Knitting A Stronger Community
This project launched a free, four-week community knitting series designed to encourage the craft of knitting, provide a warm social outlet during the cold winter months, and to foster community connections.
All necessary supplies to set up a new knitter were provided free of charge to participants through a NSG. When looking for a space, I did not realize that insurance might be required, and serving food might be an issue and this limited my choices. A cozy space was located that would allow for serving beverages and snacks to create a comfortable atmosphere. Advertising was done mainly through facebook, and by putting up posters on community bulletin boards. I’m not certain if these were the best choices as many of those who did come found out by word of mouth. The series of knit nights were open to those wanting to learn knitting as well as to experienced knitters wanting to meet up with others interested in knitting. This choice was intended to provide extra assistance from the experienced knitters and it turned out to be a good choice both for the assistance and it also created a more social atmosphere. The experienced knitters also proved to be encouragement to the new knitters as they could see the possibilities in the projects that could be achieved. My initial thoughts on what sort of progress to anticipate was adjusted through the project. People learn in different ways and at different paces. Providing links to online help for those wanting to practice and progress at home was useful.
The experience has been really lovely and supportive. There has been a broad age range of those coming with the intent to learn knitting, from age 8 -50. Kits were put together with all supplies needed to knit ‘Izzy” charity dolls, so that when the new knitters feel ready to tackle the project, they will have all they need.
Interest has been expressed in continuing past the planned four weeks, and an appropriate space to do this is already in the works. These get togethers will be really appreciated in the first months of the New Year when we really start to get cabin fever in our cold climate.
