Game of Wool: A Stitch in Time

What Does A Reality Show Look Like for Yarn Arts?

I've always wondered what a crochet or knit reality show would look like. Daniel and I have talked for the past 10 years about possibly doing this. Still, of course, we are not connected with anyone in production to make it happen. Honestly, my ambition to be a TV host or be on a TV show doesn't really pique my interest enough to want to apply or get an agent to do so.

My ideal reality show would be boring for non-yarn users, but I had this idea to travel to people's houses to review their yarn collections:

• Understand their backstory.

• If they are hoarding yarn or holding onto things, declutter and refresh.

• Figure out a way to help them organize.

• Offer counselling if needed.

  
  

But here's the catch: I wouldn't want to pursue it, as it could inadvertently ruin someone's joy in being creative. Lawd knows, my desk and office can turn into a whirlwind mess in no time. To ruin someone's joy would not make me happy. Embarrassing moments of side-eyes or other things I tend to do can be edited poorly and take the fun out of it.

Knowing that I would not be a suitable host for such things, I don't mind other people, like Tom, stepping forward to assume the role.

You Can View on YouTube

On YouTube, search for "Game of Wool" and you will find people have posted episodes.

I've had the opportunity to meet Tom at a quick meet-and-greet. Of course, in a quick encounter, the interaction is so fast. Really, what can you say to each other in such a short period of time?

It's one of the reasons I don't enjoy store meet & greets: they feel too rushed. Not everything can be said in a few minutes when you feel pressured. It's one of the major reasons I prefer a retreat atmosphere. You can get to know people and build a connection over a cup of tea, stitching out, or having a mutual shared experience to create a new memory.

I knew who Tom was from the Olympics, but I haven't followed him in anything. Funny enough, I didn't think he had an accent, as I don't ever recall hearing him. I know, I don't know how I function some days. I figured if I ever met an Olympian, now was the time. We didn't take the Olympics. It was a rushed experience. He complimented my jacket, and I asked him what was up with not weaving in the ends. It was a fun encounter and one for the books.

In the yarn conversation, though, he lights right up and is quite encouraging. I didn't ask him if he recognized me, as that is really begging for attention. By now, at my age, I'm the old guy in the room. I've always said, in the yarn world, there is always room for others.

In short, he's the right host for this. I'd have trouble staying on script and definitely side-eyeing things without a word. Mmmm Hmmm. He's had some one-liners that made me laugh out loud—reflecting his own struggles with diving and applying it to the arts. Encourage, share, and have fun with it. It's perfection. He makes me proud to be a crocheter and love yarn as much as I do.

I was crocheting while watching Episode One. I nearly tied myself in knots when I learned what the first challenge was. I would have quit, right then, right there. I literally said to Daniel, "My gawd, I'd be so done."

I'm unsure whether some of the contestants realize the time constraints and the amount of stitchwork required. I can sit and crochet for umpteen hours, but doing a straight shot of ten to twelve hours? There has to be a pot of tea on and good bathroom breaks in between to stretch.

Daniel said it best: it's really not Britain's Best Knitter. Listening to the backstories of the contestants, some of their skills are really in question.

I wouldn't be qualified to be on this show if there were knitting involved. Episodes one and two are doing things I have never done. Even in crochet, I still have a lot to learn. I would be the Alan Carr of the filming. Grab me a martini, and let's chat!

Aside from the timing being really tough, the constraints the judges are facing must be complex. They want to see perfection, but with the limitations, it isn't easy to see true winners of their skill, with the need to rush through creativity. One judge is technical, while the other is more creative. The technical judge would scare the hell out of me.

My main worry is that the judging ruins the creativity of the up-and-coming generation. Seeing people fail because of a lack of time feels wrong to me, but maybe I am being too cynical.

My only concern about this show is the time constraints; it seems too short. I am sure the rushing may be taking away from the joy. Primarily, when getting judged, you cannot finish on time.

People online are judging the show's format and technical approaches. For myself, I don't know knitting well enough to question facts. Clo Knits has some valid points below, but when I watched it, I didn't want to think too hard about it as I was crocheting a fair isle crochet cowl.

I was making my Crochet Fair Isle Cowl while watching.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-CDPR4VvCk

5 Benefits of the Show Than To Complain About It

• It does give attention to the yarn arts in a more mainstream media presence. It makes people question the hobby and how to get involved—an easy lead-in to begin curiosity.

• Attention to yarns that we may not see locally at our yarn shops. I haven't seen Rowan or Wool & The Gang yarn in my region. It may be here, but I haven't seen it.

• The joy the contestants have, with giggling and storytelling on the sofa, reflects a great social environment. Yes, they are competing, but they aren't throwing knives; just little fun jabs of humour. There's cohesion.

• It's showing creativity is limited only by imagination—crochet or knit what you want. I'm a home decor and casual winter wear type of crocheter.

• The colour mixing the contestants are doing isn't something I would put together, but I am liking what I am seeing and having a fresh perspective on colouring.

But as I mentioned near the beginning, the reality show is about competition and nearly impossible timelines. Yet for every day a filming crew is on hand, it costs money. It would have been better to spread the challenges over two full days so the contestants could showcase why they were chosen for the show. But it's easy for me to be a keyboard warrior right here and right now.

I am drawing inspiration from the show, learning more about knitting, and watching the colour play unfold. I'm going to watch the entire season and draw ideas. For that alone, it's a fun watch. Of course, when I hear the challenges, I can yell at the TV while still sitting and crocheting, watching the drama unfold.

The Joy of Crafting

Crafting is more than just a hobby; it's a way to express ourselves. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's something magical about creating something with your own two hands. The thrill of watching yarn transform into a beautiful piece of art is unmatched.

Embracing Mistakes

Let's be real: mistakes happen. And you know what? That's okay! Every stitch, every misstep, is a learning opportunity. Embrace those little blunders. They often lead to the most unique creations. Plus, they make for great stories later!

Building Community

Crafting brings people together. Whether you're sharing tips, patterns, or just a cup of tea, the connections made through yarn arts are special. So, don’t hesitate to reach out, share your work, and celebrate each other's successes. After all, we're all in this together!

Finding Inspiration

Inspiration is everywhere! From nature to art, the world is a canvas for your creativity. Take a walk, visit a gallery, or simply look at the yarn in your stash. You never know what might spark your next project!

The Future of Yarn Arts

As we look ahead, the future of yarn arts is bright. With shows like Game of Wool, more people are discovering the joy of knitting and crocheting. The community is growing, and so is the creativity. So, grab your hooks and needles, and let’s keep crafting!

So, what do you think? Are you as excited about the future of yarn arts as I am? Let’s keep the conversation going!