Another winter has arrived, and it’s time for another season of All Creatures Great and Small from MASTERPIECE. Truthfully, I look forward to this every year as part of PBS and GPB’s programming: there’s something so wonderfully cozy about reuniting with characters that, now starring in their fifth season, feel more like old friends than simply characters in a TV show. 

However, no matter where the storyline takes us, three things remain constant for me no matter which episode or season I watch: 

  • I wonder if all the animals will be healthy and happy at the end of the episode (Usually!) 

  • I wish I could get a pot of tea and a plate of the famed shortbread biscuits from Mrs. Hall (I now keep a stash of Walker’s on hand to be consumed during All Creatures episodes!) 

  • I really must add some of the marvelous Darrowby knitwear to my closet (I’m partial to Helen Herriot’s wardrobe!) 

The first two I address by tuning in each week, streaming episodes on GPB Passport, and reaching out to my local British grocer (shoutout to Taste of Britain! And yes, they do ship) to keep me well-stocked. But what about the third? How am I going to add pieces inspired by Helen’s beautiful yet practical style? 

Helen Herriot (Rachel Shenton) and Jenny Alderson (Imogen Clawson)

Helen Herriot (Rachel Shenton) and Jenny Alderson (Imogen Clawson)

Credit: Helen Williams; Playground Entertainment and MASTERPIECE

That’s when I decided to reach out to DeAnne from Needle Nook. An expert in all things yarn, she was happy to share with me about her journey in knitting, where to start, and how members of the GPB community can help homeless pets in need this season with their knitting needles. 

Woman displaying a pink knitted mitt

Showing off one of DeAnne's creations: a pink knitted mitt

Credit: DeAnne, Needle Nook

How did you start knitting? Did you find it easy to learn? 

I had a unique introduction to knitting – I learned from my mom, who was the original owner of Needle Nook! She actually opened the shop in 1976, when I was just three years old. So, growing up surrounded by yarn and needles was a normal part of my life, and it definitely sparked my interest in the craft. It was wonderful to learn from her, especially given its connection to her business. While I wouldn't say I was a natural at it right away – there were definitely some tangled messes and dropped stitches – having her guidance and being immersed in the creative world of fiber arts from such a young age made the learning process incredibly special. 

Four women learning to knit in a yarn shop

Learn to knit with friends at Needle Nook!

Credit: DeAnne, Needle Nook

How did your passion for knitting become your career? How did you come to work at a knitting shop?  

For the past 20 years, my career was in fitness – I'm a certified personal trainer and group fitness professional. It was a very different world, focused on physical strength and well-being. However, my mother, who opened Needle Nook in 1976 when I was just three, passed away unexpectedly in January 2024. In the wake of that loss, it felt natural, almost necessary, to step in and take over the shop. While my background is in fitness, my passion for knitting was always there, nurtured by my mother and the environment of Needle Nook. It's a way to honor her legacy and connect with a different kind of well-being – the creative and therapeutic aspects of fiber arts. 

Tristan Farnon (Callum Woodhouse) and James Herriot (Nicholas Ralph)

Tristan Farnon (Callum Woodhouse) and James Herriot (Nicholas Ralph)

Credit: Helen Williams; Playground Entertainment and MASTERPIECE

Do you have a favorite knitwear style from this season of All Creatures, or from the show in general? 

I'm definitely influenced by classic knitwear styles, and All Creatures Great and Small is a constant source of inspiration. The Fair Isle pieces in the show are just stunning. I appreciate the use of natural fibers, the rich color palettes, and the sense of history and tradition that these patterns evoke. Actually, I'm currently obsessed with colorwork in my own knitting, and that ties directly to my fascination with Fair Isle. I love the challenge of working with multiple colors, creating intricate patterns, and seeing how different color combinations can create such varied effects. It's incredibly satisfying to see a design come to life stitch by stitch. 

Two women showcasing their knitting work with oven mitts

Very handy for the kitchen: check out these knitted oven mitts!

Credit: DeAnne, Needle Nook

What's the best way for a novice to start their journey to creating the jumper, vest, or cardigan of their dreams? And for more experienced knitters, what advice or patterns would you recommend to get an All Creatures look? 

For Novice Knitters: 

That's a fantastic goal! Creating your dream knitwear is totally achievable, even for beginners. Here's my advice: 

  • Start with the basics: Before jumping into a complex project, master the knit and purl stitches. These are the foundation of most knitting patterns. There are tons of great resources online, like YouTube tutorials, that can help. 

  • Choose a beginner-friendly pattern: Look for patterns that use simple stitch patterns like garter stitch or stockinette stitch. A simple scarf or cowl is a great starting point. These projects are worked flat or in the round without any shaping, making them perfect for learning the basics. Avoid patterns with complex shaping or colorwork initially. 

  • Select a smooth, light-colored yarn: This will make it easier to see your stitches and avoid frustration. A chunky weight yarn is a good choice for beginners. 

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help: Your local yarn shop (like Needle Nook!) is a fantastic resource. We can help you choose the right materials, decipher patterns, and troubleshoot any problems you encounter. 

  • Practice makes better: Be patient with yourself and don't get discouraged by mistakes. Every knitter starts somewhere! 

