The Websters October Retreat 2025
October is sweater weather, so of course we turned to our favorite sweater visionary, Julie Weisenberger! Nestled in the comfort of the Winchester Inn, we will embark on a 2 day class on the Cocoknits sweater method, a unique top-down, seamless method of sweater knitting. This luxurious getaway in Southern Oregon can accommodate 23 Guests. These retreats sell out quickly, so don’t wait to book your ticket! See full details below.
Testimonals
“Such a well organized retreat with so many thoughtful touches.”
"You went above and beyond to provide us all with a special time."
“What a lovely experience... You thought of everything and things appeared to run so smoothly!!!! And such a nice group of people!”
“This was a spectacular jaunt.”
“Thank you so much for a wonderful well planned retreat, I would not have changed a thing.”
“I haven’t had so much fun in a long time! Everything perfectly planned out.”
Where You'll Stay
Our retreat begins at the luxurious Winchester Inn, located in the heart of Ashland. A mere 2 blocks from the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the Winchester Inn has a long history of providing a boutique hotel experience for playgoers, and they are excited to welcome back our group of knitters! Each retreat guest will have their own unique room and private bathroom, which are all appointed with fresh flowers, plush terry cloth robes, Antica Farmacista toiletries, and afternoon pastry treats. We will enjoy gourmet breakfast on site each day, and use their charming parlor for social knitting in the evenings.
Testimonals
“The Winchester Team is amazing at every level.”
"Such a lovely space. I didn’t want to leave my beautiful suite of rooms."
“I felt totally pampered!”
"The afternoon treats and special touches (a custom welcome card) were quite unique and made for an extraordinary stay."
*Please contact us if you have accessibility requirements for your stay and we will be sure to accommodate you.
Classes
Cocoknits founder, Julie Weisenberger, learned to knit and completed her first sweater in college while studying abroad in Salzburg, Austria. She has been knitting and designing ever since. In the 1980s she ran her own knitwear company; in the 1990s she designed sweaters for yarn companies and magazines; and in 2007 she founded Cocoknits.com, her own pattern and tool company.
Cocoknits Sweater Workshop:
Julie created the Cocoknits Method so people can try on garments as they knit and customize along the way, ultimately achieving the fit and style that they want. The Cocoknits Method combines English tailoring, seamless top-down knitting, and a signature Cocoknits Method Worksheet. This proprietary system has been developed and refined over years of knitting, designing, and teaching thousands to knit, and we hope you enjoy learning it! The sweater knit in class will be a baby sweater aimed at teaching these techniques.
We will be using a yarn line Julie loves called Bread and Butter, and we are so excited to share more details of this USA grown, milled, and dyed yarn!
Culture
Sir John Falstaff becomes “...ensnared in love triangles and trickery” in The Merry Wives of Windsor, a joyful domestic comedy. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a very special part of any visit to Ashland, and this is our first retreat outing to an actual Shakespearian play! The Merry Wives of Windsor is being staged in the historic outdoor Elizabethan Theater, and we have reserved tickets for our final night of retreat.
Testimonals
"It was perfect. I wasn’t sure I would have stamina for the evening, and I am so glad I decided to go.”
“Being able to attend the theater was frosting on the cake! What a treat!”
“Ahh, the play was perfect and that it was close enough to walk to was a big plus.”
Cuisine
Ashland is home to many incredible culinary establishments, two of which are right on site of our retreat! Our retreat includes all meals during your stay, and we will be dining at several unforgettable restaurants, including Alchemy Restaurant and Bar, and Chateaubriand 36.
“Embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Ashland, where each dish is a celebration of local ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to delivering an unparalleled dining experience.” - Chateaubriand 36 website
Testimonals
"I live and dine in San Francisco, and this was the best meal I've had in years."
“The food was plenty and delicious!”
“They were all superb!””
*Please contact us if you have dietary requirements for your stay and we will be sure to accommodate you.
Wine Tasting
Southern Oregon is home to many award winning wineries and vineyards, and we will enjoy an afternoon of tasting at one of our favorites! Transportation and tastings are all included. Bring a portable knitting project and enjoy the lovely vistas and incomparable wines of the Rogue Valley.
Testimonals
"So relaxing to sit, sip and stare at the hills!"
"Even though I don’t drink it was relaxing and fun."
"I had a great time at the wineries. It was great to see a little of the area outside Ashland."
Shopping
And of course, our retreat will include ample time at our beloved Local Yarn Shop! We will have a private shopping afternoon for you to visit and explore our huge selection of yarn, spinning and weaving equipment, Art to Wear clothing and jewelry, and so much more. We can’t wait to meet you and share our knowledge and enthusiasm for all things fiber!
Testimonals
“What a delightful group of young women working in your shop. They were so helpful and sweet with each and every customer.”
“The Websters Team is highly competent, service oriented, and the very best combination of talents I can imagine.”
“I have always (over many years ) had amazing help from staff at Websters, but this past week was truly above and beyond.”
Optional Add Ons
This time we are offering an ala carte menu of additional items that can be added to your stay. Would you like to stay another night, take in a play and get a spa service? Would you like to bring a partner along to enjoy the inn, meals, and winery with us? These scenarios and more can be customized to make your retreat experience extra special! Add on menu will be shared once your ticket is secured.
October Retreat Tickets
Since there are a limited number of spaces available and last year we sold out within a few hours,
we encourage you to purchase your retreat ticket early!
October 6-9, 2025
23 single rooms available
$2690 total fee
$650 deposit