Knitting together: how does knitting and crochet connect us to people and place?

What’s on offer?

This workshop will share research at the University of Nottingham (funded by The Leverhulme Trust) which has explored what knitting and crochet mean to amateur crafters, and why it matters in their everyday lives.  Many of those who took part described their craft as a way of binding together not only yarn, but also people, places and times. 

The workshop will start with a 20 minute talk which shares some examples of the ways knitting and crochet connect us in different ways and what this might mean for understanding the role of knitting and crochet in everyday lives today. The talk will be followed by a practical workshop, where those attending will be able explore their own experiences of what knitting and crochet connects them to, and how it does that, through textile craft activities which explore the theme of 'Knitting Together'.

What’s it about?

Textiles have a long history in how we communicate with others and connect to the wider world. Even as digital communication has made this quicker and easier in many ways, especially over the pandemic, crafts such as knitting and crochet have remained important to many people, as ways to explore and share what matters to them.  At this workshop, attendees will have an opportunity to reflect on their own craft practice and hear about what knitting and crochet mean to others. There will be textile making activities which invite attendees to come together to share experiences, and contribute to what we understand about the role of knitting and crochet in connecting us to what matters in our lives today.

Who’s leading the event?

Susan Jones, Associate Professor of Education at University of Nottingham

Open to

Adults with some experience of knitting and crochet in their everyday life, who would like to explore further and share with others what their craft means to them. Younger people may be interested and accompany adults, but the activities will require some knowledge and experience of knitting and crochet (ie it won't be a beginners' class).

Of particular interest to

Of particular interest to those who already knit, crochet and or/craft

Event booking deadline

Sunday 6 November (to allow time to prepare materials). Places are limited, please cancel if you can no longer attend.