Tentative Retreat Schedule
Below is the tentative retreat schedule. To download the Summer Retreat Brochure, including a copy of the schedule below, please click here.

Note all time listed are Eastern Daylight Time (EDT): click here to convert to your local time, if needed.

Thursday, June 16
6 p.m.: Welcome meeting hosted by Kathy and Steve Elkins.
6:15 p.m.: Tahki presentation with Stacy Charles.
7:15 p.m.: Valley Yarns presentation.
8:30 - 9:30 p.m.: Late-night lounge presentation by Cascade Yarns.

Friday, June 17
8 - 9 a.m.: Morning Virtual Yoga with Knitter's Pride.
9 a.m.: All-day lounge opens (drop-in at your leisure throughout the day!).
9 - 10 a.m.: Tea Time in the lounge.
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Early afternoon classes:
               - Size and Fit: Why the "Medium" Never Fits Quite Right with Kate Atherley.
               - Let's Twist Again with Fiona Ellis.
               - A Little Bit of Brioche with Ana Campos. Class currently at capacity.
               - Join as You Go Knitting with Lily Chin.
               - Better Sweater Knitting (Part 1) with Nina Machlin Dayton. Class currently at capacity.
               - Flawless Finishing with Keith Leonard.
               - Knitting Lovely Lace with Shaina Bilow.
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.: Sponsor presentation by Rowan Yarn.
3 - 5 p.m.: Late afternoon classes:
               - Pattern Reading with Kate Atherley.
               - Enriching Cables Excursion with Fiona Ellis.
               - Next Steps in Brioche with Ana Campos. Class currently at capacity.
               - Knit Weaving with Lily Chin.
               - Better Sweater Knitting (Part 2) with Nina Machlin Dayton. Class currently at capacity.
               - Increases/Decreases with Keith Leonard & Shaina Bilow (Team Teaching).
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.: All-day lounge event.
7 - 8 p.m.: Fashion Show presentation by Rowan Yarn. 
8:30 - 9:30 p.m.: Late-night lounge presentation by Cascade Yarns.
9:30 p.m.: All-day lounge closes.

Saturday, June 18
8 - 9 a.m.: Morning Virtual Yoga with Knitter's Pride.
9 a.m.: All-day lounge opens (drop-in at your leisure throughout the day!).
9 - 10 a.m.: Tea Time in the lounge.
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Early afternoon classes:
               - Custom Fit Socks with Kate Atherley.
               - Trick Up Your Sleeve with Fiona Ellis.
               - Provisional CastOns and Grafting with Ana Campos.
               - Reversible Knit-Purl Color Combinations with Lily Chin.
               - Bead Your Knitting with Nina Machlin Dayton.
               - Pool Party with Keith Leonard.
               - Continental Knitting is FUN with Shaina Bilow.
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.: Sponsor presentation by Berroco.
3 - 5 p.m.: Late afternoon classes:
               - Yarn Substitutions with Kate Atherley.
               - Drawn - Thread Work: Then and Now with Fiona Ellis.
               - Intro. to Portuguese Knitting with Ana Campos.
               - What to Look for in Yarn with Lily Chin.
               - Garter Stitch Mosaic Knitting with Nina Machlin Dayton. Class currently at capacity.
               - Sweater Spectacular with Keith Leonard & Shaina Bilow (Team Teaching).
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.: All-day lounge event.
7 - 8 p.m.: Sponsor presentation by Shibui Knits.
8:30 - 9:30 p.m.: Late-night lounge presentation by Cascade Yarns.
9:30 p.m.: All-day lounge closes.

Sunday, June 19
9:30 - 10:30 a.m.: Tea Time in the lounge.
11 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Keynote speech with Beata Jezek, Hedgehog Fibres. 

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 9 a.m. - 5 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!

Keith Leonard
Flawless Finishing
2-hour class offered Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
In this class, you will use your prepared swatches to learn Keith’s tricks behind five different seams. You will also learn the correct way to pick up stitches across both the top and sides of our knitting. Be amazed as the magic unfolds and walk away with the proficient skills to finish your knitwear professionally for years to come.

Increases/Decreases
2-hour class offered Friday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT) - Team Teaching with Shaina
Learn the ins and outs of decreasing and increasing in one wildly fun class with two fantastic instructors. Learn how to mirror decreases, work alternate increases when your pat-tern calls for one you don’t like, and get expert tips on reading shaping instructions in your patterns.

Pool Party 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
In this class we will learn both assigned and planned pooling. Pooling is when the colors in the skein of yarn stay together throughout the knitting process. It’s fun, easy, and addictive. Watch your hand-dyed yarns come alive in a whole new way!

