Crochet as Craftivism

Hey there, fellow craftivists! Let’s talk about crochet as a kickass form of activism, or as we like to call it, craftivism. Craftivism is a form of activism that combines craft, such as knitting, sewing, or crochet, with social and political activism. It involves using handmade creations as a means to raise awareness, advocate for change, and promote dialogue on various social and environmental issues. Craftivists often utilize their craft skills to create thought-provoking and visually impactful pieces that convey powerful messages or highlight specific causes.

So, you want to dive into craftivism with your crochet hooks? Here are some simple steps to get you started:

1. Find your cause: Pick a cause that lights a fire in your crafty heart. It could be anything from fighting for LGBTQ+ rights to supporting mental health awareness. Choose something you’re passionate about because you’ll be stitching with purpose.
2. Plan your project: Once you’ve got your cause locked in, brainstorm the project you want to create. Do you envision a massive crochet mural that stops people in their tracks? Or maybe a bunch of small handmade items to spread your message far and wide? The choice is yours, my friend.
3. Gather your materials: Time to raid your yarn stash! Select yarn that speaks to your cause—maybe it’s a bold red for anti-gun violence or a vibrant blue for ocean conservation. If your finished piece will be outside, opt for acrylic yarn that can handle the wear and tear of activism and the weather!
4. Get hookin’! Now it’s the moment you’ve been waiting for. Let your creativity flow as you crochet your project. Each stitch is a thread of change, so pour your passion into every loop. Picture the impact your work will have and let it fuel your craftivism fire.
5. Share your work: The world needs to see your craftivism in action! Display your project proudly in a public space, like a park or a community center. Snap photos and share them on social media with a kickass caption. Talk to people about your cause, spark conversations, and inspire others to join your craftivist movement.

Now, let’s talk ideas for craftivism crochet projects:

Tree Huggers

Crochet colorful yarn sleeves for trees in your neighborhood to raise awareness about deforestation and the importance of preserving nature. (don’t forget to take these down after your protest so that they don’t damage the trees!)

Warmth for All

Create cozy hats and scarves for homeless individuals in your community to highlight the issue of homelessness and spread warmth and compassion. You can donate these directly to a shelter or place them out in an area where they can be easily accessed by those who need them.

Pride Patches

Crochet small rainbow patches or flags and distribute them during Pride events to show support for LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

Climate Change Blanket

Knit squares in various shades of blue and green, then sew them together to create a blanket that represents the impact of climate change on our planet.

Plarn Protests

Transform plastic bags into “plarn” (plastic yarn) and crochet reusable tote bags as a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic bags, advocating for a plastic-free future.

Postbox Toppers

In the UK there is a new and wonderful explosion of knitted and crochet pieces added to the top of Royal Mail postboxes. A very active Facebook group is dedicated to this and many people use their topper to raise awareness (and funds) for charity.

Remember, craftivism is all about using your crochet skills to make a difference and amplify your voice. So grab your hooks, choose a cause that ignites your passion, and let your craftivism journey begin! Stitch by stitch, we can change the world.

Resources

1. Craftivism: The Art of Craft and Activism” by Betsy Greer – This book is considered a craftivist bible and provides a comprehensive overview of the craftivism movement, including personal stories, interviews, and practical advice.
2. “Knitting for Good!: A Guide to Creating Personal, Social, and Political Change Stitch by Stitch” by Betsy Greer – In this book, Betsy Greer explores the power of knitting as a form of activism, providing patterns, anecdotes, and tips for using knitting as a tool for change.
3. “Craft Activism: People, Ideas, and Projects from the New Community of Handmade and How You Can Join In” by Joan Tapper and Gale Zucker – This book showcases the work of craftivists across different mediums, including knitting, sewing, and quilting, and provides instructions and patterns for craftivist projects.
4. How to be a Craftivist: The art of gentle protest by Sarah Corbett. “If we want a world that is beautiful, kind and fair, shouldn’t out activism be beautiful, kind and fair?”

• Websites and Blogs:
  • Craftivist Collective (www.craftivist-collective.com) – Founded by Sarah Corbett, this website offers resources, projects, and ideas for engaging in craftivism. Here is a wonderful video explaining what Craftivism is.