As 2015 is coming to an end and 2016 holds some big changes for me, I am ramping up the never ending clearing out and downsizing that is now in its fourth year. Who knew this would take so very, very long.
This week I unearthed several half finished knitting and crochet projects along with a pile of yarn and a box full of fabric that has lived with me too long. What the heck to do with all of it? Most of the projects were started originally to use up all the yarn. Where the heck did all that yarn come from anyway? I swear there are inanimate objects that reproduce in my house!
I have three small blankets very close to being done. I have piles of bits and pieces of random yarn and the fabric is home décor fabric not suitable for clothing or quilts. After doing some thinking and research I believe I have a plan. My plan is to finish everything and donate them where they can truly be of some use. If any of you have similar stashes taking up valuable real estate, I am sharing the links below.
As long as I can remember I have hated wasting anything. I’m not sure if it was how I was raised or just something I was born with, but along with serving me well during tough times it has also driven me nuts. I am not a hoarder. If anything, my inclination is toward minimalism, but I will hang on to things I don’t need until I can find a useful end to it. I cannot bring myself to throw something away just because I don’t need it or can’t use it anymore. Goodwill knows me by name. It is a rare month that I don’t make a drop off of things I have cleaned out.
So, here I am once again trying to find a creative solution to my yarn/fabric problem. Since this seems to be an ongoing thing for me I have started a Pinterest board called “In need”. If you want to follow it for ideas of where you can contribute search for “Christel Williams” or “In need” and you should be able to find the board. If you don’t want to go to that much trouble or are not a Pinterest addict like myself, here are a few links.
The blankets are going to either Project Linus or one of the local hospitals/shelters/churches depending on the size and softness of the yarn. The random bits of yarn are going to be made into scarves for the local homeless shelters and the fabric will be made into a sleeping bag(s) (see the Sleeping Bag Project below. I love it for its emphasis on recycling).
Snuggles Project (for our furry friends)
I have not donated to these organizations before, but am making the links available for you to check out. There are ALWAYS shelters, churches, groups in your local area that are in need of items. It does not take much work to find them and they are very appreciative.
Wishing you a generous, productive, healthy, safe, peaceful week!
Christel
Pencils, Paint & Paper 