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 (EDT). Click here to add your time zone and convert to your local time, if needed.

Thursday, September 24
6:00 - 6:15pm: Welcome Meeting
6:15 - 7:15pm Guest Speaker, Ellen Lewis, Crazy for Ewe Yarn Shop
7:30 - 8:30pm: YarnSmarts After Dark 

Friday, September 25
9:30 -10:30am: Morning Kickstart 
11:00am -1:00pm: Classes 
   - Math for Knitters Level 1: Solving Knitters’ Number Puzzles with Kate Atherley   
   - Portuguese Knitting: From Basics to Colorwork with Ana Campos
   - New Ways to Do Just About Everything with Barry Klein
   - Introduction to Brioche with Xandy Peters 
   - Introduction to Dart Manipulation with Natalie Warner 
   - Colorwork the Easy Way with Harry Wells 
1:30 - 2:30pm: Craft & Chat 
3:00 - 5:00pm: Classes 
    - The Pick Up Artist with Kate Atherley 
    - Finish Like a Pro with Ana Campos
    - Tints, Tones & Knitting Two Colors Together with Fiona Ellis 
    - Tunisian Crochet with Barry Klein 
    - Fixing Mistakes in Brioche with Xandy Peters
    - Flipside Awesomeness - Reversible Cables with Harry Wells
6:00 - 7:00pm: Happy Hour
7:30 - 8:30pm: YarnSmarts After Dark

Saturday, September 26
9:30-10:30am: Morning Kickstart
11:00am-1:00pm: Classes 
   - Size & Fit: Why the “Medium” Never Fits Quite Right with Kate Atherley
   - Magical Miters in New Directions with Barry Klein 
   - Flawless Finishing with Nina Machlin Dayton 
   - Stitch by Color with Xandy Peters  
   - Surface Pattern Design for Knits - Stranded Colourwork with Natalie Warner
   - I’ll Put a Hex on You/Hexagon Stitch & Other K1 Below Textures with Harry Wells   
1:30 - 2:30pm: Craft & Chat
3:00 - 5:00pm: Classes 
   - The “Holey Grail” - Avoiding Gaps and Holes with Kate Atherley 
   - Knitting as Meditation with Fiona Ellis 
   - New Yarns and How to Make the Most of Them with Barry Klein
   - Beaded Garter Stitch Cuffs with Nina Machlin Dayton 
   - Color Theory for Fiber Artists with Xandy Peters  
   - Short Row Magic with Harry Wells
6:00 - 7:00pm: Happy Hour
7:30 - 8:30pm: YarnSmarts After Dark 

Sunday, September 27
10:30 - 11:30am: Morning Yoga with Mary Ann Gebhardt
12:00 - 1:00pm: Keynote Talk by Special Guest, Patty Lyons

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. EDT (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

Kate Atherley
Math for Knitters – Level 1: Solving Knitters’ Number Puzzles:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Beginners, suitable for knitters who are confident with the mechanics of knitting, and are starting to work from patterns. This is NOT a garment alterations class, or for experienced knitters, or those with an interest in design.
Description: Everything you need to know to figure out all those tricky numbers puzzles you en-counter in your knitting. We’ll focus on how math fits into pattern reading – all the aspects of counting and working and keeping track of instructions. We’ll cover things like “Decrease every 8 rows 10 times”, and "Increase 12 sts evenly distributed across the row". We’ll talk about calculating yardage in partial balls of yarn, and how to ensure you’ll have enough to complete your project. We’ll also have a discussion of gauge and what it really means – and how to deal with it if you can’t match. Suitable for newer knitters, and those who wish to get more comfortable reading patterns - it's all about conquering your fear of the numbers and making you a more powerful knitter!

The Pick Up Artist:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Description: “Pick up and knit” is an instruction that often causes a lot of stress and worry. This session is all about how to pick up stitches, easily and neatly, to ensure that you have the right number of stitches and the result looks great. We’ll cover garment necklines and buttonbands, sock gussets, and mitten thumbs; we’ll also talk about special situations like Entrelac and pick-up-and-purl.

