As the latest political events brought to us by SCOTUS are rocking our world (and not in a good way), I thought I'd take a look at patterns and resources for those who want to do something (besides vote; you MUST vote, okay?). Creating an item that makes a statement might help channel some rage into something constructive.
Knitting & Crochet Patterns
The Yarnmaid's Tale - knitting pattern
Designer Heather Boyd has created this scarf knitting pattern with a secret hood as an homage to the Handmaid Tale television show. Perhaps a good accessory for some activities you might be involved in soon?
The Uterus Drawstring Bag - crochet pattern
This drawstring bag crochet pattern designed by Pia Thadani makes a statement. Of it, she says: "What you put into it and when you take it out are nobody else’s business. Store whatever you like in your uterus drawstring bag, and for as long as you like." Yes, indeed.
LGBTQ+Equality for Shawl - knitting pattern
This LGBTQ+ Equality shawl knitting pattern by NYC Craft Craftivist combines both the colorful rainbow of the LGBTQ flag, along with the lesser known trans flag colors.
UPDATE: They have also created a free knitting pattern specifically in regards to the Roe vs. Wade situation: it's called the Roe 1973 Hat, which emblazons the date it originally became settled law (1973). In the before-times.
The Handmaid's Tale - amigurumi crochet pattern
This amigurumi doll pattern by Kamina Kapow on Etsy sadly seems like a fitting of-the-moment totem.
The PussyHat Project - knitting pattern
Perhaps the most famous knitting pattern of the last few years is the now-iconic PussyHat Project, a knitted pink hat with cat ears put out by designer Kat Coyle and made and worn by half-a-million women at the Washington, DC protests after the 2016 election.
Pussyhat - crochet pattern
This crochet pattern by Brittany Harrell was also created in support of the march.
Piece de Resistance Mittens - knitting pattern
This mitten knitting pattern by Bristol Ivy donates pattern funds to a number of rotating agencies that work to make life better for people.
BLM Yarn Bomb Banner - crochet pattern
Designer Diana Picon has created a crocheted BLM banner pattern that you can make and post on a pole or tree near you. All proceeds from the download pattern are donated to the BLM movement; there is also a free website pattern.
Other Resources for Crafty Action
If you want to make your thoughts known to your local Senators, which I encourage, you can find their phone numbers online here.
A wonderful book I've been reading that delves into the history of knitting, which includes knitting used by spies in WWII, yarn-bombing and more, is titled The Power of Knitting, by Loretta Napoleoni.
It is worth your time. You can buy it at the link (which is an affiliate link for indie bookstores), or you can likely check it out from your local library.
For general "do something" assistance, there are some great craft-based projects from Sarah Corbett, activist, author and founder of the Craftivist Collective, a group whose goal is to provide a gentle path to activism. You can learn more by reading their manifesto here. They have a list of craft projects that help you share your thoughts with the world through making.
Do you have other suggestions for taking some Craftivism action? Maybe some favorite knitting or crochet patterns that fit in here? Please share in the comments.
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