Stealth Art

Photo credit: Linsey Rendell

Yarn bombing is the stealthiest art form around, taking off in cities all around the world. It captures people’s attention, and if you have ever seen a yarn bomb, you’ll know it puts a smile on your face.

Bali is a Melbourne-based yarn bomber who was given a book on the art form and quickly realised it could really bring the community together.

“Arts and crafts have a way of bringing people together and I wanted to be at least a small part, if not larger, of seeing yarn bombing grow in Melbourne,” she says.

Though yarn bombing sounds like a hobby groovy grannies take part in, the public art form attracts people from all walks of crafty life who want to try something new, develop their own style and share their art.

“Above all though, nothing compares to a stranger on the street coming up and thanking you for your hard work and telling you that you gave them a moment of happiness in their day,” Bali says.

The avid yarn bomber remembers learning to knit with her mum when she was young, but found it “incredibly frustrating” at the time. To this day, she prefers crochet and although the majority of yarn bombers are knitters, Bali says the number of artists who use crochet is increasing.

Bali founded The Yarn Corner - a collective of artists who take part in yarn bombing projects, both individually and as a group. Some meet in real life to talk projects, but the majority of organising is done over facebook.

“We welcome everyone, even those just starting out with yarn bombing.”

You can read more about Bali and yarn bombing in Seam's The Start-Ups Issue.

21 woolly days later...

Photo Credit: 21 Days to Yarn Bomb

After the success of International Yarn Bombing Day, 21 Days to Yarn Bomb will be kicking off on November 1st. If you're an avid knitter or crocheter, grab some friends and add a little knitted goodness to the grey surroundings of your city. They say it takes 21 days to make or break a habit, so if you're new to needlecraft, start practicing now and you'll surely have knitting (and stealth yarn bombing ninja moves) down pat after three weeks. A simple little flower or even a row of stitching tied to a street sign could make someone's day. It's a great chance to showcase your creativity and spruce up the streets. Plus, you might even meet some new people - this event is already attracting a crowd!

Meet Me Monday: Zpagetti

Photo credit: Zpagetti

Doesn't this just look so cool?! We think so, which is why we've decided to tell you a bit more about this upcycled yarn made by Zpaghetti. Unlike your typical wool for the winter, this yarn is versatile enough to make into fashion accessories or homewares suited to any season. Get your needles ready! We spoke to Gwen for the inside scoop on this cute craft...

How did the Zpagetti concept come about? 

The concept of Zpagetti originated in the Netherlands. When clothes are being made the textile industry inevitably are left with a lot of remnants or 'waste material'. In the interest of sustainability we decided not to waste this fabric but use it instead. The material is cut and rolled into cones, providing excellent yarn for crocheting and knitting. The concept proved so popular in the Netherlands and the rest of Europe that we decided to bring it to Australia. With Zpagetti we combine our two greatest passions: upcycling and fashion.

Where do you get the material to make the yarn?

The material for the yarn comes from the textile industry.

Can you tell us a bit about the process of making this awesome yarn? 
Zpagetti is made from the remnants of fabric that are currently being processed for fashion garments not yet available in stores. In other words the Zpagetti available in our store, is made from the fabrics that will be used in upcoming fashion collections for 2012 and beyond. You might say we are a little bit ahead in the fashion stakes!

Will beginner knitters and crocheters be able to use the yarn easily or should they be well practiced?

You do not have to be very experienced at crocheting or knitting to be able to crochet/knit with Zpagetti. We keep our patterns simple yet stylish with step-by-step instructions so that beginners as well as the more experienced can enjoy making projects with Zpagetti. Beginners often find it easier to crochet and/or knit with Zpagetti than with more traditional thinner yarns. We have starter kits available that include everything from making a handbag to a cushion or a rug. Many of our patterns are available on our website free of charge!

Is there a certain demographic you are hoping will pick up Zpagetti?

Due to many colours and designs, there is always something for everyone. We have noticed that Zpagetti is popular with people of all ages. Some like to make handbags in particular colours to match a certain outfit. Others love the more neutral colours for making homewares such as baskets, cushions and rugs to decorate their interior. Even kids love Zpagetti. Due to the structure of the yarn and the bright colours, Zpagetti is also very suited for finger knitting and other kid’s crafts.