FOR the past four years, residents and members of St Martin’s Church have knitted and crocheted hundreds of items to aid residents of rural Bulwer, in the foothills of the Drakensberg, in the annual Knit-A-Thon.

The aim of the event on April 15 is to crochet, knit or donate as many items, including beanies, baby items, jerseys and blankets, for the community who often face the harsh winters with very little.

Member of the church and organiser of the event, Sharon Liebetrau, said the project was part of their winter warmth campaign.

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“You don’t have to be a star knitter – it’s about the community getting together to make a difference in people’s lives. If you are unable to knit or crochet, do come along and learn or have fun making pompoms for the tops of the beanies. We also welcome all wool donations. Importantly, everyone is welcome. Come along for as long as you can stay, and knit or crochet to support us, and join in the camaraderie of knitting together.

“You can bring along your wool, knitting needles and friends – even if just for an hour, and knit (or crochet) and leave your beanie behind. Those who only have a short while to share with us can knit a square that we will make into booties or blankets. We do have a simple baby-jersey pattern that some of our friends have started on. We also welcome your contributions knitted at home, and any wool you have to donate would be valued. Some balls of wool will be made available on April 15, and needles/crochet hooks can be borrowed from us,” Liebetrau said.

She added that men are also welcome to join in the fun.

“If you’re not a knitter, you can make pompoms for our beanie tops,” Liebetrau enthused.

Important to remember

This year’s Knit-A-Thon will be held at St Martin’s Church, 12 Chelsea Drive, Durban North, on Saturday, April 15, between 09:00 and 15:00. The event will take place on the open patio/courtyard between the church and hall. For more information, contact Sharon at 083 236 5558.

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