While surfing the Web for new crafts to obsess over, I came across the word "craftivism" and was instantly intrigued. Turns out, the act of craftivism is all about DIYers becoming active in their communities to promote change, whether it's fighting social injustice, making crafts for charity, or helping to make a difference in the environment. Pretty cool, eh? They are like the super heroes of the craft world!
Well, I've volunteered for various mainstream charities on and off, but have had a hard time sticking with it. I know, I know, shame on me! But craftivism is something I might be able to do -- in my own way -- since I'm making stuff almost every weekend. I'm thinking along the lines of knitting caps for cancer patients or creating some of my homemade soaps for the needy. As a budding "craftivist," I took another gander at the Web to find their leader or at least, their hall of crafty justice to learn more about these do-gooders.
After a few mouse clicks, I've found that knitters are very active in their communities, so I'll focus on them this month. They range from conservative to radical. I hope they encourage you to get active in your own way. Enjoy!
Pictured above: Yarntini from Pure Knits.
Doing Good in the Neighborhood
Bette's Knitting Circle is a very active group of Long Island knitters who knit for the needy. Bette Spodek's club has donated lap blankets, scarves, gloves for the homeless, breast cancer patients and survivors. Now, this group warms my heart! They meet monthly on Tuesday evenings in Commack, NY. To join Bette's group, send her an e-mail: BetteSpod@aol.com. Pictured, from left: Rita Greenberg, Carol Nodleman, Marilyn Silverstein and Bette Spodek show off their wares.
Going National
Project Linus is dedicated to delivering love and warmth in the form of handmade blankets to children who are serioulsy ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need. PL volunteers are referred to as "blanketeers" and these caring knitters can be found all over the United States. Want to help? Join a chapter in NYC or Long Island via their Web site - www.projectlinus.org.
Knitting, Purling and the Beyond!
The Revolutionary Knitting Circle was created by Grant Neufeld in Canada. He's got outposts all over the U.S, including New York. Check out the group's photo gallery of a global knit-in to protest the G8 Summit. This group of knitters meet about once a month to knit, purl, and fight againtst corporate globalization. Pretty heavy stuff!
Do you know any craftivists? Send me an e-mail and they may be featured in a future post!
