The Websters November Retreat 2026
Laura Nelkin is practically synonymous with the knitting scene. She is a world renowned designer and teacher, with endless creativity and enthusiasm to spare… plus she is just so much fun to be around! When we decided to do a retreat that featured the Cabaret Theater, we knew Laura (and her alter-ego Lola!) would be the perfect choice. Once again our luxurious getaway in Southern Oregon will take place at The Winchester Inn, and can accommodate 23 Guests. These retreats sell out quickly, so don’t wait to book your ticket! See full details below.
Testimonals
“You absolutely spoiled me for any other retreat. The bar is high. I was so happy not to have to make decisions about where to stay, where to eat, and just all the planning you did.”
"This was my first knitting retreat and I loved it! Laurel put together a schedule that was a lovely balance of learning, social knitting, shopping, non-knitting activities, and free time. I never felt rushed or stressed."
“This retreat was so well done. From start to finish I loved every moment! Thank you for all you do for us!”
“This sought after retreat is so well put together, every detail is thought out and Laurel and the team at The Websters could not be more knowledgeable and helpful.”
Where You'll Stay
Our retreat begins at the luxurious Winchester Inn, located in the heart of Ashland. A mere block from the Oregon Cabaret Theatre, 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
“Best place I have stayed in Ashland and I have been here numerous times. My room was chic and cozy with a beautiful view, and all the staff were professional and warm.”
"I was so impressed with the young people working there. All were so well trained. Above and beyond customer care given with a smile."
"I don’t believe I’ve ever stayed at such accommodating lodging. The afternoon treats and special touches were quite unique and made for an extraordinary stay. I also think the location in relation to The Websters and Main Street shopping was great!"
*Please contact us if you have accessibility requirements for your stay and we will be sure to accommodate you.
Classes
Laura is the knitting friend you haven’t met yet. Her designs are joyful to make and wear, and her innovative techniques keep us coming back for more. For this retreat we decided to focus on some of her Tool Tips and Tricks classes, because we all love learning new ways to make our knitting easier and look even better… work smarter not harder!
Retreat Class 1 - The I-cord Tool: Your New BFF
Have you seen the I-cord tool and have no idea how it works or how to use it? Join Laura on a deep dive exploration into a new favorite knitting tool! Do you NEED it? NO! Do you want to learn how to use it? YES! You will learn how the tool works, how to make basic I-cord, beaded I-cord, I-cord bind offs, and then make a beaded eyeglass FOB or bracelet to take home and show off to all your friends! This is destined to be a FUN class!
Retreat Class 2 - Stitch Saver: What Can’t It Do?
It’s not often that a single tool changes our knitting lives completely, but that is what stitch saver has done for us. Soon, it will change yours too! Embark with Laura (and her alter ego Lola) on a 3-hour deep dive into the world of stitch saver. To start, Laura will teach a few obvious skills to get us comfortable. Then we’ll move on to the more obscure, and finally end with some absolutely game changing techniques. We’ll be covering provisional cast-ons, an alternative to picking up stitches, creating layers of fabric, a trick for entrelac, heel flaps, top down and bottom up folded hems and more...
Culture
For the first time ever, we are going to the Oregon Cabaret Theatre!! Specializing in musicals, comedies and whodunits, the Cabaret has provided first-class entertainment and dining in the Rogue Valley for more than thirty-five years. Located in a remodeled church one block from The Winchester, the Cabaret’s venue oozes with the old school charm of the jazz era. The restaurant produces exceptional dishes and the dining pairs well with the Cabaret’s professional productions.
Leaning into our Autumnal theme, we will be seeing Dracula: a Comedy of Terrors.
“Ever wondered what would happen if you took Bram Stoker’s legendary vampire tale and put it into a blender with Mel Brooks, Monty Python, and The 39 Steps? That’s just what happens in this lightning-fast, laugh-out-loud, 90-minute, comedic romp.”
Testimonals
"It was perfect. I wasn’t sure I would have stamina for the evening, and I am so glad I decided to go.”
“The play and theater experience was icing on the top of a great weekend! I would not change a thing!”
“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
"Fantastic food, and truly the best pastries I've ever had."
“It was delightful to have luxury dining experiences during the Retreat, giving us the perfect settings for all of us to be able to get to know a little bit about each other.”
*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
“I wish I could rate it higher than a ten. The shop staff, as always, were amazing and the shop is so beautifully curated, it makes it easy to find what you need.”
“Super helpful, but not looking over my shoulder every minute. I could have spent days going through everything.”
“I learned several new knitting techniques and was supported by staff every step of the way; they were extremely kind, patient, and knowledgeable!”
Optional PLUS Ticket
We are offering a limited number of PLUS tickets for those who want to come in early for a bit of R&R before the retreat festivities begin! This add-on will include Sunday night at the Inn, another exceptional dinner out with your host, and a visit to a local spa for a service of your choosing. PLUS ticket upgrades will be available once your spot at the retreat is secured.
November Retreat Tickets
Since there are a limited number of spaces available and last retreat we sold out within a few hours,
we encourage you to purchase your retreat ticket early!
November 2-5, 2026
23 single rooms available
$2980 total fee
$700 deposit
PLUS Ticket Upgrade:
$3980 total fee
$900 deposit