From the moment you arrive until your departure, we’ve packed the retreat with classes, workshops, and activities for everyone—whether you’re a beginner or an expert knitter! If you're bringing a companion, like your spouse, partner, or friend, we’ve got plenty of non-knitting activities for them too! And don't worry, there will still be plenty of time for you to unwind and relax.

Here’s a sneak peek at what we have planned:

• Mini Mystery Knit-Along (Project Class)
• Wool School Class
• Sweater Fitness Class
• Pop-up shop with our yarn and other local vendors.
• And more!

Class Descriptions

Mystery Wool-along (MWAL) project class:

trust us, you will love this one! It’s got sheep and their yarn, it’s got knitting, it’s got variety! Open to all attendees, this class is the focal point around which our weekend revolves; all soft materials are provided with a brand new pattern available only to retreat participants.

The class will be an exploration of several breed specific yarns (some brand new!) and the animals we source them from. We will discuss a variety yarn characteristics, plus review and swatch all the stitches and techniques required to knit this special design, with tips and tricks for navigating the pattern. Discussion and hands-on work will extended in a relaxed way beyond the classroom in a group knit-a-long around the project, as well as small-group get-togethers during free time.

Class time: 3 hours, plus KAL time. 

Students should have completed at least two beginning/intermediate lace projects, have a complete understanding of increasing/decreasing and intermediate knitting terminology, experience with a variety of stitches, and be able to execute a crochet chain stitch.

Materials:

• stitch markers
• notepad
• dental floss or fine cotton yarn (for lifelines)
• a range of middle-size knitting needles (US 4 to 7)
• crochet hook size E or F. 

Sweater Fitness Workshop (get into your best shape EVER!):

An intermediate class in the important basics of sweater fit and construction. Participants will complete a thorough set of body measurements and discuss how to use them to choose and use a sweater pattern in an appropriate size. Students may work on gauge swatches in class. Other topics of discussion will include swatching, yarn choices, pattern reading and terminology, types and uses of shaping techniques (increasing and decreasing), tips and tricks for successful navigation through a sweater project. We will also discuss simple alterations for achieving the best silhouette.

Students must have a complete understanding of increasing/decreasing, have completed a project that requires shaping (sweater, mittens, etc), and have an intermediate level of knitting skill and pattern reading (understanding of intermediate knitting terminology is expected).

The emphasis of this class is on preparation and execution for a well-fitting sweater; seaming and finishing will not be covered.

Class time: 6 hours, split between two days. 

Materials:

• a soft measuring tape,
• notepad, 
• Knitspot pattern, 
• 50-100 yards of project yarn,
• and a variety of needles for swatching. 

Students should dress in a form-fitting top (baggy clothing will not be appropriate for obtaining accurate measurements).

Non-Knitting Activities

If you're not attending Anne's Sweater Fitness Class, or if you're joining as a companion to a knitter and just looking to relax, you're still welcome to enjoy all the other activities our retreat has to offer!

• Hiking
• Fishing (Catch and release)
• Farm tour and animal visits (with Staff guide)
• Access to the library
• Table Games
• and more!

We want everyone to feel comfortable and at ease during the retreat. All activities outside of class time are entirely optional—no pressure to be a “team player” during your personal downtime.

Transportation Info

The retreat will be held at Bellwether Farms in Wakeman, OH, approximately 40 minutes (35 miles) from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

Additional airports within a 100-mile radius include:

• Akron-Canton Airport (CAK): Approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes (71 miles)
• Toledo Express Airport (TOL): Approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes (84 miles)

Bellwether Farms and Bare Naked Wools are not responsible for arranging or providing transportation to or from the retreat location. All transportation arrangements made between attendees are the sole responsibility of the individuals involved.

For those driving to the retreat, a Bellwether Farm shuttle will be available to transport you from the parking lot to the main building.

Want to Bring your Companion?

You are welcome to bring your spouse, partner, family, or friend to accompany you for the weekend. If they choose to join, a $200 non-refundable deposit is required.

The accompanying person will have access to all non-knitting activities, but please note that they will NOT receive the special goodie bag.

Check Mark "Add Companion" before you Add to Cart

PLEASE READ: All remaining payments must be made on or before September 20th. Tickets purchased after September 20th must be paid in full at the time of booking. Your remaining balance will have the $300 deposit already deducted, as it is applied toward the total. If payments are not received by the specified date, your reserved spot will be automatically forfeited.

CANCELATION & REFUND POLICY:

The initial $300 deposit is non-refundable.

• If you cancel Before September 30th, 2025: Full refund minus $300 deposit.
• If you cancel Between October 1st - October 15th, 2025: Up to 50% refund of the total paid (minus the $300 deposit), unless a replacement attendee is found (Deposit is still non refundable).
• If you Cancel After October 15th, 2025: No refunds.