What the Summer Olympics taught us - knitting is cool!

 

With the summer holidays coming to an end we have been inspired to write this blog by two things:

1.  That image of Tom Daley knitting by the swimming pool - waiting to step up and win gold.

2. The kids returning to school! 

Hopefully the kids out of the house means an opportunity for some you time and a little mindfulness. With that in mind we have gathered together a selection of resources for you. Even if your Olympic years are behind you, never give up on creating something as wonderful as Tom’s cosy cardi!

If, unlike Tom Daley, you are new to this knitting lark then look no further than Debbie Tomkies’ “How to knit: the only technique book you will ever need”. It is perfect for the beginner with a wide range of techniques, including lace, cables, textured patterns, colour work, beaded knitting and embellishment. It doesn’t alienate the experienced amongst you as there is plenty for those already knitting. Our favourite part are the gorgeous pictures and step by step instructions.

We are so in love with this next one we were tempted to keep it in library HQ. “Knitting the galaxy: the official Star Wars knitting pattern book” from Tanis Gray is currently available to reserve in branch.  Big and little kids alike are going to love the knitted toys but there are replica clothes patterns too! If you get started now you could cosy yourself in front of the TV on Autumn nights wrapped in Padme’s battle wrap and Luke's Flight Vest while the kids are playing with the knitted toys. All we ask is that you please send us pictures!

Families visiting the Library often fall into two camps. Star Wars or Harry Potter. Well we are not about to disappoint the fans of the wizarding world. “Harry Potter knitting magic: the official Harry Potter knitting pattern book” is another great book from Tanis Gray. There is a great variety of toys and clothing you could knit an entire set for the kids Christmas stocking! Whilst we are always here for a knitted set of the three best pals we are quite taken by Mrs Weasley's Christmas sweater for the team Christmas video this year. 

Our Pressreader and Libby apps have magazines in abundance and once you have logged in you will find a whole variety of crafting type publications to enjoy with your library card. Publications include knitting, crochet, info for beginners and the more experienced crafter. There is a whole crafting world to discover online. Download to your device and off you go. Details are available on the web. 

Tom Daley took up knitting to help with mindfulness and if two Olympic gold medals are anything to go by then it has definitely worked! Like all the adult Ladybird books ‘Mindfulness’ from Jason Hazeley, and Joel Morris is very tongue in cheek and lots of fun. Fortunately we have a fantastic range of publications to help you explore the topic further and help you to put aside some time for you and your family.