The word 'craftivism' is a portmanteau of the words craft and activism. It was first coined in 2003 by writer Betsy Greer to describe the subversive world of crafting as activism. With stay-at-home orders issued in early 2020, and many people continuing to cope with feelings of isolation, there has been an increased interest in "domestic arts".
Below is a curated list of books focusing on intentional handicrafts. While it is not an exhaustive list, these books cover a wide range of interests and abilities. No matter what your skill level, there are guides available to help you create inspiring, provocative, and (dare we say) revolutionary work.
Do you learn better through video tutorials? Find inspiration for your next handmade gesture of defiance using our online resource, Creativebug. Library patrons get unlimited access to over 1,000 online art and craft video classes. All you need is your library card.
Creativebug is an all-in-one source for learning a variety of craft techniques, including sewing, yarn crafts, paper crafts, jewelry making, and culinary arts. With the included kids section, Creativebug offers something crafty for everyone.
Eco Books: Inventive Projects From the Recycling Bin by Terry Taylor
Mend!: A Refashioning Manual and Manifesto by Kate Sekules
Protest Knits: Got Needles? Get Knitting! by Geraldine Warner
Super Subversive Cross Stitch: 50 Fresh as F*ck Designs by Julie Jackson
Mystical Stitches: Embroidery For Personal Empowerment and Magical Embellishment by Christi Johnson
Crochet Iconic Women: Amigurumi Patterns For 15 Women Who Changed the World by Carla Mitrani
Empowered Embroidery by Amy L. Frazer
Feminist Cross-Stitch: 40 Bold & Fierce Patterns by Stephanie Rohr
Activism looks different to everyone, and we can always improve our efforts. But when we stand in solidarity with marginalized communities, when we use our skills to lift the voices of the oppressed, we can create something truly beautiful.
"We must combine the toughness of the serpent with the softness of the dove. A tough mind and a tender heart.” ― Martin Luther King, Jr.