Coastal Maine Knitting Retreat

Mar. 4-7, 2027

Coastal Maine Knitting Retreat 2027

The History and Technique of the Fisherman Guernsey Sweater

Join us for the Coastal Maine Knitting Retreat, an enriching four-day experience dedicated to the art of knitting from March 4-7, 2027.

This year, our focus is on the historic Fisherman Guernsey (Gansey) sweater. This iconic garment, associated with the sea, was a true working-man's sweater, constructed to last.  Having originated in the Channel Islands, the popularity of this garment extended over the coasts of England, Scotland, Denmark, and other fishing villages.  Usually knit in Indigo blue, by family members or the Herring Girls, this sweater is loaded with symbolism and practical techniques.  Among them are shaped gussets, symbolic cables, and textural and traveling stitches, with practically no finishing required other than a three needle bind off.  Students will be working on a teddy bear-sized sweater in order to learn all of these techniques, but should feel comfortable designing their own by the end of the class. And what a great way to lead into our May 2027 Tour to England and Guernsey in the Channel Islands to learn history first-hand and see how the sweaters are still made today!

In addition to daily classes, participants will also have the opportunity to engage in two-hour afternoon workshops on select days.

Our classes will take place at the lovely Harraseeket Inn in Freeport, Maine, where participants can enjoy both community and comfort. We have reserved rooms at a discounted rate for those wishing to stay with our talented instructors, Marci, Kelly, Donna and Andra, at the Inn. For more details about accommodations and scheduling, please refer to the Retreat Details page. And as in the past, the lovely Elegant Ewe Knit Shop will be in attendance for your shopping pleasure!

The Coastal Maine Knitting Retreat promises to be an inspiring gathering for knitters of all skill levels, blending history and craftsmanship with the utility of the Fisherman Guernsey sweater in a picturesque coastal setting.

Enrollment begins August 12!

“An added bonus of my adventure with your travel group is that inspiration and enthusiasm for knitting seems boundless upon returning home!”                                             

—  JoAnn

“A great group of people to travel with, and I found new friends. Thank you for your leadership, and I would love to do it again!”

— Maryann

  • White colonial-style inn with black shutters, brick chimneys, and an American flag pole in front. The inn has multiple roof gables and a roadside sign with autumn trees nearby.

    Haraseeket Inn

    The Harraseeket Inn in Freeport, Maine, is a charming historic inn offering cozy accommodations and exceptional dining. Guests can enjoy an indoor heated pool and easy access to Freeport's shopping, including the iconic L.L. Bean flagship store. With its inviting ambiance, the Harraseeket Inn is an ideal retreat for relaxation and special events.

  • L.L. Bean store exterior with a large boot sculpture in front, featuring the brand's signage and glass entrance doors.

    Local Shopping

    The L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport, Maine, is a celebrated retail destination open 24/7, offering a vast selection of outdoor gear, apparel, and footwear. Visitors can enjoy interactive displays, workshops, and an outdoor testing area. The store also features a cozy café and outdoor space, making it an ideal spot for shopping there, the many surrounding outlets, or just people watching and relaxation.

  • Hands On

    The workshop teaches participants to knit in the Bohus style. Attendees will learn colorwork and shaping techniques for all skill levels.

    By the end of the workshop, participants will finish a lovely lined Bohus inspired cowl. Other techniques will be learned in afternoon mini workshops.

  • Lighthouse on a rocky cliff with ocean and sunset

    Nature Adventures

    Experience outdoor adventures in the Freeport, Maine area, including hiking through scenic trails in the nearby Bradbury Mountain State Park and exploring the picturesque coastline of Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park. Enjoy opportunities for free time to discover local attractions or relax by the beautiful beaches along the coast.

  • Culinary Delight

    Freeport, Maine, where fresh seafood takes center stage. Enjoy dining at local restaurants that offer everything from classic lobster rolls to innovative farm-to-table dishes. Explore charming cafes and bakeries for delightful pastries and coffee, or visit local markets for artisanal products.

  • Waterfront scene with fishing boats and docks, lobster traps, barrels, and a brick building, under a partly cloudy sky.

    Near By

    Embark on a delightful trip from Freeport to Portland, Maine, just a short drive away. Enjoy scenic coastal views as you head to this vibrant city. Explore the historic Old Port district, filled with charming boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants. Savor fresh seafood at renowned eateries and visit the iconic Portland Head Light.

Activity Level 1: Leisurely

This tour is designed for physical relaxation and mental stimulation, consisting of more sedentary activities such as sightseeing on the bus or time spent in a class or lecture. Travelers should still be able to walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 1-2 hours, over possibly uneven terrain such as cobblestones. Travelers need to be able to handle their luggage over short distances and possibly up a flight of stairs unassisted. There may be a few early morning starts and late day finishes.

