Fish and Chip Baby Knitting Patterns:
I really thought that my mother had finally lost the plot on the phone last week when she said that she was knitting jumpers for the fish and chip babies!!
Finding information on the internet about the scheme was difficult at first but it does appear to be something that started in New Zealand a couple of years ago and progressed world wide.
Babies born in some of the poorest areas of Africa are wrapped in newspaper, hence the name “Fish ‘n’ Chip Babies”, to keep them warm when mothers have no clothes for them so in addition to the jumpers/vests people are also knitting tiny beanies.
I’ve made three this week so far with some left over wool:
Here are the original knitting patterns which are circulated worldwide:
Jumper/Vest:
- 8 Ply Yarn (double knitting)
- 5mm needles (tight knitters) or 4.5mm needles (loose knitters)
- Cast on 44 stitches
- Work 18 Rows in K2, P2 rib
- Work 30 Rows stocking stitch (1 row plain, 1 row purl)
- Cast on 12 stitches at beginning of next 2 rows and at the same time change to K2, P2 (for sleeve)
- Rib 22 more rows.
- Next row: Rib 21, cast off 26 stitches, rib 21
- Next row: Rib 21, cast on 26 stitches, rib 21
- Work 22 rows in K2, P2 rib
- Cast off 12 stiches at beginning of next 2 rows
- Work 30 rows stocking stitch
- Work 18 rows, K2, P2 rib
- Cast off
- 8 Ply Yarn (double knitting)
- 5mm needles (tight knitters) or 4.5mm needles (loose knitters)
- Cast on 64 stitches
- Work 14 rows in (K 1, P 1) rib.
- Knit 24 rows, or work until 11 cm from cast-edge
- Shape Crown as follows:
Row 1 : K 6 K 2 tog; repeat to end of row (56stitches)
Row 2 : Knit.
Row 3 : K 5, K 2 tog; repeat to end of row. (48 stitches).
Row 4 : Knit
Row 5 : K 4, K 2 tog; repeat to end of row (40 stitches)
Row 6 : Knit - Continue decreasing in this manner until (K 1, K 2, tog) has been completed and 16 stitches remain
- Knit 1 Row
- Break yarn and thread through remaining 16 stitches
.
The Ruth Mailbag, Ladysmith, South Africa.
EDIT 10th February 2016
“Cordelia,
Thank you for your support of our group over the past 13 ½ years, however, it is with regret that I have to advise that our group will be closing on the 6th February 2016. If possible could you kindly publish a small item to this effect, so, that the community may know that we will no longer be collecting items for the needy of our community?
Once again, many thanks for your support.
Joy Coetzee – Founder – The Ruth Mailbag Group”
I have had several people telephone and email me since the beginning of 2016 looking for alternative charities and addresses to send donations. I’ll add them here as I find them.
.
EDIT 20th February 2016:
Message from Joy Coetzee:
GROUPS – Please continue to support these groups:
Beanies And Blankets For Babies – We knit, crochet, sew and donate items to babies and moms in King Dinuzulu and Murchison Hospitals, KZN, larger sizes go to Creighton, southern Drakensberg
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Beanies-and-Blankets-for-Babies/1430102543930319
.
Bowlers 4 Babies – We aim to make up gift packs to give to the new mothers at the local Provincial hospitals. Inspired by The Ruth Mailbag Group and Joy Coetzee
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bowlers-4-Babies/1448690508762410
.Amor Group works for the babies born at Steve Biko in Pretoria
https://www.facebook.com/groups/236101209863890/
.Ten Thousand Blocks for Amor works for the Amor Group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1549333885352861/
.Bertha Gxowa Hospital – Address for donations: Maternity Ward, Cnr. Angus & Joubert Street, Germiston. Postal: Private Bag X1035, Germiston, 1400 South Africa. Name of staff liaison person: Mrs N J Korong. Telephone number of staff liaison person: (011) 089-8500 Ext 1244. Fax: (011) 825-5425. Email: Jeanette.Korong@gauteng.gov.za. Needs: Kangaroo Abbas, vests, jerseys, booties, hats (prems and full term new-borns). General: Receiving blankets. Contact person is Alison Beattie at https://www.facebook.com/alliebt
.Morag Macneill Van Deventer lives at Fordmouth, Baynesfield and works for various charities e.g. Nels Rust School, mums in Edendale Kangaroo Mother Care unit. Edendale Burns Unit (Burns Care Trust), Mahagu children, etc. She calls her charity group, “Kuvela Orhandweni”. Please visit her page at https://www.facebook.com/morag.m.vandeventer for more information.
.
LOLA FOSTER’S LONG SLEEVED VERSION
Reproduced here with kind permission from THE RUTH MAILBAG GROUP
I could not find a long-sleeved version of this vest although I saw that someone suggested just extending the 12 cast on stitches for the sleeve.
I felt that this could make for rather a bulky finish under the babe’s arm so came up with this solution.1. Work as for the original but do not cast on the stitches for the sleeves.
You will end up with a straight piece going from one ribbed edge to the other.2. Where the sleeves should be, pick up and knit 44stitches.(22 either side of the neck slash.) This is the exact number of the rows of rib before and after neck slash and proves very easy to do.
This join looks virtually seamless and will provide no irritation for the baby.3. Work 5 rows in st. st. ending with a purl row.
4. Continue in st. st. decreasing one stitch at each end of every knit row until you have 28 sts.
5. Change to K2. P2 rib for 8 rows and cast off loosely.
You should have something that looks like this:
I do not have a baby to try this on but cannot see why it shouldn’t work.
