Join us in honouring the legacy of the lead smelters and showcasing the timeless art of knitting. This workshop is being held at Rookhope Village Hall, Rookhope on Saturday 22 June, 1pm to 3pm, and is suitable for adults.

Last year, artist Carole McCourt stumbled upon a fascinating photograph of a group of smelters at Rookhope Smelt Mill, each donning a knitted shawl. This image sparked an idea: to celebrate this unique heritage skill and the rich history of lead smelters through a community project. Her vision is now coming to life as part of the North Pennines National Landscape’s Land of Lead and Silver project.

The workshop involves recreating a knitted shawl inspired by those in the historic photograph. Carole has developed a pattern that pays homage to the original shawls while allowing for creative expression. We are inviting local knitting groups and individual knitters to join us.

We will provide you with a pattern based on the historic shawls and some yarn to get you started. The pattern is designed to be simple enough for complete beginners, but it also offers opportunities for experienced knitters to showcase their skills with techniques like Fair Isle and cabling.

This workshop is part of the 2024 Land of Lead and Silver community arts programme. Carole McCourt is one of four community arts bursary recipients. To find out more go to https://northpennines.org.uk/community-arts-2024/.

Please use the Ticketsource link to book.