For a first garment project, I’d strongly recommend a simple garter stitch scarf or a basic stockinette stitch cowl. These projects will teach you essential techniques like casting on, knitting (and potentially purling for the stockinette cowl), and casting off, without the added complexity of shaping. 

 

Helen Herriot (Rachel Shenton)

Helen Herriot (Rachel Shenton)

Credit: Helen Williams; Playground Entertainment and MASTERPIECE

For More Experienced Knitters (Looking for an All Creatures Great and Small Look): 

For knitters looking to capture that All Creatures Great and Small aesthetic, I'd suggest focusing on these elements: 

  • Fair Isle: As we've discussed, Fair Isle is prominently featured in the show. Look for patterns that incorporate traditional Fair Isle motifs and color palettes. Alice Starmore's books are excellent resources for authentic Fair Isle designs (and a treat for the eyes). 

  • Cables: Cabled sweaters and cardigans are also common in the show. Look for patterns with classic cable designs or consider adding cables to a simpler pattern. 

  • Tweed yarns: Using a tweed yarn can instantly evoke the rustic, rural feel of the show. 

  • Natural fibers: Wool is the most common fiber used in the show, so choosing wool or other natural fibers like alpaca or Shetland wool will help create an authentic look. 

  • Vintage patterns: Searching for vintage knitting patterns from the 1930s or 1940s can provide inspiration and authentic designs. 

Here are a few specific pattern ideas: 

  • A Fair Isle vest: This is a classic piece that's both stylish and practical. 

  • A cabled cardigan: A chunky cabled cardigan in a tweed yarn would be perfect for a cozy, All Creatures Great and Small look. 

  • A simple stockinette sweater with ribbed details: This is a more approachable project that still captures the essence of the show's knitwear. 

I'd also recommend browsing Ravelry and searching for patterns tagged with "Fair Isle," "vintage," or "1930s" for more inspiration. 

Two knitted chicken toys made out of multicolored yarn posed beside a coffee mug

Besides keeping shelter animals warm with blankets, they'd love a knitted toy or two!

Credit: DeAnne, Needle Nook

What's the best way for knitters of all skill levels to get involved in the All Creatures Great and Small Knit Along campaign to help keep shelter pets warm this winter? Do you offer classes or in-store  knitting circles for All Creatures fans to come learn and knit together? 

We're so excited to make this Knit Along campaign accessible to crafters of all skill levels! Whether you knit or crochet, there's a way for you to get involved. Here's how everyone can contribute: 

For Novice Knitters and Crocheters: 

  • Start with a simple square: Even if you've got limited experience, you can contribute! We encourage beginners to knit or crochet simple squares (around 12x12 inches) using any yarn they have on hand. These squares will be used for snuggly kennel blankets for the shelter pets. 

  • Online resources: We'll also be sharing links to helpful online tutorials and resources for both knitting and crochet on our website and social media pages. We can also recommend some great beginner books and resources available for purchase in the shop. 

  • Ask us questions! Our staff is always happy to answer quick questions and offer guidance when you're in the shop. 

For More Experienced Knitters and Crocheters: 

  • Get creative with patterns: Experienced knitters and crocheters can use their skills to create more elaborate blankets with different stitch patterns, textures, and even colorwork. 

  • Use up your stash: This is a great opportunity to use up leftover yarn from previous projects. 

  • Create larger blankets or other items: If you're feeling ambitious, you can knit or crochet larger blankets or even other items like pet toys or small beds. 

For Everyone (Regarding Classes and Knitting Circles): 

  • All Creatures Craft Circles: Yes! We're planning to host special All Creatures Great and Small themed craft circles in the shop where people can come together to knit or crochet blankets for the campaign, share their love of the show, and enjoy some tea and biscuits (just like they do in the Dales!). We'll announce the dates and times for these events soon in the shop, on our website and social media. 

  • Ongoing classes: We also offer ongoing knitting and crochet classes for all skill levels, where you can learn new techniques and improve your skills. These classes are a great way to prepare for the campaign or to continue your crafting journey afterward. 

A group of people taking a knitting class at a yarn shop

Find a community of knitters at yarn shops across Georgia

Credit: DeAnne, Needle Nook

Regarding other participating shops: 

We are thrilled to be partnering with several other wonderful yarn shops across Georgia for this initiative, including: 

We encourage you to check out these other shops and see what they have to offer! 

We want everyone to feel welcome and able to participate in this heartwarming initiative. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or crocheter, or just starting out, there's a way for you to contribute and help keep shelter pets warm this winter. We’re here to support you every step of the way! 

James Herriot (Nicholas Ralph) and Helen Herriot (Rachel Shenton)

James Herriot (Nicholas Ralph) and Helen Herriot (Rachel Shenton)

Credit: Helen Williams; Playground Entertainment and MASTERPIECE

Thank you so much DeAnne for answering my questions! A jumper may be out of reach for this novice who isn’t too crafty, but a blanket or toy for a pet in need seems like a good project to start with. As a cat mom myself, I love being able to help out other pets in need of a home. 

Season 5 of All Creatures Great and Small airs Sundays at 9 p.m. and is available to stream now on GPB Passport. Not a Passport member? Donate today and catch up with previous seasons of All Creatures and all of your other favorite British shows, GPB programs, and much more.