Donating Knitted and Crocheted Items

Donating knitted and crocheted items can be very satisfying. When you've made all sorts of things for children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and you still have the knit or crochet fever, here's where you can put your talent and time to good use. I have donated many crocheted blankets to charities, in addition to making them for my family.

The photo to the left is a blanket I made for a great-grandson, but I've made many that I've given away. It's a simple, quick to work up pattern and could be done in various colors, depending on the baby's sex, or whatever yarn you find you already have stored away. There are many needy children in our country who could be comforted in having a soft, warm blanket to hold onto.

There are homeless people in our land, whose life might be saved by the gift of a good knitted or crocheted blanket or hat or scarf. If you are good at knitting socks, think of how warm those would feel to someone who has none. Colors are not important, and can be mixed and matched with the extra yarn you have left over from other projects.

Use a simple pattern that works up quickly, so that you can turn out quantities of the items. Remember, it's not how fancy the hat, blanket or scarf, it's the warmth and comfort the receiver gets that is important.

Think about those who love to crochet or knit, but haven't the funds to buy the supplies. Donate yarn to them and ask them if they would make something for charity. Chances are they will love the opportunity to do something for someone else. People need to feel useful.

Many hospitals have programs for accepting blanket donations. Check with your local hospitals, and if they have a program, be sure to get specifics on measurements and colors that are acceptable.

Photo: Baby afghan courtesy Judy Schweitzer