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Don't miss your opportunity to take a class at SOAR!
Pamela K. Schultz3 min read
I first became familiar with Charan Sachar through the mugs he makes with irresistible knitted textures. Since then, I’ve followed him on social media, and am constantly amazed by all the beautiful works of art he creates—not just pottery, but also quilts, knits, and breathtakingly stunning handspun art yarn.
This year, we’re delighted to welcome Charan as one of our SOAR instructors. SOAR is a spectacular all-inclusive retreat that allows you to break away from everyday life. You’ll arrive at the luxurious Embassy Suites in Loveland, Colorado, on October 12, 2025, and have the afternoon to get settled, meet other spinners, and enjoy a happy hour and dinner. The next morning, immerse yourself in four days of spinning classes, with a two-day deep dive into one topic, followed by four half-day sampler classes. In the evenings, there are captivating keynote speakers, a fashion show, and of course, shopping. Many spinners return year after year, and after my first experience at SOAR last year, I can see why. It’s truly a spinner’s paradise!
In addition to being a talented multidisciplinary artist, Charan is a sought-after teacher whose classes are sure to inspire you. We’re thrilled to welcome Charan as one of our SOAR instructors in 2025. In handspinning, he specializes in creating textured art yarns by using traditional spinning techniques that he pushes a little further to create something truly unique.
In Charan’s classes, you’ll learn not only techniques to build your spinner’s toolbox, but enjoy his adventurous and open spirit as a teacher. You’ll play with handspun with a delightful “what if” approach, as Charan guides you to try new techniques and materials in your spinning.
Enjoy learning from Charan and make art yarn discoveries of your own at SOAR 2025.
Charan’s SOAR intensive, “Beyond Thick and Thin: Spirals Fishnets, Rosebuds, & More,” is an exploration of thick-and-thin yarns and the amazing ways you can ply them into something magical. You’ll start by spinning thick-and-thin yarns, then use them to create interesting plied yarns like beehives, fishnets, rosebuds, and more. Charan will also share how he uses these yarns. You’ll leave this class with the inspiration and skills you need to make your own stunning yarn structures.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what you’ll make with your art yarn, Charan’s half-day sampler, “Creative Knitting with Art Yarns,” is not to be missed! Using Charan’s handspun art yarn, you’ll practice ways to use art yarn in your knitting projects. You’ll learn which knitting techniques suit different types of art yarn, and leave class with the skills and inspiration to actually use your own art yarn.
Spin and knit interesting textured yarns in Charan Sachar's 2025 SOAR classes.
For more than 40 years, the Spin Off Annual Retreat (SOAR) has been a beloved institution, gathering far-flung spinners every fall. Like many long-running events, it can mean something different for each attendee. It can be a chance to see friends each year or an opportunity to learn from instructors from around the world. It can also be an escape and a great shopping experience. Here's a peek at a past SOAR:
Classes are filling up! If you’re considering joining us, note that only a handful of spots remain. With fewer than 80 spaces in the retreat, you’ll want to make sure to register soon. We can’t wait to see you at SOAR!
Pamela K. Schultz is the content editor for Spin Off. She knits, spins, weaves, and gardens in coastal North Carolina. Her first SOAR was in 2024, and she can’t wait for more.
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