Crochet Projects Change The World (with videos)

I’ve been noticing an awe-inspiring trend: Crafters are changing the world. Not only are artisans lending their creative talents to beautify our planet, their small actions have the ability to fulfill a social mission and change lives.

Often, I am asked to write DIY crochet projects. I know how to crochet, but I almost always choose knitting over crocheting. The two projects below have inspired me to rediscover the wonders of that hooked needle craft.

The first project raises crochet hooks to aid in scientific discoveries about climate change and the devastating effects it’s having on coral reefs (above). The second project provides employment and education to women who lack the skills and opportunities to lift them and their families out of poverty.

2 Crochet Projects Making a Difference

Global Warming, Coral and Crochet

Science writer, Margaret Wertheim founder of the Institute of Figuring, responded to combating global warming by drawing attention to distressed coral reefs around the world that are dying in droves from changing ocean saline levels, overfishing, and numerous other threats. By using crochet techniques to elevate the devastation, Wertheim is inspiring others to use their crafty talents for environmental activism and create environmental art. I’ve written more about this here.

Margaret Wertheim gives a fascinating TEDtalk about the intersection of craft, nature, physics, beauty, math and global warming:

Next: Crochet Hats Help Lives