Mandela Day initiative attempts world record
Knitters from all over the country have been invited to join in the attempt by sending their scarfs to 67 Blankets ambassadors in their areas.
IN honour of South Africa’s late former president and face of democracy Nelson Mandela, the KnitWit group is attempting to break a world record. In collaboration with 67 Blankets, an initiative linked to Nelson Mandela Day which aims to keep disadvantaged people warm in winter – the group is attempting the record by crocheting a 27 kilometre long scarf.
Knitters from all over the country have been invited to join in the attempt by sending their knitted scarfs to 67 Blankets ambassadors in their areas.
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La Lucia resident and local 67 Blankets ambassador, Susan Eslick said so far the province has managed to knit 461-metre-long scarf.
“People from all walks of life knit scarfs of different colours, wools and patterns. They then send them to us so that we can join them together. We are strict in length and width though as the scarf has to be 20cm wide and 100 – 150 m long,” said Eslick.
The scarf also needs to be crocheted rather than knitted and the hook size must be no bigger than 6.5mm. The record will take place at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site in Howick, KwaZulu Natal, on 29 July. However, the extended deadline for the anyone to finish the scarves they are currently crocheting is Friday, 6 July.
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Founder of 67 Blankets, Carolyn Steyn said they will need as many hands as possible.
“27 kilometres is an extremely long scarf and we need as many hands on deck as possible. KnitWits who have already knitted scarves that don’t fit the Guinness World Book criteria need not worry. It has not been in vain. These scarves will be used for our yearly SSS (Secret Scarves SShhh),” said Steyn.
The 27kmScarf event on the 29 July will kick off at 10am at the Nelson Mandela Capture site on the R103 ( Howick / Tweedie off-ramp off the N3). The public is advised to bring their own picnics baskets. There will also be local entertainment.
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