Yarn bombing is a form of street art that utilizes whimsical, colorful displays of yarn creations, either crocheted or knitted.
Originally started in Texas as a way to use up leftover yarn in a fun, creative way, yarn bombing has now become a worldwide event typically during the month of March which coincides with the birthday of children’s author Dr. Seuss.
The yarn creations go up the end of February and come down at the end of March thanks to a group of dedicated volunteers. Unlike other types of public art, yarn bombs are not permanent and easily removed. It’s a perfect time of year to add color and whimsy to the downtown as it’s still rather void of color at this point in the season.
A group of folks in Erwin have been meeting on Monday nights at the office of Gail Snodgrass, LGS Architecture, on Main Street from 6 to 8 p.m. to create yarn coverings for downtown trees, poles and benches.
Some members of the group are experts, others struggle with determination and enthusiasm. It’s all about making friends, learning, volunteering, community and just plain fun.
Creations are due at Erwin Town Hall Feb. 16 in preparation for decorating, or bombing, the downtown area.
The yarn bomb in Erwin was started in 2019 by the community group Rise Erwin and Jamie Rice, the former communications director of Erwin. The intent was to bring cheer and color into the downtown area during the dreary days of winter. It was also an effort to increase foot traffic to downtown merchants.
Also, as it turned out, it was also a perfect fit to celebrate “Read Across America” and bring awareness to Unicoi County’s amazing library. It’s a win-win for so many entities.
As a downtown merchant, I can attest to the increase of foot traffic during the yarn bomb. When people see all of the yarn art in downtown this March I hope it brings joy and a smile.
Don’t forget the effort of the volunteers who created the pieces and the placing of the items around town.
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Jan Bowden, with husband, Vince, is the owner of Union Street Gallery in downtown Erwin.