My teaching practice is of a belief in the mindset that makes learning possible. Over 20+ years of teaching (not exclusively but primarily) women from many different walks of life, I have noticed a pattern I now actively challenge: limiting self-beliefs, unattainable perfectionism, and harsh self-criticism.
Instead, my approach is grounded in the idea that knitting can be a mindfulness practice by helping people focus on the stitch in front of them instead of getting overwhelmed by the whole piece. I use that lesson to help students invest their energy in grace, patience, and self-awareness when learning how to knit, and encourage them to apply to when learning anything new.
In 2024, I was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer and knitting became a personal sanctuary throughout the experience. It gave me a way to reconnect with my creativity outside of being a patient, to manage anxiety while waiting for results, and to regulate my nervous system when the stress and side effects of treatment felt overwhelming. That lived experience has equipped me to share how a simple, repetitive creative practice can offer steadiness during uncertainty, illness, and anxiety.
Through Learn to Knit, I teach a wide range of classes, including Beginner Knitting Basics, How to Read Knitting Patterns, Colourwork and Striping, Shaping Techniques, How to Knit Socks, Beanie Hats, and more. I pride myself on making people feel empowered rather than intimidated. My core message is simple: there is nothing you can’t knit if you give yourself some grace and the right guidance.
If you don’t see the class you want, get in touch and let’s book a personal session to cover it.
Hello I’m Alice, I’m your Knitting Teacher
Hi, I’m Alice O’Connell, the founder of Learn to Knit. I am a knitwear designer and teacher who changed career after 14 years as a British TV and theatre actress into building a global teaching practice built around creativity, calm, and self-compassion.
I learned to knit while acting on sets like Doctor Who, Jonathan Creek, Outnumbered, Silent Witness, City of Vice and more. What began as a way to stay focused during long filming days became a lifelong craft I have now taught since 2005.
My story is one of following curiosity, then building a business around what I found to be genuinely helpful for myself and others. After starting with small gifts and private commissions, I went on to teach in knitting stores from London (I Knit London) to Amsterdam (Stephen & Penelope) and as far as Seoul in South Korea (Sevy Haus). I now have the immense privilege of having students joining me both online and in person from all over the world for a wide range of knitting classes including my best selling pre-recorded video courses.
Based in Amsterdam for the past 13+ years with my husband, daughter, and 2 cats, I pride myself on bringing a modern, accessible, and deeply human perspective to a craft that is often seen as traditional.
Choose Your Knitting Class:
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Video Courses
Complete Beginner Knitting Lessons, 4x 45 minute, chaptered videos for you to follow at your own pace. Suitable for absolute Beginners to Intermediate Knitters.
From €30
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Knit-A-Long Projects
Step by step tutorials to knit a wearable/giftable item of your choice. Perfect when you want the extra support of a knitting teacher as you knit your first headband, hat or sock.
From €15
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In Person Classes
Choose from group or individual beginner knitting lessons. Need help with a knitting pattern? Book a Personal Project Session. All classes take place in Amsterdam.
From €60
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Live & Online
Beginner Knitting Lessons LIVE, Interactive and Online, available Privately or for a Group. Personal Project Sessions also available - personal knitting pattern support.
From €60