.
Thank you to Anne who commented on this blog and left these very useful addresses:
Loving Hands (Scottish charity knitters)
Baby Pack Project South Africa
.
Thank you also to Bek who commented on the blog and left this address:
Mowbray Maternity Hospital
12 Hornsey Road
Cape Town
South Africa
.
YOU WILL FIND MORE INFORMATION AND ADDRESSES IN THE COMMENTS SECTIONS.
.
Copyright © 2011 by Cordelia
All rights reserved
Balkissock Lodge B&B
This pattern was first used by English missionaries in the 1800s – the story is partly true in that some women in New Zealand still knit these garments to send to Africa or Pacific Islands.
My knitting group knit these for our local Plunket Clinic – an organisation that was set up by Lord Plunket in the 1930s – I think. Self funded by mothers for mothers and reliant on voluntary contributions of clothing and money to care for new born babies to age five
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Do you have a crochet patten for Fish n chip sweaters.
Would like to make some but do not knit.
Nancy J
nj44p@shaw.ca
Thank you
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Hi Nancy, sorry I don’t. I haven’t seen one but I’ll do a quick search and if I find anything I’ll post a link for you. Cordelia.
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You should know that we are also making these in Vancouver, Canada, where they are going to Rwanda – see Mission Rwanda. That group was started by a lady from North Vancouver and also does job training in Rwanda – construction skills for boys, sewing and other crafts for girls.
We have been doing these for a couple of years now and recipients are also asking for 6 month size which we do with worsted weight yarn and 5mm or 5 1/2 mm needles. You may want to shorten the body a bit for this larger version .
The Anglican church sends these to a group in Victoria BC where they are gathered and shipped once a large amount has been accumulated.
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Thank you Janice
If you can provide an address for where to send them to, I’ll add it to the list.
Kind regards,
Cordelia
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Thank you very much for the information in this page. Our groups will be knitting hats, jumpers, squares etc. And will be forwarding them to the relevant organisations.
Thank you for creating and updating this site.
Elva Young
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Thank you very much for the feedback Elva and I’m glad that you’ve found it useful.
Happy New Year and I hope that 2017 is kind to you!
Cordelia xx
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Scottish country . fish and chips babies knitting pattern
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Hi Antoinette. I see that I’m getting a lot of traffic from Facebook today. Could you let me know which page please so that I could thank them? Thank you. Cordelia.
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I must have 40 or 50 chip sop vests who will have them
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I’m so sorry that I didn’t notice your comment Michael. Are you on Facebook? If so, click on the link in the blog post and speak to the ladies on the “Fish and Chip” FB page. They collect and distribute. If not…where abouts are you located?
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Hiya, trying to knit the version for long sleeved but I’m affraid it is not making any sense. Could someone please send me a pattern step by step for me. I’m a knitter but for some reason i am having problems understanding it. Many thanks Wilma
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Hello Wilma,
I’d probably do it differently but it’s the version suggested by Joy from the Ruth Mailbag charity.
I’m no good at writing a pattern but you basically knit the jumper as normal but DO NOT cast on for the sleeves.
Once you have finished knitting the back and front then pick up 44sts where the armhole should be then knit the sleeve from the shoulder downwards towards the cuff.
Then sew up your side/arm seams.
I hope that this helps.
Cordelia
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Angel knitters England’s will also take the knitted items as a friend of mine is going on a cruise and is willing to take dome items with her
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Hello Tina.
Thank you for the information. Do you have a contact number/address and a date by which the items need to be with your friend? If so, I’ll add this to the blog itself so more people will see it.
Cordelia
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FISH AND CHIPS BABIES
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Thank you for your support of our group over the past 13 ½ years, however, it is with regret that I have to advise that our group will be closing on the 6th February 2016. If possible could you kindly publish a small item to this effect, so, that the community may know that we will no longer be collecting items for the needy of our community?
Once again, many thanks for your support.
Joy Coetzee – Founder – The Ruth Mailbag Group
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Joy, it was with sadness that I read your statement on Facebook and I’m sorry to hear your news. Thank you for doing such a wonderful job for all those years and I’m sure that there are many hundreds of new mothers whose lives you have helped to improve. I have already updated this post and I’ll include you statement above too. Do you know of another charity that is still welcoming these items? I get about 50-60 hits a day on this blog post and I’ve had five emails and calls since the beginning of the year from people looking for addresses. Kind regards, Cordelia.
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GROUPS – Please continue to support these groups
Beanies And Blankets For Babies – We knit, crochet, sew and donate items to babies and moms in King Dinuzulu and Murchison Hospitals, KZN, larger sizes go to Creighton, southern Drakensberg
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Beanies-and-Blankets-for-Babies/1430102543930319
Bowlers 4 Babies – We aim to make up gift packs to give to the new mothers at the local Provincial hospitals. Inspired by The Ruth Mailbag Group and Joy Coetzee
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bowlers-4-Babies/1448690508762410
Amor Group works for the babies born at Steve Biko in Pretoria
https://www.facebook.com/groups/236101209863890/
Ten Thousand Blocks for Amor works for the Amor Group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1549333885352861/
Bertha Gxowa Hospital – Address for donations: Maternity Ward, Cnr. Angus & Joubert Street, Germiston. Postal: Private Bag X1035, Germiston, 1400 South Africa. Name of staff liaison person: Mrs N J Korong. Telephone number of staff liaison person: (011) 089-8500 Ext 1244. Fax: (011) 825-5425. Email: Jeanette.Korong@gauteng.gov.za. Needs: Kangaroo Abbas, vests, jerseys, booties, hats (prems and full term new-borns). General: Receiving blankets. Contact person is Alison Beattie at https://www.facebook.com/alliebt
Morag Macneill Van Deventer lives at Fordmouth, Baynesfield and works for various charities e.g. Nels Rust School, mums in Edendale Kangaroo Mother Care unit. Edendale Burns Unit (Burns Care Trust), Mahagu children, etc. She calls her charity group, “Kuvela Orhandweni”. Please visit her page at https://www.facebook.com/morag.m.vandeventer for more information.
