I recently discovered that June 9th is International Yarn Bombing Day. The origins of yarn bombing (or knit graffiti) are often debated, but it is said to have begun in Texas, USA in 2005. Colourful displays of knitted or crocheted yarn are displayed in public places, often by anonymous crafters.
It got me thinking about whether I would ever have the confidence or skills to participate in a yarn bombing. What motivates people? Is it just a fun way to express creativity, or are there statements to be made? Whatever the idea behind a yarn bomb, it sure is a fun way to decorate a street or item, and it’s bound to make people stop and smile.
My yarn bombing research led me to rediscover all the recent knit graffiti I had seen online and in the national and local news.
Some of you may have seen the recent press about guerrilla knitwear artist Olek’s crocheted outfits for Anthony Gormley sculptures on Crosby Beach, Merseyside. Although the sculptures have been on the beach since 2005, Olek wanted to transform the sculptures into something new. She says “By covering them and giving them a new skin, I made them more alive”. Would this be the same for a tree? Or a railing? I know if I discovered a branch covered in a multicoloured plethora of yarn, it would certainly make me notice the tree when I would have otherwise walked on by.
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It’s said to be technically illegal to yarn bomb (considered a form of graffiti), but many local knitting groups are embracing the trend and I even discovered a recent yarn bomb in the nearby city of Norfolk.
The Norfolk Ninja Knitters spruced up lamposts and sculptures outside the City Hall, but sadly the council removed the yarn bombs 
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These yarn bombs I found on pinterest are really inspiring….
I love this London phone box, with Big Ben as the backdrop!
Source: www.knitthecity.com / Image © Knit the City
This one would really make people think twice about dodging parking fees…..
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I wonder how long this tree yarn bomb took?
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If you want to follow more yarn bombing activities check out the Canadian yarn bombing blog by Mandy Moore and Leanne Prain. They have even written a book on the subject and are bound to be updating the blog on today’s events across the globe.
Have you spotted a great yarn bomb in your area? Have you ever yarn bombed?
claireabelle x
Addition: A fellow crafty tweeter @Rachelunique also told me about an Olympic inspired yarn bomb which is amazing! Check it out here.
Awww I do love a good yarn bomb! You’ve found some great pictures
Makes me want to get out there and do a spot of yarn bombing of my own….. 
x x
You must let me know if you do any!
x
Thanks for mentioning us! It’s always nice to hear that more and more people are discovering the zany art of yarn bombing!
Thanks for reading
Oh no! Why would they take it down? I love the telephone booth with Big Ben in the background. They’re all amazing.
I know! I thought it was really mean to take it down. It must be so bright and cheery too
Yarn bombing is so fun! It is a bummer knowing that someone will probably take down your piece of knitting…but hopefully a few other people will get a smile from it before it disappears!
I read your post when you yarn bombed your desk at school and it really made me smile
Hi Claire. I just found your blog and I’m also living in Cambridge and did my first yarn bomb this weekend on chesterton road for international yarn bombing day. Would be great to chat and I’m in the process of setting up a central cambridge WI and think your input would be fantastic. Please get in touch naomi_lawrence@me.com
Take a look at my blog, its very simple compared to yours but I think we’re on the same page so to speak.
Naomi
Hi Naomi, thanks for stopping by and introducing yourself. Great to hear there are some fellow crafters nearby and congrats on your yarn bomb, it looks fantastic. Really brightens up a dreary road
Would love to know more about the WI group, I’ll email you in the morning
These are absolutely wonderful! I especially love the yarn bombed parking meter!
They’re so cool aren’t they? After this post I found more people yarn bombing in my home city
Very interesting indeed, I have to say I didn’t know anything about yarn bombing until now
Will surely follow up as I love knitting but I never know what to make.
Let me know if you do eventually yarn bomb anything! I am also thinking about it now…
What a fantastic photos! I’d never heard of yarn bombing until I started blogging – can’t wait to a go myself!
This is such a fantastic idea! I love the images you found. (I’ve just realised I’ve missed loads of fab recent posts by you!)
There will be some more yarn bombs around Cambridge soon apparently, so keep your eyes peeled
Hope you enjoy catching up on the posts! x