With the disastrous and heavily criticised Series 1 of Game of Wool still fresh in viewers’ minds, you might be wondering whether we’re quite ready for a second installment. Well, according to Channel 4, the answer is a firm yes. Applications are already open, and hopeful contestants are being invited to pick up their needles and apply, and yes, needles is the key word here.
For those who haven’t heard of it, Game of Wool is a British reality TV show that puts knitting in the spotlight. Contestants from across the UK take on creative challenges, designing and making knitted pieces under time pressure, all while showcasing their skill, style, and personality. Think of it as a playful, crafty twist on the competitive reality format, where stitches and imagination are the stars of the show.
Early details from the application process suggest that Series 2 is dropping crochet altogether. Whether that’s a response to the backlash from the first series or simply a move to focus more clearly on knitting as its own craft remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that crochet is taking a definite step back this time around.
The initial selection test sets the tone. Applicants who make it through the first stage will be asked to complete a knitted hat challenge during the audition round in mid-April. The instructions are explicit: “
knit only, no crochet,” and the design must be entirely original. The hat can be for an adult, child, or baby, but it must be completed within just two hours on the day. So, if you’re thinking of applying, now might be the time to sharpen those knitting skills and get comfortable working against the clock.
Although I’m sad to see crochet disappearing from Game of Wool, as a part-time knitter I’m genuinely pleased to see the show recognising that the two crafts are fundamentally different. Hopefully, this means Series 2 will focus more thoughtfully on knitting techniques and traditions, rather than blending the two together and leaving some contestants at a disadvantage.
In their statement, they say “
Game of Wool celebrates the creativity, skill, and joy of knitting,” which suggests they may finally have taken that distinction on board. Crochet, after all, requires a completely different skill set, and giving knitting its own space could allow the craft to be explored in far greater depth. That said, we know how wrong they got it in Series 1, so I remain cautiously doubtful.
But, if you’re an avid knitter and keen to apply, let’s take a closer look at the application process...
Filming is set to take place this summer (2026), and while the application itself is fairly lengthy, the producers emphasise that this is because they want to get to know you as a creator and understand your passion for knitting. Of course, enthusiasm is a given when applying for a knitting show, but they’re looking to go much deeper than that.
They want to know
why you knit. What is it about the craft that makes your heart sing? How did your knitting journey begin, where has it taken you, and where do you hope it will go next? It’s as much about
your story as it is about your stitches.
You’ll also be asked about your technical skills obviously, but this isn’t just an opportunity to showcase your strengths, it’s equally important to be honest about where you struggle. Having a mix of strengths and weaknesses isn’t a flaw, it’s what makes contestants relatable and, let’s be honest, makes for compelling television. So be open, be honest, and don’t hold back.
The factors they’ll be looking for go beyond just your skill level, passion, and motivation though, they’ll also be judging how engaging you are on camera. You’ll need to feel comfortable in front of a TV crew! As someone who’s been making videos on YouTube for over 17 years, I can tell you that it takes practice to come across naturally, so keep that in mind. My best advice is to simply forget the cameras are there.
Beyond that, they’re looking for a mix of people from all walks of life, different ages, locations, genders, and backgrounds, all representing the wonderful (British) knitting community. This really is your time to shine!
And yes, this is for the British knitting community only I'm afraid, so if you’re outside the UK, unfortunately, you won’t be able to apply, as only UK residents over the age of 18 are eligible. Thankfully, I have no desire to be on TV, so I’m not worried about my own residency, but it’s also worth noting that your primary income cannot come solely from “
commercial knitting activities,” which rules out knitwear businesses too. Selling a few patterns on Etsy, however, is absolutely fine I'm sure.
Applicants should also be prepared to commit seven weeks of their time during May, June, and July 2026, and you can’t be related to anyone at Channel 4, so no insider advantages here.
So, after all that, does this sound like the opportunity for you? Even if your knitting isn’t perfect, it could be your year to shine! Don’t be shy, put yourself out there and see if you have what it takes. Above all, don’t forget that this is meant to be fun. The show is as much about enjoying the process, learning new techniques, and sharing laughs with a lively crowd as it is about competition. If you do get chosen, just keep your sense of humour, embrace the experience, and see it as a chance to grow and enjoy knitting in a whole new way. The more authentic you are, the more everyone watching you will love you and what you do.
The application deadline is midnight on April 10th 2026.
Find out more here >>
I know I'll be watching!