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I live in Norfolk and would love to make lots of these. Can anyone tell me if there is a collection point anywhere in Norfolk or Suffolk please?
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I’m sorry that I can’t help you Kerry but let’s hope someone can post a reply. Thank you for visiting the page. Cordelia
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Does anyone know a drop off point in the Southampton, Hampshire area?
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[…] been making a few more little jumpers to send to South […]
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[…] Thank you very much Bridget, they’re beautiful. More information about the Fish and Chip baby vests can be found here. […]
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Kindly note NEW ADDRESS – The Ruth Mailbag Group, No Commercial Value – For Charity Only, C/o PC Galaxy, 23b Francis Road, Ladysmith 3370, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. Many thanks.
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Thank you
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Change of address – The Ruth Mailbag Group, “No Commercial Value – For Charity Only”, C/o Foto First, 10 Francis Road, Ladysmith 3370, Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa. Many thanks.
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Hello Joy … this is different from the one I copied from your facebook page last week … do you want both of them put on or just one of them? Cordelia
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If you have space for both it will be good. Thank you.
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More than enough room for you. Both are now on.
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Bless you and thank you!
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I am looking for a collection point in Glasgow. I have about 40 completed jumpers. Can you help?
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Hello Norma,
I’m sorry but I don’t know of any in Glasgow.
There is someone collecting in Gretna (the address is a few comments up the page) if you ever pass through there.
I was told a couple of years ago that Sainsburys or Morrisons were collecting but I never found any information about that…perhaps you’d have more luck!
I have a box that I’m filling up before I post them and you’re welcome to drop yours off however I stay near Ballantrae which is almost as far as Gretna!
Good luck,
Cordelia x
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As far as I am aware all the collectors in Dumfriesshire have now stopped collecting, but Lockerbie Dryfesdale Church are accepting knitted garments for other causes.
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Ahhhh that’s a shame but thank you very much for the information Daniel and good luck with your collections. Do you know where they’re being sent?
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I did the front cast off, then cast on again. The front neckline looks nice and neat, but the back one is ribbed. I must be doing something wrong!
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I cast off the front in rib which gives a wavy (ribbed) effect and is stretchy for pulling over the head once the child grows. Either way is fine. I don’t think that you’re doing anything wrong at all. Keep up the good work!
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I didn’t realize I should do the cast off in the rib pattern. Do you think it’s going to look too stupid with half the neckline in rib and the other half plain knit?
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I don’t think it would make a difference at all. We notice these things more when we’ve knit them but when worn, it’ll not be noticed.
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I don’t mean to sound stupid, but are you supposed to knit and front and back for these jumpers? The pattern doesn’t specify.
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They’re knit in one piece which is why the pattern doesn’t specify separate pieces …. ie up the front, cast off then back on again for the neck, then knit down the back. Sew up the side seams.
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Hi Everyone,Now we seem to have completed the mission for the Fish n Chip Babies,I wonder if anyone would like to contribute to the Organisation which has been taking warm clothes & knits to war torn Syria.?
They are beginning to take Baby knits to a Hospital in Syria in the Spring,……would any of you Knitters be able to help possibly? (handinhandforsyria.org)….
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There is still a need in areas of Africa but if you take a look through the comments and addresses that people have posted you’ll find a number of different places to send any number of types of items. Good luck with your collection for Syria.
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can anyone tell me where I can donate the outfits in the Carlisle/Longtown/Gretna area?
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There’s an address here in the blog on Border Crescent in Gretna if that’s any good to you.
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Hi Carol, give me a bell on 01461209502 and I shall pass the items on to one of my contacts. Danny
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Thanks Danny!
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Hi Carol, Give me a bell on 01461209502 and I shall pass the items on to one of my contacts. I may even be able to collect when I visit Longtown, eg to the Vet. Danny
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I Have a bag of knittedfish and chip babies t shirts any ideas on a uk address to post them to dorothyirving@btinternet.com
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Hi Dorothy,
There’s a few addresses in the comments here … where abouts are you?
Cordela
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I have read that the greenfields charity are no longer accepting fish and chip
jumpers because there is less demand due to the situation is improving,
are the jumpers not needed any where in the world any more?and do we stop knitting them?
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Check out The Ruth Mailbag Group … You’ll find them in an Internet search and they’re on Facebook too. Apart from the jumpers and beanies they still welcome all sorts of items. If you still want to knit then there are still places that need them. I hope this help.
Regards, Cordelia
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Hi I’m knitting along with my mum in-law these lovely little jumpers & hats but have no address to send them ! Or local pickup point ! Can you help ??
I live in the Cheltenham area but could also drop in Bristol
Many thanks
Louise Beard
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There’s a few addresses in the comments … depends upon where abounts in the world you are!
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Can you help me please. I have been knitting the fish and chip babies pattern which I love doing but I cannot find anyone who will take them. Your help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you
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A few people have posted details in the replies here so perhaps one of them is close to you?
You could also send direct if you contact Joy Coetzee at the email above she’ll give you info on how you can do that.
