A group of creative crafters from the Isle of Wight Community Club are spreading a little extra magic this festive season.
The club’s ‘Craft and Chat’ group has been busy lovingly hand-knitting 150 cheerful woollen elves, each tagged with the name of its maker, ready to be hidden around the Isle of Wight for people to find and keep.
The idea behind the project is simple: to bring the community together and share some light-hearted joy.
Wendy Mitchell, who runs the group, said:
“We’re hoping that anyone who needs a lift, a friend, or even just a smile will find one.
“Each elf carries a message inviting people to share their find on our Facebook page, so we can see where they end up. It will be lovely to see where they eventually find their forever homes.
“It’s been such fun. Between the knitting, the elf jokes on WhatsApp, and all the laughter, these elves have truly taken over our lives! Now it’s time for them to venture into the wider community and spread a little festive joy across the Isle of Wight.”
The Craft and Chat group includes women ranging in age from their 20s to their 90s, with 2 members only learning to knit for the first time this year.
The social club, on Park Road in Cowes, offers something for everyone, from children’s sports and parties to adult fitness, dancing, singing, bowling, bingo, and crafts.
Alongside the elf project, the craft group meets regularly to try new crafts, usually once a month, and is busy preparing for its annual Christmas Fair, which is taking place on Sunday 23rd November from 11:00 to 15:00.
Proceeds from the fair will go toward fundraising for a new accessible play park for children.
Keep your eyes peeled throughout November – one of these little knitted elves might just be waiting to bring a smile your way. You might even spot one on a ferry!
