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Clinton Knit in Public helps promote peace

Museum fundraiser also raises global social spirits
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The Clinton Historical Society once again welcomed folks from far and wide to join them in at a free, world-wide event on a local level that offers a rather unique opportunity – learning to knit.

It’s also a “social event extraordinaire” – the second annual Clinton Knit in Public – once again hosted at the Clinton Museum.

Organizer Marcia Begin says it is modelled after World Wide Knit in Public Day, started in 2005 by Danielle Landes as a way for knitters to come together and enjoy each other’s company.

Some folks’ own neighbours and friends, or even relatives are knitters, yet they don’t even know it - how about you?

Begin says whether learning to knit or sharing your skills, many folks local and across the world say they find the conversations and social atmosphere is worth giving this event a go either way.

Knitters, quilters, spinners and persons who enjoy handiwork are always invited to attend, she explains.

All skill levels were welcomed, whether they have never picked up knitting needles or are experts spinning their own lambswool before creating custom patterns, she says, adding there is always something offered for everyone who has any interest to attend, she explains.

“We also had a hotdog sale to help raise some funds to help build a wagon shed for the museum.”

The avid knitter notes several large, historical items are displayed outdoors behind the museum, like the wagon, which is “deteriorating a bit” from the lack of shelter such as a log shed the society is working hard to find the money to construct, she adds.

There were also some sales of knitting supplies, for any folks who just wanted to stop by for wool or knitting needles, a hotdog, or even just a chat, she explains.

While the cold, rainy weather was also a deterrent to the number of knitters this year, Begin notes plenty of people turned out to buy a hotdog, which is also appreciated.

“This year we actually stayed outside and had tents set up, and Andy May, who is the president of the historical society, helped us set up the tents.

“We had tables there, and we had a door prize that was won by Village of Clinton Councillor Diana Guerin, and the hotdogs were cooked by a museum member.”

She says next year, the society is hoping the Clinton Knit in Public event will be bigger and better than ever, but meanwhile, folks can learn to knit simply by turning out to give it a try with the local knitter’s group.

It’s now closed down for the summer, but resumes in the fall to run right through the winter and spring, and welcomes everyone even as just a drop-in, Begin explains.

“We get together Saturday mornings in the [Clinton] Library. There are lessons available for anyone who needs them, and we just help each other.”

Begins says there is no charge to attend – even for the lessons – and will start up again in September, every Saturday at 10 a.m. The library is at 1506 Tingley St. (at the corner of Foster Avenue).

Knitting is such a solitary act that it’s easy to knit alone, but it can also be a community activity, so Knit in Public events offer a chance to knit in harmony with neighbours and friends, and people at similar events all over the world, she says.

”In 2005, there were 25 local events around the world, and now, there are more than 750 being held across the globe.

“It is an event that is growing, and bringing people to gather in a peaceful manner.”

Some of the countries involved that have held local events over the years include Australia, China, England, Finland, France, Ireland, Norway, South Africa, Sweden, United States and many others.

More information is online at www.wwkipday.com/clin ton-knit-public-day.