Schedule
Below is the event schedule. To download a copy of the YarnSmarts Retreat Booklet, including the schedule, please click here. 

Please note that since attendees, teachers, and event staff will be joining from around the United States (and the world!) all times are listed in Eastern Standard Time (EST). Click here to add your time zone and convert to your local time, if needed.

Thursday, February 26
6:00 - 6:15pm: Welcome 
6:15 - 7:15pm Guest Speaker
7:30 - 8:30pm: YarnSmarts After Dark 

Friday, February 27
9:30 -10:30am: Morning Kickstart 
11:00am -1:00pm: Classes 
   - Intarsia Basics: Painting with Yarn with Shaina Bilow   
   - Knitting Outside the Box with Bristol Ivy
   - Flawless Finishing with Keith Leonard
   - Bead Your Knitting with Nina Machlin Dayton 
   - Knit 2 Socks in 1 with Safiyyah Talley 
   - Crochet Tips & Tricks with Lily Chin 
1:30 - 2:30pm: Craft Chat 
3:00 - 5:00pm: Classes 
    - Knit Math 101: Gauge and Magic Numbers for Knitting with Shaina Bilow
    - Short Rows with Bristol Ivy
    - Think You Can’t Crochet? HA! Watch This! with Keith Leonard 
    - Duplicate Stitch with Nina Machlin Dayton 
    - Modified Dropped Shoulder with Safiyyah Talley 
    - Easy, Effective Edgings with Lily Chin 
6:00 - 7:00pm: Happy Hour
7:30 - 8:30pm: YarnSmarts After Dark

Saturday, February 28
9:30-10:30am: Morning Kickstart
11:00am-1:00pm: Classes 
   - 2-Handed Stranded Colorwork with Shaina Bilow
   - From the Top: Exploring Top Down Shawls with Bristol Ivy 
   - Garter Stitch Mosaic Knitting with Nina Machlin Dayton 
   - Sweater Body Shapes from A line to Cropped: How to Adjust Any Sweater Pattern to Achieve Your Desired Shape! with Safiyyah Talley  
   - Join As You Go Crochet with Lily Chin
   - Combination Knitting with Patty Lyons   
1:30 - 2:30pm: CraftChat
3:00 - 5:00pm: Classes 
   - Knitting Modular Mitered Squares with Shaina Bilow 
   - Darn It with Bristol Ivy 
   - Thread Wrapped Dorset Buttons with Nina Machlin Dayton
   - Cowlette Class with Safiyyah Talley 
   - Design Inspiration with Lily Chin 
   - Make YOUR Gauge Work with Patty Lyons
6:00 - 7:00pm: Happy Hour
7:30 - 8:30pm: YarnSmarts After Dark 

Sunday, March 1
10:30 - 11:30am: Morning Kickstart
12:00 - 1:00pm: Keynote

Have questions or need assistance? We're happy to help! 
Please contact the UMass Conference Services at registration@umass.edu. or 413-577-8102.
Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. EST (excluding federal and/or Massachusetts state holidays). All calls, voicemails and/or emails will be answered as soon as possible during our standard business hours. We look forward to hearing from you!

Class Descriptions

SHAINA BILOW
Intarsia Basics: Painting with Yarn:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Beginner
Add bold color motifs and designs to your knitting using the popular color knitting technique of Intarsia. Since it allows knitters to add color and shapes where they please, Intarsia can best be described as "painting with yarn". Learn to work with bobbins, read a chart, work duplicate stitch, and create bold blocks of color using Intarsia as you make a mini piece of modern art during this workshop. Prerequisites: cast-on, bind-off, knit, purl.

Knit Math 101: Gauge and Magic Numbers for Knitting:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
​​Take a deep breath, grab your calculator, and learn how understanding gauge and its relationship to our knits can transform your success when knitting. We will cover gauge extensively and learn Shaina’s “Magic Number” – a way to use whatever gauge you’re getting on whatever project you want to knit. Have a favorite sweater in worsted weight? Use the “Magic Number” to adapt the pattern for fingering weight to bulky weight and everything in-between.

2-Handed Stranded Colorwork:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Learn how fun it is to knit with both hands at once as you create mesmerizing patterns in two colors of yarn. In the class materials, you will be able to select one of many patterns to incorporate into the body of a simple hat. Some of the designs included are a snowflake, heart, checkerboard, diamonds, zig zag, and bubbles. Whether you are new to Stranded Colorwork or have worked it before, there is always a new trick to be learned in one of Shaina's workshops. 

