Knitting needles are at the ready as Channel 4 announces an exciting new competition series, The Game of Wool, coming to More 4.
With over 101 million viral knitting videos on TikTok and celebrities showing off their yarn skills, it’s clear that knitting is back in style.
In his first major presenting role, Tom Daley will oversee the brand new series where he’ll welcome 10 ambitious knitters who will take on a series of complex challenges as they compete to become the UK’s first TV knitting champion.
Tom Daley said: “I am very excited, and slightly nervous, to be taking on my first ever hosting role on a project that encompasses everything I’m passionate about.
“I adore all things knitting and encourage everyone to pick up some knitting needles and give it a go! I cannot wait to see the creations our knitters will weave together, and hope this inspires people at home to get involved too!”
Set in the picturesque countryside of rural Scotland, an area rich in knitting and wool heritage, each episode will feature two main challenges.
The Big Knit will see contestants working in teams on a highly complex project.
The Wee Knit will have them tackling individual briefs that test their skills and knowledge, from Fair Isle to Intarsia techniques.
Contestants will create a range of unique items, including clothing, jewellery, home accessories, furniture, sculptures, and even try their hand at yarn bombing.
The knitters will be under the watchful eyes of two esteemed judges from the world of wool, Di Gilpin and Sheila Greenwell.
Di and Sheila, who have knitted for fashion giants like Chanel, Vivienne Westwood, Paul Smith, and Nike, will judge creativity and technique.
Each week, a celebrity guest judge will join Di and Sheila to help decide who advances and who gets “cast off” home.
In the end, only one contestant will win the glory of being the first winner of The Game of Wool.
Wendy Rattray, Executive Producer said: “This is knitting but not as you know it. Expect a rainbow coloured extravaganza set in the Scottish countryside where brilliant knitters, young and old, will produce the most unexpected and jaw dropping knits: homewares; jewellery; sculptures; shoes; furniture… and much more. Wool is officially cool and we’re delighted to showcase the best of the best in this exciting new format.”
More on: Channel 4
