Knitting Group Looks to Grow

EVANSTON, Ill. --- Novice and accomplished knitters from across the Evanston campus are welcome to participate in a bi-monthly knitting group that creates items for personal use or donates their small hand-knit projects to charity.

CompassionKnit meets from noon to 1 p.m. on the first Tuesday and third Wednesday of every month at Northwestern University’s Women’s Center, 2000 Sheridan Road.

To date, the Evanston campus knitters have sent a collection of items to the Red Scarf Project of the Orphan Foundation of America, a program that helps former foster children attending college or vocational schools become successful adults. The foundation accepts red scarves from Sept. 1 through Dec. 15 each year.

Since the knitting group that meets at the Women’s Center comprises many beginners, a colorful assortment of hand-knit squares were donated to the Knit-A-Square project, which benefits AIDS orphans in South Africa.

“The 8-inch squares are something that anyone can knit, even if they are just learning,” said Cara Tuttle Bell, director of programs for the Women’s Center. “Attendees are free to bring their own projects or to knit a square that is then sent to the charity organization.”

The bi-monthly get-togethers started in Fall 2009 as a way to connect Northwestern women faculty, staff and students with a creative outlet. The relaxing sessions also can help alleviate daily stress.

While the Women’s Center does have a large basket of assorted yarns and knitting needles available, most participants opt to bring their own knitting tools and supplies to each meeting. The number of attendees varies from two to eight participants. As many as 25 knitters can be accommodated during each hourlong lunchtime session.

For more information on CompassionKnit, visit the Women’s Center or phone (847) 491-7360.

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