Yarnitecture

Synopsis

Create your dream yarn! Discover the pleasures of designing and building custom-made yarn by spinning it yourself, choosing everything from color to feel and gauge. Jillian Moreno leads you through every step of yarn construction, with detailed instructions and step-by-step photos showing you how to select the fiber you want (wool, cotton, silk, synthetic), establish a foundation, and spin a beautiful yarn with the structure, texture, and color pattern that you want. In addition to teaching you the techniques you need for success, Moreno also offers 12 delicious original patterns from prominent designers, each one showcasing hand-spun yarns.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Yarn Architecture Revolution

* Explains the evolution of yarnitecture as a new medium, blurring the lines between art, design, and architecture.
* Real example: The "Yarn Bombing" of the Berlin Wall in 2009, which transformed the iconic structure into a vibrant, colorful expression.

Chapter 2: The Yarn Bombers

* Introduces the diverse community of yarn bombers, from guerrilla artists to social activists.
* Real example: Olek, a Polish artist known for her large-scale yarn installations that explore themes of sexuality and the female body.

Chapter 3: Yarnitecture Techniques and Materials

* Provides a comprehensive guide to the tools and techniques used in yarnitecture, including knitting, crocheting, and other fabric manipulation methods.
* Real example: The "Knitted City" project by Magda Sayeg, which creates life-sized urban structures using knitted and crocheted yarn.

Chapter 4: The Language of Yarn

* Explores the symbolism and significance of color, texture, and form in yarnitecture.
* Real example: The "Rainbow Yard" installation by Amanda Cotton, which evokes the vibrant colors and textures of a natural environment.

Chapter 5: Yarnitecture and the Built Environment

* Discusses the transformative power of yarnitecture in urban spaces, creating temporary or permanent installations that engage with architecture and public spaces.
* Real example: The "Yarn Bombing of Christchurch" in New Zealand after the 2011 earthquake, which brought color and warmth to the devastated city.

Chapter 6: Yarnitecture and Social Impact

* Highlights the social and community-building aspects of yarnitecture, including its use in activism, therapy, and outreach programs.
* Real example: The "Guerrilla Craft Corps" in New York City, which uses yarn bombing to address social and environmental issues.

Chapter 7: The Future of Yarnitecture

* Explores the potential of yarnitecture to continue innovating and engaging with art, architecture, and society.
* Real example: The "Yarn Bombing World Record Attempt" in Mumbai, India, which brought together artists from around the globe to create a massive yarn installation.