A Scarf, A Surprise Hat, and a Whole Lot of Memories

When my friend Martin asked me to make him a scarf, he had just one request—it had to be made entirely from recycled wool. “100% sustainable, good for the planet,” he said. Now, I’m all for sustainability, but when I started piecing together the colors and textures, I couldn’t help but think of Coat of Many Colors by Dolly Parton. A patchwork of wool scraps coming together to make something meaningful? It was bonkers—but I loved it.

Martin came over once and as we chatted over tea (and a pug or two demanding attention), he told me stories about how his mum used to knit him hats when he was little. He still has all of them, carefully tucked away, since she recently passed.

Hearing that made me even more determined to make this scarf special for him.

But here’s the thing—Martin only asked for a scarf. So, naturally, I decided to surprise him with a matching hat. Because what’s a cozy, handmade scarf without a hat to go with it? It just felt right.

We’re meeting this week so he can collect them, and I can’t wait to see his reaction. Hopefully, Eddie, his dog, approves too—because let’s be honest, if a dog doesn’t like it, does it even count?

Now, it’s time for me to get dinner started, feed the pugs, and finally put my feet up for the evening. But before I do—if you fancy your own custom-made woolly goodness (surprises optional), drop me a message. Let’s make something special together.