Crafts en español

By Aaron Shulman
August/September 2005

Patterns in Spanish

Having closely knit families may be more than a figure of speech for Hispanics. About 75 percent of Latino crafters believe their hobbies connect them to their culture and reaffirm their sense of identity, according to the Craft and Hobby Association.

Crafts are also a big business. The association reports that Hispanics spend an estimated $1.9 billion annually on hobbies.

These include needlecraft—such as knitting, crocheting, embroidery, and needlepoint—a particularly booming hobby among Hispanics. For some, though, the lack of Spanish-language instructions or kits presents a major drawback. Few patterns are translated into Spanish.

Now some needlecraft companies are responding to the needs of U.S. Hispanics. Lion Brand Yarn, for instance, offers free downloadable patterns and step-by-step lessons in Spanish.

Once you have the necessary materials and feel comfortable with your needle skills, how about turning your hobby into a charitable endeavor? The Warm Up America! Foundation and Afghans for Afghans are two of many organizations that offer online patterns for making clothes and blankets for families in need.

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