Member Article

Big knitting takes over Metroradio Arena

A North East textile artist and designer will be attempting to break the world record for knitting with the world’s largest needles later today. Ingrid Wagner’s record attempt will take place at the Metroradio arena in Newcastle upon Tyne to launch the 11th annual ‘Pins & Needles’ Needlework and Craft show.

Alison Lough, director and organiser of Pins & Needles, said: “The current record stands at needles 3.5m long and 6.5cm in diameter. We aim to smash this with needles 3.5m long but 8cm in diameter and bring the World’s largest needles to the North East’s largest craft show.”

Ingrid will be assisted in this giant task by fellow arena users, The Newcastle Eagles. Well known for their basketball handling skills, they will be handling both ends of the giant needles while Ingrid knits with the others.

Ingrid will have to cast on 10 stitches and knit 10 rows in order to break the record. She already has experience with Big Knitting, using her own Big Knit Needles and alternative recycled knitting material, Big Knit Yarn. Ingrid will also be attending Pins & Needles with her Big Knit Workshops.

Ingrid said: “It’s going to be quite a challenge. But the current record holder lives in the South so I’d like to see the North take on the challenge and beat the record.”

For further information on the Pins & Needles Show or Monday’s event, contact Alison Lough 01661 88614 or 07989 618373.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .