Craftivism: The History of Knitting and Fiber Arts as Social and Political Dissent

Craftivism, a portmanteau of "craft" and "activism," refers to using traditional crafts such as knitting, crocheting, and other fiber arts as social and political protest. 

Emerging as a distinct movement in the early 21st century, craftivism combines the personal and communal aspects of crafting with the goals of activism, aiming to address issues such as gender equality, environmental sustainability, and social justice. 

By transforming everyday crafting activities into tools for change, craftivists challenge conventional perceptions of art and activism, creating a unique platform for expression and engagement.

Table of Contents

• What is Craftivism?
• Case Studies in Art Becoming Action
• Historical Context
• Weaving Technology Into Activism
• Craftivism in the Digital Age
• Cultural Implications of Craftivism
• Ways to Participate in Craftivist Activities
• How to Start A Craftivist Project
• Stitch for Change

What is Craftivism?

Craftivism is a form of activism that employs traditional crafts such as knitting, crocheting, and other fiber arts as mediums for social and political change. The term "craftivism" was coined by Betsy Greer in 2003, who described it as a way to engage in activism through crafting. 

“People all over the world wanted to give their craft even more power than it had already by using their craft skills for creative and activist means.” — Betsy Greer

This approach combines the personal and communal aspects of crafting with the broader goals of activism, aiming to create a dialogue around social issues through creative expression.

Craftivism is characterized by its emphasis on making as a form of protest and communication. Unlike traditional forms of activism, which may rely on confrontation or mass mobilization, craftivism often focuses on handmade items with a subtler, more personal impact. 

This can include creating items that carry political messages, using crafts to raise awareness about specific issues, or engaging communities in collective crafting projects that foster discussion and reflection.

Key Characteristics of Craftivism

• Personal Expression: Craftivism allows individuals to express their beliefs and values by creating handmade items.
• Community Engagement: Many craftivist projects collaborate, bringing people together to work on a common cause.
• Sustainability: Craftivism often emphasizes using sustainable materials and practices, aligning with broader environmental goals.
• Accessibility: Crafting is an accessible form of activism that people of all ages and abilities can practice.

Comparison of Craftivism and Traditional Activism

Explore the key differences between craftivism and traditional activism. This comparison highlights how each approach uniquely engages communities, strategies, and sustainability.

Case Studies in Art Becoming Action

The following case studies highlight how craftivism has been used to spark dialogue, foster solidarity, and drive social change. 

By blending creativity with activism, these projects demonstrate the power of handmade expression in building movements, honoring lives, and challenging injustice in visible, meaningful ways.

The Pussyhat Project (2016 - 2017)

The Pussyhat Project is among the most widely recognized examples of craftivism in recent years. Initiated after the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election, the project aimed to create a "sea of pink" at the January 21, 2017, Women’s March in Washington and its sister events in cities globally. 

The trademark pink hats, with their distinctive cat-ear design, served as both a visual protest statement and a way for supporters—especially those unable to attend physically—to participate in solidarity with the movement advocating for women's rights and gender equality.

Key facts:

• Participation: The Women's March saw an estimated four million participants worldwide. Knitting circles, community organizations, and individuals contributed tens of thousands of handmade hats, demonstrating the project's broad, grassroots reach.
• Symbolism: The hat’s design directly referenced controversial political rhetoric, turning anger into creative and visual activism. The project leveraged in-person networks (yarn shops, knitting groups) and digital platforms to coordinate global action.
• Cultural Impact: The Pussyhat quickly became an icon of protest fashion, and examples are now featured in museum collections as symbols of collective action and design’s political power.

The AIDS Memorial Quilt (1987 - Present)

The AIDS Memorial Quilt is one of the earliest and most ambitious examples of craftivism, blending creative expression with activism and communal healing. 

Originating in San Francisco in November 1985, the project asked individuals to create quilt panels in memory of someone lost to AIDS.

