Yarn Bombing ‘Improving the Urban Landscape One Stitch at a Time’

While most councils cringe at the thought of graffiti cast onto newly developed urban landscapes, they seem to be making an exception for Yarn Bombing, a ‘knit graffiti’ movement.

Yarn Bombing’s colourful and temporary installations have the sole purpose of reclaiming and personalising public places. And who wouldn’t smile while locking up their bike to a colourful Semi Hoop?

Groups around the world partake in this cheeky display of street art, and once they pick their spot nothing is safe. Yarn bombers have been known to knit around just about anything, from poles to bike racks to public benches and trees. Even a bus stop was given a warm beanie for winter in Montreal in Canada.

Outdoor public furniture seems to be a popular object to cover in yarn. The transformation of street furniture at the hands of yarn bombers brings colour and personality to urban environments and local communities.

In January 2012 yarn bombers hit City Square on Swanston Street, Melbourne, to create colourful knitted covers for eucalyptus trees and bring pleasure to the local residents.

On the 9th of June, yarn bombers went one step further on International Yarn Bombing Day when streetscapes around the globe were transformed into a sea of woollen vibrant colour.

All photos courtesy of Yarn Bombing.