Close-knit group meets twice a month at Trillium Court

You could say they're a "close-knit" group.

And they are, but the Knitting Club is also warm and welcoming as the members knit away, gathering twice a month on the third floor at Trillium Court Seniors' Community in Kincardine, to discuss projects, ask for advice and share patterns.

Led by Kincardine artisan Ann Larocque, the club has about a dozen members who meet on the second Monday and the last Monday of the month at 2 p.m.

"I got the idea from a group in the United Kingdom," says Larocque. "We started the Kincardine club in January and we have a wonderful group of knitters with all levels of expertise and skill. Members share patterns and knowledge with each other - that's what it's all about, sharing stories and having fun!"

Currently, the club is making Twiddle Muffs for Alzheimer's and dementia patients in long-term care at Trillium Court and other nursing homes, Larocque says. The colourful muffs feature buttons, stuffed toys, bracelets and other bits and pieces that not only keep patients' hands warm but have a calming effect when the patients would otherwise be fidgeting.

This is a community service project that the club agreed to take on, and it has been a great success.

"We use leftover yarn to make them," says Larocque. "So far, we have 30 Twiddle Muffs and the goal is to have 40 made for Trillium Court.

The group also took a road trip to Mary Maxim and Spinrite Yarns, Saturday, March 18, and had a great time.

This month, the Knitting Club meets April 10 and April 24, at 2 p.m., on the third floor at Trillium Court. All knitters are welcome, and refreshments are provided.