McFadyen picnic blanket

We’ve got my mum, Norma, to thank for this one.

When she was quite sick and while I was visiting her I threw a rug over my legs to keep them warm. The tartan rug had been in the family for a long time and appeared at picnics or trips to the country.

As I sat there talking to her I began to notice that the yarn it was knitted from was quite harsh – it’s no wonder it lasted so long. Further, inspection revealed that it was made using Shetland yarn renowned for its strength – perfect for a picnic rug.

The McFadyen blanket is based on our trusty family picnic rug, the difference is this one is lined with moisture-proof backing.

Otto and Spike use Australian and New Zealand grown wool, and make use of remnant yarns to reduce waste, whenever possible.

The McFadyen is still knitted on a 1970s model, 4 1/2 gauge knitting machine, and finished by hand.

• Australian premium surplus lambswool
• Blankets measure approximately 1.6m wide x 1.6m high
• Backed with nylon woven Taslon fabric
• Machine washable in cold water

Otto & Spike are proud to say that these picnic rugs are made from 100% surplus wool. As a consequence, colours are continually being updated as each individual colour runs out. 

Otto & Spike is made in Melbourne at a family-run, ethically certified, solar-powered knitting mill, which has been operating in Brunswick for more than 50 years.