CREATIVE Salford knitters have launched a knitting book inspired by the Bridgewater Canal at MediaCityUK.
‘Make Your Marks’ is a collection of contemporary knitting patterns such as cushions and blankets which are inspired by the shapes and features found along the canal in Salford.
Organiser and learning officer Kate Charnock said: “We have over 100 knitters work on the project for around a year and a half and the aim is to reach more people through the book to make people more aware about the project.”
As well as the book, the group of knitters have knitted two words that have been on display. #SWINGIEST was a collaboration between knitting and crocheting in relation to the swing bridge at the Barton Aqueduct. It was on display in Pocket Park for six months.
@heritagelottery @SalfordCanal @SalfordCouncil #swingiest is standing proud ! #communityarts #textileart #knitting #crochet #typography pic.twitter.com/0C1aco26Z9
— ArtYarn (@artyarn) November 1, 2016
The most recent project was #FLOATIEST. It was originally created for Tatton Park and was a part of the prize winning garden.
#FLOATIEST anagram! Word of the day? We are at #rhstatton Flower Show till Sunday so come and play. @The_RHS #knitting #typography pic.twitter.com/AjOKTGYCan
— Bridgewater Canal (@SalfordCanal) July 19, 2017
We are @MediaCityUK today with our giant woolly word. We have a knitting book to launch and free patterns to give away. @VisitTheQuays #Salford pic.twitter.com/xTbPEHbhfv
— Bridgewater Canal (@SalfordCanal) November 23, 2017
Knitter Chris Johnson was involved in the creation of both words. She said: “All the squares were done individually to a colour scheme with patterns inspired by the stone masons marks and as a result of the project we now have a knitting group that meets every Friday”.
The project is part of plans to inspire a new generation of canal enthusiasts and celebrate the heritage of the 250 year old canal. “By working in a community you meet so many more new people and by being on the Quays we get to reach a new audience who may not necessarily visit the Bridgewater Canal”
Councillor David Lancaster, lead member for environment and community safety, said: “I think stone masons who worked on the Bridgewater Canal over 250 years ago would be delighted to see their marks inspiring modern day knitters and to know people today still marvel at their work.”
The book was created by artist Rachel Elwell. It can be downloaded for free here or can be borrowed from any Salford library.
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