Wangi Library Knitting Group supports bushfire-affected communities with the gift of knitting therapy

"People will have lost all of their winter woolies, so when the weather turns colder there's going to be a real need for warm clothes in those affected communities," the group's Chris Langshaw said.

So the women set about knitting everything from beanies and knee rugs to blankets and baby jackets.

They've liaised with Country Women's Association branches in country towns, including Merriwa, to help identify areas of need, and for help with the distribution of the donated items.

But Ms Langshaw said there were now plans for the group to also donate yarn, needles and pattern books to affected communities so that the locals could again enjoy the relaxing and comforting benefits of knitting.

"There are people who are going to need things like new fridges, but we can't help them with that. But we can donate any excess yarn, needles and pattern books from people who no longer require them," she said.

"Knitting is meditative, comforting and a good stress release.

"And it's something normal for these people to do while they're sitting around working out what's going to happen next in their affected communities."

Ms Langshaw said knitting was therapeutic.

"The repetition involved in knitting is good for your concentration, and for thinking and working things through."

And perhaps the best thing about knitting is that it's productive.

"The process is relaxing and when you've finished you've got something to give to a family member or friend," she said.

Locals can leave donated yarn, needles and pattern books at the Lake Mac Libraries branches at Wangi Wangi, Morisset and Toronto for collection by the knitting group.

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