Knitting communities
Welcome to the heart of our craft – the place where yarn meets connection, creativity meets comfort, and the spirit of the valleys comes alive in shared making.
In the communities of Blaina, Abertillery and Nantyglo, we’re launching social knitting, felting and crochet groups designed for people of all ages. Whether you're picking up a hook for the first time, rediscovering the joy of a project, or seeking a space to heal, to craft and to connect—this is for you.
Why we’re doing this
Craft has always been more than just making — it’s about community, resilience, expression and transformation. In the valleys we have a proud heritage of creation and care. Our aim is to bring that into the present: to build groups where you can learn new skills, make new friends, and recover from trauma, addiction or life events in a safe, supportive and inspiring setting.
What you’ll find
- A warm, welcoming group atmosphere where everyone is valued regardless of experience.
- Friendly teaching of knitting, crochet and felting — whether you’re new to it or want to expand your skills.
- A place to share stories, support one another, build confidence and create beautiful things together.
- Opportunities to become part of a new generation of makers, designers and yarn-creators in the Welsh Valleys of Blaenau Gwent.
- A community hub where craft is a bridge—to mindfulness, to recovery, to connection and to creative purpose.
Who it’s for
- Anyone of any age in Blaina, Abertillery or Nantyglo who’d like to join in.
- Those seeking to meet others, try something new, bounce back from difficult times or simply embrace craft as a way of being.
- Makers who want to pass on skills, learners wanting to be inspired, and everyone in between.
Volunteering
We’re always looking for friendly, passionate people to help bring this project to life.
If you knit, crochet, felt, spin or just love being around creative people — we’d love you to get involved. Volunteers can help by:
- Leading or supporting small craft sessions
- Helping others learn new techniques
- Setting up local meet-ups or social events
- Supporting group members who may be rebuilding confidence or recovering from difficult times
No formal teaching experience is required — just kindness, patience and enthusiasm.
If you’d like to volunteer your time or share your skills, please get in touch. Together we can make a real difference, one stitch at a time.
Funding & Support
This project grows through the generosity of our community and supporters.
Every ball of yarn, cup of tea and smile shared is made possible by those who believe in what we’re doing.
We welcome donations, sponsorships and community funding that help us:
- Provide materials for beginners and group sessions
- Offer free or low-cost workshops for those in need
- Create safe, accessible spaces for craft and recovery
- Nurture creativity and wellbeing in the valleys
If you or your organisation would like to support this initiative — financially, through materials, or by partnering with us — please reach out. Your contribution will help weave a stronger, more connected Blaenau Gwent.
How to get involved
Join us in one of our local sessions (watch this space for dates and venues). Bring yourself, bring any projects you’re working on—or if you’re starting fresh, we’ll have starter materials ready. Come as you are, whether you just want to sit and stitch or dive in with both needles.
Together, let’s weave new friendships, stitch new stories and craft a brighter future in the valleys.