There’s an impressive new addition to Queen Elizabeth II’s Sandringham Estate: a miniature version of the royal residence—in knitted form!
Margaret Seaman, a 92-year-old great-great-grandmother, spent up to 15 hours a day for two years creating the wooly version of the monarch’s country home in Norfolk, England. Spanning 18 feet long, the knitted Sandringham Estate features intricate architectural details complete with chimneys, windows, a lake, stables, and gardens. As part of the model, Seaman also crafted St. Mary Magdalene Church, where the royals traditionally attend Christmas mass, and adorable knitted members of the royal family—including the Queen, the late Prince Philip, Prince William, and Kate Middleton—walking the grounds.
Another view of the 18-foot structure.
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The knitted masterpiece, which is now on display in Sandringham House’s ballroom, has reportedly even received a royal seal of approval from the Queen herself. Talking to the Press Association, Seaman revealed it “was absolutely wonderful” when Her Majesty recently viewed her hard work in person, adding “she seemed to enjoy it very much.”
Ninety-two-year-old Margaret Seaman with her creation.
Photo: Yui Mok/PA Images via Getty ImagesSeaman, a Norfolk resident, spent much of the coronavirus pandemic creating the knitted project as a fundraising effort for local hospitals. “Although we were in lockdown I was never bored, or never wished I could go out or anything,” Seaman told the outlet. “I was quite happy at home knitting Sandringham—I thoroughly enjoyed it.” So far, she has raised over £3,000 (or approximately $4,100) in donations from those impressed by her efforts.
Visitors to Sandringham House will be able to view the miniature knitted display until October 14.