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Shown L-R: Siegfried Farnon (Samuel West) in a knitted vest, Mrs. Hall (Anna Madeley) in a knitted cardigan
Credit: Playground Entertainment and MASTERPIECE / Photographer: Helen Williams
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Spread Warmth This Winter And Join Our All Creatures Knit-Along
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This winter, we return to Darrowby with a new feeling of hope for the characters of All Creatures Great and Small. With World War II starting to come to an end, James, Siegfried, Tristan, Mrs. Hall, and the rest of the village must decide how to move forward with their lives. The war has forever changed them all, from those who fought at the front to those who remained in Darrowby, taking care of the town’s animals and each other.
The act of giving, of leaning on one’s neighbors during times of need, is not only a recurring theme in All Creatures Great and Small but one we value here at Georgia Public Broadcasting. With that in mind, we are pleased to announce the return of our All Creatures Knit-Along! In early 2025, our partnerships with local yarn shops across the state saw success in our initiative to keep shelter pets warm throughout Georgia: dozens of knitted and crocheted pet blankets, toys, and more were created, collected, and donated to shelters. Georgia stepped up in supporting animals in need, and this year we’re asking you to donate your yarn and skills once more as we look to help our neighbors. Georgians across the state need your support this winter to keep warm during the season’s freezing weather: whether you’re an experienced knitter or brand new to the craft, you can help knit for your neighbors.
That’s what DeAnne from Atlanta’s Needle Nook, our partner for this year’s Knit-Along, hopes for. “Partnering with GPB is truly special for us,” She shared her reflections from last winter. “Last year’s ‘Knitting for Pets’ created an incredible outpouring of handmade love – we collected more than 100 items that were donated to FurKids animal shelters across Georgia. Watching our community come together stitch by stitch to support our neighbors (both furry and human!) was profoundly moving, and it reinforced how fiber arts can connect and comfort in ways nothing else does.”
So how can you participate? What sorts of items are in demand, and how can you make them? Don’t worry, we asked DeAnne for her expert advice.
“For this initiative, any warm, washable fibers will be wonderful," She suggested for knitters and crocheters alike. "Acrylics, superwash wool blends, and soft cottons are practical choices because they’re easy to care for and durable for everyday use.” She also recommends worsted and bulky yarn weights that help items work up quickly. As for needles and hooks, DeAnne recommends US 7-10 for worsted, US 10-13 for bulky, and 5mm-8mm hooks for crocheters.
Don’t be afraid of complicated patterns and stitches, either: there’s a knitting or crocheting project for every skill level. DeAnne suggests the following:
- Simple ribbed or garter-stitch hats
- Basic scarves (knit or crochet)
- Granny-square or single-crochet scarves
- Mitts or handwarmers
- Cozy cowls
With plenty of digital patterns available on Ravelry, you’ll be able to select a favorite and start creating your own knitted or crocheted item for the initiative.
But what if you prefer to knit with a group in person, or you’re learning how to knit for the first time? Don’t worry, DeAnne has suggestions for you, too.
“We always encourage new makers to join in!” She shared enthusiastically when asked about what options there were for new knitters. “A simple scarf, bulky hat, or granny-square project is a perfect first step for someone who wants to contribute but is brand new to yarn crafts.” At Needle Nook, new and experienced yarn crafters alike can take Knitting 101 and Crochet Basics classes, or attend weekly open table gatherings where makers can sit, stitch, and get support for their projects, including the Knitting for Neighbors projects. All class details and signup links can be found on their website.
And if you’re not in Atlanta but want to participate in Knitting for Neighbors, we welcome and encourage you to do so. DeAnne shared that for those throughout Georgia, items can be mailed directly to Needle Nook and she and her team will distribute them through their partner organizations. Alternatively, knitters and crocheters can reach out to their local community centers, shelters, or faith-based groups who welcome handmade donations: Needle Nook is happy to help anyone who reaches out.
Donations of knitted items are due by February 22, 2026, which coincides with the Season 6 finale of All Creatures Great and Small.
You can find Needle Nook online through their website, Instagram page, and Facebook page. Season 6 of All Creatures Great and Small premieres Sunday, January 11 at 9 p.m. on GPB and will be available to stream on GPB Passport. Seasons 1 through 5 are available to stream now on GPB Passport: a perfect accompaniment to watch while you knit. DeAnne from Needle Nook is a fan, too.
“I’m a huge fan of All Creatures Great and Small – it’s one of my favorite ‘comfort shows’ to knit to. I also love watching PBS classics and cooking shows while I knit; they’re the perfect backdrop for settling into a project.”
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