The panels, each three by six feet, representing the size of a bed, were sewn into enormous quilts, symbolizing individual grief and collective resistance.

Key facts:

• Scale: The project has grown to nearly 50,000 panels honoring more than 110,000 individuals, with contributions from worldwide. The quilt weighs over 54 tons and is frequently cited as history's largest community art project.
• Public Awareness: First displayed at the National Mall in 1987, the quilt has traveled nationally and internationally, being seen by over 15 million people and raising more than $3 million for AIDS service organizations.
• Activism and Healing: The Quilt puts a face on AIDS, fostering empathy and understanding while serving as both protest and remembrance. It continues to be a powerful educational tool and a living memorial.

Both the Pussyhat Project and the AIDS Memorial Quilt exemplify how craftivism can achieve significant social impact by:

• Mobilizing broad participation across traditional and digital networks.
• Creating powerful, accessible visual symbols of activism.
• Fostering community, dialogue, and healing.
• Channeling creativity into collective statements that persist in public memory and institutional spaces.

These projects demonstrate that craftivism is not just a gentle form of protest—it can mobilize millions, shape cultural discourse, and effect tangible change through creativity and solidarity.

Historical Context

Craftivism has deep roots that extend back several decades and are shaped by various social movements and cultural shifts. From the 1970s onwards, traditional crafts have been embraced as tools of feminist expression and political activism. 

Key historical moments—such as the Feminist Art Movement, the AIDS Memorial Quilt, and the Riot Grrrl punk movement—show how crafting became intertwined with activism, raising awareness and challenging societal norms. 

This evolution continued with the rise of DIY culture in the 1990s and the transformative impact of the digital revolution, which expanded craftivism’s reach and collective power globally.

These historical milestones illustrate how craftivism emerged from feminist advocacy, grassroots creativity, and technological innovation. Craftivism has evolved into a dynamic global phenomenon by linking traditional crafts with political expression and community building. 

The table highlights pivotal events and cultural trends that paved the way for contemporary craftivist projects, underscoring the movement's ongoing relevance and adaptability in sustaining social and political change.

Feminist Movements

The feminist art movement of the 1960s played a significant role in redefining crafts as a form of feminist expression. Artists like Judy Chicago and Miriam Schapiro used traditional crafts to challenge the male-dominated art world and highlight women's issues.

DIY Culture

The rise of the DIY (Do It Yourself) culture in the 1990s, particularly within the punk and indie music scenes, emphasized self-sufficiency and creativity. This culture encouraged individuals to create art, music, and crafts as personal and political expression.

Digital Revolution

The advent of the internet and social media platforms in the late 1990s and early 2000s provided new opportunities for craftivists to connect, share ideas, and organize projects on a global scale. Online communities and blogs became important spaces for craftivists to collaborate and promote their work.

Craftivism’s Rise in the 21st Century

Building on the historical foundations described above, craftivism experienced steady growth in the early 2000s, gaining a more apparent identity and momentum after the term “craftivism” was coined in 2003. The graph below illustrates how the movement expanded over two decades, with notable increases in activity corresponding to key social and political events.

The illustration shows how craftivism grew steadily over 20 years. Starting from a few projects in 2000, the movement gained momentum after 2003, when the term “craftivism” was first used. 

Key spikes appear in 2012 during the Pussy Riot protests, in 2017 with the Women’s March and Pussyhat Project, and in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and Black Lives Matter movement. 

These peaks show how major events inspire more craftivist actions, demonstrating craftivism’s role as a creative and effective form of social activism.

Weaving Technology Into Activism

Technology has significantly transformed the landscape of craftivism, providing new platforms and tools for activists to express their creativity and amplify their messages. Integrating digital technology into craftivism has facilitated broader participation, enhanced communication, and increased the visibility of craftivist projects.

Overall, 72% of U.S. adults use social media, confirming its broad reach as a communication and engagement tool.