Size & Fit: Why the “Medium” Never Fits Quite Right:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: all levels, ideal for knitters just starting with garment knitting, or for knitters who haven’t had a lot of success with garments
Description: The biggest challenge for many knitters when starting a garment project is knowing which size to make. This class will show you how to decide - and set you well on the way to a successful and flattering sweater. We’ll explain how to read measurement tables and schematics to understand how a garment is sized. We'll show you how to measure yourself properly to make the right choice. And most importantly, we'll explain garment fit, including demystifying terms like "negative ease"- and show you how to choose the right pattern from the start.

The "Holey Grail" - Avoiding Gaps and Hole:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm 
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner - knitter should be confident with knit and purl
Description: This class focuses on tips and techniques for dealing with common holes and gaps in your knitting: why they’re there, how to avoid making them, and how to deal with them up if they do happen. We’ll talk about mitten thumbs, underarms in seamless garments, sock gusset pickups, necklines, starts and ends of rounds, and more! Bring your questions and holes!

Ana Campos
Portuguese Knitting: From Basics to Colorwork:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner and Beyond.
Description: Learn how to knit Portuguese style! Portuguese knitting is more efficient and easier on your joints, so it can help reduce strain and fatigue. In this style of knitting, the yarn is tensioned either around the neck or using a knitting pin. This unique method of tensioning the yarn allows both knit and purl stitches to be created with a simple flick of the thumb! In this workshop, you’ll start knitting a cowl that starts with basic techniques (Portuguese knit and purl), and then move to stranded colorwork. Portuguese Knitting makes it easier to control the tension of your floats, making for easy stranded knitting!

Finish like a Pro: Beautiful Seams and Joins:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm  
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner and Beyond.
Description: Level up your knitting! The finishing process is an important element that is often overlooked. It can make the difference between knits that look okay (or a little wonky) and knits that look truly polished. Take your knitting to the next level and learn how to expertly weave in ends, invisibly seam your knits along vertical and horizontal edges, and properly pick up stitches along finished edges.

Fiona Ellis
Tints, Tones & Knitting Two Colors Together:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm  
Skill Level: All Welcome
Description: Many knitters find it difficult to choose colours. This class will show you how to put color theory into practice, so that those scary sounding terms make sense. You will look at color temperature, tonal value, complimentary and analogous color schemes along with many other terms. But once you get playing with colour you will see how the theory can be a helpful underpinning. In combination with the colour exercises, instruction will be given on the techniques used for working with multi colors; Stripes, Fair Isle, Instarsia, Slip Stitch etc. 

Knitting as Meditation:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: All Welcome
Description: We’ve heard the phrase “Knitting is the New Yoga”. Fiona loves both yoga and knitting. Join her as she brings awareness to what is taking place during our knitting practice. She will lead some knitting exercises that will begin to teach many of the things she has learned from yoga. You can expect to come away with something new and useful; that may be a nifty new knitting trick or, you may learn something about yourself and how knitting can be used as meditation.

Barry Klein
New Ways to Do Just About Everything!:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Full understanding of basic knit and purl
Description: Cast on, bind off, pick up dropped stitches, full fashion inc, full fashion decrease, assembling pieces and more. Let’s take the basics that we already now and move them up to the next levels. There will be a few surprises in this class that will help you enjoy your yarns even more.

Tunisian Crochet:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Full understanding of basic crochet
Description: Let’s start with the basics and move on. In this class we will learn the classic Tunisian Stitch, from the initial chain to picking up stitches and then the return. We won’t spend a lot of time here as we assume you have an understanding of basic crochet. We will continue with this idea through working multiple yarns, changing shapes, working zig zag, Miters and creating patterns based on the ideas we’ve done with our swatches. One basic technique turned in every direction.

Magical Miters in New Directions:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Skill Level: Basic knit and purl
Description: Not diamonds or triangles but boxes that layer and lean into each other and more. Play with color, textures, and learn how to use up your stash. (We have the assumption that you have a stash….oooh yes you do!) All of the ideas are fun to do and really quick and they will allow you to become your own designer in the easiest way.

New Yarns and How to Make the Most of Them:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Basic understanding of knit, purl and how to use a crochet hook
Description: Textured, ruffled, open edges, plied, lashed and more. In this class, you will receive a few yarns from a group of new yarns and we will go about creating samples with them to detail them, add edges, use for embellishment stripes on top, create layers and more. All of the ideas are fun to do and really quick so you can finish a complete project quickly as we head towards the Holiday season.

