Blokes often get the short end of the stick in the handmade line. I know there isn't much I can make for my bloke that he appreciates. Not much, but there are two things he loves - hand knitted socks and hats. Can't get enough of the socks in particular. And that works for me because socks and hats don't use much yarn or take too long to make.
Perhaps if you are a knitter you could think about knitting some bloke size socks, or a nice blokey beanie to donate in preparation for the colder weather later in the year? If you aren't an experienced knitter - hats are very quick and easy (especially if knitted in a bulky yarn). Ask at a local yarn store and I am sure someone could help you get going.
There are a tonne of free patterns and tutorials on the internet to try - here's a couple to get you going, but don't hesitate to search further!
Hats:
http://www.styledbykristin.com/rugged-ribbed-knit-hat-pattern/
http://www.woollywormhead.com/free-patterns/
http://www.knitting-and.com/knitting/patterns/hats/london-beanie.htm
http://www.redlipstick.net/knit/martext.html
Socks:
http://www.knitlist.com/97gift/menssocks.htm
http://knitsix.wordpress.com/2007/09/14/manly-socks-free-pattern/
http://www.purlbee.com/socks-for-giving/
http://www.violinjodie.com/blog/globe-trotter-socks/
Or email me if you know of another really good, free pattern we could recommend (soozs[dot]com[at]gmail[dot]com)
2.16.2009
Don't forget the blokes
Labels: blokes, donation, How to, the sock knitter
2.15.2009
On Being a Sock Knitter
Labels: charity craft groups, grace cossington smith, kindness, the sock knitter
Grace Cossington Smith painted her younger sister Madge knitting socks for allied soldiers in the trenches during the horrors of the first world war. Like many women of this era left at home to wait and brood for their men fighting in distant lands, this nervous energy was channeled into one of the few positive and practical outlets available - craft.
Women like Madge and Grace knitted their hands off - socks, vests, balaclavas, gloves, caps, even gentlemen's undergarments (!!), in the name of peace and the return of their loved ones.
This is one of my favourite paintings because it reminds me of the higher purpose craft serves - to give comfort where it is so desperately needed, to bring kindness and good-will to those who are suffering, to send a message of hope and love to those who might despair.
In this last week we have lived through some of the darkest days in Australia's history which could also be argued to be some of our brightest. Men, women and children have pledged their support to the victims of Victoria's bushfires in innumerable creative ways. Sock Knitters have come out of the woodwork. Beyond the copious donations of financial aid there has been one of the most spectacular and spontaneous outpourings of good will this country has ever witnessed.
Well done to all of you who sit reading this and those who have in some way contributed to the crafting effort. Handmade Help has become a testament to the generosity of crafters who carry on the grand tradition of Madge, the Sock Knitter. You are amazing!
