Knitting For Charity: Fun, Easy, and Rewarding!
If you've always wanted to start knitting for charity, there's never been a better time to get going!
Obviously, I love knitting for charity -- it's one of my very favorite things. And if you're reading this blog, you must be at least a little bit interested, too! But maybe you're not sure how to get started. If you've never tried it, don't worry... there is nothing difficult about it. In a matter of minutes, you can be putting your favorite hobby to use by making things for those in need.
Step One:
Find a charity you like. Fortunately, you're at the perfect place. I've reviewed dozens of charities over the year, from organizations serving soldiers overseas to groups providing bereavement clothing to stillborn babies. No matter who you want to help, you'll find them here.
Some things to keep in mind when you're searching for a charity:
-- What sort of items they request -- don't feel guilty about seeking out charities that call for items you like knitting. The fact that you enjoy yourself doesn't in any way lessen your gift.
-- Who they give to -- there are charities who accepted knitted items for virtually everyone
-- Who they support (and who supports them) -- it may matter to you whether you support church groups, NGOs, and the like
Step Two:
Look for instructions. Check to see whether your charity provides free knitting patterns (one of the many bonuses of knitting for charity). Double check if there are specific requirements. Some charities can only accept items made of certain materials or of certain sizes. Make sure you know what you're going to have to do with your items and where to ship them once you've finished them.
Step Three:
Get knitting! Have fun experimenting with colors and patterns within the guidelines of your charity.
Step Four:
Spread the joy. Maybe you can convince some of your knitting friends to start a group that works on knitting for charity on a weekly basis, or you can convert that bored older sister who's working on her forty seventh scarf. The more, the merrier -- especially where knitting is concerned.
Step Five:
Send it off. Don't forget this step -- I have a friend who has a whole box of charitable knitting projects she's never quite found time to ship. As soon as you're finished with the projects you're knitting for one charity, send them to the appropriate recipients. You'll feel good about making the effort.
Step Six:
Start again! Remember, your imagination is the only limit when it comes to knitting for charity.