Knitting - Yarn Bombing

Course intent

Explore the popular form of knitted street art known as Yarn Bombing, or Guerrilla or Graffiti Knitting. Yarn Bombing is a colourful way to soften hard urban spaces, where railings, lamp posts and trees are covered with knitted jumpers, crochet flowers and many other forms. The art form creates joy within the local community where it is displayed. It can be used commemorate an event, be part of a larger festival or created just for fun! Yarn Bombing can be practised individually or as a group to combat loneliness and improve mental health. This workshop provides a brief introduction to yarn bombing, plus ideas on how to start your own project, with practical sessions on creating small three-dimensional objects.

What will I learn?

You will learn how to:

• knit three dimensional forms which could be incorporated into an outdoor piece
• make simple floral forms using flat knitting and crochet
• knit onto existing knitting such as recycled jumpers and knitwear, or previously knitted pieces
• create simple sculptural forms including tubes, baubles and stuffed shapes
• A brief history of yarn bombing, with an exploration of other artists’ work
• Planning a project, including suitable yarns, seeking permission, measuring and sizing, fastenings, installation and take-down, plus environmental considerations

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

This course is suitable for knitters, who can cast on and off and knit either plain/garter or stocking stitch. Many of the techniques can be adapted for crochet, although the main emphasis will be on knitting.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

You need to bring: -

Essential

• Ideally Double Knit (DK) acrylic yarn in bold bright colours, although any yarn can be used for testing ideas in class.
• Knitting needles to match the yarn, for DK this would be a size 10 (3.25mm)-12 (2.75mm).
• Sharp scissors able to cut fabric or knitting, plus other scissors for cutting yarns.
• A crochet hook.

Optional

• Machine knitted jumpers which you are happy to recycle. Acrylic jumpers work best for outdoor projects.
• Non-flammable polyester stuffing.
• Old nylon tights.

Additional Information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class.

How to enrol

Our courses are for adult learners aged 19 or over. If you are under 19, please call 0300 200 1044.

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