fibre space has always been about supporting our neighbors. We are thrilled to announce the launch of a new partnership that will support some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

Knit the Rainbow was founded in 2020 by Austin Rivers. After learning about the housing disparities facing LGBTQ+ youth in New York City, Rivers was looking for ways to bridge the gaps in housing and shelter resources. As a knitter, he felt he could use these skills to provide warm protective winter garments for LGBTQ+ youth facing homelessness, and Knit the Rainbow was born. 

Knit the Rainbow collects new and unworn handmade knitted and crocheted garments to distribute to unhoused LGBTQ+ youth. Originally located in New York and New Jersey, Knit the Rainbow is now growing its network–and we are happy to join as a drop-off partner along with SMYAL.

fibre space will now collect knit and crochet winter accessories as part of our partnership with Knit the Rainbow. Your handmade items will be distributed directly to LGBTQ+ youth in our community to help make the winter months a little more comfortable. The phenomenal organization SMYAL will handle the distribution to local unhoused LGBTQ+ youth. For over 40 years, SMYAL has provided essential support and empowerment to LGBTQ+ youth in the Washington metropolitan region and beyond. As stated in its mission, the organization “actively works to create a world where queer and trans youth thrive through affirming programs and services designed to develop critical life skills, build community, and foster a sense of belonging.”

Knit the Rainbow offers free knit and crochet patterns for stitchers of all levels, thanks to designers who donated their patterns. You’re not required to use one of these patterns, but we think they’re really fun!

Ready to stitch? Please note the following criteria for donated handmade items:

• We can accept new and unworn handmade knit, crocheted, and woven wearable items and winter-focused garments such as beanies, socks, gloves, earwarmers, scarves, cowls, shawls, mittens, sweaters, etc.
• You can craft in any pattern, colors, and fibre type/weight. Items do not need to be machine washable. Tip: Knit the Rainbow recommends crafting in darker colors because they look cleaner longer.
• Please do not affix garments together as sets (pairs of socks, gloves, etc. are fine, but not sets like a matching hat and scarf).
• Please do not put your donations in individual bags of any kind.

We will accept items that meet the criteria above at any time. If you have any questions, our yarnistas will gladly assist you. Join us at an upcoming Cosmic Craft Nite, our monthly queer stitcher meet-up, or drop items off at any time.