautiful sparkle to your knitting! Together we will knit a beautiful beaded swatch that will allow us to knit and practise several different methods of adding beads to your knitting - a beaded cast on with prestrung beads, 2 methods to add beads to your knitting as you go, and a beaded bind off.

Duplicate Stitch 
Offered Saturday from 3-5pm EST
Duplicate Stitch is a way to create beautiful colorwork in our knitting after the piece is finished. We will learn to do this, as well as diving into the other uses it has - for reinforcing your knit fabric, for repairing small holes or worn patches invisibly, and for surprising pathways to understanding and mastering both best practices for sewing shoulder seams on sweaters, and how to graft pieces together!

Kim McBrien Evans
Inspiration to Admiration: Creating a Story in Yarn
Offered Friday from 11am-1pm EST
How do you take an idea from inspiration to finished object? Over your knitting lifetime, you’ve developed techniques, colours and stitch patterns you love to work with. This class builds on what we already know, showing how to translate the skills you have now to your knitting projects to make them deeply personal.*

Breaking the Rules: Building Unique Shawl Shapes
Offered Friday from 3-5pm EST
Contemporary shawls build on tradition, yet defy it openly. Shawls are for all genders and all sizes and are limited only by your imagination. Take what you know about traditional shapes and learn to bend, twist and break those shawl recipes. Learn how to manipulate shape for depth, for length and for colour and stitch play to start creating unique shawls just for you.

Secrets From the Skein: What Your Yarn Forgot To Tell You
Offered Saturday from 11am-1pm EST
Hand dyed yarns seduce us with their beauty, but are often challenging to work with. But once the honeymoon is over and you’re knitting your project, all its secrets rise to the surface. What is your hand dyed yarn REALLY telling you, and how can you best use it in your next project? We’ll explore:
   - What kinds of projects are best suited for different dyeing styles
   - Identify different dyeing styles and how to “read” your yarn
   - The myth of the “dye lot”
   - How to easily and effectively alternate skeins for larger projects

Sweaters That Fit!
Offered Saturday from 3-5pm EST
Are you a would-be Sweater Knitter? Do you have fears of putting time and effort into sweaters that don’t fit? In this class we’ll look at ways to improve your sweater knitting before you start your pattern. Learn how to create perfect sweater fabric and how to take the most important measurements for sweater fit, and apply that information to how to choose the best size for you, and how to build a “hybrid size” when your measurements span more than one size. Finally we’ll look at what you need to know about sweater knitting, ease and design details to knit better sweaters for your body and personal style.

Pru Raymond
Intro to Fair Isle
Offered Friday from 3-5pm EST
Begin your love affair with Stranded Colorwork Knitting. This workshop is designed by Pru Raymond as an introduction to this popular colorwork technique also known as Fair Isle. Learn to read charts, select colours and tension yarns in one and two hands. Develop the confidence to cast on your first- or next- Fair Isle project.

Simple Socks
Offered Saturday from 3-5pm EST
Get started knitting socks with Simple Socks. This workshop is designed by Pru Raymond for knitters who have mastered the basics (casting on, knit and purl stitches) and want to learn to knit socks for themselves and others. Over the course of the two hours, participants will knit a mini sock, in order to develop fundamental skills and confidence to knit the full size DK and/or 4ply pattern included in the instruction booklet. 

Amy Snell
Cooler Cast-Ons, Better Bind-Offs
Offered Friday from 11am-1pm EST 
Different projects benefit from different techniques in casting on and binding off: sometimes you need a firm bind-off, and sometimes a stretchy one. Sometimes you want to cast on provisionally, or using two colors, or in ribbing. In this class we’ll explore new ways to cast on and bind off and share tips to improve your technique on your old favorites.

Fascinating Finishes: Embroidering Your Knits
Offered Friday from 3-5pm EST
What's better than a finished object? A fascinatingly-finished object! Learn to take your knits to the next level with these arresting embroidery finishes. No harder than weaving in ends, but so much more satisfying — in this class you'll learn and practice multiple embroidery finishes to elevate your hand-knits or enliven store-bought knits. We'll explore how simple geometric stitches can elevate existing stitchwork and highlight knitted motifs. Simple to execute but stunning to see, you'll come away from this class with boundless ideas for really finishing off your finished knits by adding amazing touches to borders, hems, cuffs, or even entire pieces.

