The Badass Knitters at Show and Tell: A few laughs, a lot of wool, and some truly brilliant handiwork to end the week.

We’ve welcomed knitters from all over the world to the Watermill, and over the years, we’ve noticed something charming: many of them arrive with suitcases that are, shall we say, ambitious. Extra skeins tucked into side pockets, tools for techniques we’ve never even heard of, and projects in every possible stage of existence. One guest even brought a yarn swift. A swift. In hand luggage. We were impressed.

This isn’t your average packing list. It’s more of a meander through gentle preparation, shared wisdom and a little delight in the quirks of creative travellers.

Knitting in the clouds

If you’re flying in to join us, your knitting journey can begin long before you land in Italy. One guest told us she cast on as soon as she buckled in at Heathrow and bound off the last stitch somewhere over the Alps. By the time she arrived, her hands were relaxed, her project already off to a wonderful start, and she was ready to savour every moment of the week to come.

Security rules do vary, so we recommend checking with your airline. Most of our guests travel happily with wooden or plastic needles in their carry-on bags. A compact project, like a sock or a swatch, works beautifully in a plane seat. And a zippered pouch helps keep things from rolling into the aisle or under your neighbour’s seat. (We’ve heard tales.)

Here’s what really matters

We often see guests bring one or two projects they’re already working on—something familiar, something comforting. Your tutor will have patterns at the ready, and there’s no need to bring the entire knitting cupboard.

Pack for comfort. Think layers for the Tuscan weather, something floaty for warm afternoons, and a cosy cardigan for evenings. A sun hat is wise, especially for knitting alfresco. And perhaps one lovely outfit for our dinner out together—we do love a little sparkle under the stars.

Other treasures worth tucking in: a novel you’ve been meaning to read, a notebook for jotting down woolly thoughts, and perhaps your favourite hand cream. (We keep biscuits and tea well stocked.)

What you’ll find here

Peace. And beauty. And other knitters who understand why the rhythm of the needles matters. You’ll find a soft bed, a bright studio, and a walled garden where time seems to pause. There’s Wi-Fi, should you wish to use it, and always someone nearby if you need a hand or a second opinion on colour choice.

Meals are shared around the table or out in the sun. Our cooks prepare everything with local ingredients and lots of care. You won’t go hungry. Or thirsty.

Lois admiring the week’s creations.

Bonus tips for travelling knitters

Collected from those who’ve journeyed before you, here are a few guest-favoured tips:

• Knitting needles are often allowed in hand luggage, especially if they’re wooden or plastic, but do check with your airline.
• Circular needles travel better than straights. You’re less likely to lose one and they’re easier to manage in tight spaces.
• Light yarns go further and take up less space. Think lace or fingering weight.
• Simple projects shine on the road. Distractions abound, and there’s joy in the meditative.
• Back up your patterns. A printout, screenshot or saved file can be a small miracle when the Wi-Fi disappears.
• Keep everything in one tidy pouch or project bag. Zippers are your friend.
• Pack the essentials: foldable scissors, stitch markers, a darning needle, and a tape measure. And maybe a chocolate or two.

If knitting tourism has been on your mind, join us for a creative week at the Watermill. You bring your needles, and we’ll provide the wonder.