Crafting for Charity:

I like writing.  It makes me think about things, and be more aware.  It’s nice.
I have a few charity-related items to post I’ve run across.

1)  One is a swap - the Stamping Out Alzheimer’s Charity Fat Book Swap (via).

2) A news item - Quilters’ handiwork speaks volumes to soldiers hurt in Iraq.

3) A fundraiser - Fiberart for the American Cancer Society by Virginia Spiegel (her stuff, by the way, is amazing.  You should really take a look).

Do you know what I think the best thing about charity and crafting is?  Crafting is something people generally do because it brings joy to their lives (for example, this woman for whom quilting is a source of joy).  And in many cases, it seems like crafts bring joy to people to whom they are given.  The fit seems , natural - joy in making and joy in receiving.

I’m always particularly struck by how many times I see quilting and knitting referenced in regard to charity. I think this is because quilts and knitted items are very comforting by their very nature.  By giving a quilt or knitted item, you are giving comfort by virtue of the materials, or the warmth it provides, or the knowledge of the care and work that went into it, and often the beauty of the item.

Makes me want to crochet something for everyone, thinking about it that way.  ‘Scuse, have to get back to work on those scarves and afghans for Christmas now!