Natural Science Knits (NSK)

Natural Science Knits: A new mentoring program sponsored by Women in Natural Sciences (WINS) encouraging informal interactions between CSU College of Natural Sciences faculty and students.

Why knitting? It’s fun. That’s reason enough, but there are lots of other great reasons. Make something cool. Give someone you love a unique item. Also, knitting is a great way to reduce stress. It is a mindful activity (like meditation). There is even science that shows that knitting is good for you.

When and where: Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 in Piñon Hall (public entrance is hard to find – be sure to see the map linked here). We’ll meet most Tuesdays for the rest of the semester. We are an easy going group and we'll welcome you whenever you can make it. We don't care how many times you forget how to do what we show you or how often you can make it. We hope to see you there.

Don’t know how to knit? We’ll teach you! We can loan you a kit or you can buy your own supplies, see below.

Already know how to knit? Great. Bring your knitting. If you like, you can teach other students and faculty how to knit.

All genders are welcome at Natural Science Knits. This program receives support from the Women in Natural Sciences (WINS). WINS supports women faculty in the College of Natural Sciences.

Here are some useful links.

· Learn to knit: Tin Can Knits has videos, free patterns and more.

· Ravelry.com: a community of knitters (and other fiber arts). Lots of free patterns and more. Create and account and you can see all the terrific things that you can create.

· Local stores where you can buy knitting supplies: If you are bringing your own supplies, please bring 1 skein of 100% wool yarn (worsted weight) and 1 set of needles (we suggest size 8, 16-inch circular needles). Ask the staff of a local knitting store and they’ll be happy to help.

o Big craft stores like Joann’s and Michael’s have supplies too but they don’t always have expert knitters who can help you out. If you are buying your own supplies, please be sure to buy wool as it works better for your first project. Wool can be hard to find at the big craft stores, but they usually have some if you look carefully.

Natural Science Knits related links

· Math inspired knitting patterns

· Chemknits: a biochemist’s knitting blog. Many DNA-inspired patterns. Check out the Molecule Knitting charts too.

· Biology: dissected frog (vegan biology projects), Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef