Acorn Street Shop stands as a beloved hub for fiber arts enthusiasts in Seattle, and at the heart of its vibrant community are its exceptional instructors. These dedicated individuals bring a wealth of knowledge, passion, and experience to every class, guiding students of all levels on their creative journeys. Whether you’re a beginner eager to pick up needles or hooks for the first time, or an experienced crafter looking to refine your techniques, the instructors at Acorn Street Shop offer unparalleled guidance and inspiration.
Knitting Expertise at Acorn Street Shop
For those drawn to the rhythmic click of knitting needles, Acorn Street Shop boasts a team of instructors with deep-rooted knitting expertise.
Janet Charbonnier, a long-time member of the Acorn Street family since the 1990s, embodies a lifelong passion for fabric and garment creation. Her journey began in childhood as a skilled seamstress, blossoming into a love affair with knitting after a class in Portland, Oregon. Janet’s knitting prowess extends across a vast range of garments, with a particular fondness for sweaters and a delightful array of accessories always in progress. At Acorn Street Shop, she channels her extensive knowledge into helping countless knitters realize their project visions, ensuring well-fitting and cherished handmade pieces.
Sue Falcone has been immersed in the world of knitting since the age of 12. Her enthusiasm for the craft is infectious, extending to her daughter and granddaughters, all accomplished knitters who appreciate Sue’s well-stocked yarn collection. Sue’s deep experience stems from years spent in various Seattle-area yarn shops, culminating in her current role at Acorn Street Shop. Known for her patience and encouraging approach, Sue excels at empowering knitters to enhance their skills and confidently tackle their projects. You’ll often find her offering guidance and support at the welcoming big table within Acorn Street Shop.
Susanna Hansson, originally from Sweden, considers her “knitting life” to have truly begun in America in the mid-1980s. Teaching since the early 1990s, Susanna has become a highly respected instructor, sharing her expertise across Washington State and at national fiber arts conventions. Her classes and workshops at Acorn Street Shop are infused with a love for color, meticulous technique, and a keen eye for detail, complemented by comprehensive and meticulously researched handouts. Her signature workshop, Finishing For The Finicky, reflects her commitment to addressing the nuances of garment construction and ensuring impeccable results.
Jacquie Hubbard‘s connection to fiber arts spans a lifetime, encompassing knitting, crochet, spinning, sewing, and embroidery. Her fiber journey began in childhood in Canada, guided by her Welsh grandmother who introduced her to the joys of wool and knitting needles. After a career in healthcare, Jacquie has dedicated the past six years to serving customers, teaching knitting, and leading engaging make-alongs in the local yarn store setting of the Pacific Northwest, now at Acorn Street Shop. Students consistently praise Jacquie’s patience, engaging teaching style, and vast fiber arts knowledge. She finds immense joy in her students’ achievements, fostering their skills and confidence to create projects of all complexities.
Gregory Menard, a Seattle transplant from Arizona, was introduced to knitting at the young age of 11. While exploring various creative pursuits, he consistently returns to knitting, his first artistic passion. After overcoming a sock-knitting challenge with the support of Acorn Street Shop staff 20 years ago, Gregory’s knitting horizons expanded to garment construction. With a recent retirement from a 45-year hairdressing career, Gregory is excited to apply his teaching skills to the world of knitting at Acorn Street Shop, guiding students in garment creation and beyond.
Vanesa Polo, originally from Barcelona, reconnected with knitting after a 20-year hiatus, inspired by memories of her grandmother knitting socks. Driven by a desire to learn new techniques, Vanesa’s passion led her to teaching knitting classes focused on specific skills. Her creative spirit extends beyond knitting to pottery, where she integrates knitting-inspired textures and forms. Vanesa brings her enthusiasm for technique and innovation to her classes at Acorn Street Shop.
Mary Rourke, co-owner of Acorn Street Shop, learned to knit from her mother as a child, with her passion igniting in her mid-twenties. Since then, her needles have been in constant motion, creating a wide array of knitted items. Mary’s journey at Acorn Street Shop began as part-time weekend help while working in tech, eventually leading her to embrace her love for fiber arts full-time and become co-owner. She cherishes the interactions with Acorn Street Shop customers and draws inspiration from their creativity and enthusiasm.
Crochet and Sewing Expertise
Acorn Street Shop’s instructor team also includes experts in crochet and sewing, expanding the range of fiber arts skills available to students.
Clare Cronkleton‘s relationship with crochet began in childhood, though she initially found it mystifying compared to the straightforward nature of knitting. As an adult, Clare’s understanding of crochet deepened, leading her to teach both crochet and knitting for nearly 20 years across various educational and retail environments, now including Acorn Street Shop. Her experience makes her an excellent guide for those new to crochet or looking to advance their skills.
Gabby Discepoli, a fashion design transplant to Seattle, discovered knitting as a way to create cozy garments for her miniature dachshund, Picasso. This led to the creation of her small business, Wooly Weenie Dog, featuring handmade pet accessories. Gabby’s passion for knitting and design translates into engaging classes at Acorn Street Shop, where she shares her skills and encourages students to explore their own creativity. She emphasizes the accessibility of knitting as a hobby for everyone.
Rachel Weigelt brings a unique perspective to fiber arts with her focus on sewing, mending, and sustainability. Inspired by her grandmother’s resourceful approach to clothing, Rachel uses her sewing skills to extend the life of textiles and promote mindful consumption. Through her business, Frayed Threads Mending, and her classes at Acorn Street Shop, Rachel empowers individuals to reimagine and repair their clothing, contributing to a more sustainable approach to fashion.
Discover Your Fiber Arts Passion at Acorn Street Shop
The instructors at Acorn Street Shop are more than just teachers; they are a community of passionate fiber artists dedicated to sharing their love of craft. Their diverse skills and experiences ensure that every student, from novice to expert, can find guidance and inspiration. Visit Acorn Street Shop today to meet these incredible instructors and embark on your own fiber arts adventure. Explore their class schedules and discover the joy of creating with yarn, needles, and hooks at Acorn Street Shop, your premier destination for fiber arts in Seattle.
