Knit and Connect at Vesterheim

Every fall when I notice a chill in the air it makes me want to grab my knitting needles and get busy. Maybe this is an ancestral memory—an urge that was once essential for our survival. These days, knitting is no longer a necessity for making it through the cold Midwestern winter, but a luxury and a creative outlet. Maybe these are even better reasons to grab those needles and seek the company of other knitters.

I wish I lived a little closer to Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah, Iowa, so I could attend their Knit-In on Nov. 3–4. Knitters will be dropping by any time from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. one or both days. In addition to knitting and conversation, there will be special presentations, tours of Vesterheim's textile storage, and a stash sale of yarn, patterns and notions. For a schedule of the day and more information contact Laurann Gilbertson at lgilbertson@vesterheim.org or call 563-382-9681. More information is also available at vesterheim.org.

I also wish I could take one of the upcoming knitting classes at Vesterheim: “Knitting a Danish Nattrøje Sweater” on Nov. 1–2, or “Knitting a Swedish Halland Sweater” on November 5–6. In fact, Vesterheim has a great traditional arts program for all ages. I encourage you to check it out!

Do you like the idea of taking a class to learn—or improve—your skill at a Nordic craft? Then look for our upcoming article about combining hobbies and travel in the January issue of Viking!

Amy Boxrud is editor of Viking magazine. She lives with her family in Northfield, Minn., where she’s a member of Nordmarka 1-585.
Photo courtesy of Vesterheim.