Global Activism

Craftivism on a global scale is also possible. There are projects all over the world to provide handmade items to those in need. Groups like Afghans for Afghans distribute knitted blankets, mittens, and hats to citizens of Afghanistan still recovering from the devastation of war in their country. Peace Fleece spins yarn from ethically sourced wool from Native American and Russian community farms. There is also the Crochet Coral Reef project which aims to bring together the world of crochet and the world of marine biology, while also drawing attention to the disappearing coral reefs around the world. The Craftivist Collective is a group dedicated to "changing the world, one stitch at a time." They are a diverse group, comprising not just knitters and crocheters, but also weavers and needlepoint artists. Their aim is to engage people in social justice through crafting. One of their previous projects was small banners placed up outside fashion week in London, drawing attention to the darker side of the fashion industry, showing solidarity with those trapped working in sweatshops.

A young boy receives mittens from Afghans for Afghans.

A crocheted brain coral.

A small banner placed by a Craftivist at London Fashion Week 2013.