“Making in Michigan” Knitting Retreat 2026
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news! Emma’s Yarn is heading to Kalamazoo, Michigan in 2026 for a special knitting retreat hosted by Wild Onion Productions! The Making in Michigan Knitting Retreat will take place September 24–28, 2026, offering knitters a one-of-a-kind opportunity to unwind, learn, and create in a beautiful, inspiring setting. Join Laura Dobratz of Emma’s Yarn and Four Purls, Lisa Ross of Paper Daisy, Mary Annarella of Lyrical Knits, Stephanie Lotven of Tellybean Knits, and Wild Onion in beautiful Michigan as the leaves turn colors, the air crisps, and our thoughts focus on knitting! With 9 classes, lectures, an exclusive pattern, fiber-related projects, social time with friends old and new, and of course, a vibrant yarn market all included, it’s sure to be a memorable time together.
What to Expect
This all-inclusive retreat will be located at the W.K. Kellogg Manor House & Estate, the former summer residence of cereal pioneer W.K. Kellogg, is a beautiful, historic estate located on Gull Lake. The venue is easily reached by several airports, and will be your home away from home for this amazing trip. You can expect three meals per day, prepared buffet-style by experienced chefs, a cash bar nightly, and a room of your choice (see the Wild Onion Productions site for more details – link below). You’ll have the option of one class per day from our wonderful designers, and you’ll receive a special swag bag to commemorate our time together! There will also be a Yarn Market, featuring Emma’s Yarn, plus goodies from other vendors and yarn dyers, as well as opportunities to shop for yarn with personal assistance from Laura and the designers. Last but not least, there will be PLENTY of time for knitting and socializing with instructors and other friends, both old and new!
The Designers
We’re so excited to have Lisa Ross of Paper Daisy, Mary Annarella of Lyrical Knits, and Stephanie Lotven of Tellybean Knits for this retreat! Choose wisely which classes you want to take – there are so many good options!
Lisa Ross has classes “Clever with Color”, “Step into Sock Knitting”, and “Building a Mystery”. You will be sure to learn new techniques, gain confidence in your skills, and leave feeling inspired to tackle your next project with fresh ideas and creativity.
Mary Annarella has her classes of “Colorwork without Stranding”, “Top Down Sweater Construction”, and “Unlocking the Mysteries of Sweater Fit.” Gain valuable insights into garment design, master practical techniques for better results, and leave with the confidence to create sweaters that fit beautifully and showcase your personal style.
Stephanie Lotven’s classes “Ready, Set, Rainbow: Use Your Self-Striping Yarn”, “Halloween Mystery Workshop”, and “Holiday Little Gift Colorwork Workshop” are sure to bring out the fun in your knitting with cheerful projects, clever techniques, and plenty of seasonal inspiration to keep your needles moving!
About the Hosts
Wild Onion Productions specializes in creating fiber retreats that are as restorative as they are inspiring. Their events balance structure and freedom – with expert-led sessions, thoughtful amenities, and plenty of time for personal creativity. Partnering with Emma’s Yarn for this retreat brings together two teams passionate about color, quality, and fostering connection through craft.
Save the Date!
🧶 Making in Michigan Knitting Retreat 2026
📅 September 24–28, 2026
📍 Kalamazoo, Michigan
🔗 Learn more and stay up to date: wildonionproductions.com/making-in-michigan-knitting-retreat-2026
Sign up on Wild Onion’s website; space is limited!
Join Us for a Weekend of Color and Creativity
If you’ve been dreaming of a few days devoted entirely to knitting, surrounded by beautiful yarn and a wonderful community of makers, this retreat is the perfect opportunity. We can’t wait to spend time together in Michigan celebrating creativity, connection, and everything we love about Emma’s Yarn and the fiber community!