COASTAL MAINE KNITTING RETREAT

Dates: March 4-7, 2027

We hope you can join us this year!

Join an enriching four-day retreat on the history and techniques involved in the knitting of the Fisherman Guernsey sweater, developing the skills necessary to design your own, and participate in engaging break-out sessions to further skills, all while enjoying a welcoming atmosphere in Freeport, Maine.

This hands-on experience is perfect for knitters of all levels looking to enhance their skills and creativity.

Lobster roll with fries on a white plate, accompanied by a glass of water and a bowl in the background.
Bedroom with canopy bed, brick fireplace, wood-burning stove, and blue curtains
Lighthouse on rocky coastline with ocean view and cloudy sky

  • Early Arrival Option (March 3, 2026)

    • Arrive a day early to acclimate before the Fisherman Guernsey Knitting Workshop.

  • Day 1: Fisherman Guernsey Knitting Workshop (March 4)

    • Begin the four-morning workshop by learning Channel Island cast on, making a garter welt edging, and the basic construction principles involved in the Guernsey Fisherman sweater. Evening welcome dinner at the Harraseeket Inn.

  • Day 2: Fisherman Guernsey Knitting Workshop (March 5)

    • In the morning, continue working on the techniques of Guernsey knitting including texture patterns and cables, and shaping gussets in the body and sleeve. In the afternoon, choose from four break-out sessions, more information and sign-ups for these in January 2027:

      • Option 1: Cable Details with Marci Richardson. Learn about cable flair and how to deal with it, how to cable without a cable needle.

      • Option 2: Basics of Brioche with Kelly Bridges, learn the basics of Brioche while making a Brioche scarf.

      • Option 3: Tunisian Crochet with Donna Nicholaides, learn the basics of Tunisian crochet while making a Tunisian scarf.

      • Option 4: Ravelry Basics and Sweater Sizing with Andra Asars, learn how to use Ravelry to its full potential and choose the right size garment to fit!

    • Evening includes a student ‘Show and Tell’.

  • Day 3: Fisherman Guernsey Knitting Workshop (March 6)

    • In the morning, learn the additional techniques and patterns involved in Guernsey knitting. In the afternoon, choose from four break-out sessions, more information and sign-ups for these in January 2027:

      • Option 1: Cable Details with Marci Richardson. Learn about cable flair and how to deal with it, how to cable without a cable needle.

      • Option 2: Basics of Brioche with Kelly Bridges, learn the basics of Brioche while making a Brioche scarf.

      • Option 3: Tunisian Crochet with Donna Nicholaides, learn the basics of Tunisian crochet while making a Tunisian scarf.

      • Option 4: Ravelry Basics and Sweater Sizing with Andra Asars, learn how to use Ravelry to its full potential and choose the right size garment to fit!

    • Evening features a lecture on 'Travels in Sweden'.

  • Day 4: Fisherman Guernsey Knitting Workshop (March 7)

    • In the morning is a wrap-up session finishing up any remaining techniques.

Note: While we strive to follow the itinerary, changes may occur due to unforeseen circumstances.

Enrollment begins August 12!

“As a solo traveler, it was wonderful to be part of a fiber group!”

— Joanne

Group of hikers walking on a wooden path through a grassy landscape with hills in the background under a blue, cloudy sky.

The Cost of the 4- Day Workshop is $950.00

Included in the price:

  • Over 20 hours of in-person, hands-on instruction from experienced teachers and designers Marci Richardson, Kelly Bridges, Donna Nicholaides, and Andra Asars.

  • Enjoy a Thursday Night Welcome Dinner at the charming Harraseeket Inn.

  • Attend a travel talk on ‘Travels in Sweden’.

  • Participate in a ‘Show and Tell’ fashion night.

  • Receive a complimentary pattern for the teddy bear sized Fisherman Guernsey sweater.

NOT Included in the price:

  • Accommodations: Participants are responsible for booking their own lodging.

  • Transportation: Travel to and from Freeport, Maine is not included.

  • Meals: Any meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary are not covered.

  • Yarn and Materials: Knitting materials are not included, but yarn and accessories will be available for purchase from the Elegant Ewe knitting shop during the retreat.

All deposits and payments are nonrefundable if the trip is cancelled for any reason. Elegant Ewe Travel highly recommends trip insurance for all excursions. To purchase, contact our friend Sandy at Sandy@pennypitoutravel.com.

Enrollment begins August 12!