Do you know of a knit creature in need of repair, love, and a new home? Send them in to the KCRS and we will make sure they are repaired, restored and, if they are able, adopted out to a loving new home.
For several years now I have noticed knit creatures filling up the toy shelves at thrift shops, boxes at garage sales, and even curb-side garbage bins. Lovingly and painstakingly made, usually by a grandmother or aunt, out of all manner of yarn, these creatures may now be considered out of fashion but they still deserve a home where they can be cared for and given a rightful place alongside other toys or artisania.
What is a knit creature? In my mind, any toy hand-knit for a child's use. They can be dolls, animals, clowns, etc. Popular at church bazaars of yore, knit creatures are generally made out of "scrap" yarn. Colours, size and shape are all individual, making each one-of-a-kind. Some make their way into a favourite child's heart and get lots of play time, others are relegated to a shelf or perhaps an attic box.
While there is a great resurgence in the interest in knitting among young people, including those who make wonderful new knit creatures, the old-style, homespun knit creatures are being looked over. They deserve better: knit creatures made by our forebears in the knitting world should be respected, even if they are made of 100% acrylic in garish colours. They are part of a cultural tradition to be cherished and built on.
Time takes its toll on knit creatures, with unraveled stitches, and fading smiles -- we have set up a rescue society for knit creatures where they can come to be repaired, cleaned and rest up before heading out to be adopted into a new home. Some may be in such fragile condition that adoption is not advisable: in these cases, the knit creatures will stay here, at our peaceful rural island home, to live out their days in comfort.
If you find a knit creature in need of some TLC, e-mail us at knitcreature@telus.net and we'll arrange to have the knit creature transported. We'll post photos of the knit creatures' progress. If you are interested in adopting a recovered knit creature, drop us an e-mail. You will receive an adoption certificate with each knit creature.All services are free of charge -- because we run on a non-profit basis, we will only ask that you cover the cost of shipping your knit creature. Donations of yarn are welcome!
Stay tuned to this site for updates, patterns to make your own knit creatures, tips on care, etc.
1 comment:
What a splendid blog. I will be looking out for any knit creatures in need of your kindly attentions.
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