Or if you’re anywhere near me then I can take them for you … mine go a friend of my mam’s and their church collects them.
I heard that Sainsburys I think it was were collecting them in the north of Scotland even!
Hope this helps and thank you for stopping by to comment.
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Hi Scottish Country House, My wife got hold of the Fish ‘n’ Chip vest pattern a couple of years ago and introduced it to the ladies in the Bible Study group which she attends and it just snowballed. We sent several hundred vests to a Church in Stonehaven, then we heard that Dryfesdale Church in Lockerbie were taking them. However they are changing projects next month so tomorrow is the last day that we can deliver the vests there, and I shall take about a couple of hundred vests to them tomorrow (Fri. 22/02/13) We still have more to come in from some of the groups that have been supporting the Gretna Old, Gretna St. Andrews, Half Morton & Kirkpatrick Flemming Bible Study Group, and some of the ladies wish to continue knitting. So, Yes I am willing to act as a collection point in Gretna, on the proviso that either the garments are collected, or that I can pass them on within a 50 (fifty) mile radius of Gretna (DG16 5JZ). It cost us £10.00 per package (aprox 50 vests) to send them to Stonehaven and we estimate that we sent about 10 packages. If you care to e-mail me I shall pass it on to all the ladies. Danny Muir
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That’s great news and thank you. I’ll add your details to the main blog ( if I can work out how to with this app !! )
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I have knit several of theses cardigans, the lady who was collecting them from me has moved away. Can you tell me where to send them? I live in Carlisle it would be no pronlem to bring them to Gretna.
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Helloooo. If the above address doesn’t pan out I’m passing through Gretna on Sunday. I’m not sure of the time as yet but if it’s any good to you we could meet up and I’ll put yours together with mine ready for the next despatch!
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It doesn’t look like my reply posted!
I’ll be passing through Gretna tomorrow … not sure of the time just yet. Do you want to meet up?
I pass through on a regular basis so if tomorrow is no good there’ll be other opportunities.
Cordelia
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Sorry for the delay it was not possible for me to be at Gretna at the weekend. I shall be away for the next 3 weeks, Can I leave these at Border Crest ,Gretna or maybe I can catchup with you later in the year. Margaret
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Is that one of the shops?
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No it is a private house which is on your website
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Ahhhh! In that case, if you’re passing by just drop them off I guess. A few people have said they’ll collect, I didn’t recognise the address! I can still meet up with you if you prefer as I whizz past Gretna on a regular basis.
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Good exercise for people with arthritis in their hands, I have only heard the other day through my friend about fish chips jumpers, I have not picked up my knitting needles for 25 years and guess what here I am enjoying knitting again, a little at the time suits me and gives my hands plenty of excercise. Will send your side to my daughter in law in Calgary, Canada. I am leaving in the North East of Scotland. Happy Knitting to you all!
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Hello Irene and thank you for taking the time to comment.
My mum suffers from arthritis in her hands too and is glad to have a small and simple project to work on while she’s watching TV.
Happy knitting and I hope the weather’s not been too unkind to you at the moment. I’d heard that Morrisons or Sainsburys were collecting up north – do let me know if this is true.
Cordelia
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hi Pat in Stoke on Trent. we’re two friends in Ashbourne who have the same problem of where to send our little vests so if you find any outlet for them please let us know. many thanks
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It seems a common problem – there’s quite a few contact details in the comments above which I hope are of help but if not let’s hope someone sees your comment and can get in touch. Happy knitting 🙂
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If postage isn’t a problem, please consider gifting The Ruth Mailbag Group in South Africa. Happy knitting!
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Hi Joy, my WordPress app hasn’t been updating so I’ve just seen your comment. Hope you’re getting a steady stream of vests and other garments.
Cx
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Yes, thank you… the support is awesome! Bless you and thank you, Joy – The Ruth Mailbag Group
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You’re most welcome. It’s all the wonderful knitters around the globe that deserve the praise and I’m just a small cog! I really enjoy the photos that you post onto Facebook as well. So many talented knitters!
Cx
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If you haven’t already done so, try contacting Joy Coetzee at the address in the main blog. She welcomes all types of donations.
Cx
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Hi, I’ve sent several parcels now and have found that you have to be careful of the weight. anything over 2 k costs much more, 2k costs about £22 to send. you have to watch the size of your parcels too so it’s best if you get advice from your main post office before you start wrapping. I had to re-wrap some of mine to stay within the guidelines. Good luck Carol x
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That’s good to know Carol, thank you.
Cx
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Hi my daughter is knitting for the ‘fish and chips babies’ too. I was looking for the pattens to download so I used Google to search for ‘fish and chips babies’ and and discovered the http://www.knitforafrica.weebly.com website. There is an IMPORTANT UPDATE for knitters and there are new patterns in pdf format for a hat, cardigan, teddy and blanket. The request now is for knitters to knit these patterns as the babies are surviving longer and need these items now. There is lots of information on the website – it is worth a look
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Thank you for the information – happy knitting.
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hi my mother and her friends have just heard about the fish and chip babies. they have started knitting jumpers and wondered if there was any where near Helensburgh had a collection that they could take take them
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Hello Gail,
Great to hear that your mother and her friends are knitting away too.
I’m not too sure about collections in Helensburgh to be honest but last year I was told that several Sainsburys were collecting them (I’m sure is was Sainsburys and it was definitely in Fort William or there abouts). Let’s hope someone sees this post and can help out.
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and I hope that you find a collection point soon.
