Skipton is preparing to welcome yarn enthusiasts from across the UK and beyond when Yarndale returns this weekend.
The annual festival of yarn and woolly creativity will take over Skipton Auction Mart on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September. The award-winning event brings together makers, designers, artists and exhibitors, transforming the Auction Mart's sheep pens into what organisers describe as a “sheepshed of woolly wonder”. Visitors will be able to browse a wide range of yarn, wool, patterns, kits, tools and handmade creations, alongside a programme of workshops, talks and activities. One of this year's highlights will be an installation featuring more than 20,000 woolly dots created by knitters and crocheters around the world as part of Yarndale's Worldwide Creative Project. The festival's popular Making Space will also return, providing free activities for visitors of all ages and abilities. Organisers say the area is designed to give people an opportunity to try a new craft, share skills and spend time making alongside fellow visitors. Environmental issues will also feature through Yarndale's Craft for Climate programme. A new project called ‘Squaring The Risk’ will be launched at the festival, encouraging people to explore climate change and its impact through knitting and making. The weekend will also see the launch of A Yarndale Flock, a new book featuring eight sheep-themed knitting patterns by Sue Stratford Knits. The patterns have been created using Yarndale's limited-edition West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4ply Sock Yarn colourways. Live entertainment will come from The Gatsbys and The Ginjammers, while DripDrop Theatre will perform songs from its musical Close Knit. Yarndale takes place at Skipton Auction Mart on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September. Advance online tickets will remain available until 5pm on Thursday 24th September, with a limited number of tickets also available on the door.

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