Residents from Fourways and surrounding areas picked up knitting needles and crochet hooks as 67 Blankets brought the community together for an afternoon of crafting, learning and therapeutic downtime.

The gathering marked the first Wednesday session of what is set to become a weekly 67 Blankets get-together at Mulbarton Manor in Beverley, organised by Lynton Lefevre, marketing manager for 67 Blankets for Mandela Day.

And judging by the turnout, there is certainly an appetite for it. Around 50 people attended the event, with some travelling from Sunninghill and Bromhof to join in. Those who already knew their way around a ball of wool helped others who were completely new to knitting and crocheting.

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For some, the afternoon was about creating blankets and other items for a good cause. For others, it was simply about sitting down, learning something new and enjoying the calming effect that comes with working with your hands.

Lefevre said the idea was to bring residents together while creating something meaningful for people who need it.

“The main intention of today is to get the locals together so that they can knit squares or make blankets.”

The event was made possible with the support of Ruby Living as part of the Fedgroup Private Capital (FED) Group, the property owners.

The company sponsored the wool, refreshments, food, venue and catering staff, allowing residents to simply arrive and take part without having to worry about the cost of materials.

Ronald Glasscore from Ruby Living said the company was happy to support the initiative and was pleased with how the day turned out.

“FED Group does support charity events, so when Lynton spoke to us about what they wanted to do, we decided we would sponsor it.”

He confirmed plans to continue the collaborative work with 67 Blankets after seeing such a successful event with so much heart.

Glasscore said one of the highlights was seeing residents come together and socialise through an activity they could enjoy: “It was nice to get residents out and do an activity, get some socialising, so definitely.”

While Glasscore admitted that knitting and crocheting were not quite his hobbies, the sight of residents working with wool brought back memories of his grandmother.

“My gran used to knit. She used to do crochet and stuff like that, so it reminds me of them.”

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For those who were not familiar with the craft, there was no need to feel intimidated. Members of the 67 Blankets team were on hand to teach beginners, with several experienced knitters and crocheters helping participants find their rhythm.

The sessions are also intended to offer residents a chance to slow down, connect with others and enjoy the therapeutic side of crafting.

Lefevre hopes the group will continue to grow, with local residents encouraged to join regardless of whether they know how to knit or crochet.

They will meet every Wednesday from 14:00 to 16:00 at Mulbarton Manor. Beginners are welcome, and wool will be available for those attending for the first time.

So, if your knitting skills currently begin and end with watching someone else do it, this might be your chance to finally learn.

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