Knitting in the News: The Knitting Spectrum, Charity Knits and a Sign Challenge

Sometimes it's really interesting to think about the different ways that different knitters use the craft. The University of Southampton, in promoting a conference on knitting, shared the stories of two very different knitters, one a student using knitting in an art installation, the other an older knitter making reusable bags out of plastic shopping bags. Just two points on the amazingly varied and wonderful knitting spectrum.

As usual there's charity knitting news this week, including the story of a 98-year-old great-grandmother who knits baby hats and sweaters and has given so many she's gotten two 1,000 hour pins for her volunteer efforts (they credit her with four hours per hat). And a group of girls in New Hampshire have worked up a bunch of blankets for homeless animals donated to a local shelter.

The real-life store that inspired Kate Jacobs to write The Friday Night Knitting Club is in some legal hot water. Sakonnet Purls in Tiverton, Rhode Island, is apparently in violation of zoning laws thanks to a sign for a woodworking shop being run in the shed out back. Though a building inspector allowed both the sign and the shop, the former planning director in the town says it shouldn't be allowed because the property used to be residential. A hearing on the issue will take place next month.

Finally, don't forget that this weekend and next are World Wide Knit in Public days. Check the website for an event in your area and share your knitting pride!