A craft day for the One Thousand Beanies charity was held on what happened to be World Wide Knit in Public Day. 

More than 20 crocheters got into the spirit throughout the day, contributing beanies which will be donated to men’s and women’s homeless shelters in winter.

One Thousand Beanies founder Skye Brean said the timing of the day was a happy coincidence.

“I had absolutely no idea about it until I went into Spotlight on Friday to buy materials and someone told me,” she said.

“I think Saturday’s event fits in well, because people are leaving the house to come and knit, which is what the day is supposed to be about.

“The lovely ladies that have come by have had the chance to meet some new people, while also having a bit of giggle.”

People didn’t just come in to knit on Saturday, with others dropping off donations in the form of beanies or materials.

More than 400 beanies have been collected so far, representing almost half of the target for the cause.

Mrs Bream said she had been overwhelmed by support from the community.

“I’m flabbergasted,” she said.

“We had someone come by to drop off a boot full of wool, and there have been a lot of really nice patterns shared on social media.”

After making beanies for her family during her down time, Mrs Bream realised she wanted to help on a larger scale.

She has previously donated hug blankets to the Launceston Benevolent Society, and given knit squares to the Knit One Give One charity, which is based in Melbourne.

While the name of her project suggests there is a definitive target, Mrs Bream insisted One Thousand Beanies was ongoing.

“I think there will always be people in the community that need them,” she said.

“It would be a nice problem to have to be able to turn beanies away.” 

Donations to One Thousand Beanies can be made through contacting the Facebook page and setting up a drop off point.

Knits, Needles and Wool also accepts donations.