A New Perspective Has Arrived!

Check It Out

(Cover, the art of Xenobia Bailey; all pics enlarge)

Forgive my delay in posting of the arrival of Black Purl Magazine's  inaugural print issue; don't worry, it's still relevant.

Why Do We Need Another Needlecraft Magazine?

And one that features people of color? Haven't we moved on? My answer is I don't think so, not in America. Needlework is not immune, from the same prejudices that influence opinion in our society. There are few popular needlework periodicals that I've seen, whose content and contributors accurately reflects this nation's mosaic on a regular basis. And though I'm aware of the financial equation that makes e-zines more conducive to inclusion, as opposed to print (this is one excuse I hear), we all want to put our feet up and enjoy a print edition occasionally. And Black Purl will still maintain its e-zine, so join up.

What about marketing? This is another excuse. Marketing deals with who you see, and that sight is based on perception. However, the birth of great ideas are often the result of this narrow mindedness. Men now have their own needlework mags, meaning they no longer have to wait for a woman-focused publication to produce a special issue for them––and neither do I. On the flip side, I was honored to have had my design accepted for the inaugural issue of Men Knit. So, as far as an ethnic knitting mag––well, why not?

What's In It For You?

Black Purl is choc full of interesting patterns, and articles that render inspiration, advice, and encouragement. There's a feature on Xenobia Bailey, an internationally recognized fiber artist, whose work is only now achieving appreciation from the mainstream art establishment in this country. Contributors include Afi Scruggs, Donna Druchunas, Paloma Parra and publisher, L'Tanya Durante, as well as myself and others. Book reviews focus on global needlework, expanding our awareness of the cross-cultural references of our world. Best, is the inclusion of different types of needlecraft––a little something for everyone.

But Is It All That?

There is room for improvement; but hey, to go from an e-zine to a glossy mag in a year, is an achievement in itself, especially when the editors are all busy sisters and brothers juggling jobs, families, and publishing issues. That said, I give a huge thanks to L'Tanya, Sonja, and the rest of the staff.

Please support the efforts of these amazing folk, in their aim to produce a 'zine online and in print, that promotes our diversity in craft and perspective. It is my hope that soon, the sight of me, or another brother or sister performing any form of needlework will evoke an intelligent exchange, rather than an exclamation of disbelief.

Comments

[sheila]

I got my copy and enjoyed it immensely.

[Vera]

I just ordered a copy! Looking forward to seeing it soon.

[sahara]

Hey there!

As far as I know, they will print quarterly; it's not on the newsstands or in the yarn shops. This is where the support comes in. Subscribe online, then start asking the yarn shops to contact them. Thanks!!

[hope]

Where can we find the mag on newsstands? I think it's fantastic and can't wait to read it. Congratulations!

[Carolyn]

Thanks for the info. I love your blog, so informational. I meant to tell you last year that I'd added you to my blogroll.

[April]

Cool! =) It's got a GREAT name, that's for sure. I'll have to be on the lookout for it.

[Wanda]

I didn't know it was available in print. i'll have to check it out.

[Miss T]

Thanks for the link! I hadn't heard about the magazine and I ordered one. Can't wait to see it.

[Latoya]

Wow! I didn't know Black Purl was in print. Great to hear and see. I agree with everything you typed. (I've been out of blogland for a while.)

Happy knitting!

[sappmama]

Thank you for posting about this. I didn't know about the print edition and will secure a copy for myself.

[Andree]

I just bought my copy!

[Chris]

Thanks for the heads up - I hadn't heard of Black Purl, and I've just spent some enjoyable time poking through the archives. You always get me thinking, too.