Knitting Modular Mitered Squares:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm 
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Learn how to create mitered squares that can be used as building blocks in no-finishing required blankets, scarves, and more! Mitered squares use double decreases, cool cast-ons, and perfectly picked up edges – all of which we’ll be covering in this workshop. Whether you love the look of scrappy quilts, are searching for ways to use up odds and ends, or simply enjoy learning new techniques, mitered squares will quickly become your new favorite knitting technique!

LILY CHIN
Crochet Tips & Tricks:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Advanced-Beginner. Be familiar with all basic stitches, have worked in the round.
Learn all the little secrets to make crocheting life easier and better. Find out how to work a foundation chain that is not too tight. Join a new skein of yarn or a new color without losing that first stitch. See ways of attaching buttons as you work. Create invisible circular joins where the beginning and end are absolutely imperceptible. Weave in those little ends that are too short to put through a darning needle. Take away lots of small “fix-its” and improve those details. 

Easy, Effective Edgings:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Advanced-Beginner to Intermediate. Be familiar with all basic crochet stitches.
Have problems trimming your projects without puckers or ripples? Want more ideas for some trims? Trims put a “frame” around any project so this finishing touch is that final touch that can take something from home-made to hand-made. Get the skinny on some interesting, new and different ways to dress up all kinds of crochet. There are no need to go through contortions for fancy-schmancy intricacies that can overwhelm a project. There is no need for really large stitch multiples for huge pattern repeats. These are fun and simple yet accessible.

Join As You Go Crochet:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: Intermediate - Have knowledge of all basic crochet stitches.
Most crocheters avoid seaming like the plague. When working motifs, the sewing seams daunting. Learn how to join as you go for many situations. Get color-blocking effects without having to work Intarsia. Attach an edging all around a piece to trim. Join a new piece to the left of an existing piece, to the right of an existing piece, or to the top or bottom of an existing piece.

Design Inspiration:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm 
Skill Level: Open to all with an open mind.
Have you ever wondered where ideas come from? Where do designers draw their inspiration from? How do they interpret their ideas into reality? What problems arise? What challenges are posed? What details do they specifically look for? What special tools are involve? See the many examples of source and result in this show-and-tell lecture. Bring a dose of practical to the imaginative. Truly learn how to translate your ideas into practical crocheting.
*WARNING*: Most of the samples from this class are knitted, but applications for crochet are obvious; same principles apply.

BRISTOL IVY
Knitting Outside the Box:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Intermediate
One of the most interesting and best parts about knitting is the huge variety of patterns available. But where does the inspiration for those patterns come from? In this class, we’ll talk about different forms of inspiration and different ways of thinking about knitting, and then explore methods and theory to bring those ideas to reality. This is a great class if you’re interested in designing, or just want to experiment with all the possibilities knitting has to offer! Must be comfortable with stitch patterns, and have a willingness to experiment and play.
Experience needed: comfort with basic garment and accessory construction.  

Short Rows:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Short rows are a very handy way to add shaping to your knitting in both conventional and unexpected ways. Use them to turn a heel on a sock, better tailor a garment to your shape, or add unexpected twists and turns to accessories. In this class, we’ll discuss the mechanics of short rows, try out different short row techniques, and think about when and where to use them.
Experience needed: decreasing.

From the Top: Exploring Top Down Shawls:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
There are a few different main classifications of shawl shaping, each with its own personality and possibilities. In this class, we’ll explore top-down shawl construction, where the shawl starts with a small number of stitches at the back neck and works outwards to a grand finale of a hem. We’ll try a few traditional constructions, and then uncover the math behind them that lets us make these shapes our very own.
Experience needed: knitting, purling, increasing.  

Darn It:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm 
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
In this class, we’ll discuss when bad things happen to good, well- loved knits, and how we can fix it. We’ll discuss basic repair techniques, as well as yarn structure and picking yarn for projects to make our knits last as long as possible.
Experience needed: knitting, purling, decreasing.

KEITH LEONARD
Flawless Finishing:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
In this class, you are going to learn how to professionally assemble your knitwear! You will use your prepared swatches to learn my tricks behind five different seaming situations. You will also learn the correct way to pick up stitches across both the top and sides of your knitting. You will truly be amazed as the magic unfolds, and you will walk away with the skills to finish your knitwear professionally for years to come! 