Sweater Spectacular 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT) - Team Teaching with Shaina
Shaina and Keith will share their top tips for ensuring your finished garments will be treasured additions to your wardrobe. Discussions include the importance of gauge, preparing for successful finishing while you knit, and everything in between, with student questions encouraged.

Shaina Bilow
Knitting Lovely Lave
2-hour class offered Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
We will learn the basic lace stitches while we begin knitting a lace band that can be turned into a headband, bracelet, or belt. Reading charts and blocking will also be covered.

Increases/Decreases 
2-hour class offered Friday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT) - Team Teaching with Keith
Learn the ins and outs of decreasing and increasing in one wildly fun class with two fantastic instructors. Learn how to mirror decreases, work alternate increases when your pat-tern calls for one you don’t like, and get expert tips on reading shaping instructions in your patterns.

Continental Knitting is FUN 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
If you have been intrigued by Continental knitting and would love to learn or brush-up your skills, this class is for you! In continental knitting, the yarn is held in your left hand and stitches are plucked through one another to knit. Some people feel that this method of knitting is quicker and less stressful on the shoulders, wrists, and neck.

Sweater Spectacular 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT) - Team Teaching with Keith
Shaina and Keith will share their top tips for ensuring your finished garments will be treasured additions to your wardrobe. Discussions include the importance of gauge, preparing for successful finishing while you knit, and everything in between, with student questions encouraged.

Kate Atherley
Size and Fit: Why the "Medium" Never Fits Quite Right
2-hour class offered Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
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 sizing 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.

Pattern Reading
2-hour class offered Friday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT) 
Learn to read and understand key concepts and language used in patterns: from standard abbreviations and common pattern stitches to the significance of gauge and what to do about it, and how to handle things like “decrease 1 stitch either end of every 6th row 10 times”. Knitters are encouraged to ask questions about patterns they are struggling with.

Custom Fit Socks 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
Liberate yourself from pattern books! Make a sock that’s perfect, for any size foot, and in your choice of yarn. I’ll show you how to measure and identify your fit needs, and create a perfectly fitting sock, no matter what the requirements. I’ll share templates for both top down and toe up socks, so you can work them exactly the way you want.

Yarn Substitutions 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT)
Suitable for newer to intermediate knitters, this class will explain yarn terminology, and build your knowledge of types of yarns and fibers. We will dive deep into the topic of yarn weights and gauge, giving you foolproof and easy ways to check and get gauge for a pattern – along the way explaining why it matters, when it doesn’t, and what to do if you can’t get it. We’ll also talk about yarn and fiber types, with a deep dive on matching project to yarn for best result.

Fiona Ellis
Let's Twist Again
2-hour class offered Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
In this workshop she will show you how to work basic cable crosses & twist in a number of different ways. Then she will reveal how to use these basic steps to build more intriguing pattern chorography. There will also be a discussion on chart reading and how to add cables to your projects for stunning details. This workshop is a must for newer knitters who loves the look of texture, or knitters who need a refresher with a twist.

Enriching Cables
2-hour class offered Friday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT)
Fiona’s love of cables doesn’t end with designing interesting and fun paths for cable cords to travel. Join her for an excursion to look at adding additional textured stitches or I-cords to simple cables. Then onwards to explore the realm of cable placements to create intricate yet manageable patterns.

Trick Up Your Sleeve 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
Fiona will begin with an illustrated journey through sleeve styles and design, looking at when and why various styles became popular or fell out of favor. We will move onto how to modify a published knitted sleeve pattern. An invaluable tool enabling student to ensure a better fit for their specific project; we will look at how to lengthen or shorten a sleeve or, for more advanced students, how to maybe change its shape. There will also be an overview of handling increases and decreases & appropriate choices for patterning. This is a more theoretical class, with demos, calculations (Fiona will be there for hand holding & guidance of course), and discussions rather than lots of knitting.

Drawn - Thread Work 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT)
Fiona will take you on a journey that begins with a historical review of decorative embroidery techniques, leading onto the creative ways she has incorporated drawn thread techniques into knitwear design. You will then get to try this unique technique, worked into laddered stitches, for yourself. She will leave you with her trademark – an inspired springboard - ready to dive into experimenting with the technique for yourself!

Lily Chin
Join as You Go Knitting
2-hour class offered Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
When working garment pieces or different colored strips, sewing seams daunting. Learn how to join as you go for many situations, including edgings. 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. The bonus is that this join will be much less bulky than a traditional seam.

Knit Weaving
2-hour class offered Friday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT) 
Learn this technique of applying a separate strand of yarn to your work without actually knitting it. Instead, this “weaving yarn” goes through the knit fabric and sits on either surface (either in front or in back). This means an added layer of warmth. This also entails a fresh and easy way of getting color patterning without having to learn Fair Isle Knitting. The bonus is that this imparts a texture that mimics weaving. Use up scrap yarns, find a use for that “problem” yarn, deal with scratchy yarns. Get to chart up your own patterns in the process.

