The Gift of Crochet

My research explores crocheted creations made by women in rural communities, viewing these handmade pieces as expressions of care, connection, and gift-giving. I’ve studied prayer shawls, vintage crochet clothing, scarves, and toys—objects that hold stories of faith, resilience, and generosity woven into every stitch. Through this work, I trace how this craft is a part of a vibrant gift economy becomes a language of love and a record of women’s everyday creativity.

Below are some of the vintage crocheted pieces that I research, restore, and write about. I use arts based research methods such as collage and autoethnography to create research exhibits with these pieces.