In a previous post, we discussed craftivism, which is the combination of craft and activism. Sayraphim Lothian introduced a new term called guerrilla kindness, which is the combination of guerrilla art (independent, unauthorized, impromptu) and random acts of kindness. In other words, guerrilla kindness is the act of leaving small, handcrafted items in places where they can be found and enjoyed by others. Lothian explained, “Random acts of kindness are a rebellion against the expected and entrenched nastiness, and joy and confidence in yourself is a radical act.” With all of the negativity in the news and polarized views within our culture, kindness, particularly towards strangers, is surprising and potentially subversive.
Lothian added “When you give something precious away for free, you fly in the face of the assumptions of capitalism.” This is particularly salient during the bustle of the upcoming holiday season. Traditionally, there are pressures to spend money on gifts, outfits, food, decorations, outings, travel, and more. While the current pandemic is forcing many to adjust or abandon these notions, there can still be feelings of guilt, shame, and stress for not living up to (arguably outdated) expectations.
This season you may be visiting family, attending religious services, or partying with co-workers all over Zoom. While celebrating may be very different this year, it can still be festive. You can make decorations for your home (to display privately or in a window for neighbors to see), send small, hand-made gifts through the mail, or post photos of your work on social media. If you choose to leave items for others to find you might consider items that can be easily sanitized or washed. You still have some time left if you haven’t already picked up your knitting needles or crochet hooks. I’ve selected a few videos to get you started (linked below).
An easy and quick way to crochet and stiffen a snowflake ornament for your tree or window!
Learn to crochet the Hanukkah set which includes a coffee cozie and a gelt bag.
Alexis Hex shows you how to make ball of yarn ornaments! Her channel also has tutorials for snow flakes, trees, scarves, and other festive items.
In this tutorial, you'll learn how to knit a Christmas Tree, step by step. Fun, quick and easy to knit, this pattern is ideal for beginners.
How to create the step weave pattern using construction paper. You could easily substitute fabric or felt for the paper shown. A mkeka is a traditional place mat for Kwanza offerings.
You can also check out my Pinterest board for more holiday knitting projects.
If you are looking for craftivism and guerrilla kindness project ideas you can make throughout the year check out the books below. Please note that each of these books may contain images or language that are intended to be political, jarring, or provocative. They provide tutorials for making pieces of art and craft with a message to promote social change.
Guerrilla Kindness & Other Acts of Creative Resistance: Making A Better World Through Craftivism by Sayraphim Lothian
Crafting with Feminism: 25 Girl-Powered Projects to Smash the Patriarchy by Bonnie Burton
Subversive Cross Stitch: 50 F*cking Clever Designs for Your Sassy Side by Julie Jackson