Story by Rhylea Thompson

Connecting two pieces of wool together is known as a ‘Magic Knot’, but the crocheting term could also be used to describe the strong and reliable bond between Barb and Joy.

The pair first met when they began attending the Knit and Knatter classes offered through the Seasons Mango Hill Lifestyle Program and instantly connected over their shared interest in craft.

CRAFTY CHICKS: Barb (left) and Joy regularly attend the Knit and Knatter sessions held at the Seasons Mango Hill community. Photo: Maddison Bywater

“We just plonked ourselves down next to each other, started chatting and realised we were on the same wave length,” Barb said.

“(Knit and Knatter) is a friendship group and that’s exactly what happens when you get a bunch of ladies who craft together… it’s nice to share a passion for making something with others.”

The two Seasons residents who have been friends since moving to the Mango Hill community more than two years ago, said they admired each other’s calm but straight forward and honest nature.

TREND SETTERS: From handbags and blankets, to beanies and tea towels, the members of the Seasons Knit and Knatter group create stunning pieces. Photo: Maddison Bywater

While all group members enjoy the art of crafting, it is the treasured companionship which has become the highlight of Knit and Knatter.

Anywhere between 12 and 20 residents attend the weekly sessions where a beautiful array of handmade blankets, rugs, handbags, tea towels, beanies, scarves and mittens have been produced.

“Some of us come to knit but some of us come to ‘knatter’,” Joy said.

“One lady couldn’t crochet in the beginning and was ready to give up, but now she’s making some beautiful pieces and that’s lovely to see.

“Even though some ladies can no longer knit or crochet because of the Arthritis in their hands, they still love to come along and chat or just see what we have made.”

COZY CRAFT: The beautiful blanket Joy completed at the Seasons Knit and Knatter meets. Photo: Maddison Bywater

In addition to the social aspect, Barb and Joy said knitting also promoted cognitive and muscle memory benefits, provided a sense of accomplishment and reduced stress in seniors.

While Barb has unintentionally earned the label of ‘Pattern Queen’, she believes her crochet skills come down to perseverance and patience.

SHOW & TELL: Residents of Seasons Mango Hill proudly presenting their handmade creations. Photo: Maddison Bywater

“It’s funny because the first question people always ask is how long something took to make but I have never put a time limit on it,” Barb said.

“I look at everything as a challenge – I want to figure out how to do it and won’t stop until I work it out… so I guess it’s just sheer pigheadedness!

“Every design feels like a new adventure and gives me the confidence to tackle it and then there’s the joy of sharing ideas with the other ladies too.”

For more information about our engaging Lifestyle Program, chat to our team or visit seasonsliving.com.au