Lungile Dlamini arrived feeling unsure about knitting. Although she had tried it growing up, she had forgotten the skills and considered herself a beginner.

By the end of Love Light Care Foundation’s workshop at Norscot Manor on 1 October, she was already planning to make knitting her new hobby.

Speaking to Fourways Review, Dlamini said: “I was pleasantly surprised by how doable it actually is.” 

A skill worth passing on

The workshop brought women together to learn while making items intended for donation to people and organisations in need.

Among them was Karen Lindstrom, who learnt to knit at about five, taught by retired women at a boarding house where her family stayed. Decades later, she continues making items for organisations that need them.

For Dlamini, the chance to help others added another reason to keep practising. She hoped to make a few pieces for herself and many more to give away. 

Fancy trying it yourself?

You do not need to tackle an entire blanket as your first project.

For readers looking for a separate route into charity knitting, 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day accepts 20 × 20 cm knitted or crocheted squares, which volunteers join into blankets.

Its practical guidance offers several ways to contribute:

• Start with a square: measure the finished piece so it can be joined neatly.
• Use leftover yarn: remnants from previous projects can go into squares.
• Donate materials: wool, needles and crochet hooks help people who have the skills but cannot afford supplies.
• Contact a local ambassador first: ask about requirements and collection arrangements before starting or dropping off donations. 

The organisation lists ambassadors in areas including Fourways, Lonehill and Westdene.

• Read the knitting guidelines and recommended sizes.
• Find a local 67 Blankets ambassador.

The Bottom Line

If a whole blanket feels ambitious, begin with one square. Or help someone else get started with the wool and needles they need. Both are practical ways to contribute.