Knit & Natter

It was New Year’s Day 2022, and Debbie Shepherd was feeling the post-holiday blues. Her family had returned home, so she was at a loose end. She picked up her knitting, a lifelong comfort blanket.

As she worked, she wondered if others might be feeling similar, so she posted on the Praia da Luz Facebook page to ask if there were any fellow knitters/crocheters feeling the same. Instead of the two or three responses she expected, she received an avalanche of messages. This led her to ask who might be interested in meeting regularly for a Knit and Natter. 

So she and a few other ladies met for a coffee to discuss how they could put this idea into action. KnitLuzly was born and now meets weekly at the H-Aparthotel in Luz. “It’s a space where you can meet new people and find an affinity with others who share the same interest. I sometimes think when I go to meet friends, ‘what a shame I can’t knit while we’re chatting. Well, now I can!” There is something inclusive about sitting with others, knitting or crocheting together, particularly if you struggle with social situations. It’s the perfect way to meet others without feeling you need to talk or be entertaining.”

Debbie confirms, however, that once people feel comfortable, there is a lot of nattering and plenty of laughter! “It’s amazing what you learn about people when you are knitting!” 

Ancient crafts like knitting go back centuries. The earliest examples can be traced back to 11th century Egypt, so there is no doubt that in our genetic makeup, sitting with others and being creative is both comforting and good for our mental health.

Debbie taught herself to crochet only a few years ago to help pass the time on long plane journeys to Australia to visit her son and grandchildren as knitting needles are not allowed in the cabin. ”It’s never too late to learn, and our group members love helping each other. We always take some spare needles and wool in case someone needs some guidance from us.”

KnitLuzly is entirely inclusive. All ages and nationalities; men and women are equally welcome, from beginners to the most experienced.

If you are thinking jumpers are the most these crafts can achieve – think again. The regulars create a whole range of items. Cristel makes crocheted dolls, using a Japanese crochet art technique called amigurumi. Loes creates shawls and fabulous crochet lace and colour work, while Jacqui makes original, 10-stitch knitted blankets. Sue’s endeavours include making knitted toys for the Lagos children’s home.

So if you are feeling low, just want to craft with friends or want to be in stitches with KnitLuzly, then get in touch with Debbie and the KnitLuzly group.

Did you know

Knitting is believed to have originated in the Middle East in the 5th century and travelled to Europe with wool traders soon afterwards. 

Several knitted items were found in tombs in the royal monastery the Abbey of Santa Maria la Real de Las Huelgas, near Burgos in Spain. They were made by Muslims employed by the Spanish Christian Royal families. Believed to be the earliest relics of knitting in Europe, they included the knitted cushion covers and gloves found in the tomb of Prince Fernando de la Cerda, who died in 1275.

^]Numerous other knitted garments and accessories, also dating from the mid-13th century, have been found amongst cathedral treasuries in Spain.

Join the Facebook Group – KNITLUZLY – LUZ KNIT & NATTER