Platform usage among U.S. adults (percentage who say they ever use each platform):

YouTube (85%), Facebook (70%), and Instagram (50%) remain key platforms for sharing images and building communities for adults, central to craftivism’s visually oriented activism. The rise in platforms like TikTok demonstrates growing trends toward creative, bite-sized content popular among younger demographics.

Hashtags such as #craftivism and #knitforchange are commonly used to connect participants and amplify craftivist messages globally.

Craftivism in the Digital Age

Digital platforms have also enabled the creation of virtual communities where craftivists can exchange ideas, provide support, and organize events. 

Online forums and groups dedicated to craftivism offer spaces for discussion and collaboration, breaking down geographical barriers that previously limited participation. These communities often incubate new projects and initiatives, fostering innovation within the movement.

The use of technology in craftivism is not limited to social media. Advanced tools such as digital knitting machines and 3D printers have expanded the possibilities for creating intricate and large-scale fiber art projects. 

These technologies allow for greater precision and efficiency in production, enabling craftivists to undertake ambitious projects that were previously unfeasible.

Digital Knitting

This refers to using computer-controlled knitting machines and digital design tools to create complex patterns and textiles. 

Digital knitting expands creative possibilities, increases accessibility for individuals who may not have traditional knitting skills, and supports collaborative or large-scale craftivist projects. 

This approach allows the creation of sophisticated designs that might be challenging to execute by hand, enhancing both accessibility and creativity within craftivism.

3D Printing

3D printing enables craftivists to produce unique fiber art components, accessories, or structures that can be combined with traditional crafts or stand on their own. 

The technology allows for high levels of customization and rapid prototyping, making it possible to iterate designs and tailor craftivist objects for specific messages or audiences. 

This fusion of traditional craft and digital fabrication broadens the range and impact of craftivist work.

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality provides immersive spaces for craftivist storytelling and engagement. VR enables artists to create interactive, three-dimensional environments or experiences that participants can explore. 

These experiences can enhance audience engagement, foster deeper emotional connections, and offer new platforms for activism and creative expression that go beyond physical artworks.

Technology has become integral to modern craftivism, offering new avenues for expression, collaboration, and advocacy. 

As digital tools evolve, they will shape the movement's future, enabling craftivists to reach broader audiences and effect meaningful change.

Cultural Implications of Craftivism

Craftivism, the practice of using traditional crafts such as knitting, crocheting, and other fiber arts as a form of activism, has significant cultural implications. 

It intersects with cultural identity, plays a role in preserving cultural heritage, and is incorporated into various cultural traditions worldwide. This section explores these cultural dimensions, supported by data, case studies, and expert insights.

Cultural Identity and Craftivism

Craftivism allows individuals and communities to express their cultural identities through craft. By engaging in craftivism, practitioners can highlight cultural narratives and bring attention to social issues pertinent to their communities. 

For instance, indigenous groups have used craftivism to raise awareness about land rights and environmental conservation, embedding traditional patterns and symbols into their work to communicate their cultural heritage and contemporary struggles.

Preservation of Cultural Heritage

Craftivism preserves cultural heritage by maintaining traditional crafting techniques and motifs. This preservation is crucial in the face of globalization, which often threatens to homogenize cultural expressions. 

Craftivists often collaborate with cultural historians and anthropologists to ensure that the techniques and stories behind these crafts are documented and passed down to future generations.

Incorporation into Cultural Traditions

Craftivism is often integrated into cultural traditions, where it can serve both as a form of resistance and a celebration of cultural identity. 

For example, the "arpilleras" of Chile, colorful patchwork textiles, were used by women to protest against the Pinochet regime, embedding political messages within traditional craft forms. 

This integration highlights how craftivism can be both a tool for activism and a means of culturalexpression.

Ways to Participate in Craftivist Activities

Participation in craftivist activities can take various forms, allowing individuals to contribute to societal change while utilizing their artistic skills.

Community Projects

One primary way to engage in craftivism is through community-based projects. 

