Knitting Vacation in Palm Springs
May 10-15, 2026 - Discover New Stitches Invented by James
Last June I taught a one-week mosaic knitting course at The Watermill in Tuscany. My students asked me to offer a knitting retreat in Palm Springs, so I've created Knitting Vacation in Palm Spring. If these dates don’t work for you, join me at The Watermill next year, August 29 to September 5. For more information about my Watermill retreat, visit watermill.net.
You’re invited to join me and a group of enthusiastic knitters for five nights at Lucille Palm Springs. Built in 1921 as a retreat by a Hollywood executive, it became the favorite escape for his friends seeking the peaceful desert. Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz were his most frequent guests—hence the name Lucille on today’s charming boutique hotel.
On the first day, I’ll teach you four unique new stitches I’ve developed. You'll choose your favorite for a scarf, kerchief or a cowl—and select a luxurious yarn. Then each morning I'll share a collection of knitting tips. The afternoons and evenings will be yours to relax and knit, or you can explore the heart of Palm Springs. Originally the location of hot spring sanitariums, then the favorite desert oasis for movie stars, it's now the center of mid-century modern architecture and a golfer’s paradise with 200 courses.
Accommodations and Reservations
You will be booking your guest room directly with the hotel. Ask for the special discounted Knitting Vacation in Palm Springs rates. We will be the only guests for our week in residence. Five bungalows each provide a sitting room, bedroom, bath and outdoor courtyard with a Jacuzzi tub. Four studios offer patios or balconies with mountian views. Guest rooms feature king size beds and one bungalow has two bedrooms with separate baths. Spa services are also available upon request.
Your Knitting Program
The full itinerary includes morning knitting classes, private tutoring if requested, all yarn, knitting patterns, arrival cocktail reception, continental breakfast daily, picnic lunch Monday, plus transportation and ticket for a tour of the Sunnylands Estate (completed in 1966). Sunnylands has welcomed eight presidents, the Queen of England, Winston Churchill, the Emperor of Japan and other world leaders. The final day will end with cocktails and dinner at my home.
Four dinners and three lunches are not included—fine dining cafes are near the hotel. A car rental will only be necessary if you choose to go exploring.
For more details
and hotel rates click here.
To view bungalows or studios and to book a reservation
visit lucillepalmsprings.com.
Once you book your hotel reservation, I'll contact you regarding your Knitting Program fee.
