New TV show the Game of Wool brings together a wonderful mix of knitters from all walks of life, proving once again that knitting truly has no boundaries.
The Game of Wool is a UK-based knitting competition that brings together ten ambitious knitters from diverse backgrounds, all vying to become the UK’s first TV knitting champion. Set against the stunning Scottish countryside, the show features a mix of team and individual challenges designed to test both creativity and technical skill.
Contestants tackle large-scale, timed projects in a team challenge, pushing them out of their comfort zones with unusual materials or designs, while solo individual challenges allow them to showcase personal style, precision, and innovation. From bold colour choices to sculptural creations and even yarn-based street art, each episode celebrates the artistry of knitting in ways that are as entertaining as they are inspiring.
Di and Sheila relaxing surrounded by their fabulous yarn!
Judges Di Gilpin and Sheila Greenwell evaluate both technique and creative approach, gradually narrowing down the field until one knitter claims the title.
Episode 1 wasted no time throwing contestants in at the deep end where chunky yarn and large needles were the order of the day. Not everyone’s cup of tea, perhaps, but seemingly necessary for a large-scale, timed challenge. Watching the knitters adapt to the heft and pace was fascinating. It challenged them to the hilt in two big ways: first, by using chunky yarn and second, by working collaboratively as teams.
And what a treat it was to see that teamwork in action. When one team struggled, another stepped in to lend a hand, a touching reminder of the spirit of support and camaraderie we see so often on our own Knitting Tours. That willingness to help, share and encourage is such a hallmark of the knitting community. Let’s see how long that spirit lasts as the competition heats up!
Contestants were asked to ‘reinvent’ a knitting style, coming up with there own interpretation of colours and pattern. One discovered that steeking in a timed challenge in week one was not a good idea! The design had to tell the knitter’s story, which was a great way to get to know the knitters. While they may have been playing fast and loose with the type of design, the bold colour choices and patterns were unique to each contestant.
Using chunky needles and yarn, each team had to create a sofa cover! Team one decided on an ambitious sunset design and team two opted for an Ombre effect with cables creating texture. It was here that one team stepped in to help the other finish pinning their design together.
The show’s production was as colourful as the projects themselves. The contestants’ use of colour was fabulous – bold, expressive, and full of personality. The diversity of approaches and creativity on display made for inspiring viewing, no matter your knitting style or skill level.
Host Tom was an absolute delight – warm, witty, and clearly enjoying every minute among such talented makers. And of course, we were thrilled to see our very own Di Gilpin and Sheila Greenwell as judges! Both are familiar faces to those who’ve joined our Scotland Knitting Tours, and we’ve long known just how quirky, creative, and highly skilled they are. It’s wonderful to see them sharing that talent with a wider audience.
All in all, the Game of Wool’s first episode was about of creativity, community, and craft. It’s competitive, yes – but it’s also kind, vibrant and full of heart. That being said, knitting is called slow fashion for a reason. Part of the joy is the time taken and painstaking detail, as well as commitment with a firm nod to tradition and heritage – so let’s see what Episode 2 brings!
If the Game of Wool has inspired you to pick up your needles, why not take it one step further? Join Di and Sheila in person on one of our Scotland Knitting Tours, where you’ll learn the art of Gansey knitting from these incredible designers, explore stunning landscapes and experience the same camaraderie and creativity seen on the show – without the ticking clock and judges!
9 Night Scotland with Scottish Highlands Knitting Tour featuring Di Gilpin
