You know the drill: make a swatch, measure gauge, change needles if necessary, repeat until you get it right, then start knitting. But if you spend a little extra time with that swatch, it has so much more to say—and Leslye Solomon shows us how to listen. It can act as a crystal ball, revealing how the sweater will look and behave after months of wear. And, if you're not happy with what that future looks like, see how you can change it. Do not let an unexpected discovery turn into an unpleasant surprise.

When Jane Slicer-Smith wants an A-line shape with more drape at the hem and added stability at the shoulders, one accurate gauge is not enough—it just won't do the job. Learn the ways she finesses fabric—changing stitch construction and needle size— to achieve and maintain the Swing Swagger Drape style.

Don't miss this special joint appearance!

Teachers à la carte at Noon

We're serving up food & fun at the Opening Day Luncheon. Using the speed dating model, the best knitting instructors in the world will visit you at your table so you can get to know more about who they are and what they do. It's a little something we're calling Teachers á la carte.