Knitters across South Africa are being encouraged to pick up their needles this Saturday, 13 June, as the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day movement celebrates Worldwide Knit in Public Day.

The annual global event brings crafters together in public spaces to knit, crochet and connect and is observed in more than 50 countries.

Exclusive Books has partnered with 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day to provide welcoming spaces for knitters at several branches across the country this Saturday, between 11:00 and 12:00, including at the V&A Waterfront and Cavendish.

The 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day initiative is titled Crocheting New Circles of Friendship, and beginners have also been invited to come along and learn new skills, connect and contribute to blanket-making projects that support vulnerable communities.

Participating stores will provide refreshments, wool, crochet hooks and knitting needles, while volunteers from 67 Blankets, including Ambassadors and KnitWits, will introduce newcomers to crochet and encourage them to become part of the movement’s growing network of #GoodWool volunteers.

In addition to the Exclusive Books activations, the KnitWits will also host a community knit-in at Blue Route Mall from 10:00 to 14:00, welcoming knitters and crocheters of all skill levels.

In Hermanus, Ocean Basket Hermanus will host a community knit-in from 12:00 to 16:00, while in George, the George KnitWits will gather at Outeniqua Lifestyle Centre from 10:00.