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The Big Knit 2026-27

The Big Knit is back!

Dust off your needles and hooks, because the innocent Big Knit is back and we're hoping to collect as many little hats as we possibly can.

Every hat raises 30p for Age UK Wiltshire, helping us support older people across Wiltshire, Swindon and Southampton. Last year you knitted an incredible 22,850 hats and raised £6,855, and we think together we can go even further.

Whether you're a seasoned knitter or picking up needles for the first time, there's a pattern below for you. Send your hats to us or drop them in at any of our offices or shops, and get in touch with our Big Knit Coordinator at bigknit@ageukwiltshire.org.uk if you have any questions.

How can I take part? 

Whether you're a knitting or crochetting newbie or a ninja with the needles or hooks, everyone can get involved.  All you need is some wool, needles or a hook for crocheting queens (or kings) and a comfy seat then get knitting or crochetting (don't forget to put the kettle on for a cuppa or two!!)

When you've finished your hats, don't forget to send them to us or drop them off at one of our offices or shops below: 

  • Devizes Office: Unit 10, Prince Maurice Court, Hambleton Avenue, Devizes, SN10 2RT
  • Salisbury Charity Shop: 44 Catherine Street, Salisbury, SP1 2DD
  • Bradford on Avon Charity Shop: 15 Station Approach, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1FQ 
  • Marlborough Charity Shop: 34 High Street, Marlborough, SN8 1LW
  • Devizes Charity Shop: 8 The Brittox, Devizes, SN10 1AJ
  • Swindon Office: 7 Callender Park, Paddington Drive, Swindon, SN5 7YW​
  • Southampton Office: Padwell Road Day Centre, Padwell Rd, Southampton SO14 6QX

Knitting Patterns

Our basic knitting patterns will help you get started.

Plain bobble hat

Stripe hat

Simple crochet hat

These are a great place to start and you can always experiement on the basic pattern and give it your own flourish. You can also find lots of patterns online. Click here to visit the Innocent website and check out more free patterns!

We would love to see pictures of your wonderful creations so please feel free to share them with us on our Facebook page!

Feeling creative? Have a go at these natty knitting and crochet patterns!  

Blue Bobble Hat  

Happy Apple 

Unicorn Hat 

Beehive Hat 

Duck Hat

Sombrero Hat 

How the Big Knit helps older people

With over a decade of support from knitters up and down the country, The Big Knit has raised vital funds to support local and national winter projects to help older people keep warm and well in winter through wellbeing projects, emergency cold weather support, warm meals and other vital services.

The Big Knit is a great way to bring people and communities together. Knitting groups have been held up and down the country for people to get involved, share patterns and have a cup of tea or two!

Why not get involved, embrace your creativity and help support older people in your community too?

Free Downloadable Big Knit Poster and Pattern Leaflet