The Community Yarn Garden

Chain link fence is a reality in most urban landscapes. Practical and cost effective, it’s the most common material used to fence schoolyards and public parks. Unfortunately, chain link fence is bland and unattractive, providing little aesthetic value to a neighbourhood.  The idea of beautifying the chain link fence surrounding W.E. Graham Park behind Ecole Victoria School on 12th Street and Dufferin was inspired by “The Flower Garden Fence” created by the Ladies Fancywork Society in Denver, Colorado.

When I decided to decorate the fence using yarn, I knew I’d need something weather resistant if I wanted my creations to have staying power.  I decided to use Phentex yarn. Made of synthetic fibres, Phentex is known for its strength, colourfastness and resistance to staining, mildew and sunlight.  I owe a debt of gratitude to the Cote/Rawlyk family who provided me with two large boxes of Phentex yarn for this project!

Here's my loyal yarn bomb team affixing the flowers to the fence with small zip ties.

Many of the flower patterns I used are found in Lesley Standfield's books 100 Flowers to Knit & Crochet and 75 Birds, Butterflies & little beasts to knit and crochet.  I also used the carnation, gerbera daisy and pansy patterns from the ODDknit website, and a pattern for a large five petal flower that you can find here.

My hope is that others will add their own creations to the fence!  I put out an open invitation to anyone who would like to craft a flower, plant, bug or little critter to add to the garden.  I would love to see how much of this fence we are able cover!