Delve Into Design: Creative Cowls
Offered Saturday from 11am-1pm EST
Learn the basics of knitting pattern design - how to turn your idea into a finished object - by bringing your own custom cowl to life. We'll explore the importance of gauge, pattern repeats, and sizing while planning out your own special project. You'll consider edgings, transitions, and more, then work through how to put it all together.

Knitwear Repair: Resurrecting Your Damaged Knits
Offered Saturday from 3-5pm EST
No matter how much care we take with our knitted items, sometimes they develop holes, pulls, snags, or even moth damage. Never fear! With just a bit of effort, you can repair the damage and ready your knits for many more years of use. In this class you’ll learn several different methods for repairing damage, and when to use each.

We're here to help!  
Please contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Team at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102 with any retreat related needs.
Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8AM - 4PM ET (excluding federal and/or Massachusetts state holidays), and on-call staff will be available throughout the duration of the retreat. All calls, voicemails, and/or emails will be answered as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!

General
What is included with the package I selected?
Each retreat package includes access to all retreat social events, sponsor presentations, mindful yoga and meditation, the keynote speech, and a Stitch and Stash tote bag mailed right to your door and an exclusive coupon code valid at WEBS for use during the retreat. Depending on your selected retreat package, you will also enjoy between 4 to 8 hours of classes: 4 class hours are included with the Merino Package, 6 class hours are included with the Alpaca Package, and 8 class hours are included with the Cashmere Package. 

Will the retreat be recorded?
No, sessions will not be recorded. Please plan to attend all retreat events and classes live!

What are my payment options? 
A minimum non-refundable $100.00 deposit is required to complete your registration by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express credit or debit card. You can select to only pay this deposit when you first register, or your full balance, or anything in between! If you do not pay your full balance when you first register, all remaining fees must be paid by Tuesday, December 17, 2024. You can create your own payment plan by periodically submitting additional payments by card online or by phone (413-577-8102), or by contacting us to discuss alternate payment options (413-577-8102, registration@umass.edu).

Can I use a WEBS gift card?
No, sorry, WEBS gift cards cannot be applied to your balance for the retreat. Save that gift card to stock up for your class materials before the retreat starts!

What is the cancellation policy?
All cancellations must be sent in writing to UMass Conference Services by email (registration@umass.edu). No registration will be canceled and no credit will be issued unless a written confirmation is provided. For cancellations received prior to December 23: a refund will be processed less the non-refundable $100.00 deposit. For cancellations received after December 23 but before January 9: a refund will be processed less a cancellation fee in the amount of 50% of the selected retreat package + $60.00. For cancellations received after January 9: cancellations will be ineligible for a refund and no refund will be issued.

Registration
I'm not sure which package is best for me. What should I do? Can I change my selected retreat package later?
Yes, depending on availability (and prior to when class links are emailed out), you can change your selected retreat package, either decreasing to a package with fewer class hours or increasing to a package with additional class hours. If you are unsure which package would best suit you or would prefer to wait until more class details related to materials, homework, and/or skill level are available, select whichever package feels most right for you now, complete your registration, and then adjust as needed from there, ideally prior to December 17 (this date will give you the best chance to change packages, including classes if applicable, with less chance of their being an issue). To adjust your retreat package contact us (413-577-8102 or registration@umass.edu), or log back in to the registration page using the account you used to register and click "Edit Registration". If you edit yourself online, upon login you'll be able to go back through the form and select a different package. If a partial refund is due one will be processed accordingly within a few business days. If an additional balance is due fees must be paid by December 17 or, if changes are made after December 17, at the time you adjust your registration. Note the online registration form will disallow these types of edits once those are no longer being accepted, but to ensure your class schedule is edited as needed before the retreat, we recommend contacting us by phone or email when possible.

