SistahCraft

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.

Nikoa And Garrett Invites A Knitter To Paradise, With Roses Too!

Congratulations!

You look fabulous! (Garrett Hendricks and Nikoa Evans; her gown, Nicole Miller; his suit, The Men's Wearhouse; all pics enlarge).

Ancestors! There just couldn't have been a better way for Mr. K and I to recoup from the hectic holidaze, than by spending four luscious days in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, to attend the wedding of my sistahfriend––and a lovely crocheter––the effervescent Ms. Nikoa Evans to the handsome and mischievously humorous ("we're  movin' on up") Garrett Hendricks. Their comfortably chic ceremony took place on January 5th, at the award-winning Frenchman's Reef and Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort. With the weather giving a postcard perfect day, all of us, family and guests, basked in the affectionate hug of the sun and the joyfulness radiating from our two lovebirds.

(A truly blessed day; The terrace reception area).

But lest I start to sound staid––we enjoyed some bangin' Caribbean food, and kicked up our heels––and sandals––to the fabulous music Garrett selected; you GO, brother!

(And it tasted as good as it looked; cake, The Marriott).

Deftly adorned with real roses, this cake was beautiful and refreshingly non-trad. We so need to move on from over-done, heavily frosted layer cakes topped with a non-edible wedding party. Hey, I've always wondered how many brides have quietly panicked, when confronted with cutting such a thing.

(Paradise is nice; a view from the reception terrace)

I was honored to attend their wedding! Nikoa and I met a few years ago at the Harlem Knitting Circle, when I was a volunteer instructor. She wanted to advance her skills in crochet, and we became friends, linked to the thread which binds us all.

Nikoa and Garrett, I wish you as much happiness as there are stitches from all of the crocheters and knitters, and needle-workers on the planet! And start stockpiling yarn girlfriend, for those blankets and little sweaters you're gonna make down the road, LOL!

Here is their official announcement in the New York Times.