Charity Knitting for Non-Knitting Charities
Let's face it: not every charity is up for charity knitting. Even though the Red Cross, for example, would probably appreciate knit items, right now they're more concerned with getting drinking water and the like to victims of the Haiti earthquake. Does that mean you can't knit for charity and help them out? Of course not! You just have to be creative in how you approach your projects.
Tips on how to charity knit
So let's say that your charity of choice isn't big on handknit donations, and you've got a pile of yarn you're itching to use in a helpful way. What can you do to lend a hand? Well, why not sell your creations and donate the proceeds to charity?
There are a surprising number of places you can get going. Here are just a few suggestions.
1. Garage sales
Next time you decide to clear out the basement, also put out a big box of charity knitting. Make sure you have a sign that lets people know you're donating all proceeds to charity -- it will encourage bargain hunters to open their wallets.
2. Flea markets
Flea market tables aren't usually a lot of money, but you may not have enough knitting to make it worthwhile. If that's the case, why not join up with a few friends who also love knitting for charity? You can even call yourself a club and make a flashy sign reading knit for charity. People will love you!
3. Online
Ebay can be a bit tricky because there's so much competition, but if you set yourself up as a charity knit provider, people will take notice. You could also start up a knitting blog through a free site like wordpress or blogspot and go from there. Alternatively, contact established knitting shops or blogs and ask them if they'd represent your charity knitting. Many of them will be glad of the free opportunity to gather public goodwill.
Whatever you do, make sure you advertise the fact that you're knitting for charity, not raising money for yourself. It helps if you have a specific charity in mind (for example, saying 'all proceeds from the sales of these items will go to help the victims of the Haiti earthquake'). Just because a charity doesn't need knit items doesn't mean you have to abandon your great ideas. With a bit of creativity, charity knitting can extend across the borders.