Think You Can’t Crochet? HA! Watch This!:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Beginner
Have you always wanted to learn to crochet or have you tried in the past with little or no success? You WILL get it this time! In this class you WILL learn first learn the 4 crochet stitches (single, half double, double and triple crochet!) crocheting off of a small knitted swatch You will then learn how to properly chain, how to crochet off of a foundation chain, build height with turning chains and keep count!

NINA MACHLIN DAYTON
Bead Your Knitting:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Intermediate
We will knit a beautiful, beaded swatch that will allow us to learn and practice many methods for adding beads to your knitting - a beaded cast on with pre- strung beads, 2 methods of adding beads to your knitting as you go, and a beaded bind off.

Duplicate Stitch:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Intermediate
Duplicate stitch is a way to create beautiful colorwork in our knitting after the piece is finished. We will learn how 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 knitted pieces together.

Garter Stitch Mosaic Knitting:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: Intermediate
Mosaic knitting is a brilliant technique that allows us to create complex colorwork in our knitting using only 1 color at a time! Together we will learn the techniques needed to complete the Balabusta towel and dishcloth pattern that is included with this class.

Thread Wrapped Dorset Button:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm 
Skill Level: Intermediate
Together we will look at the history and techniques involved with creating Dorset Buttons, thread or yarn wrapped buttons that we can use to elevate our knit and non-knit clothes. We will learn the standard design for these as well as look at some beautiful alternatives, learn about traditional materials and modern equivalents, and discuss useful resources if you fall in love with Making Dorset Buttons - which often occurs! Students will leave this course having made at least 1 Dorset Button and the knowledge of how to make hundreds more!

SAFIYYAH TALLEY
Knit 2 Socks in 1:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Adventurous Beginner
Knit 2 Socks in 1 is a revolutionary sock method that eliminates second sock syndrome and all of the tedious parts of sock knitting. Your sock knitting adventure begins with knitting one long sock and putting lifelines (running scrap yarn through live stitches) for where you wish to separate your socks and place your heels. Then, using the lifelines as a safety net, you fearlessly cut your long sock in half, making two socks. Lastly, you finish off both socks separately. It’s a fun, quick, and easy way to knit socks without compromising fit, because all of the techniques used are traditional sock knitting methods that have been curated to create the perfect sock knitting experience.

Modified Dropped Shoulder:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Adventurous Beginner
Not your mama’s dropped shoulder! My tried-and-true drop shoulder technique is hands down the easiest way to knit a sweater without a pattern, while not compromising fit. In this class, we add shape and pizazz to the dropped shoulder, while staying true to the easy fit and (knit) design. So let me do the math for you, and let’s knit a modified dropped shoulder!

Sweater Body Shapes from A line to Cropped: How to Adjust Any Sweater Pattern to Achieve Your Desired Shape!:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: Adventurous Beginner
Sometimes we come across a pattern, and it just needs a little tweaking in the torso. In this class, I will provide cheat sheets for how to turn any top-down or bottom-up sweater pattern into your dream sweater by adjusting the torso to fit your specific needs, including how to create A-line, asymmetrical hems, cropped, and full length while maintaining sweater shaping.

Cowlette Class:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm 
Skill Level: Adventurous Beginner
Let me introduce you to my latest obsession and the subject of my latest book: cowlettes! Cowlettes are shawlettes that are knit in the round to create a unique accessory that can be worn and enjoyed by everyone. In the wintertime, they can be used as a warm layer, or you can knit a lighter version to be draped over a summer outfit. In this class, we will cover how to knit and customize our own cowlette using my handy-dandy Cowlette Workbook.

PATTY LYONS
Combination Knitting:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: Must know how to knit, purl, cast on, bind off. Know simple increases and decreases. All levels. All knitting styles welcome.
Have you tried learning continental, but the purl messes you up? Do you feel like you often have uneven tension? Do you have rowing out (your purl row is taller than your knit row). Or perhaps you are already a combination knitter and you’ve ever been told you knit “wrong”, or been asked “what are you doing”, take heart . . . there are no wrong ways to knit as long as we control our stitches. A combination knitter works through the back loop to knit, and the front loop to purl. It can be a fast and easy way to knit, but simple adjustments must be made to follow Western patterns, like how to knit in the round, and understand left and right slanting increases and decreases, and how to work twisted pattern stitches. If you are a Western knitter, then learn the amazing advantages to these knitting methods and how and when you would combine it with your own. If you are a Combination Knitter, learn how to make stitches better and easier for your style. If time allows, we will even explore different ways to cast on to avoid the first twisted row of knitting.

