A few weeks ago I went to the library, it is always a wonderful source of knitting information. I love the idea of do-it yourself crafts. Some of my favourite library finds are Pretty in Punk, Punk Knits, and AntiCraft. This time, while searching through the craft section, I found a book called Yarn Bombing: The Art of Crochet and Knit Graffiti. Immediately I was in love.
Have you ever seen a tree covered in yarn, or a knitted item on a statue someone left behind? That is called yarn bombing. It's a form of street art that formed from the knitting community. I know, we're hardcore right? It is often used as an act of craftivism (craft+activism, it's an actual word I swear). Mostly, it's about bringing a smile to somebody's face by making everyday objects awesome.
 |
| Bike racks in the Commons, Halifax N.S |
The act of yarn bombing is subject of mixed feelings. Some people think it's art, some see it as littering (but we don't really agree with those people do we?). Even among crafters there is some debate. Most people have a hard time understanding why you would spend so much time making an item that will sit outside in the elements. Why not spend the time and yarn on a gift for someone?
That seems to be the biggest problem knitters have with yarn bombing, wasting beautiful yarns from our stashes. The thing is, you don't use your high quality yarns. The best yarn to use is actually acrylic, which is usually on the lower end of the price scale anyways. Acrylic yarns tend to stay brighter for longer when left outside. It is a perfect excuse to get ride of some yarn you picked up, or were given, that you can't find a project for. You could even use the last bits of yarn leftover from a project. You know, the bits that are too small to really make anything else with. Piece those together and voila, the perfect excuse to yarn bomb something.
 |
| Tagged phone booth by the Halifax Forum |
That's my opinion on it anyways. I would love to hear everyone's thoughts on the subject. Or even just some wicked photos of yarn bombing you've encountered, be it in the streets or on the internet.
No comments:
Post a Comment