Crochet for the Community

Abstract

“Crochet for the Community” is a student-led workshop that aims to teach fellow Arts Scholars how to crochet and about the artistic techniques involved in creating crochet designs. Throughout the workshop, students will also learn about poverty, homelessness, and other critical social issues in their community. Mainly, we will focus on the homeless population’s vulnerability to hypothermia, frostbite, and other weather-related conditions due to a lack of warm clothing. We also hope to educate students about the challenges and stigmas associated with homelessness and engage in relevant projects like crocheting hats, gloves, scarves, and blankets that may be donated to charities. Over the course of the workshop, students will also participate in skill-appropriate projects to build their proficiency and confidence with the medium. These projects may include granny squares, single-crochet shapes, and other small items. Towards the end of the semester, students will create a final project that demonstrates their skill gained throughout the course and also serves as a donateable item to charities that support those in need. The goal of this workshop is to have students gain proficiency in crochet, while also learning about and providing benefit to their local community through the craft.