You read the title correctly: It's time to start working on Red Scarf 2009. Why so early? Well, first, the scarves are due to OFA by October 31 at the latest. People need time to find some yummy yarn and turn it into a yummy scarf (knit, crochet, weave, etc.). OFA has received so many scarves that they need extra time to organize and sort in time for the Valentine's packages mailed in early February 2009. (edited to correct the deadline)
People were so generous in the past, sending in huge quantities of scarves, that OFA has asked us to limit ourselves to a smaller number. I think the official maximum is five, but I strongly encourage people to make a smaller quantity, and donate $ to the cost of the shipping, etc. instead, and/or purchase some gift cards to go along with the one or two scarves they send. Idea: if you're not a knitter or crocheter (etc.), you can team up with one. They can provide the scarf and you can provide some goodies to go along with it.
Why I do it: A dear friend of mine spent some time in foster care. While we roomed together in college, I don't remember her ever getting a piece of mail or a care package. My recollection could be fuzzy (it was a long time ago), but I do remember getting mail and care packages myself and loving it. When I heard about this project, I just wanted to have a part in some kids getting mail at school.
Other specs:
- Unisex and soft. Machine washability is preferred, but hand-washable is fine, too. No Fun Fur. (Emphasis mine. Remember unisex is key.)
- 5 to 8 inches wide, with a soft drape, approximately 60 inches long
- Shades of red are preferred, but other unisex colors are fine, too.
- Fringe or no fringe; either way is cool!
- Notes of encouragement or personal messages attached to your scarves are encouraged.
- Please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope (for thank you notes and/or acknowledgments)
- Gift cards from national chain bookstores, fast-food places, stores like Target, etc., are strongly wished for
Resources
- The direct source for info: The Orphan Foundation's Red Scarf Project Page
- A must-see video
- Red Scarf Blog
- Free Scarf Pattern List (please feel free to recommend other pattern links!)
- My Downloads:
- Free Eucalan Samples - to include with a handwash-only scarf
1 comment:
Love your banner and care tags for red scalf project. Wanted to post a link on my myspace...it's mainly devoted to Jimmy Wayne a country singer that does alot of charity work for foster kids...he was once in the system himself....can't get any of them to ope tho...any help?
Hugs from Boston
Moe
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