Can I register multiple attendees at once?
Registration is accepted on an individual basis, so each attendee must go through the form, enter in their unique details, and proceed through to submit payment: you cannot register or pay for multiple attendees at the same time and cannot add multiple retreat registration packages at once. Because of this, and because of how quickly the retreat can fill, we recommend each attendee goes through and registers themselves using their own account. However, if needed, you can register one attendee through the payment submission process and, once that registration is completed, you can go through the form again to register someone else. To do this, first enter in the details for one attendee and proceed through to submit payment via our online payment portal. Next, click "Home" in the toolbar at the top of the page (if you don't see the "Home" button, click to access your receipt which should bring you to a page with this button). Once you click "Home", you'll see a summary of the registration you just completed, and a "Create Additional Registration" button over on the right. Click this button to be brought to a new, blank form, where you can enter in the details for the next attendee and again proceed all the way through the form to the payment gateway. Do not use your browser's back button and do not replace existing information with another attendee's information: deleting one attendee's information and replacing it with new information will overwrite the completed registration with this new information, and will not result in multiple people being registered. If you need assistance, contact us: while you need to complete all registrations yourself online, we're happy to help you navigate the registration form as needed.

Classes
How do I sign up for classes?
We use a multipart registration process. First, start by registering for your chosen retreat package. Registration will open at 12 p.m. EST on Thursday, November 21. Then, at noon on December 4, registered attendees will be able to submit class preferences by returning to this page and logging back in to their account. Detailed instructions will be emailed to registered attendees prior to December 4. Click the "Class Description" tab above to learn more about the classes being offered!

I didn't get the class I wanted. What can I do?
Some class sizes are limited and typically some classes are very popular, so while all attempts are made to put everyone into their first choice for each time block unfortunately it is not always possible. We strongly recommend you take a look at all of the class descriptions and try to find two for each block that are of interest to you so that you can enter in accurate class preferences on December 4. If we are unable to add you to any of your top choices we will automatically place you on the waitlist for your preferred class(es) and contact you if a spot opens up. You can also contact us at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102 to see if space is open in any other classes that might be of interest.

Is there any homework or materials for my class(es)?
Yes, some classes have homework and/or materials lists, as well as class specific handouts. All of the information that you will need will be provided as an attachment to your class assignment email, followed by any necessary updates, patterns, download links, etc., as the retreat approaches.

I have questions about a class description, skill level, homework and/or materials. Can someone help me?
Sure! If you have any questions about a class description, skill level, homework and/or materials needed please send along a detailed email to us at registration@umass.edu and we would we happy to help, or connect you with the appropriate person who can further assist you.

Preparing for the Retreat
When will I receive additional information about the retreat?
When you register you will automatically receive an informational email containing the latest information about the retreat. Leading up to the retreat, you can also expect to hear from us periodically by email with additional updates and instructions on how to access virtual programming, as well as emails related to your class assignments, necessary homework/materials lists, and confirmation of the mailing address to use to ship your Stitch & Stash bag. Please add our email address (registration@umass.edu) to your contacts so you don't miss any of these follow-up emails! We're here to help you get the most out of the retreat, so if you have any questions or concerns in the meantime, please do not hesitate to reach out to us! We can be reached at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102.

How do I access retreat sessions?
The retreat will be held virtually from January 23 - 26. All retreat events will be held live on Zoom, a web conferencing platform that you can download and use for free. Each retreat session will have its own unique meeting link, and prior to the retreat you will receive a personalized schedule by email that will include all of the links that you will need, including links for all sponsor presentations, roundtables, your classes, socials, mindful yoga and meditation, and the Sunday keynote. Sessions will not be recorded so you should plan to attend all events live. Note all listed times are ET (Eastern Time): click here to convert to your local time. In preparation for the retreat, please make sure to install Zoom client for meetings and create an account if you don't have one yet.

