Our favourite celebrity knitter has just announced that he's set to host Channel 4's first knitting competition, The Game of Wool.
Tom Daley first began knitting to ease the stress of competing as an Olympic diver, but he fell in love with the craft and now has his own range of patterns.
When Tom's Olympic career came to an end at this year's games, he was the obvious choice to host Channel 4's latest craft show.
He announced the news on Instagram and called for contestants to apply for the show, which is due to be aired in 2025.
"Now you know me, I love a bit of competition, but lately it's been less about the pool and more about the wool," he said. "So I am super excited to announce that I am going to be hosting a brand new knitting competition show on Channel 4.
"So if you live in the UK and you love working with your needles as much as I do, then you should apply right now. I'm so excited to see what everyone can create and, after all, let's get knitting!"
This will be Tom Daley's first TV presenter role. Over eight episodes, ten skilled knitters will compete to be crowned the show's first ever champion.
In each episode, the contestants will compete in two challenges: a group knit where they’ll be working together in teams on an extremely complex project, as well as an individual knit where they’ll take on individual briefs that will really test their capabilities and skill level.
The competitors will be asked to create a host of unique makes and larger-than-life sculptural pieces – all made from wool. They'll make everything from clothing to home accessories, furniture, sculpture and even jewellery. They might even try some 'yarn bombing'… watch this space!
Tom will be joined by two expert judges, who are highly respected in the knitting world: Di Gilpin and Sheila Greenwell.
Known for their work knitting for fashion juggernauts such as Chanel, Vivienne Westwood, Paul Smith and NIKE, Di and Sheila will be sure to put the knitters through their paces. Di will be judging their creative approaches, whilst Sheila will be inspecting their technique.
At the end of the competition, only one will win the glory of being the first winner of Game of Wool.
“I am very excited, and slightly nervous, to be taking on my first ever hosting role on a project that encompasses everything I’m passionate about," Tom said.
"I adore all things knitting and encourage everyone to pick up some knitting needles and give it a go! I cannot wait to see the creations our knitters will weave together, and hope this inspires people at home to get involved too!”
Wendy Rattray, Exec Producer said “We’re thrilled to have Tom as our host, there really couldn’t be a more perfect fit as he’s now known for his knitting skills almost as much as his Olympic diving successes! Anyone can knit and Tom reflects a whole new generation who have picked up the needles and let their imaginations run wild.
Fancy giving it a go? Apply for The Game of Wool. Applications close on 5th January 2025 – good luck!
Catch up our fave festive craft show
In the mood for some seasonal arts and crafts? We're excited about the return of Stacey Solomon's Crafty Christmas and Kirstie's Handmade Christmas.
If you're more of an artist than a crafter, don't miss Sky Arts' new Artist of the Year: Masterclass series to learn from the professionals!
