Yarn bombing has become an increasingly popular way to brighten local communities in recent years. One example is in Banbury, Oxfordshire, where a group known as All Things Woolly is using it as a creative and social activity to bring joy to its members and other residents of their town.

What is All Things Woolly?

All Things Woolly is an arts and social group formed in Banbury in January 2023. Membership fluctuates, but it generally has between five and ten attendees each week. Some members are experienced knitters and crocheters, while others are new to the craft. The aim is to provide a safe space where everyone feels welcome.

The group does not just encourage creativity among its members. It also provides somewhere where they can talk openly about their feelings and problems, and receive support and sympathy, without any fear of judgement.

What is yarn bombing?

A form of street art, yarn bombing is when knitted or crocheted pieces are used to decorate public features such as benches, post-boxes and lampposts. All you really need to create a piece is some chunky yarn, such as that available at Wool Couture, and some needles.

The practice has become popular around the country, especially around events such as Christmas In Banbury, All Things Woolly have taken their ladders to the town hall and used their art to decorate monuments such as the Fine Lady statue and the Banbury Cross.

In the beginning, All Things Woolly attempted to be anonymous by only installing their yarn creations in the evening when no one else was around to see. Inevitably, however, they were spotted, and now they have become notorious for their attempts to decorate the town. The response from other residents has been widely positive, with many people thanking the group for making them smile. Another new, large project is in the works.

The activities at All Things Woolly are not just about yarn bombing. They are about people coming together to support each other with friendship as well as express themselves creatively, helping to build a new spirit of community.