A new meaning to the term close-knit community has been brought about thanks to a woollen wall in Ireland.
Local residents of Dodder View Cottages in Ballsbridge have worked together with knitwear artists Martina O'Brien to create their very own knitted replica flood wall, the Irish Times reports.
Measuring an impressive 45ft tall by eight ft wide in total, 20 knitters have been hard at work in local pubs for the past six months making the enormous knitted covering.
It was created to highlight local support for Dublin City Council proposals to improve flood defences in the area, following last year's severe flooding, which forced 80 residents to leave their home due to water damage.
Based on the flood velocity maps produced for the initial Dodder flood risk assessment and management study, the design was constructed to attract attention to the cause in a unique way.
Speaking to the newspaper, Ms O'Brien said: "The knitted piece represents our vulnerability as we can't get insurance against flood damage.
"This time last year, I lost absolutely everything in the flood. You think a bit of water can't do much damage, but it's the aftermath."
Seosaimhin Ni Eheaglaoich from Dodder View went on to add that knitting the wall had really brought the world together.
"This knitted flood wall is a symbol of community and neighbourliness. Flooding is a problem everywhere in Ireland, we are not unique. We hope it raises awareness for other people in these areas," she explained.
The enormous red, yellow and pink patchwork design is certainly striking and could inspire other people to attempt their very own knit one purl one peaceful protest.
After all, what better way to draw attention to your cause than with something bold and colourful?
However, for outdoor projects, ensure that you use a sturdy double knit yarn such as Rowan's Pure Wool so that it remains intact and keeps its shape for as long as possible.