Take care,
Cordelia
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Friends of Worthington (Northwest Leicestershire) have knitted approx 50 tabards but to post them to South Africa is going to cost in the region of £50.00. Is there anyone out there who can tel me of a cheaper way, or could we collect a heap and look at other options for delivery? We are only 6 miles away from East Midlands Airport, so hoping someone may have contacts with UPS/DHL or one of the other carriers.
Many thanks
Linda
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Got some vests and hats. In Blackpool, is there any where to drop them off or send?
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I’m not too sure … let’s hope that someone here can help.
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Please address all your post to: The Ruth Mailbag Group, “No Commercial Value – For Charity Only”, C/o Foto First, 180 Murchison Street, Ladysmith 3370, South Africa. Many thanks.
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Hello Joy, I’ve updated the blog with the above information highlighted in red which I hope will help you out. Cordelia
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Thank you for your support, very much appreciated.
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My pleasure.
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thanks , glad you like the name, we often do more nattering than knitting but we’ve so far sent 2 parcels off to South Africa with about 20 sets in each. Carol x
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Hi Lynn I live in Langold, but if you want to bring your knitting to the fire station in Harworth , we meet on a Thursday between 11 and 1pm . we are a group of crafters called Knit and Natter and you are very welcome to join us or just drop your things off.. It costs about £20 to send a box full of jumpers so any donations would be welcome too. thanks. Carol. my E-mail address is; caz@kittymail.com
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Great name for the group “knit and natter” … my grandson’s just announced that I must be old because I knit … I think his dad might have had something to do with that ;o)
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Hi carol, a wonderful group of knitters in bircotes has been knitting these adorable little jumpers, where abouts are you please, theyb have been looking for a distribution point nearby!! thank you lyn
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Lyn, We’d be very pleased to see you any thursday at the fire station between 11 and 1pm. Carol x
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Hi, Carol Bower again, I tried to E mail Joy Coatzee at the E-mail address you gave but it came back through mail demon. any idea what her new e-mail is?
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Hello Carol, Please e-mail me on joy.coetzee@gmail.com. Many thanks, Joy
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Hi, Our group of knit and natterers has just heard about the fish and chip babies and have started knitting. I noticed that the address on the pattern doesn’t state that you need to mark the parcels,” FOR CHARITY, NO RETAIL VALUE” can this be amended do you think as it would cost the recipients quite a lot in duty charges otherwise. well done everyone for all the good work.
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I’ll check with Joy about the wording … great to hear that you’re all knitting too – well done and good luck 🙂
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“For charity – NO retail value” is for the benefit of customs out here and it would benefit all charities to have that little phrase on all their packages to addresses abroad. Thank you very much for being so observant. Bless you and thank you.
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thanks for answering, I can act as a distribution point if anyone in Notts area needs one, I live near Worksop.
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My neighbour…who is missing her long loved pet dog …has taken to knit your ‘fish and chip’ jumpers for little tots in Africa. She has not knitted for years and is getting on in years herself…so the activity has been very welcome …now i am going to knit some as well.
Looking forward to reading your blogs …I was looking for a blog group for people like me..just wanting to stay in touch with like minded ladies.
I run a guest house in Cairngorms National Park Scotland …and love it.
All the best, Cordelia.
…and thanks.
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That’s great news and I’m glad that I’ve helped.
Thank you for your comments – I’m sorry that I’ve not blogged much lately: I started a new job recently and haven’t had time although as a sneek preview I’m busy writing about my first day at school!!!
Cx
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Marian Christopher, Reno, Nevada, USA
Thank you for the address in South Africa. I have been unable to find where to send the jumpers. There are a large number of ladies in the US knitting for these babies. I am loving this project.
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You’re welcome and I’m so glad that I’ve been able to help 🙂
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Worthington village Thursday morning coffee group are knitting for ‘fish & chip babies’, we’ll be sending them off around Christmas time. If anyone lives in Leicestershire and would like to join us, please come along to the Chapel any term-time Thursday 10am – 11am. Looking for wool? Try your local charity shop, tell tem what it’s for and you’ll get a good bargain.
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That’s fantastic … well done Worthington Ladies 🙂
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POSTAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR “THE RUTH MAILBAG GROUP”
Please mark all packages “FOR CHARITY – NO RETAIL VALUE”
This helps with customs and their levies. Thank you!
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I group of us in Workington in Cumbria have got together and just knit thes lovely little jumpers, please can you inform us of where to send them or any other suggestions would be appriciated. Paulina McDowel, Knit and Natter group
Thank you.
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Hi Paulina, there are addresses in the blog and several people have included them in their comments … take your pick! 🙂
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Thanks for that information, I have sent two large parcels out recently and we are going to start on our next project x
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Wow, that’s great! Happy knitting.
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hi yhought that chip shop babies had finish.stillhave some that I knit
On 24 June 2014 18:46, Scottish Country House wrote:
> Scottish Country House commented: “Wow, that’s great! Happy knitting. ” >
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There are still places that will accept jumpers and other items. Check out Ruth Mail Bag …. the details are above.
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That’s brilliant news … keep clicking!
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Hello Cordelia and everyone. Saw your site when looking for a pattern. To those knitters in N. Ireland (Vivien, Elizabeth & Sandra): The “Knit and Natter” group in Saintfield are working on these jumpers now, and the Librarian is the co-ordinator. You can ‘phone her on (028) 97510550 or, alternatively, pop your jumpers into a bag, address it to “The Librarian, Saintfield Library”, and drop it in to your local branch. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind putting it on their delivery van for you and it will get to the right place (maybe better to check with them first, though). Those knitters in RoI (Philippa) could try this too if they live near the border? Best wishes Lyn
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That’s great information, thank you so much Lyn.