These initiatives often involve collaborative efforts, where participants create large-scale installations or collections of crafted items that convey a unified message.

Individual Projects

Another method of participation is through individual craftivist projects. These projects allow individuals to address issues they are passionate about, using their crafts to raise awareness or funds. 

For instance, creating and selling handmade items with proceeds going to charitable causes is a common practice. This approach financially supports the cause and spreads awareness through the crafted items.

Workshops and Events

Workshops and educational events are also effective ways to engage in craftivism. 

These events can be organized to teach participants about the intersection of crafts and activism, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to start their projects. 

Such workshops often include discussions on the history of craftivism, techniques for creating impactful crafts, and strategies for organizing community projects.

Online Engagement

Online platforms and social media have become increasingly important in the craftivism movement. 

They provide a space for craftivists to share their work, connect with like-minded individuals, and organize virtual events. 

Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are popular for showcasing craftivist projects, while Facebook groups and forums offer spaces for discussion and collaboration.

How to Start A Craftivist Project

Starting a craftivist project involves strategic steps combining creativity with activism to address social or political issues. This approach can efficiently engage communities and raise awareness about various causes.

1 - Identifying the Cause

The first step in launching a craftivist project is identifying a cause that resonatespersonally or within the community. This could range from environmental issues to social justice, gender equality, or mental health awareness. Understanding the core message and the desired impact is crucial for shaping the project's direction.

2 - Planning and Design

Once the cause is identified, the next phase involves planning and designing the craft project. This includes selecting the type of craft—such as knitting, embroidery, or quilting—that best suits the message. 

The design should be visually compelling and easily replicable to encourage broader participation. Craftivists often create templates or patterns that others can use, ensuring consistency and cohesion in the message.

3 - Gathering Resources

Resource gathering is a critical step in the process. This involves sourcing materials, which can be done through donations, community drives, or partnerships with local businesses. 

Sustainable and ethically sourced materials are often preferred to align with the values of many craftivist projects. Additionally, securing funding or sponsorships can help cover costs and expand the project's reach.

4 - Engaging the Community

Community engagement is essential for the success of a craftivist project. This can be achieved through workshops, social media campaigns, and collaborations with local organizations. 

Hosting events where participants can create crafts fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. Utilizing platforms like Instagram and Facebook can amplify the project's visibility and attract a broader audience.

5 - Execution and Display

The execution phase involves creating the crafts and their subsequent display. Public installations, exhibitions, or online galleries can effectively showcase the work and its message. The display should be strategically located to maximize visibility and impact, such as in public squares, galleries, or online platforms.

6 - Measuring Impact

Evaluating the impact of a craftivist project is essential for understanding its effectiveness and guiding future initiatives. This can be done through surveys, feedback forms, and social media analytics. Metrics such as participant numbers, media coverage, and public engagement can provide insights into the project's reach and influence.

Stitch for Change

Craftivism, the practice of using traditional crafts such as knitting and fiber arts as a form of social and political activism, has a rich history rooted in challenging societal norms and advocating for change. 

Craftivism has been employed in various social movements, emerging as a distinct concept in the early 2000s, from wartime efforts to modern political protests. It serves as a tool for dissent by subverting traditional gender roles and providing a medium for political expression. 

Key figures and movements have shaped its evolution, with technology playing a significant role in its modern iteration. 

Craftivism has impacted society by influencing public policy and preserving cultural heritage, offering individuals a unique avenue for activism and community engagement.

References

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9. Ega. (2024, February 28). Embroidery Techniques from Around the World: Sashiko. Embroiderers’ Guild of America. https://egausa.org/embroidery-techniques-from-around-the-world-sashiko/
10. O’Toole, R. (2021, July 2). What is an Arpillera? The William Benton Museum of Art. https://benton.uconn.edu/web-exhibitions-2/arpillera/what-is-an-arpillera/ LibGuides: Craftivism: Home. (n.d.). https://libraryguides.fullerton.edu/craftivism