The Wool Monty is coming to Magna – a yarn show which is truly accessible to all – book tickets
Tickets have gone on sale for one of the UK’s best yarn shows, being held at the Magna Science Adventure Centre on Saturday June 8 and Sunday June 9.
The event is being held by the team behind the Woolfull yarn shop in Bradwell, in the Hope Valley, and accessibility is key.
Co-owner Debbie Gascoigne said: “When we opened our shop we wanted to make it accessible for all and it is the same with The Wool Monty.
“When we started to go to yarn shows ourselves we found they can sometimes be pretty inaccessible so we wanted to do something to help change that. Since launching in 2019 we have shown we can create something that everyone can visit and we are going to do the same again this year.”
The event is all on one floor with wide aisles suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. There is also enough space and high ceilings to diffuse noise for those with visual or sensory issues.
Not only that, assistance dogs are welcome, there is a quiet room away from the main show area with dim lights and comfy seating, several accessible toilets, including a Changing Places bathroom, and there are carer tickets available.
What’s on show?
The 65 independent vendors are coming from across the UK, from the Highlands of Scotland to Cornwall, as well as a select group from the Sheffield area. They will sell direct to the public, offering products relating to knitting and crocheting as well as dyeing, patterns, and crafts such as weaving, felting and macramé.
Debbie said: “It is really friendly and really informal. You can wander around and have a good look at your leisure – most people will spend all day at the event and there will be refreshments available, as well as the great Magna café.”
A good yarn
Yarn and the crafts that go with it are more popular than ever, according to Debbie.
“People think of little old ladies knitting jumpers and scarves but that is really not the main demographic now. Young people are doing it, men are loving it – it really is open to all.
Debbie GascoigneThere is a social and community aspect because people get involved with knitting and crocheting, as well as the other crafts, because they have usually been inspired or taught by someone. You find lots of interaction because people want to keep on learning from others – the show is a great way for like-minded people to meet up and it is great to be part of it.
Part of the attraction to the yarn-based crafts is that it helps some people with mental health or anxiety issues. Debbie added: “It is often quite a repetitive thing to do, whilst also being creative. So, it can be very mindful and give people an outlet to help them.”
Book now for The Wool Monty on June 8 and 9 at thewoolmonty.co.uk. Day tickets in advance are £10 and on-the-door tickets are £12.50.