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I am in Waterford Ireland and our knitting group have bags of vests for the fish and chip babies. I heard that a Marjorie Hensen or Hansen (not sure of name) in Preston England would be happy to receive vests and pass them on. I would like her address so that I can send our bags to her. Any help would be appreciated. Better still if there was a collection point here in Ireland. Please advise. Philippa
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Let’s hope that someone sees this and lets us know!
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Hi, I also think this is a brilliant idea, I wondered do they want little blankets making too ?
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I’m sure that if you contact Joy she can advise you … she normally comments on all these posts too so may catch you before you catch her 😉
Keep up the good work Gill!
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Yes, please… we always try to add blankets to the baby packs whenever possible… Bless you and thank you…
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Thanks for the prompt reply Joy … hope all’s going well for you 🙂
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I live in stoke on trent once upon a time known as the pottries and not far from Robbie Williams home town .I to am looling for some were that will take my babies vests
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Let’s hope that someone reads and can help.
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Thanks for both your responses. I have now found a local website through my daughter’s trauma teddie pattern, http://www.tightknitworld.net.au/tkwknitting.htm and am hopeful they can help send the vests off as part of their international charity work otherwise I am happy to put them in the post,
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That’s great news Barb! Cx
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I am in country Victoria, Australia, and my neighbours and I have knitted a number of fish and chip baby vests. We would like to send them to the Mowbray Hospital address in Cape Town unless there is another more suitable place to send them. I am investigating postage options. We also knit trauma teddies for local emergency groups for children involved in traumatic incidents.
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That’s fantastic Barb .. I think I’ll see if our local hospitals need teddies too – the vests are fantastic but I need a change now and again!!
I can’t speak for Australia but I know that here in the UK other charities/organisations such as Amnesty International take knitted garments too.
I know that some people have coffee mornings (or similar) to raise money to help with postage.
Good luck and thank you for taking the time to comment … nice to meet you! Cx
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Please write in clear bold letters on your parcel to Mowbray “For charity – NO retail value”, this will help them get your package through customs without the heavy leavies charged to release overseas packages. Thank you.
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I feel inspired, what a lovely idea!
I have tubs of leftover wool, this is a great way to use some of it up!
I’m in Perth Australia and will probably look for a local charity.
You can bet I’ll start knitting tonight!
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That’s great news … and such a co-incidence that my brother-in-law and sister-in-law have just re-located from the UK to Perth!! Good luck with the knitting :O)
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my sisters and i have been knitting the little fish and chips sets for quite some time now,we have almost run out of wool,we love knitting them it gives you a feeling you are helping out some were in the world,my sisters are all old ladies as i am we total five in all,we have knitted about one hundred sets to date,and hope to knit many more we have a lady who comes to visit us from time to time and collects them in a nice big bundle.carry on kniters the need is great..milly
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Hello Millie and well done to you and your sisters … yes, it is a lovely way to help others.
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment, nice to ‘meet’ you. Cordeliax
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I came across your blog while searching for a baby hat pattern. I am going to try your pattern. We have been making the ‘fish and chips’ baby jumpers here in Tasmania for a number of years. Unfortunately, most charities here in Australia will not take them anymore. I don’t know why (they say they are ‘not suitable’), I think they are a very practical and versatile little jumper.
Lynda..in Tasmania
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That’s so sad … I know that many charities are still desperate for jumpers, beenies and such like. Keep knitting and thank you so much for taking time to comment. Cordeliax
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Thank you for the addresses. Ive been knitting these for a while and giving them to a friend who gives them to her mum, who gives them to one of her friends… and Ive been wondering as I knitted them if they really did end up on a baby. I might give up on the passing along the chain and start mailing them direct. Many thanks for the addresses (and also the good ideas on changing the ribbing at the top. Its a nice simple pattern but some nights I get sick of all that ribbing).
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Brilliant!
You’ve so far had the runaround from the oldies too then?!!
Thanks for taking the time to comment and nice to meet you :O)
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ty hun yes will check out the above,ive just finished the fish and chips jumper and hat aswell ,so about to start another set now aswell in diff colour im knitting a set up in a day xx
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hi i would love to help out with knitting if anyone can contact me please at pep446@virginmedia.com
i have lots of wool i could use and knit for anyone who needs help with baby knitted items.
look forward to hearing
thanks pep x
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There’s loads of charities awaiting knitters such as yourself … check out some of the addresses above. Nice to meet you Pep and thanks for taking the time to comment on the post C.
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I have organised friends and colleagues to knit some jumpers for the Fish n Chip babies. So far we have 20 in our box. This was all started through my daughter who works in Sainsbury’s in Edinburgh and she passed the information on to me. I will hand them over to Sainsburys next week. The jumpers are so easy to knit and I loved knitting them and changed the style/colours/stripes to my own choosing. Keep up the good work.
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That ‘s great news … I met someone else today and her mum was also knitting them … glad that so many people are supporting :O)
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Well done, you too!!
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I picked up a pattern last week and have knitted my first jumper. At the bottom of the pattern is a footnote which says that the jumpers can be handed in to my local Sainsbury’s in Aberdeen.
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Hi and thank you for the information
Well done Sainsbury’s 🙂
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After reading all the above comments, I have an uncomfortable feeling that perhaps the demand for these lovingly produced garments is rather less than the supply.I hate to think that vast numbers of vests and hats are going to waste for want of collection.I hope someone can convince me that is not the case.