This is my first virtual event. How can I prepare?
We know a virtual event can be intimidating, so we put together a whole bunch of information to help you get ready! Click on the "Virtual Retreat Tips" tab above to see our suggestions on how to get the most out of your virtual experience, including how best to prepare yourself and your space prior to - and during - the retreat. You may also find it helpful to check out our detailed Zoom How-To Guide and Zoom Cheat Sheet, which review key Zoom features and functionality. Note these resources are written for those using a desktop or laptop computer, so if you instead plan to join using a mobile phone or tablet some features may be slightly different. If you still have questions, we're here and happy to help - contact us at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102 so we can assist you with getting ready, answer any questions, or troubleshoot any issues! Keep an eye on your inbox as the retreat approaches, too - we'll be sharing pertinent updates and news between now and January, and you can always reply to these emails or give us a call.

What should I do if I'm having trouble connecting during the retreat?
If you're having trouble connecting to your session it may be because the host has not yet started the meeting. If you join the meeting before the host does, you will see a message that says "Waiting for host to start this meeting." In this case, please wait for the host to join, and you should be brought into the meeting shortly! Most sessions will use the "Waiting Room" feature, which puts you and other attendees into a virtual waiting room until the host and co-host are ready to begin. If this is the case, you will see a message that says "Welcome! Your session will start shortly." You will then be let into the meeting by the host once they are ready to begin.

If the meeting is in session but you can't connect, don't worry! First, make sure you are connected to the internet. Next, try closing Zoom and then reopen the meeting link included in your personalized schedule email (we will send you all of the necessary links by email prior to the retreat). If this doesn't work, we suggest restarting your device and trying again. If you are still having trouble connecting, please reach out to us at registration@umass.edu with exactly what issues/errors you are experiencing so we can assist you.

We're here to help!  
Please contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Team at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102 with any retreat related needs.
Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8AM - 4PM ET (excluding federal and/or Massachusetts state holidays), and on-call staff will be available throughout the duration of the retreat. All calls, voicemails, and/or emails will be answered as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!

We're happy to help you navigate if you are new to virtual learning or your a returning virtual learner and need a refresher! We have put together tips and tricks to make your experience as seamless as possible. Please review the information below and contact us if you have any questions (registration@umass.edu, 413-577-8102).

Virtual Retreat Zoom Guide
Virtual Retreat Zoom Cheat Sheet
Download Zoom Client for Meetings or (click here)
Sign-up for a Zoom Account
Zoom Resources Library
Zoom Test Meeting
Internet Speed Test

Prepare Before the Retreat
Download Zoom and Create an Account: For First Time Users
All retreat sessions will be held live on Zoom, a web conferencing platform that you can download and use for free. For first time Zoom users, first visit https://zoom.us/download click the "Download" button under Zoom Client for Meetings. We recommend downloading Zoom onto a device with a larger screen, such as a laptop or desktop computer, instead of using your phone or tablet. In addition to downloading Zoom, you will need to create a Zoom account if you do not yet have one. You can create an account by downloading Zoom and then opening the Zoom app. This will bring you to a login screen, and on the bottom right you can click the "Sign up for Free" button. You can also create an account by visiting https://zoom.us/signup. It's a relatively easy process to download Zoom and create an account, but it does take a few minutes so make sure to do this before the start of the retreat!

Choose Your Device Carefully
If you have multiple devices, we recommend downloading Zoom onto the one with the largest screen, such as a laptop or desktop computer, so that you can easily see what is going on. When possible we don't recommend using your phone as it will be difficult to see what is happening on such a small screen, plus phone calls, emails, and text messages could be distracting. The features and functionalities of the mobile version of Zoom are also slightly different, so please note that our guide and cheat sheet are not fully applicable to the mobile version (and also vary slightly from Zoom features/functionality on tablets). Lastly, for most classes, as well as some social events, you will want to be following along and actively knitting: be sure to use a device that can stand on it's own so you can keep your hands free!

Practice with Zoom
If you are new to Zoom or need a refresher, we recommend taking advantage of some of the many resources available to familiarize yourself with how to use it! We have created a detailed Zoom how-to guide, as well as a Zoom cheat sheet for your reference. You can also practice on your own by joining a test Zoom meeting here, or checking out some of Zoom's beginner tutorials here. If you have any questions or need a little more support, please don't hesitate to contact us - we're more than happy to help you get squared away before the retreat (registration@umass.edu, 413-577-8102)!