Reversible Knit-Purl Color Combinations 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
When doing knit colorwork, there is usually a right-side and a wrong- side. The introduction of another hue means “bleeding” on the backside. See how to rectify this situation. “Blend” colors to improve a less-than-ideal (i.e. ugly) color. Add motifs without having to deal with the bobbins of intarsia. Combine different textures to boot. Ideal for scarves and shawls and afghans, use this for other instances where reversibility is a plus such as turtlenecks, cuffs and collars.

What to Look for in Yarn 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT)
Get an insight into how yarn is made and what are some properties. Use these properties to determine what projects are suited for which yarns. Be a better shopper as well as a yarn user. Bring in present yarns in your stash to see what it might want to be "when it grows up."

Nina Machlin Dayton
Better Sweater Knitting
4-hour class offered Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT)
Together we will kick your sweater knitting up a notch, by adding some techniques for a more finished looking sweater - afterthought pockets, better buttonholes, smooth shoulder decreases, and invisible seams, plus you'll learn the magic formula for converting any sweater pattern into whatever gauge you want to make it in! You will never again have your buttonhole get bigger from wear, regret not adding pockets when you first knit your sweater, sew together a stair step shoulder seam, or bypass the perfect sweater because it's designed for a different gauge than the yarn you want to make it in!
Note: this class is currently at capacity.

Bead Your Knitting
2-hour class offered Saturday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT) 
Together we will learn 4 ways to put beads into your knitting - a beaded cast on, 2 ways to use beads in the body of your knitting, and a beaded bind off - while working through a swatch that will give you all the skills you need to complete the Brillare Cowl pattern.

Garter Stitch Mosaic Knitting
2-hour class offered Saturday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT)
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 dishtowel and dishcloth pattern that is exclusive to this class.
Note: this class is currently at capacity.

Ana Campos
A Little Bit of Brioche
2-hour class offered Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
Expand your knitting skills with an introduction to brioche! Brioche knitting creates a lofty, super-squishy ribbed fabric, making it extra warm and cozy for cold weather projects. In this class, you'll learn the basics of knitting brioche flat, including increases and decreases to make attractive designs.
Note: this class is currently at capacity.

Next Steps in Brioche
2-hour class offered Friday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT)
Take your brioche knitting to the next level! In this workshop, you will learn how to work two-color brioche both flat and in the round. In the first portion of class, Ana will review the basics of both methods. In the second portion, we will learn how to create motifs in two colors with increasing and decreasing.
Note: this class is currently at capacity.

Provisional CastOns and Grafting 
2-hour class offered Saturday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (EDT)
In this workshop, Ana will teach you two methods for doing a provisional cast-on using a crochet hook, and how to expertly graft your knitting. Rather than teaching you a set of steps to memorize, Ana will show you how to read the structure of your stitches. Learn how to do Kitchener stitch by understanding your knitting, no more memorization! This class is for both right-handed folks and lefties - if you've ever been told you can't graft your projects from the left, this class is for you!

Intro. to Portuguese Knitting  
2-hour class offered Saturday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT) 
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 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! After the live workshop, you will receive lifetime access to pre-recorded review videos that cover the basic techniques so you can keep practicing.

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 9 a.m. - 5 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!

Keith Leonard
Keith gained a love for knitting at the age of eleven when he joined a lunchtime knitting program at school in his hometown of Haworth, New Jersey. After working at four
major knitting stores in Upstate New York, New Jersey, and New York City, he realized
there was no specialized service for knitwear finishing. He took the initiative to start his own business, called Knits All Done, a service for knitters to outsource their knitted items for professional finishing. Keith’s expertise in finishing and knitting then led to requests from yarn shops and knitting guilds to teach his techniques. He now travels the country
teaching classes while also selling his own custom Zen Yarn Garden, Three Irish Girls,
Malabrigo and Koigu yarns and colors. He is also the American distributor for Soulwool, a
hand-dyed Merino yarn from Israel.

Shaina Bilow
Shaina is a passionate knitting instructor and knitwear designer from Northern New
Jersey. Her design aesthetic is modern and bold with a nod to classic knitwear with a
feminine edge. Her patterns can be found in knitting magazines, as yarn company
exclusives, and in her self-published collection. In a class with Shaina, you can expect a patient instructor, inspiring projects, simplification of tricky techniques, and happy knitting.

Visit www.ShainaBilow.com to learn more about Shaina and follow her @Shaina.Bilow on Instagram.

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 DVDs 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.

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 hand knitting for couturier designer Joan Vass, and she has never looked back. She is a season 6 Knit Star 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, with her family and cats, in an old Victorian house stuffed to the rafters with books, yarn, and all things vintage knitting, crochet, dressmaking, and millinery.