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Sadly, there is a high demand from a number of charities. It’s just a matter of choosing which deserving one you prefer to send your items to.
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Sadly that is not the case we need all the little garments we can get… the demand is far greater than the supply…
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I ‘phoned TWAM.org.uk this morning, and although they were not wanting new groups to begin knitting, they would distribute any vests and hats people still had. The distribution depot is:
Tools With A Mission,
2 Bailey Close,
Ipswich,
Suffolk,
IP2 0UD.
This has just begun to take off here in Almeria in Southern Spain after an appeal by a lady in our church on Sunday, so we need to find somewhere for them to go!
Best wishes,
Donna
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Thank you for the information
Cordelia
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twam.org were collecting but have indicated that there is a problem, am
looking for collectors
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Hello Carol and thank you … please do let me know if you get any further information.
Kind regards, Cordeliax
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hi, i am anxious for where to send them too, i think it is an amazing thing to be involved in, i have soooo much wool to use and know loads of people who would like to help, i know of someone who does them and passes them to a chuch to be sent, but i would love to be able to send them without being involved in any religious organisations. I’ll keep my eye out on here see if you find anyhting, keep up the good search and i’ll start knitting in anticipation.
NICKIE. XX
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Hello Nickie,
Thank you for taking the time to post a reply … this blog really opened my eyes to seeing how many wonderful people there were out there who selflessly give their time and efforts to such lovely causes. I was told that Amnesty International do a similar scheme although I’ve not yet found any information about it and there are other outlets (check out some of the addresses from those that have posted comments) that are not church linked.
Keep up the good work and let me know how you get on.
Kind regards,
Cordeliax
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on a bus trip last wednesday the lady opposite me was knitting and i asked what it was going to be and she told me about these jumpers. she gave me the pattern on the thursday, it is now sunday and im on my third one. love the idea of the little hats! she has an address to send to,in this country–i could ask, but dont see her again till thursday
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Hello Marlene and thank you for taking the time to post your comments … an address would be so useful both to me and the many people who’ve asked both on this blog and via email. Good luck with the knitting! Nice to meet you, Cordelia
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Do I have to use 100% wool or can I use 100% acrylic
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Hello Annette,
I haven’t seen anything written down that specifies the type of yarn used … good luck 🙂
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Wool or acrylic may be used however we do prefer acrylic as the care is often not very good since they wash in rivers and streams and hang out to dry on rocks and fences…
Joy Coetzee – Founder
The Ruth Mailbag Group
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We have a few friends making “fish and chip sweater here in Ontario Canada.
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That’s great news …. good luck 🙂
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Hi I would love to make a vest for the fish and chip babies but i cannot knit, if someone has a pattern for crocheting one, please could they email the details
Thank you
Suzanne
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I can’t say I’ve ever seen one but fingers crossed for you 🙂
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Please try this crochet pattern: http://www.wendysweewoolies.com/pneumoniapreventionvests.html
Joy Coetzee – Founder
The Ruth Mailbag Group
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To all UK knitters: if you have knitted items you really want to reach a good home, I think LOVING HANDS could achieve that.
Contact: charityknitters@yahoo.co.uk
and Lou Jaap
18 Clentry Crescent
Kelty
FIFE
KY4 OLG
They will be able to distribute things in other countries where needed.
If you’re in the USA, try Lion Brand’s charity links, “warm up America” or “Afghans for Afghans”.
Hope this is of some help. Happy Knitting!
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sorry for asking again but does anyone help with postage for kniitted vests i am from northern ireland and am sure have upwards of 100 vests i am of work recovering from breast cancer and have got few people to knit these but need help with postage can anyone helpi do buy wool please help
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Try this to collect funds for postage:
PASS THE BABY BOTTLE PROJECT: Set a baby bottle on a kitchen counter, dresser, desk or any place where loose change may be collected. Drop your loose change in the bottles and encourage others to contribute as well.
Good luck!
Joy – Founder, The Ruth Mailbag Group
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please can someone please help as we have loads of vests knit and can knit other items but do need help with posting as most of group buy own wool and rest i supply but need help with postage please get in touch
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I suggest you contact Joy Coetzee at the address above.
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The Ruth Mailbag Group would be delighted to receive the vests for distribution to the destitute moms and babies born at our state hospitals but we too have financial constraints. Is it possible to raise funds in your community to cover the cost of postage e.g. PASS THE BABY BOTTLE PROJECT: Set a baby bottle with your logo attached on a kitchen counter, dresser, desk or any place where loose change may be collected. Drop your loose change in the bottles and encourage others to contribute as well. When you have enough you can post your packages. Good luck! Joy – Founder, The Ruth Mailbag Group Fax 086 516 4618
http://theruthmailbaggroup.blogspot.com
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Bless you and thank you for your support!
Joy Coetzee – The Ruth Mailbag Group
http://theruthmailbaggroup.blogspot.com/
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Hello Joy, thank you for stopping by to comment. I’ve forwarded your details to several people looking for information on where to send their knitted vests and beanies – I hope that is OK with you. I’m still trying to locate co-ordinators to add to this post. I’m getting about 50-60 hits a day with people looking for information on where to send their knitting and getting phone calls and emails from around the world!! Cordelia x
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You are most welcome… thank you… word of mouth is usually the best way of getting the word out there…
Joy Coetzee – The Ruth Mailbag Group
http://theruthmailbaggroup.blogspot.com/
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Hello,
I’m very interested in your thread! I own a craft shop in Bradford, West Yorlshire and a few of my customers have mentioned the Fish & Chip babies to me. I have managed to source the pattern for them and hats and jumpers have started arriving.