Nina Machlin Dayton
Flawless Finishing:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Intermediate
Description: Many a beautifully knit sweater or accessory falls short in the finishing process. We will examine the best practices for the steps that make our projects more polished looking – picking up stitches for button bands, 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!

Beaded Garter Stitch Cuffs:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Intermediate
Description: Together we will learn the techniques to make these beaded garter stitch cuffs which are traditional in Lithuania and Latvia. Made with 6/0 seed beads and DK weight yarn they work up more quickly than the traditional cuffs they are inspired by, and teach a wonderful beading technique that you can use to embellish any number of different knitting projects that you want to add a bit of sparkle to!

Xandy Peters
Introduction to Brioche:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner/Intermediate - Must know knit, purl, slip, yarn over, and experience reading written or charted patterns.
Description: We will make a basic swatch and look at the unique terms and symbols used in brioche stitch patterns. The second half of the class is dedicated to examining and understanding our brioche swatches and troubleshooting common mistakes. This class focuses on 2-color brioche worked flat, but information will also be provided for 1-color (it’s more advanced than with 2 colors!) and circular techniques.

Fixing Mistakes in Brioche:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level: Intermediate: This class is best suited for students with a good understanding of basic 2-color brioche stitch who are ready to build their knowledge of brioche knitting.
Description: If you enjoy knitting brioche stitch but still feel lost if a mistake occurs, this class will get you back on track. Brioche mistakes, like the stitch itself, are unique from other knitting mistakes and often require a special set of skills. In this class, we will look at the structure of brioche fabric and learn when and how to rip back multiple rows, fix laddered stitches, and even correct a missed increase or decrease. We will also learn how to spot mismatched, dropped or twisted tuck stitches. Each student will cast on and begin a swatch of simple brioche stitch before class and are encouraged to follow along with demos of each fix. They will also have an opportunity to bring in their own brioche projects for help and advice.

Stitch by Color:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner/Intermediate: Students should be familiar with ONE of these techniques: beginner lace, slipped stitches, bobbles. These techniques and others will be demonstrated in class.
Description:  Have you ever struggled to find project ideas for multicolored yarn? In this class we will create colorwork, texture, or lace using variegated yarn as our guide. In plain stockinette or garter stitch, multicolor yarns create linear patterns. You can completely change the way a multicolor yarn looks by isolating or manipulating the colors with your stitches. Students will learn 15+ stitches that can be used in assigned pooling and knit by color patterns and have a chance to experiment with different stitches. At the end of class, everyone will share their results and discuss how each rule affected the outcome of their stitch pattern.

Color Theory for Fiber Artists:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm 
Skill Level: Open to all levels and crafts
Description: Learn strategies to help you quickly and efficiently try out exciting yarns and colors in your knitting. First, we will use coloring pages to explore our innate color sense. The fundamental concepts of color interaction and theory will be introduced in a lecture format. During the presentation, students will learn about the color wheel, historical points of interest, and will see examples of quick and dirty color-ups from a fashion industry perspective, focusing on methods of exploring color combinations without the expense of yarn and the time intensive process of swatching. Students are encouraged to bring in “difficult” yarns, spinning fiber, and color inspiration. Coloring and knitting swatches during the lecture time is encouraged. In the second half of the class, we discuss everyone’s coloring pages and yarn comparisons. This is an interactive and conversational class, designed to show range of palettes and color perspectives and how a pattern is changed by color.

Natalie Warner
Introduction to Dart Manipulation:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: All levels welcome
Description: Master the essential skill of dart manipulation in this hands-on class. Perfect for anyone interested in garment construction and fit, this class is suitable for all ability levels. You will learn to pivot and transfer darts to create a wide variety of new silhouettes and designs. We'll provide you with a digital half-scale bodice block to work with, allowing you to practice and continue your learning independently. This is a chance to move beyond basic patterns and understand the fundamentals of shaping garments, giving you the power to put your own creative spin on any design. Half-scale bodice blocks will be supplied digitally for learners to practice and continue learning independently of the class or lecture.

