Woollen wear with arty twist

Hand-knitted beanies, tea cosies and other woollen goods have become a south coast market institution, and now these quirky creations are being showcased in an exhibition.

The Peaceful Bay Beanie Co is showcasing its items at the Petrichor Gallery in Walpole until September 10.

It started as a creative outlet for Sarah Walker and Jo Court when they had young children. But Ms Walker said 10 years on it has now flourished into a market-based small business.

“We decided to use this opportunity to explore the world of knitting in (Petrichor Gallery’s) exhibition ‘K2tog’.” she said.

“While the exhibition features the colourful, quirky beanies and tea cosies as expected from The Peaceful Bay Beanie Co, we deliberately tried to extend ourselves and try something new,

“A range of moths, a knitted tea party and reading nook were part of the result.”

Ms Walker said that there was a team of eight women who knitted from their homes.

“The Peaceful Bay Beanie Co has remained a small operation where each beanie is made carefully, with many items being one off items,” she said.

The company regularly attend the Walpole and Denmark Arts Market, as well as Balingup Small Farm Field Day and Fairbridge Music Festival.

The beanies are also available at the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, Petrichor Gallery and Walpole Visitor Centre. Most items cost between $30 and $45.

“Our beanies are made to last and beyond fashion — they give the wearer an individual style,” She said. The exhibition K2tog opened on Saturday and the gallery is open 10am to 4pm daily.