Knitting Circle Or Club For Fun

Knitting is the hot new trend that is not really new. Getting together in a “circle” and creating something is a centuries-old tradition. There’s a new twist to any trend that comes back around, though, because a new generation is discovering it and giving it a unique character.

Knitting in the 21st century is a good example of this old-meets-new cycle. Starting a contemporary knitting circle looks different than it did a century ago, or even a quarter century ago. If you’d like to start one up, here are some hints on how to start and run a knitting circle.

Find Other Knitters

With the trend growing, finding others who are interested in knitting should be fairly easy. Ask around at your workplace, church, or favorite social networking site. The internet is a great place to connect with other knitters and finding others who share your interest. Here are some other ideas for finding fellow knitters:

* At your local sewing store, where knitters are likely to go to buy yarn, post a notice that you are starting a knitting circle and would like to know who’s interested. Leave minimal contact information, such as a phone number or email address. You can also leave the contact information of the venue where you plan to meet.

* Send out a group email to others you know to see if there is interest. If you’re a parent, you can check with other parents at your child’s school or homeschool group. If you’re single, this could be a great way to connect with other singles who might be interested in a social activity.

* Post your interest in knitting on your favorite social networking site and see how many responses you get.

Time and Place

Deciding where and when to hold your circle is important; it will affect the dynamics of the group. There will probably not be a time and day when everyone in the group can all attend, but you should be able to agree on a time and date where at least some of the group will be able to attend each time. Here are some ideas for finding a venue:

* Members of the circle can rotate host/hostess duties. Each circle will meet at a different member’s house each time.

* Your local library would be a good place to meet. It’s free, and the library is generally accessible to everyone. Libraries are generally very open to community events.

* A house of worship is another good place that costs nothing but can accommodate a group. Most houses of worship are also very supportive of fellowship and community activities.

* A conference room at your workplace could be ideal, especially if it’s a lunch-hour group of your co-workers.

Expectations

Make sure the expectations of the group are clear. Decisions need to be made about the following questions:

* Are drinks, snacks and refreshments to be provided? if so, by whom?

* Should everyone bring his or her own supplies?

* Can beginners join, and will there be instruction given?

* Whom should members call if they can’t attend a circle?

* Are children welcome, or do members need to find childcare when they attend meetings? Will childcare be provided?