Surface Pattern Design for Knits - Stranded Colourwork:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: All are welcome
Description: Discover the world of surface pattern design for knitwear. This class is for knitters of all skill levels, from beginners to more advanced designers. We'll explore how to transform simple shapes into beautiful and complex tessellations. Learn to design repeating patterns using stranded colourwork. You’ll be guided through the process of developing your own ideas and creating a bank of unique designs. Give yourself credit for being a designer, not just a knitter—it’s time to expand your creative horizons and put your own stamp on your work!

Harry Wells
Colorwork the Easy Way:
Friday, 11:00am - 1:00pm  
Skill Level: Beginner - Participants must be proficient at casting on (long tail cast-on preferred), knitting, purling, and basic increases and decreases (k2tog, ssk, etc.) Familiarity with reading basic knitting charts is helpful.
Description: Slip-stitch patterns can boast amazing colorwork without the hassle of stranding or working with multiple colors in a row! Stunning results such as intricate mosaic designs, textural colorwork like houndstooth, and more are in your future. Along with the basic mosaic knitting technique for garter and stockinette, learn to predict when combinations of variegated and solid color yarn work together and when they will not, and how charts are written and read differently for mosaic knitting. Practical tips about navigating the technique and advice regarding the best uses for mosaic knitting are included. Also covered are examples of adding slip stitch to basic garter and progressively adding one, two, and three colors to achieve stunning colorwork results with so little effort!

Flipside Awesomeness - Reversible Cables:
Friday, 3:00 - 5:00pm
Skill Level:  Intermediate: Participants should be able to accomplish basic long tail cast-on, and basic stitches such as knit, purl, K2tog, SSK, yo, and know how to do a basic rope cable and be able to read charts with cable symbols.
Description: Cables are lovely...until you flip them over. Now learn how to make them reversible! Learn what can and cannot be reversed, and two methods in developing reversible cable fabric. Many examples of cables—rope, lozenge, celtic braid, horn and more—are covered with step-by-step examination and in-class exercises to convert them to reversible. Participants will be given several reversible sample stitch patterns to knit up.

I'll Put a Hex on You: Hexagon Stitch and Other K1 Below Textures:
Saturday, 11:00am - 1:00pm 
Skill Level: Intermediate: Participants should be able to accomplish the following without assistance: long tail cast on, basic sts (K, P, SSK, K2 tog)
Description: Knitting in the Stitch below is a stitch that creates a wide variety of textural interest. We will learn and practice the K1 Below technique on a one color Twisted Moss pattern practice on a two-color check pattern and other 1, 2, and 3 color textures, and then move on to the more complex Hexagon stitch, practicing it flat and in the round on a cowl project. Also, a complex 2 needle cast-on will be taught appropriate for the Hexagon Stitch and any other expansive knitted fabric.

Short Row Magic:
Saturday, 3:00 - 5:00pm 
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner - Participants should be able to accomplish basic long tail cast-on, and basic stitches such as knit, purl, K2tog, SSK, YO without assistance.
Description: Inserting short rows can create angles and curves, making amazing shaped knitted shawls, angles on garments, and additional shaped ease in areas like busts. In this class, you will learn and practice three methods of short rows: Wrap and Turn, Japanese, and German. As time permits, examples of applications with worksheets will be discussed, such as sloped shoulders, short row sleeve cap, and adding extra fabric for the bust area.

Teacher Bios

Kate Atherley
Kate Atherley is an internationally known knitting author, teacher, and editor. She has written nine books about various aspects of knitting, including a series of four about customizing projects for perfect fit and style. Her next book, Math for Knitters, will be published in the fall of 2025. The combination of her university degree in mathematics, professional experience in software development and usability, and training in garment and fashion design give her a unique perspective. She lives in Toronto with her husband and their rescue dog Winnie. www.kateatherley.com

Ana Campos
Ana Campos is a knitting and crochet instructor originally from Brazil. She now calls Salem, Massachusetts home, where she runs her yarn shop, Circle of Stitches, and Toil & Trouble, her indie yarn dyeing studio. Ana has a wealth of fiber knowledge to share, with over 30 years of knitting and crochet experience and extensive technical knowledge. She brings her experience as a former architect to the fiber arts, specializing in construction techniques, and fixes and repairs. As a founding member of Vogue Knitting LIVE!'s former Diversity Advisory Council, she continues to works to advocate for inclusion and accessibility in the fiber arts. You can find her teaching at guilds and events across the country.

