A Quick Guide to Crafting for Charity

We received such a tremendous response to our Charity Knit- & Crochet-alongs last year that we've got several more planned for 2020 - stay tuned! Before we announce our first Charity KCAL for 2020, we'd like to share some tips and resources for anyone new to the world of charity crafting, plus a few ways you can use your crafting skills to help those in need right now.

Materials to Use

Most charitable organizations have a list of requirements for donations. For handmade items, they may stipulate that all items must be machine washable or contain a certain fiber content, for example. Additionally, there may be specific fibers they wish to avoid, or specific colors that the items need to be.

Unless otherwise stated, it's best to opt for "easy care" yarns (i.e. super wash) to ensure that your donation can be enjoyed for years to come. Remember to label each piece with care instructions and fiber content before donating.

If you are donating items to children's charities, ensure that any small items that could be choking hazards (such as buttons) are secured, or us a child-friendly options (for example, embroidered features instead of safety eyes on a stuffed toy). 

What to Make

You may have a pile of gently-used or completely unworn hats, scarves and other projects that are in need of a good home. That's great - just in mind that some charities will only accept certain items or have other regulations that they must uphold. Before you send in your donation, check their website or contact them via email to find out what they need most. Donating items that are not needed can put a strain on organizations, where resources are frequently scarce.

Where to Donate Handmade Items

Chances are, there are plenty of folks in your own community who are in need! Not only will your donations directly impact your community, but you will save money on shipping (which means you can buy more supplies for making more items to donate). 

Start by contacting local shelters, hospices, hospitals, churches, and other community-based organizations to ask what they need and arrange your donation. 

Knittingforcharity.org is an excellent resource to, and you can also visit Crochet.org's resource list here to get started. For a more DIY approach, try the I'm Not Lost Campaign, as featured here on the Mason-Dixon Knitting Blog. 

Consider a Monetary or In-Kind Donation

Many organizations have limited space, and while the thought behind donating a handmade item is wonderful, it could have an adverse effect but straining other resources. Consider making a monetary donation instead; you could even sell your handmade goods and use the proceeds to fund your donation. If you've been cleaning out your craft room and have a lot of yarn and other unused supplies you'd like to donate, here are some places to contact about your in-kind donation.

Breaking News: Crafters Helping Victims of the Australian Bush Fires

Here is another cause where you can lend your crafting skills: animals affected by the devastating Australian bush fires are in need of handmade protective pouches and blankets to aid in their recovery (learn more here). We've also spotted numerous fundraisers within the crafting community to raise funds for animals and humans affected by the fires. For those who would prefer to donate funds directly to the source, Zoos Victoria has set up a Bushfire Emergency Wildlife Fund (and you can find more options for helping those affected by the fires here). 

___

We'd love to hear about your charity crafting and knitting in the comments. Please help us spread the word by sharing this post! 

Like this post? Pin it!