Subversive Knitting

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New Online Knitting Circle

In the wake of a bitter presidential election, it can be hard to remember that there are many things all Americans agree about, and many ways we can work together to make this world a better place. When I heard the results of the election, I felt completely drained. Writing letters to my representatives, sending money to activist organizations, and even volunteering to help in local campaigns had left me feeling helpless and weak. The more I thought about the events of the past four years, the more desperate I became to find something positive that I could do.

Surprisingly, it was an article in the Fall 2004 issue of Vogue Knitting that renewed my energy and gave me an idea. The article described knitters making peace-sign arm bands to wear at rallies, members of Codepink knitting a giant banner to display on International Women’s Day, and a woman in New York City knitting red worms to promote composting. This is something I could relate to, because I have been knitting since I was a child. I was inspired to start an online knitting circle dedicated to the ideas of

building community,

fostering discussion,

and promoting peace.

I posted the idea on several local yahoo groups to see if there would be any interest. The response has been overwhelming. Both experienced knitters and those wanting to learn have written to me to let me know they are interested and excited about the idea. As a result, this blog, “Knitting for Change,” was born. Each month I will post a free knitting lesson, a free pattern, links to organizations accepting donations of hand-knit items, and a short essay to spur discussion.

I hope this site will be visited by knitters of many different backgrounds and viewpoints so we can have an open and honest dialog. As knitters, we have a unique opportunity to join together in our communities to make small changes that can have large repercussions in our nation and beyond our borders. One stitch at a time, we can build bridges that bind us together instead of allowing our differences to tear us apart.

A few days after the election, I told a friend, “I am frustrated that ‘what little I can do’ won't make any difference.” She replied, “I also get frustrated, but I think that grains of sand ultimately make mountains (under a bit of heat and pressure). I can be a grain of sand. I can maybe be a few grains of sand.” Please pick up your knitting needles and join me in being a grain of sand!