Game of Wool: Britain's Best Knitter
Game of Wool: Britain's Best Knitter is a British reality show, where knitters compete to be named "Britain's best knitter".
A spin-off of the format of The Great British Bake Off, the programme is presented by Tom Daley, with the judging being done by Di Gilpin and Sheila Greenwell. Filming took place in an Ayrshire barn, which came to be referred to as "The Yarn Barn". The series began airing on Channel 4 on 2 November 2025.
Series format
The show format is similar to The Great British Sewing Bee in that each episode features challenges which are to be completed within certain time periods. The series starts with ten knitters, with one being eliminated each episode. The final will feature the three final knitters.Each episode contains two challenges. There is a Solo Challenge, where the individual knitters are tasked with creating a bespoke item within a specified time. There is also a Team Challenge where the knitters are grouped together to work on a joint project, also within a specified time.
Episodes
Episode 1
The Solo Challenge required contestants to create a modern twist of the Fair Isle tank top within twelve hours. The Team Challenge consisted of two teams, each made up of five knitters, who had to knit a fitted sofa cover within ten hours. Ailsa was crowned "Knitter of the Week" and Gordon was "cast off" or eliminated.Episode 2: Icons Week
The Solo Challenge required contestants to create a two-piece outfit for two Italian greyhounds within 12 hours. The Team Challenge saw the knitters split into three teams of three, and they were to make an iconic 80s jumper within 10 hours. Holger was named "Knitter of the Week". Meadow was cast off.Episode 3: Holiday Week
The Solo Challenge saw the knitters having to create swimwear, which were modelled by Team GB divers. The Team Challenge saw the remaining knitters pair up in order to create a crocheted deck chair sling. For this challenge, the judges were joined by crochet expert Janie Crow. Lydia won this episode for her knitted swimsuit. Stephanie was cast off.Episode 4: Kids Week
The Solo Challenge saw the knitters having to make a crocheted costume a kid can wear to a fancy dress party. The costumes were then modelled by two-year-old children. The Team Challenge saw the remaining knitters create wall-hangings for a child's bedroom. Isaac won this episode, and Dipti was cast off.Episode 5: Texture Week
The Solo Challenge saw the knitters creating Amigurumi figurines. The Team Challenge saw the remaining six knitters form into three pairs, with each team creating a slouchy cardigan using chunky wool. Holger won this episode, and Tracy was cast off.Episode 6: Statement Week
The Solo Challenge saw each of the five remaining knitters create two jewellery pieces - a coordinated necklace and bracelet set - which the judges wanted to be high-end and made a statement. The episode's other Challenge saw the knitters tasked with making an identical lace patterned panel, which was to be part of a large five-panelled lampshade. Isaac won the Team Challenge. Lydia won this episode, and Simon was cast off.Episode 7: Semi-final
The Group Challenge saw the four remaining knitters pair off into teams of two, to create a catwalk worthy dress constructed primarily from donated Aran wool jumpers. The episode's Solo Challenge saw the knitters tasked with making a refashioned bag, using material that has been refashioned into a yarn that is then knitted to create a bag. Holger won this episode, and Isaac was cast off.Episode 8: Final
In the final, the Group Challenge was to yarnbomb a Royal Mail pillar box, creating knitted versions of the show's host and judges, using knitting techniques showcased in the previous episodes. The episode's Solo Challenge the knitters tasked with making a hat, reflecting their own personality. Holger won the final, with his trophy being a pair of golden knitting needles.Critical Reception
The show has been met with mixed reception. With The Independent's Charlotte O'Sullivan and self-confessed non-knitter or crocheter receiving it favourably, and giving it five stars calling it, "a privilege to watch these talented, tolerant and thin-skinned folk compete."However, iNews Sadhbh O'Sullivan, and also ardent knitter, notes that stranded colourwork is confused with Fair Isle in the first episode which enraged Shetland Islanders. She opines that many of the projects are ridiculous, particularly swimwear. She wished for more technical skill and more exacting critique. She also asks that crocheting and knitting be made clear to be different crafts instead of insisting on both.