Patterns for Black History Month

I know I missed it by a week, but February is Black History Month, but my life getting in the way is not going to stop me from posting this late. I am not black, but I think it’s important to learn about the history of other people, especially marginalized peoples. Also, there’s been some tension in the “fiber community” (is that a thing? yes, apparently it is) around race lately and I’ve been convicted that if I don’t stand up against racism, my silence and my privilege allows the status quo to continue and the bullies to win. I want to thank Tyne Swedish for giving so much of her time to raise awareness about these issues and stand with the oppressed and stand against racism and oppression. Follow her Instagram account and buy her a coffee if you can!

I’m super sad that people of colour have been made to feel unwelcome in spaces for knitters and crocheters, so today I would like to highlight some patterns by black designers. It’s a small gesture, I know; but it’s what I do, so taking some time to highlight some POC designers seemed like something I could do. Go support some of these great designers by buying a pattern today and sharing it on social media (tag the designer) when you’re done!

*Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click on them and buy something, you don’t pay any extra, but I may get a small commission.*

First up is Toni Lipsey of TLYarnCrafts. This woman is so adorable in her Instagram stories: so cheery and upbeat. She also has some gorgeous designs. It’s a little out of season right now, but eventually, winter will be over (right?). I love this Rebel Cami Pattern; it looks so casual, perfect to pair with jeans or cutoffs. I really love this halter-style top, how it really shows off the shoulders. (And isn’t her model just gorgeous?)

Another lovely (but not exactly perfect for a Canadian winter) pattern from TLYarnCrafts is this Lemonade Top Pattern. I love the open lacy back and it looks like it would make a great beach cover-up.

More appropriate for winter, Toni also has several gorgeous shawls including this recent one in Tunisian crochet, the Ada Shawl. I’ve never crocheted anything in Tunisian crochet, though my mother in law did show me how to do it and I crocheted a row for her, so I kinda know how. I like the way it looks. I should really give it a go… maybe with this pattern. I don’t usually wear shawls, but I do wear a lot of scarves, so I think this looks like I could wear it the same way I would a scarf.

Third Vault Yarns is a lovely designer based in the UK and I quite like these Burn the Capitol Fingerless Gloves. They were designed as a tribute to the Hunger Games for the Third Vault Hunger Games Yarn Club (which sounds awesome, by the way). Super cool and I love these fall colours!

A Raging Purlwind has designed this beautiful Knit Mermaid Top/Crop Top Patter Bundle, which I think is adorable. I love how she’s got curves, so the rest of us can see ourselves in a design.

I’m so completely over winter, so I’m just going to pretend that I could wear these fun summery designs now instead of in MONTHS. (ugh–ok sorry enough weather complaining). Check out this adorable Knit Love Note Tank pattern, also from A Raging Purlwind. So cute. Get making one today and you’ll be all set for summer!

Ok, so I’m already behind on publishing this post (I started last week when it was still February, but I’m not going to let perfection to be the enemy of good.) So choose a pattern from one of these fantastic designers or the many others who are also on Ravelry. Tyne Swedish has a saved Instagram Story featuring BIPOC Designers (if you’re new to that term, I had to look it up myself: Black Indigenous People of Colour) that you can check out, as well as one featuring BIPOC Makers.

Pin this post to share with your friends and share some love for these fantastic designers and their beautiful patterns. Or choose to pin your just your favourite! Choose from the pins below!