Margaret Seaman

Charity knitter

Margaret Seaman is a charity knitter like no other. She is famous for the incredible Knitted Sandringham, which went on show at the real Sandringham and was viewed by the late Queen. Margaret's latest work, the Knitted Buckingham Palace, has also made news around the globe, raising money for a new Children's Hospital in Cambridge. Other creations include a knitted Great Yarmouth and the Knittingale Hospital. Margaret's fundraising for local charities has brought in more than £100,000 and she's still going! She was awarded a British Empire Medal to recognise her tireless work and she never stops knitting!

What is it about your making skill that makes you enjoy it so much?

I love getting involved in knitting and crocheting masterpieces, like the Butterfly Garden and the Enchanted Wood. And it makes me happy that the displays raise so much money for a good causes.

What does it mean to you personally and the way you live your life?

After a 50 year break from knitting, because I was in business with my husband, I started knitting again to keep busy and help others.

What has been your greatest making achievement?

I used to say my greatest achievement was replica of my husband’s koi pond in our garden with which I have raised over £12,000 by displaying it in various venues. But since then, it's all taken off and it's hard to answer that question.

What is your favourite piece of equipment and why?

My pattern ‘bible’ in which I write patterns that I make up as I knit as they always come in useful for the next project.

What is your favourite making website or blog and why?

Blog? What’s one of those? All I need is my time and imagination and the help of family and friends.

Why do you like being part of the Festival?

I love meeting lots of people, chatting and sharing stories. Everyone who comes appreciates the work involved and it makes me secretly very proud of what we all do.

What is your advice to a complete beginner who wants to have a go at your craft?

Don’t wonder ‘can I do this?’ because you can. Pick up some needles and a ball of wool and get help to start you off with the basics. It’s like riding a bike and it’s easy when you know how.