Knitted Knockers are knit or crochet from kits that have been specially made up with the approved yarn, filling and pattern.
The yarns (including the dyes) have been tested to be sure that the Knockers we provide are not only comfortable but, more importantly, safe to be worn by women who are receiving chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment.
We tested the patterns from different groups around the world and decided that the Australian knitting pattern would work best in South Africa since our conditions are so similar.
Julie Weaver, who designed the knitted prosthesis to suit Australian women, especially those who are well endowed, kindly agreed to let us use the pattern she designed which has a size range from A to G cup. Her pattern also has a built in “buttonhole” so that the filling can be removed for washing or changing.
When we tested crochet patterns, we found that the ridges of crochet fabric become uncomfortable to wear all day. With this in mind, Stephanie Davies designed a crochet knocker pattern that has no ridges on the outer surface, making it smooth and comfortable to wear.
100% merino wool filling breathes and so is comfortable to wear in any weather.
There are a number of ways that you can help with the making of Knockers
- become a volunteer knitter / crocheter
- buy kits to knit / crochet yourself
- buy and donate kits to be made up by volunteers.
Find Your Knitted Knocker Size
Number of Knitted Knockers per kit
| Knitted Knocker Size | Approximate Yarn Weight in g Knit | # of Knockers per kit Knit | Approximate Yarn weight in g Crochet | # of Knockers per kit Crochet |
| A | 12 | 4 | 15 | 3 |
| B | 14 | 3 | 20 | 2 |
| C | 16 | 3 | 25 | 2 |
| D | 18 | 2 | 30 | 1 |
| E | 22 | 2 | 35 | 1 |
| F | 24 | 2 | 40 | 1 |
| G | 26 | 1 or 2 | 48 | 1 |
| H | 30 | 1 | 55 | 1 from 2 kits |
| I | 36 | 1 | 65 | 1 from 2 kits |
| J | 48 | 1 | 80 | 1 from 2 kits |
Kit Suppliers
Online
CANSA Care Centers
To find the CANSA Care Centre closest to you, please visit Find a Care Centre at cansa.org.za. Scroll down and click on your province to view the dropdown and select the Care Centre closest to you – click on the Care Centre’s name for the address and specific services offered – you will be referred to smaller branches if necessary.
Light a Sparke Foundation
The Light a Sparke Foundation has ambassadors in far flung places around the country. Please contact info@lightasparke.co.za to see if there is one near you that can fulfil your request.
Others
Gauteng
The Yarn Tree, Parktown, Jo’burg. – 0827251968 Irene or Adrienne
D Wolhuys, Benoni – 0119672355 Anelda
Western Cape
Kerry-Anne Crichton-Stuart, Cape Town – 0824640823
HUG – A – HEART, Durbanville – 0838452252
KZN
Wool n Weave, Hillcrest – 0317652770 Linda