Unfortunately, I don’t know where to send them to!
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks,
Sam
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Hello, have we chatted on Twitter? I give them to mum who passes them onto a friend, who gives them to someone else …. it’s driving me around the twist trying to find the person at the top of the chain!! Will let you know as soon as I can, lovely to meet you, Cordeliax
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hello
I have Knit some vests but need to know where to send them to.
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Will let you know as soon as I do :o/
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The charity Knit-a-Square would love to receive any knitted or crocheted items that anyone would be generous enough to make:
http://www.knit-a-square.com/
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Thank you – that’s a really great idea and thank you too for the weblink.
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i found the following address online for contributions to the fish ‘n chip babies:
Mowbray Maternity Hospital
12 Hornsey Road
Cape Town
South Africa
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I’ve seen a couple based in South Africa thank you for reminding me.
I’ve been looking for a co-ordinator in this country too.
Thank you for the information 🙂
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hi there, i have a box full of jumpers under my desk with nowhere to send them!!! any news on the address to send jumpers to?
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I wish … I’m still searching – I’ll get there in the end!!
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these are lovely, so nicely made, and what a good beanie pattern.
I’ve been making tops like this and have posted them to knit-a-square in Soweto. The address is on the website http://www.knitasquare.com .
Loving Hands (Scottish charity knitters) take all sorts of things and distribute them….google them.
3rdly try your local church/W.I./Soroptimists as they may already have a link with a group in South Africa and may have some economical way of transporting things.
I heard about fish and chip babies through a knitting magazine who did an item on “Babypack” in South Africa…wonder if this is still going?
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Hi, thanks for the information.
I emailed the person who mentioned it all in a blog a couple of years ago (the first mention that I could find) and a newspaper in New Zealand that ran a feature – neither replied :O(
Still trying to get concrete information from the old folk so watch this space!!
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where do I send them when completed?
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LOL I’m still following the trail … I give them to mam who gives them to a friend and they’re collected by another friend … none of which helps either of us especially when mam keeps forgetting to ask her friend … Grrr!! Hopefully will have the information very soon.
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I L-O-V-E the idea! Where do I sign up for next year? I’d like to have a years head start because I’m a slow knitter!
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Hello and LOL.
I’ll see mum this weekend and see if I can track down further information – I give them to her and she gives them to a friend – I’ll post as soon as I have more info. I think it is a year-round thing though – I know Amnesty International were sending similar items to Russia/Eastern Europe last year too.
Thanks for stopping by and chatting 🙂
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Bet you didn’t think there were many of us crafters worldwide, did you? I love making things for babies. A child should have a blankie for life an that’s what I specialize in! The little outfits come second. As soon as you find out the information that everyone seems to want, let us know!!! We’re here to help!!!!
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I guess that’s what happens when you’re dealing with a group of octogenarians!!
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what a wonderful idea. how do get these adorable jumpers to the babies? i have so much left over yarn, what an amazing way to use it up.
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Hello Loretta, I pass them onto mum who gives them to a friend who passes them onto someone else!!!
I’m in the process of tracking down names and addresses and will post as soon as I can.
Thank you for stopping by and good luck with all the knitting 🙂
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Thanks for posting a beanie pattern! I’ve been trying to get one from my sister’s friend for AGES. One of the schools in Cape Town ran a knit-a-thon using this pattern. It’s a great idea, and such a simple pattern, anyone can follow it!
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Thank you and what a great idea – love the thought of a knit-a-thon 🙂
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hi i heard about this charity while i was in hospital i would love to help and i knit all the time as i am house bound as i am paralysed from the waist down
so it helps to fill my time.
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Hello Denise and thank you for commenting.
If you need a contact, I suggest that you get in touch with Joy Coetzee who will be able to help you. Happy knitting and nice to meet you :O)
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Bless you and thank you for the interest shown in “Fish & Chip” babies… unfortunately I do not have any collection points abroad and have to rely on donors posting their items to me at: The Ruth Mailbag Group, ‘FOR CHARITY – NO RETAIL VALUE”, C/o Foto First, 180 Murchison Street, Ladysmith 3370, South Africa. Trusting that this information will be in order. Once again, many thanks for contacting us.
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My goodness, I hadn’t heard of fish-and-chip babies either. What a good cause to give your time and talent to!
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Thank you so much … it’s hardly and effort when knitting and sitting watching TV 🙂
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What a great idea! I wish that I knew how to knit. I am hopeless with a pair of knitting needles.
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If you weren’t so far away I could teach you … thank you for your comment 🙂
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Your information re vests is out of date. These babies born with aids etc , are now living longer, and there is need for either knitted or crotched blankets and little cardigans and jumpers, also the little hats. Please refer to
knitforafrica.weebly.com/
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The vests are knit in rib so that they grow with the child.
The Knit for Africa address has been posted several times in the above comments but I’ll add it to the list in the main body of the blog If I can work out how to from this app.
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Hi, I am from Ireland and love to knit but do not know if there is a collection point in Ireland, can you help.
T
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I’m not too sure Elizabeth … let’s hope someone sees this and can get back to you. C
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Vivien
Hi Elizabeth,
I’m from N.I. and have a group of ladies all busy knitting jumpers and hats for these little kids. I too would like to know if there is a local collection point, perhaps you have had some success in finding one. If so please let me know. Keep up the good work.
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Good luck ladies … let’s hope we can link you up with someone!
Cordelia
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