Check Your Internet Connection
To get the most out of each session, it is important to use reliable internet! If possible, ask others in your home to stay off of the internet when you are in a session to minimize the devices connected to your network. If your wireless internet frequently lags, kicks you off, or is generally unreliable, try to use a wired connection right from your computer into your router, and keep your camera off as much as possible. You could also see if there is somewhere else you can go for internet access, such as the home of a family member or friend, a library, or a local café. Some libraries offer free outdoor wi-fi, allowing you to connect from a nearby parking lot or outdoor space.

Unsure about your internet speed and reliability? Do a quick test of your internet speed on Google! This test will let you know your internet speed and how well it can handle multiple devices connected at the same time, video conferencing, and more.

Create a Special Retreat Space
Find an area of your home where you will be comfortable, and ideally one that is private to minimize distractions. Arrange a comfortable chair in front of your screen. Set your screen up on a table, stand, or desk, so that you can easily see it while having your hands free to knit. Create a little kit to keep all of your supplies organized and easy to grab, and fill it with your knitting supplies, class materials/homework, drinks, snacks, a notebook, a pen/pencil, and whatever else you might need. If you decide to have your camera on, consider the camera angle and the background your teachers and fellow students will see. You may want to prop up your screen so that the camera is at or above eye level for a more flattering angle. Consider what others will see behind you, and perhaps rearrange or spruce up the space a bit. During the retreat, remove distractions and background noises by closing the doors and windows to your space, silencing your phone, and asking your family or housemates to be mindful of when you will be attending retreat sessions.

During the Retreat
Get Ready for Your Sessions
"Zoom fatigue" is all too real - it can be tough to sit in virtual session after virtual session, even if we have some of the most engaging hosts and teachers around! It helps to prepare yourself and your space in advance, and to get mentally and physically ready the day of. Consider stretching or going for a walk before a block of session begins. Leading up to the session, give yourself enough time (at least 15 minutes!) before the start of the session to get your device up and running and make sure your audio and video are working. Know when your classes begin, and what additional events you would like to attend. Be sure to setup your space in the days leading up to the retreat (see the "Create a Special Retreat Spot" section above) and have anything that you might need during the session close by - you don't want to miss anything because you have to go grab some supplies or a drink! If you decide to have your camera on, keep in mind the instructor and other attendees will be able to see you, so make sure you are camera ready. This is also helpful if you need to get up and grab a supply from somewhere else in your home (we've all seen the videos of the mishaps that result when someone on camera forgets that they aren't quite dressed appropriately!)

Stay Muted (except during dedicated Q&As!)
When you join a session you should automatically be muted. Please stay muted unless you have a question or need assistance to avoid broadcasting any unexpected background noises to all of the other participants in the meeting. On the bottom meeting toolbar you will see a microphone icon: if there is a red line in this icon that means you are muted, and you can click this icon to request to unmute if needed. You can also utilize a number of other communication methods in Zoom while staying muted, such as the Chat feature or Reactions (take a look at our how-to guide and cheat sheet for more information!). Your instructor might have their own specific requests regarding how attendees should make comments or ask questions, so the exact protocol to follow may vary depending on the class or session - we recommend logging in a few minutes early to make sure you don't miss any special instructions made by that session's host.

Take Advantage of Time In-Between Sessions
The retreat is packed full of great events. Review the schedule to get a sense of when you will have some breaks or blocks of down time, and take advantage of these! When you have a break, try to get up and stretch. For longer breaks, consider taking a short walk to get some fresh air and recharge. These are also great chances to replenish any supplies, drinks, or snacks in preparation for the next session!

We're here to help!  
Please contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Team at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102 with any retreat related needs.
Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8AM - 4PM ET (excluding federal and/or Massachusetts state holidays), and on-call staff will be available throughout the duration of the retreat. All calls, voicemails, and/or emails will be answered as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!

We are so excited you will be joining us for the virtual WEBS Winter Knitting Retreat! If there is anything you need or anything we can assist with, either before or during the retreat, please contact us at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102. We are open Monday - Friday from 8am - 4pm (ET).