Local crocheters came together for a good cause earlier this week at the South Central Regional Library Miami Branch, which hosted its second crochet-a-thon on Tuesday, Feb. 18.
The library opened its doors from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. to welcome participants who wanted to crochet. Attendees could drop in at any time during the event to create as many—or as few—granny squares as they liked.
Following the crochet-a-thon, an Afghan Assembly Day will take place, allowing participants to return to the library and assemble the granny squares into full-sized blankets. Though the exact date for this year’s assembly day has not yet been determined, Raina Teigrob from the library expressed enthusiasm for the event.
“After seeing how successful our event was last year, we decided to run the program again in 2025,” said Raina Teigrob of the library. “It ties in nicely with our monthly Crafters & Co. Program, which offers people a space to learn, share, and work on their handcrafts while enjoying the company of fellow creatives.”
The inaugural crochet-a-thon was inspired by a similar event held at the South Central Regional Library’s Winkler Branch. When a patron requested that the Miami branch host a similar event, Teigrob and her team were eager to participate.
“We thought this is a great way to give to those in need, as well as support other community organizations,” she said.
The first crochet-a-thon was a success, with participants crocheting enough granny squares to create 10 Afghans, which were then donated to Genesis House for their clients. Teigrob noted that many community members contributed by donating yarn, crochet hooks, and even completed granny squares for last year’s event.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own yarn, crochet hooks, and any other materials they may need. However, the library will also provide yarn and hooks for those who need them.
Since last year was the library’s first experience hosting this type of event and it does not require pre-registration, Teigrob mentioned that she is uncertain about the expected turnout this time.
This year, the finished Afghans will be donated to the Pembina Manitou Health Centre. Teigrob stated that they chose this organization to “give back to a local establishment and spread some kindness to the residents of the Pembina Manitou Health Centre Personal Care Home.”