You can learn more about Nina’s designs at: https://www.ravelry.com/designers/nina-machlin-dayton or follow her on Instragram @ninamachlindayton.

Fiona Ellis
Fiona’s seminars and presentations offer a peek behind the scenes at the work of a leading knitwear designer including her interests & mode of work. They are fun, educational and inspiring. Fiona Ellis’s career is certainly one about escapism. After pursuing a sensible career in laboratory work for textile production and colour cosmetic formulation, Fiona escaped from career-captivity in the early 1990’s to pursue fashion design at De Montfort University. She graduated with a degree specializing in Knitwear design. Fiona then founded her independent design business, selling designs to major fashion houses in New York, Paris and London. Her contacts in New York helped her to add design for the independent knitter to her repertoire. This led to her published patterns in major print and on-line magazines, and two successful books published by Random House. Fiona helps people escape from the mundane and bring creative design sensibilities to their knitting.

Kate Antherley
Kate Atherley is a knitting author, teacher, and editor. Her latest book, Custom-Fit Hats is her ninth, and the fourth in a series on customizing projects for perfect fit and style; it joins works on shawls, socks, and mittens. She’s also the co-founder and publisher of Digits & Threads, an independent, member-supported online magazine about Canadian fibre- and textile arts, crafts and industry. 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
A life-long love of handmade, in 2008 Ana established Toil & Trouble, a knitwear design company. In 2010, she created her own line of hand-dyed yarns. Ana's love of community and teaching lead her to open Circle of Stitches in 2015. She is also an inaugural member of Vogue Knitting Live’s Diversity Advisory Council. When she is not at the shop, you can find her elbows-deep in her dye pots. Ana brings her practices of
mindfulness to the fiber community. She believes that Knitting (or crocheting, weaving, embroidering…) is an invitation to slow down in a world that romanticizes busy-ness. The repetitive nature of knitting helps us drift into a meditative state. Ana has a wealth of fiber knowledge to share, with over 25 years of knitting experience, and is a certified Master Hand Knitter. Ana specializes in fixes and repairs, and can help you fix any sort of project, from scarf to charted lace.

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 9 a.m. - 5 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!

General
What is included with the available packages?
Each retreat package includes access to all retreat presentations, sponsor sessions, morning yoga, and lounge events, as well as a sumptuous swag bag mailed right to your door and an exclusive free shipping 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. There are four class blocks with different classes running during each block and you will be assigned to classes based on the class preferences you provide and your selected retreat package. Classes run Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Friday from 3 - 5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., and Saturday from 3 - 5 p.m. (EDT). 

Can I change my selected retreat package?
Yes, availability permitting 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. 

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: doing so 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 swag 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. 

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 more than 30 days from the start date of the retreat (prior to May 16): a full refund will be processed less the non-refundable $100.00 deposit.
For cancellations received less than 30 days from the start date of the retreat (after May 16 but before June 2): a full refund will be processed less a cancellation fee in the amount of 50% of the retreat package + $60.00.
For cancellations received less than 14 days before the start date of the retreat (after June 2): cancellations will be ineligible for a refund and no refund will be issued.*

Virtual Retreat
How do I access retreat sessions?
The retreat will be held virtually from June 16 - 19. 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 it's 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 sessions, trunk shows, your classes, evening socials, the all-day lounge, morning yoga, and the Sunday keynote. Session will not be recorded so you should plan to attend all events live. Note all listed times are EDT (Eastern Daylight 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 prepare! 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 June, 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 then be brought into the meeting without issue! Sessions may also 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, presentations, trunk shows, and all other sessions will not be recorded. Please plan to attend all retreat events and classes live!

Classes
How do I sign up for classes? 
The registration for the Summer Retreat will be a two-part process. The first step will be registering for your chosen retreat package. Registration will open at 12 p.m. EDT on Thursday, March 24. Then, at noon on Wednesday, April 6, registered attendees will be able to submit class preferences by returning to this page, logging back in to their account, and entering the first and second class choices for as many class hours as selected. Detailed instructions will be emailed to registered attendees prior to April 6. 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 April 6. 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. 

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 (5 p.m. EDT) on Monday, May 16, 2022. 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 (5 p.m. EDT) on Monday, May 16, 2022.

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 9 a.m. - 5 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!

Are you new to virtual learning?
We're happy to help you navigate this new 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 Retreat
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 and 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 a the guided knitting evening social, 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 and Come to a Test Session
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.

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 in the lounge and 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 9 a.m. - 5 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 WEBS Summer Knitting Retreat! A virtual retreat might be a new adventure for you, but we are committed to doing all we can to provide you with the best experience. 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 Brochure 
Preliminary Class Materials and Homework List
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