2026-01-17 – Knit a Fana Sweater (Online and In-Person)
Schedule:
Eight Saturdays, January 17 - Febuary 28 (10:00-11:30 am CT, online) and March 7 (10:00 am-Noon CT, online or in-person)
Instructor:
Susan Kolstad
Location:
This is an online class hosted on Zoom with an optional in-person session.
An artifact in the Vesterheim collection currently on display in the permanent exhibits is a classic Norwegian knit. This class is designed as a KAL (knit a-long), knitting alongside history and modern knitting trends. Join to learn about sweater history and how traditional designs are carried into modern designs, as well as Norwegian sweater construction variations. During the KAL, students may choose to knit their own version of the Fana sweater! A commercial pattern will be provided. The instructor will share inspirations from the sweater on display in the museum as well as from other Vesterheim collection items.
On March 7 students will have the option to attend online or in person at Vesterheim in Decorah. In-person students will have the opportunity to visit the Vesterheim collection.
Prerequisites:
You should be comfortable knitting and have some experience knitting with two colors (stranded knitting). It is helpful to know knitting gauge habits (i.e., swatching or adjusting needle size and yarn to achieve desired gauge).
Supplies:
Students will supply their own yarn, knitting needles, and necessary finishing tools. If planning to construct a sweater, the recommended yarn is Rauma Finullgarn (ordered on your own with guidance from the instructor) as well as recommended needles to attain gauge. Other yarns and patterns to consider will be shared during class. Once registered for the class, an e-mail will be sent to class participants with additional suggestions and resources.
If you are registering for this class in a location outside the United States, you will need to provide your own supplies. Please contact folkartschool@vesterheim.org when you register for more information about what materials are required for this class.
Additional Supplies:
Students will need to provide a computer, laptop, or tablet with a camera and mic as well as a fast, reliable internet connection.
Special Instructions:
When registering for the class, please make sure to use the mailing and email addresses you'd like the Zoom meeting invitations sent to. You will receive links to the Zoom sessions by email sometime during the week prior to the class. If this class is a gift, please sign up with the recipient's mailing and email addresses or be prepared to forward the kit and all communications.
Enrollment Deadline:
January 1, 2026
Click here to learn more about instructor Susan Kolstad.