What is The Longest Yarn?

Our first 80 meter work done in time for the 80th Anniversary of D Day is Basically a knitted & crocheted storyboard of 6th June 1944 showing the decision making, the build up, the invasion, local impact and reminding everyone of the destruction and ramifications of an event like this, plus it actually took 80 days to get to Paris with a bloody battle every day.

This second work is a study of Britain during the period of war declared 3rd September 1939 to VE Day 8th May 1945. We’ve taken all aspects of life, rationing, evacuees, blitz, the terrible headlines when Britain is looking at the darkest hour to end with the euphoria of peace.  

A post on our Facebook Page by someone visiting D Day... I really think it sums us up beautifully! 

‘Beyond awesome 👌  As items were created through knitting and crocheting for this work of love, respect and thanks, who would have thought that people of all ages, all over the world, could have their lives, communities and nations interwoven like the very things being created.  There is a golden thread of lives; husbands, wives, partners, children, along with cars, vans, lorries, ferries, aeroplanes, businesses, all caught up in carrying the banner for this precious cargo. Children being taught knitting and crocheting, school trips to see the displays and learn about those courageous people who were willing to lay down their lives to save those they didn't even know. Veterans, reminiscing on battles, friendships made, and those who were lost. I hope they see the love and gratitude in that woven golden thread for all they did for us. I doubt that anyone who has ever visited The Longest Yarn will ever forget it, and will wrap it up in their hearts, lest we forget, for we must never forget. ❤️❤️❤️’ 

When I first had my lightbulb moment I really had no idea that it would lead to this incredible roller coaster I’ve been on for almost 2 years… 250,000 people have been through to visit us. And raised the same in monetary terms. 

It’s all got a lot bigger than first envisaged as our original plan of ‘we’ll give surplus funds to veteran charities’. 

The enthusiasm surrounding this project exemplifies how commemorative activities can stimulate local economies and foster connections within communities. Through our efforts, we’ve actually strengthened the relationship between historical remembrance and local engagement, demonstrating that celebrating history can also yield remarkable economic benefits. Wherever we’ve been we’ve had cafes and shops selling out…in fact news headlines on 2 occasions how we’ve increased trade! 

Due to the positive reception and success we have experienced, we are excited to further develop our initiatives to ensure that these significant commemorations continue to be recognised. We have therefore commissioned this second 80-meter project titled "Britain at War," which examines how Britain navigated the war from September 3rd to VE Day,  here at Wonderwool you are the very first to see the start of the 80 panel work we are currently working on. A roll out of panels is taking place until 3rd September 2025 at Southwell Minster where we will unveil the whole 80 panels. 

In addition to producing two major works, that have drawn comparisons to the modern Bayeux Tapestry, we aim to strengthen our community through various projects such as the Poppy Cascades in France and Britain, for example we’ll be undertaking a major installation for Peterborough Cathedral!