Clare Griffel is a long-standing member of the Bath branch and has recently been appointed as the advisor to the Chair for the Knitting & Crochet Guild. We recently caught up and had a chat about all things knitting…
How long have you been a member of the Knitting and Crochet Guild?
Since about 2014.
You’re a regular member of the Bath branch, what keeps you coming back each month?
A lot of things really; the company, meeting up with like-minded people, the variety of topics, the relaxed atmosphere and the appeal of a day out in Bath.
You recently took up the role of advisor to the Chair for the Knitting & Crochet Guild, what prompted you to stand/get more involved?
I feel strongly about the craft and the image of knitting and had a sense of wanting to contribute to the organisation. That, and I’m naturally bossy.
When did you start knitting?
I started knitting when I was 7 years old.
How did you learn to knit/who taught you?
I learnt to knit at school. I made a woolly hat in cream yarn although it came out in stripes! I knit the grubby dark grey stripes, my friend, who was slightly cleaner, knit the light grey stripes and our teacher knit the cream stripes.
What do you like about knitting?
There is always something new to learn. The physical pleasure of the process. As a fidgety person it keeps me occupied, I knit and read at the same time.
Are you a product or a process knitter?
Both.
You’ve taught a few knitting sessions as well, what attracts you to teaching knitting?
Again, being naturally bossy! I like to share the skill and craft with other people and find teaching very rewarding.
What would you say to someone considering attending the AGM and Convention for the first time? Any advice?
Do it, it’s extremely friendly. Even if you don’t know anyone the attendees all have so much in common you won’t feel left out.
Any final words about knitting and the Guild generally?
The Knitting and Crochet Guild is a unique resource for our members and a gateway to the heritage of knitting and crochet and it’s fantastic to be a part of it all.
Thank you to Clare for chatting with me If you’d like to find out more about the Knitting & Crochet Guild, visit their website or contact your local branch coordinator.
Image credit: The owls were Clare’s contribution to the National Trust’s ‘Woollen Woods’ event
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