Make YOUR Gauge Work:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm 
Skill Level: Must know how to knit, purl, cast on, bind off. Recognize the knit and purl stitch and be able to work them in a pattern without supervision. Basic understanding of what gauge is and how to make a gauge swatch. Must be familiar with the math of gauge.
You know the basics of gauge, but how do you make your own gauge work for you? Stop trying to match the gauge exactly and learn how to knit a project to YOUR gauge. After a review of the basics, and how to make a “truthful” swatch, we’ll get to some of the trickier elements of gauge, such as pre-blocked v.s. blocked gauge, hung gauge, and the difference between yarn gauge and pattern gauge. We will explore what to do when a project is knit in the round or in a pattern stitch. We’ll even look at special gauge techniques such as speed swatch and an open cast on. Finally, we’ll master the math of using your gauge, not just the pattern gauge. We’ll learn how to work an existing size with a different gauge, resize a sweater by using a different gauge, how to add different stitch patterns to your garment, and how to make adjustments to your pattern when your row gauge is off. Stop trying to match someone else’s gauge and discover the joys of making YOUR gauge work!

Teacher Bios

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. Visit www.ShainaBilow.com to learn more about Shaina.

LILY CHIN
Lily M. Chin is an internationally famous knitter and crocheter who has worked in the yarn industry for more than 30 years, as a designer, instructor, and author of 8 books on knitting and crochet. Lily teaches around the world and now has instructional DVD’s out as well as some online classes. She has created looks for the New York Fashion Week runway collections of designers Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang, Diane von Furstenberg, and Isaac Mizrahi, and her work has been on the backs of celebrities and super models. She was named a “Master Knitter” by Vogue Knitting. She is regularly cited in media across the U.S., including the Late Show with David Letterman, Martha, CBS Morning News, CNN, HGTV, Knitting Daily, Knit and Crochet Now, and more. Lily Chin has lived in New York City all her life and has been involved in some aspect of the fashion industry since age 13.

BRISTOL IVY
Bristol Ivy is a knitting designer, teacher, and author from Bangor, Maine. Her work has been published with PomPom Magazine, amirisu, Quince & Co., Making Magazine, and her own eponymous pattern line. She has taught at such events as Squam Art Workshops, Edinburgh Yarn Festival, and Vogue Knitting Live, as well as yarn shops worldwide. Her recent books, Knitting Outside the Box and Knitting Outside the Box: Drape and Fold, both with PomPom Press, explore her lifelong commitment to breaking rules and finding beauty in unexpected places. When not knitting, she’s sewing, running, watching far too many British murder mysteries, and baking a mean loaf of oatmeal honey bread. Find her online at www.bristolivy.com and on Instagram and Twitter as @bristolivy.

KEITH LEONARD
Keith Leonard gained a love for knitting at the early age of 11 when he joined a lunchtime knitting program at his grade school in his hometown of Haworth, New Jersey.
After working at several knitting stores in upstate New York, New Jersey and New York City, he discovered that while knitters love to knit, most don't have the skills, knowledge, and/or desire to do the "finishing." So he took a chance and started Knits All Done - a specialized service for knitwear finishing. ​
Keith now travels the country teaching knitting and knitwear finishing classes at yarn shops, knitting guilds and Vogue Knitting Live events. He no longer accepts finishing projects, as his days are now filled with yarn dying and teaching online classes. When he is not traveling, Keith likes to hang out on his lanai with his cat Teddy, his husband Chuck, and his dog, Remy (in that order!) haha!

PATTY LYONS
Patty Lyons (http://pattylyons.com/) is a nationally recognized knitting teacher and technique expert who is known for teaching the “why” not just the “how” in her pursuit of training the “mindful knitter”. She specializes in sweater design and sharing her love of the much-maligned subjects of gauge and blocking.
Patty teaches nationally at guilds, shops & knitting shows around the country as well as hosting her own retreats. Her popular classes can also be found on DVD and online through her website on her education site education.pattylyons.com.
Her designs and knitting skill articles have been published in Vogue Knitting, Interweave Knits, Knit Purl, Knitter’s Magazine, Cast On, Knit Style, Creative Knitting, Twist Collective and Modern Daily Knitting where she writes a monthly knitter’s advice column: “Ask Patty”. Patty’s designs have also been included in pattern collections from Classic Elite, Noro, Cascade, Tahki Stacy Charles, Sugar Bush and Willow Yarns.

