The Fundamentals of Orenburg Knitted Lace
Handspinning - Orenburg Style
Instructor Biography

Galina A. Khmeleva



The Fundamentals of Orenburg Knitted Lace
Thursday, October 14, 2010
9:00am - 4:30pm
Class Fee:$150
Class Size: 15

This class is designed to provide knitters with an extensive overview of Russian-style lace knitting.  Students will be introduced to the unique elements of lace knitting design - from pattern to border to cornering techniques.  The ten basic elements that provide the very foundation of Russian Lace Knitting... mouseprint, cat's paw, honeycomb etc., will serve as your guide; unique cast-ons and bind-offs, superior shaping using a modified shortrows method, a grafting techinique that will "seam" almost magical in its simplicity and versatility, will provide the necessary tools to achieving lace knitting bliss.  And, as always, a class with Galina will provide an unforgettable cultural experience.

Register - print and mail form

Register On Line

Handspinning - Orenburg Style
Friday, October 15, 2010
9:00am - Noon
Class Fee: $75
Class Size:15

Learn how those talented knitters and spinner from Orenburgh perform feats of textile magic by turning the raw down from native goats into luxuriously soft, exquisitely fine yarn via supported spindle that ultimately results in the most elegant lace shawls and scarves in the textile universe.  In the class, Galina will introduce you both to the handspinning of, as well as, the more economical use of today's 'luxury' fibers, ie. cashmere, qivuit, pygora etc.  Authentic hand-turned Russian supported spindles available for class use.

Register - print and mail form

Register On Line

Biography of Galina A. Khmeleva
Galina A. Khmeleva, owner of Skaska Designs and author of Gossamer Webs, The History and Techniques of Orenburg Lace Shawls and Gossamer Webs, The Design Collection, has earned the reputation as one of the most respected and knowledgable lace knitting instructors in the country.  As a former clothing and costume designer who worked with the 'aristocracy' of St. Petersburg's music and theater society, Galina was a pioneer in breaking down barriers in the 'new' Russia that allowed Russian women the opportunity to achieve ownership status in private companies.  As the principal student to Orenburg's lace knitting elite, Galina brings the classic style and revered traditional knitting techniques of Russian lace to her classes.  Her unique, inspiring and fun-loving teaching style has made her the guru of lace enthusiasts across the U.S.  And as an extra bonus, Galina's classes are an awesome, unforgettable cultural experience.