Knitting circles were once a popular place to exchange rumors about the area's handsomest fireman, which of the neighboring towns' mayors were secretly left-handed, and the fate of the Crumb brothers. Get your finger on the pulse and some yarn with today's Groupon: for $15, you get a three-week beginners' knitting or crochet course (a $30 value) at Yarn Mountain, located in Harrisonburg.

Yarn Mountain instructs apprentice needle-workers in the essential skills necessary to use its plethora of knitting tools and fine yarns made out of natural fibers such as wool, bamboo, or cotton. The kind and supportive staff enlightens aspiring afghan and dog-sweater weavers in looping basics during three two-hour sessions that are kept small to create an intimate, laid-back atmosphere. Lessons address yarn varieties, needle sizes, and how to read patterns for deciphering hidden messages stitched into the American flag.

Knitting classes cover fundamental abilities, including how to purl, cast on and off, change yarns, and close off loose ends. After the beginning crochet course, students will have the necessary knowledge of chain, slip, single, half-double, and finishing stitches in order to craft enough fingerless gloves for a high-school production of Rent.

At the end of each study track, newly apprised thread knotters will be capable of executing plain patterns from suggestions prescribed by the instructors based on individually demonstrated skills and intrinsic talents. Days and times for the crochet and knitting classes vary from month to month and are capped at eight students, so call ahead to reserve space.