It could be called yarn therapy or the fine art of crocheting.
Whatever name is associated with the weekly get-together of a dozen woman toting crochet supplies to the East Chicago Public Library, it means a unique learning experience – with fun thrown in for good measure.
“We were attending another program at the library when we saw the flyer for the knitting/crocheting class,” said Jo Anne Starykowicz, who joined the group last year with her sister, Jeanette Starykowicz. “I was always interested in crocheting so we decided to give it a try.”
And the East Chicago sisters are glad they did.
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“I’ve learned so much in such a short amount of time,” Jo Anne said. “The ladies are so helpful, not minding at all the many questions I have.”
The group, which has no formal name, but is referred to by the library as the Crochet Club, was first formed four years ago by Madeleine Spann, Mary Brokemond, Lorraine Upshaw and Rebecca Mack. Current weekly meetings attract 12-15 people.
“I learned how to crochet from my mother when I was young, but I also wanted to know how to read a pattern,” Spann said. “I asked around and found an instructor that was willing to volunteer for us at the 151st Street Community Center.”
There were no dues or membership rolls involved – just a relaxing atmosphere to learn crocheting and enjoy each other’s company. Attendance grew and the popular get-togethers continued for three years until the center closed last year.
“We had nowhere to go,” Brokemond said. “We approached The East Chicago Public Library and they graciously offered their meeting room for our weekly sessions. This is our community and we feel very welcome here.”
The library has gone one step further and currently displays the handiwork in the Templeton Gallery, which is in the center of the library.
Shawls, purses, afghans and home decorations are among the hundreds of items displayed in glass cases, on mannequins, and adorning the wall
Since the atmosphere is casual and open-minded during the meetings, the ladies feel at ease discussing concerns and innovative ideas with each other. They bring their own supplies and items they are working on, but currently are undertaking a group project – designing a shoulder wrap.
There are a few items hung on the gallery wall.
“One pattern can result in looking different ways,” Spann said, explaining the appearance of those displayed. “There are many types of yarn and size of needles.”
Add the tension used by the person doing the work, and their creativity, and you can end up with a one-of-a-kind look, she added.
The transform of the gallery into a unique boutique brought in many positive comments from library patrons.
“I know they are only displaying these things to show how crochet works, but I would definitely buy some of them if they were for sale,” said Addie Franklin, of East Chicago, as she stopped in to browse. “They are so colorful and quality made. They could fetch top dollar.”
The exhibit in the Templeton Gallery continues until May 31.
Currently, the group is focusing on crocheting, but hopes to add knitting soon.
New participants, no matter what level of experience they have in crocheting, are welcome.
Meetings take place on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and attendees bring their own supplies and projects.
But for newcomers, the library keeps on hand some materials — which remain at the library — to use for their first visit.
For more information, call the library’s Reference Desk at 219-397-2453.