about Woolly Wormhead

My name is Woolly Wormhead and I am a Hat architect.

Originally from London, I now live in the hills of Montefeltro in central Italy.

My work has been widely published, and my patterns are trusted and celebrated by knitters all over the world. Avid fans of my patterns affectionately gave me the moniker “The Hat Architect” due to the unusual construction techniques found within my designs, and my approach to knit technique and construction.

I originally trained in electronic engineering and worked in the industry for a number of years before returning to my first love – textiles. From there, I studied textile technology, then fine art and sculptural textiles, before completing my post-grad in education. I then taught art and textiles in London for several years. I have pulled from this knowledge to question the structure of the humble knitted fabric, and challenge our understanding of construction.

As an Autistic with ADHD, I bring a unique perspective to our stitches, what they can do, and how we can manipulate them. It was a natural step for me to become an advocate for neurodivergent and mental health care. Alongside my knit designing, teaching, and writing, I often write and give talks on the links to and benefits of knitting for folks whose brains are a little bit different.