Agenda 

Friday 29^th May 2026

9.30: Arrive at Rowan HQ

10.00: Online streaming starts. Welcome and introductions with Kerry Kimber

10.30: Presentation of Rowan and Mode Autumn Winter 2026 collections with David MacLeod

11.30: Comfort break and leg stretch

11.45: How to teach online classes

This session explores how to successfully teach knitting and crochet classes online, covering everything from setting up your tech and creating a welcoming virtual space to adapting your teaching style for a screen-based environment. You’ll learn practical strategies for demonstrating techniques clearly, keeping students engaged, and building connection and confidence in a digital setting, so you can deliver enjoyable, professional, and effective online classes.

12.30: Lunch

1.30: Becoming a Rowan Connect Moderator

This session covers what it takes to support Rowan’s live online events, including the key responsibilities, essential skills, good internet connection and a suitable working environment. You’ll also discover how Moderators help create a smooth, welcoming experience for everyone, plus enjoy the perk of free classes during Rowan Connect Weekends.

2.15: Signature Squares - A new Knit Along by Kaffe Fassett

Find out about the new Rowan Knit Along coming this Autumn and explore how it could inspire your classes or groups. Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek into his iconic home and studio, while learning more about the project, his vibrant approach to colour, and the creative possibilities it offers. Perfect for sparking fresh ideas and enthusiasm in your knitting community.

2.45: Tea break and Design Room basket dive.

3.15: Reflecting on 2026 so far and what the future brings

4.00: Closing remarks with Kerry Kimber

Join in person

We will be meeting at Rowan HQ in Wakefield.

Rowan Yarns, Flanshaw Lane, Alverthorpe, Wakefield, West Yorkshire. (For Sat Nav - Tilsatec Limited WF2 9HX)

Join Online

If you are unable to attend in person, you can join via zoom. A link is provided when you sign up and a reminder will be sent in an email nearer the time.

Recordings of all sessions will be available 48 hours after the event is finished.

TRAVEL

Address: Rowan Yarns, Flanshaw Lane, Alverthorpe, Wakefield, West Yorkshire.

For Sat Nav - Tilsatec Limited WF2 9HX

By train: Our suggested hotel is very close to the train station in Wakefield. Rowan HQ is 30 min walk or a short car journey from Wakefield Westgate train station.

By bus: there are lots of options, depending on where you are travelling from. You may need to go to Leeds by coach and then get a local bus from there to Wakefield.

By car: Consider car sharing; use our FB group to make arrangements. Free parking is available at both the suggested hotel and at Rowan HQ.

WHERE TO STAY

We suggest staying at the Holiday Inn Express in Wakefield - Queen Street, Wakefield, WF1 1JU United Kingdom, or another centrally located hotel. 

You might like to save money by sharing a room - use our FB group to make arrangements.

FOOD

If you wish to go out for dinner the night before on Thursday 28th May, please let Kerry know. Unfortunately Kerry isn't able to join on this occasion but is happy to organise something for those that are around.

A sandwich-type lunch will be provided during our get-together on Friday at Rowan HQ. Please inform Kerry of any dietary requirements.

GOODY BAG

The Rowan Team are excited to provide special goody bags for you all! If you are unable to attend in person, they will be posted to you.

For those who attend in person, there will be extra yarn goodies to take home. Please keep this in mind when considering luggage for your homeward journey!