Kindness & Fiber Edition!
Hello Fabulous Fiber Friends!!!
Have you ever thought about all the wonderful things that come along with crafting? Knitting, crocheting and just working with one’s own two hands in general has so very many health benefits. It has the power to help us destress, recenter ourselves, relax, mentally escape, and find a place of comfort when life becomes too heavy. It also positively affects our brain as we age.
Crafting is a huge source of pride and confidence… that feeling of pure joy when beginning to use one’s own finished object or simply being asked, “Did you make that? Well, yes, yes I did!”
It can also be a powerful tool in fostering happiness in others, whether gifting fiber objects to family or friends, or giving someone the gift of knowledge by teaching them to do it themselves! You not only have the power to make new fiber friends for yourself, but can also find something in common with pretty much anyone on the planet because everyone knows someone that knits or crochets!
In this week’s newsletter we highlight a few things you can do with a little yarn and some crafting knowledge to put good out into the world. . .
It's the VanRey (Kn)IT LIST, Fiber & Kindness Edition!!
But First, Let Me Introduce You To…
Le Backpack
While the 7 Wonders Shrug is in testing, I thought I’d dive headfirst into my next design idea! You know I live for bags, soooo….please meet Le Backpack!
Made from luxurious recycled Sari Silk and a seed stitch pattern that’s as intuitive as it is meditative in making , you will breeze through this knit with sheer joy! The backpack accessories kit makes assembly super simple and the generous size makes this bag useful in so many situations! It's a passport to a world where fashion meets function with a touch of je ne sais quoi. So get ready to sling some style over your shoulder!
VRK is hoping to release this pattern in the next few weeks so finish your WIPS and clear those needles. Le Backpack is coming! Twirl!!
Here are a few ways to give your knitting superpowers. Complete a project and watch it change someone’s world!
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(Tap the pics to access links)
Knit The Rainbow
This organization seeks to provide knitted garments and accessories to homeless LGBTQ+ Youth around the country. With that number being an astonishing 550,000+, it’s a large feat. To make a donation, please visit Knittherainbow.org.
The Loose Ends Project
With skillful hands and loving hearts, knitters volunteer to complete projects left behind by crafters so their families may cherish the finished objects, bringing the thread of generosity and creativity full circle. To volunteer, visit looseendsproject.org.
Knitted Knockers
Use your needles to assuage some of the discomfort a breast cancer journey brings with these knitted prostheses. Please visit knittedknockers.com for more info on how to make them to the organization's specifications, or where to purchase them. Pearl from Knitty City always had them on the counter, front and center.
Red Scarf Project
The organization Foster Care To Success helps children who have aged out of the foster care system, but still need help in so many ways. Every Valentine’s Day many former foster children are given handmade red scarves to show that someone still cares about them and they aren't alone. Help knit them! Visit FC2Success.org.
MakeThe Snuggles Project
Part of the Hugs for Homeless Animals Foundation, The Snuggles Project seeks to provide shelter animals with a small handmade blanket in the hopes of calming them and making them comfortable until they’re adopted. For more info, please visit SnugglesProject.org.
BTS (behind the scenes) here at VRK!
The 7 Wonders Shrug is coming out of testing on the 20th of December, so please mark your calendars for an all out Zoom BASH and cast-on party! The pattern release is currently slated for the first week of January!
In the coming weeks we will release the pattern gauge and sizing scale so you may choose which of the TEN sizes you wanna make. This way you may begin interviewing/buying yarn in preparation to cast on with us!
Now that Le Backpack has made its debut, let’s talk release dates! I am currently writing up the pattern and trying to have it out to you mid-December, but I’m gonna need some fairy dust to make that happen so send good vibes my way!
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Have an incredible week full of fiber, love and joy!
See you soon!
♥️ Vanessa
