Sometimes an idea begins quietly.

Earlier this year, while dressing the trees on Queen Street with yarn, we noticed something that stopped us in our tracks. As we wrapped colour and texture around trunks and branches, people experiencing homelessness walked past us. In that moment, it became clear that while yarn brings joy and beauty, it could also be transformed into something far more practical - a warm beanie, a scarf, or a shawl for winter.

From that realisation, Knit it Forward was born.

Knit it Forward - The Cartel Community Drive 2026 is a community-led initiative by Fabric Cartel, focused on creating warmth where it is needed most. The project invites locals to use their hands, time and skills to help make winter a little softer for people experiencing homelessness in and around Nambour.

This is not about charity or performance. It’s about community, connection and care - people coming together quietly to create something useful and warm.

How to get involved: 

There are many ways to be part of Knit it Forward, whether you’re an experienced maker, just learning, or simply someone who wants to contribute.

🧶 Donate Yarn & Tools

We gratefully accept donations of:

• Yarn (8–12 ply preferred; wool or soft acrylic)

• Knitting needles

• Crochet hooks

Donations can be dropped directly into Fabric Cartel during opening hours.

🧵 Knit or crochet an item 

If you’d like to make something at home, we welcome:

• Beanies

• Scarves

• Shawls

Adult-sized items are preferred. Practical, warm and washable pieces are best.

Finished items can be dropped off at Fabric Cartel at any time.

🪑 Knit with us 

We’ll be hosting:

• Drop-in knitting and crochet sessions.

• Beginner-friendly workshops with Amanda from Learn to Create Workshops here at the Cartel - book your spot today!

• A welcoming in-store space to sit, connect and make together

Free yarn will be available for those contributing to the project. All skill levels are welcome - beginners included.

Where the items will go

All donated and handmade items will be distributed through local organisations, ensuring they reach people who need them most, safely and respectfully.

A shared act of care 

Knit it Forward is about more than warm clothing. It’s about slowing down, sitting together, and choosing care in small, practical ways.

If you have yarn tucked away, a pair of needles unused, or a little time to give, we invite you to be part of this community effort.

Together, we can turn yarn into warmth.

Knit it Forward – The Cartel Community Drive 2026
Creating warmth where it is needed most