Fiona Ellis
Fiona Ellis graduated from DeMontfort University (England) with a degree in fashion design, where she specialized in hand-knitwear design. Since graduating in 1993 she has been consistently designing professionally in a number of different areas. Her original designs have been sold to major fashion houses in New York, London & Paris for mass-market production and have been widely published through premier knitting magazines and in yarn pattern booklets for many yarn companies. In 2015 she was featured as the “Designer in Residence” throughout the year for Webs Yarns. She is the author of Inspired Cable Knits, Knitspiration Journal and Inspired Fair Isle Knits. She is also an instructor at Craftsy. You can find out what she is currently doing at www.fionaellisonline.com can also see all of her extensive design portfolio on Ravelry at: https://www.ravelry.com/designers/fiona-ellis

Barry Klein
Barry Klein is owner and designer of yarns and patterns for Trendsetter Yarns. Barry grew up in the knitting industry by working in his mothers’ knitting store. Barry learned how to custom design patterns and create knitwear for customers and the movie industry. Barry and his Mom started Trendsetter with the idea of bringing the most exciting textured, fashion and luxury yarns to the knitting customer. Over the past few years Cardiff Cashmere (Luxury Cashmere yarns from Italy), Lana Grossa (Largest and most successful yarn company in Europe) and now GGH have all been added in creating the new Trendsetter Yarn Group. Along with being a published author of 5 knitting books, T.V. knitting personality, knitting spokesperson/teacher at Stitches Events, Vogue Live, in store Trunk Shows and more. Barry has been a voted member of “Top 10 Men who Knit Throughout History.” Barry continues to share his knitting motto “Have fun, enjoy creating, personalize it and when possible let the yarn do the work.”

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.

Xandy Peters
Xandy Peters is a knitting designer and teacher, best known as the innovator of the stacked stitch technique and for the Fox Paws pattern.Starting out as a footwear and product designer, he turned to knitting as a way to explore textiles and surfaces without using factory production and has since made a career out of publishing new patterns and teaching workshops. Xandy has been published in magazines such as Vogue Knitting, Twist Collective, Knitscene, Knitty, and Pom Pom Quarterly, has a Craftsy class teaching the stacked stitch technique and continues to self publish patterns on a regular basis.

Natalie Warner
Natalie Warner of Natalie in Stitches is a fourth-generation dressmaker and university-trained knitwear designer dedicated to empowering makers. She understands the frustration of ill-fitting garments and champions a personalized approach to apparel patterns. Natalie believes clothes should serve you, not the other way around. Through her courses and patterns, she guides knitters and sewists to create garments that truly fit and express their unique style, fostering confidence and joy in the making process.

Harry Wells
Teaching and knitting are passions for Harry. In 2010, he retired from being a university professor to pursue his passion for knitting professionally. He teaches a myriad of classes at knitting conferences and fiber festivals on the regional and national circuit, for knitting guilds, and for knitting retreats. His extensive experience in classroom presentation and course preparation makes for an organized and engaging learning experience, whether in person or virtually. He enjoys designing knitwear and accessories for both men and women, with an aesthetic that emphasizes texture and linear flow. Check out his designs and knitting blog at www.goodforaboy.com. He is Knitteryninja on Ravelry, @harrywellsknits on Instagram, and Good for a Boy Knitting on Facebook.

Special Guest: 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. Patty has been a repeat guest on PBS’s Knitting Daily TV and even quoted as a subject-matter expert in the Wall Street Journal. Patty is also known for her lighthearted “feud” with Seth Meyers.

Patty is the author of the best-selling book: Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag of Tricks & Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag of Tricks: The Official Workbook: Hands-on exercises to improve your knitting skills Patty’s newest book: comes out Oct 1, 2026.

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, September 24 and Saturday, September 25. In addition, special events and presentations are scheduled throughout the retreat, beginning Thursday, September 24 and continuing through Sunday, September 27. All package holders will also receive a goodie bag, which will be delivered directly to their door.

Booklet with complete details, click here!

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 classes or increasing to a package with additional classes. 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 September 17: a refund will be processed less the non-refundable $100.00 deposit, and a $60.00 cancellation/processing fee.
For cancellations received after September 17: 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 September 24 - September 27. 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 September 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 EDT) on September 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. EDT (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. EDT (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 Yarn lovers Fall 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 
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