The Chicago-Chakouri Knitting Project is a collaborative effort that brings together six non-profits and two social enterprises from around the United States.
What began as a plan to link two non-profit organizations in Chicago quickly evolved into a cross-cultural initiative that linked Chicagoans with women knitters in Chakouri, India, on the other side of the world.
Due to a grant from the Simmons Center of Global Chicago, this project has become possible. The knitters are members of the fair trade women's knitting collective Himalayan Naari.
Everyone in Chicago who is interested is welcome to participate in the project, but it is especially focused on involving youth to motivate and engage them to become fair trade proponents. The Chicago Fair Trade (CFT) Museum will be hosting an exhibit as well as a knitting circle from April 14 to May 14, 2023 to feature the women knitters. Participants are invited to knit a square that will eventually form part of a blanket.
The blanket will be assembled from the knitted squares during the World Fair Trade Day Celebration on May 14 -15 at the CFT Museum.
TerraKlay, a CFT business member, is involved in the project. Manvee Vaid of TerraKlay, also being a director at Himalyan Naari and is the point of contact with the women knitters.
The patchwork blanket creates a sense of unity by bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and representing a collage of ideas, cultures, and people. The love for this project builds a strong community among those involved.
The Chaukori Patchwork Blanket is unique with its own distinct pattern and color scheme, and it's hand-knitted and finished in 4 weeks, ensuring that they are not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting. No two blankets are alike.
What's exciting is that you can own one of the beautiful Chaukori Patchwork Blankets! These blankets are truly one-of-a-kind, hand-knitted with love and care by skilled artisans at Himalayan Naari.
As a part of their commitment to fostering relationships with the artisans and the community, the blankets are being offered at a special pre-order price of $449, originally priced at $550. By purchasing one of these blankets, you'll be directly supporting the artisans and the knitting they are involved in.
This is a special offer that won't last forever, so take advantage of this amazing opportunity to own a hand-knitted Chaukori Patchwork Blanket and support the artisans in their craft. It's a chance to experience the warmth and comfort of these beautiful blankets in your own home while making a difference in the lives of the women knitters in Chakouri.
We extend a special thank you to Kristine Brandel for generously volunteering her time, sharing her passion for knitting, and offering her expertise. We also express our gratitude to the following organizations for making this project possible:
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