A group of scientists at Aberdeen University have combined knitting with chemistry to raise funds for charity.
Professor Jan Skakle and a group of colleagues from the university decided to mark the International Year of the Periodic Table by knitting their own version, element by element.
Initially, they hoped to create one blanket which could then be sold, with funds raised going to local charity, Aberdeen Cyrenians.
But so many knitters were eager to get involved that Prof Skakle decided to keep the project going for longer, with work now under way on a second periodic table.
With the first blanket nearly complete, the woolly version of the periodic table will be unveiled at this year’s May Festival, during the ‘Ah! The Element of Surprise’ event on May 26.
Prof Skakle said: “It has been 150 years since Mendeleev produced the first recognisable version of the periodic table and we are celebrating in many different ways, including the knitting project.
“I have been overwhelmed by the response we have received so far, and we already have volunteers for one complete table and are now working on producing a second.
“It has been great to see how enthusiastic people are about the project.
“Knitting is a great activity in terms of mindfulness, and many people find it relaxing so I’m hoping by taking part our knitters are enjoying that aspect of the project as well as feeling a sense of satisfaction at helping to create such a splendid looking periodic table.
“There are still some elements waiting to be added to the project, so we would be delighted to hear from anyone else who would like to get involved.”
Anyone who would like to knit an element can do so by e-mailing Knitfest2019@gmail.com
For updates on the knitted periodic table visit knitfest2019.home.blog