NINA MACHLIN DAYTON
Nina Machlin Dayton has been knitting and designing, and teaching knitting and design, for over 45 years. Her first professional knitting job was back in the 1980’s when she did handknitting for couturier designer Joan Vass, and she has never looked back. She was honored to be included in season 6 of Knit Stars and leads the team that created and runs the annual Indie Design Gift-A-Long on Ravelry. A native New Yorker, she now lives in the beautiful Pioneer Valley in western Massachusetts, in an old Victorian house stuffed to the rafters with books and yarn where she is constantly knitting new designs and dreaming up new classes, blending a deep love for vintage style with her passion for creative community.

SAFIYYAH TALLEY
Safiyyah is the author of “Knit 2 Socks in 1 and “Knitting Cowlettes”. She is also a knitwear designer, teacher, blogger and podcaster that works out of her home in scenic Indiana, USA. When she is not knitting, Safiyyah either spends her free time hiking with her photographer husband, her toddler son Beau, and chocolate lab, Arya, or enjoying the rural Indiana landscape with her three cats, Khaleessi, Nymeria, and Benjamin Chase.

General
What is included with the available packages?
Each package allows you to choose the number of classes you would like to attend and includes full access to all retreat events and presentations. Retreat classes take place on Friday, February 27 and Saturday, February 28. In addition, special events and presentations are scheduled throughout the retreat, beginning Thursday, February 26 and continuing through Sunday, March 1. All package holders will also receive a goodie bag, which will be delivered directly to their door.

Booklet with complete details coming soon!

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, 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.

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 goodie 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.

Can I change my selected retreat package?
Yes, depending on availability, 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. To adjust your retreat package contact UMass Conference Services at 413-577-8102 or registration@umass.edu, or log back into the online registration form using your existing account and click "Edit Registration". You'll then be able to go back through the form and select a different package, and once you reached the "Registration Review" page, all updates will have been successfully applied to your account.*

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.
Cancellations received between now and February 12: a refund will be processed less the non-refundable $100.00 deposit, and a $60.00 cancellation/processing fee.
For cancellations received after February 12: cancellations will be ineligible for a refund, and no refund will be issued.

Virtual Retreat Logistics
How do I access retreat sessions?
The retreat will be held virtually from February 26 - March 1. All retreat events will be held live on Zoom, a web conferencing platform that you can download and use for free. Each event 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 presentation, morning kickstarts, your classes, happy hours, and the YarnSmarts After dark sessions. Note all listed times are EST (Eastern Standard 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 November, 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.

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

Class Details
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. 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 will 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.

Payment
What are my payment options?
A minimum non-refundable $100.00 deposit is required to secure your registration. During registration you can select to pay this deposit, your full balance due, or any amount in between. Payment is accepted via this online registration page by Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express credit or debit card.

If you do not select to pay the full balance due during your initial registration, all remaining fees are due by the close of business (4:00pm EST) on February 10. You can create your own payment plan to periodically submitting additional payments online, by phone, or by check. Additional instructions are included in the informational email you will receive after completing your registration.

For questions related to payment and/or to discuss alternate payment options, please contact us at registration@umass.edu or 413-577-8102!

What is the payment deadline?
You must submit a minimum non-refundable $100.00 deposit to secure your registration. If you do not pay in full during your initial registration, all remaining fees are due by the close of business (4:00pm EST) on February 10.

Have questions or need assistance? We're happy to help!
Please contact UMass Conference Services at registration@umass.edu. or 413-577-8102.
Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. EST (excluding federal and/or Massachusetts state holidays). All calls, voicemails and/or emails will be answered as soon as possible during our standard business hours. We look forward to hearing from you!

New to virtual learning? We've got you covered.
We're happy to help you navigate this adventure! We have put together tips and tricks, a how-to guide, and a cheat sheet 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).

Prepare Before the Event
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.

Download Zoom and Create an Account
All retreat sessions will be held live on Zoom, a web conferencing platform that you can download and use for free. To use Zoom, 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 lounge 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, 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)!

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.

Tips for 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!

Have questions or need assistance? We're happy to help!
Please contact UMass Conference Services at registration@umass.edu. or 413-577-8102.
Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. ET (excluding federal and/or Massachusetts state holidays). All calls, voicemails and/or emails will be answered as soon as possible during our standard business hours. We look forward to hearing from you!

Questions, concerns, or need some assistance? We're here to help!
We are so excited you will be joining us for the virtual YarnSmarts 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.

Below are some links you might find helpful as you prepare for the retreat:

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