Knitted graffiti and thousands of new knitters: Knitted Things for Soldiers project keeps up with volunteer work

What is the problem?

Next winter will be the tenth winter of wartime in Ukraine. In the cold, Ukrainian soldiers really need warm things. In turn, volunteer organizations that provide warm clothes for the military need materials and as many skilled hands as possible.

What is the solution?

The volunteer community Knitted Things for Soldiers has been knitting warm clothes for the front and in the hospital since August 2014. Over 2,600 artisans worldwide knitted and handed over 23,000 warm socks, hats, balaclavas, gloves, and belts to Ukrainian soldiers during this time.

Last winter, knitted items were sent to the front from all over Ukraine, the US, Georgia, Poland, and the Baltic countries.

Volunteer Tree in Irpin. Photo: Larysa Stepanushko

All these people help the Ukrainian army selflessly and loyally. To thank them for this, to distract them, to inspire them for the new, difficult season, in the city of Irpin in the Kyiv region, during the charity event "Giving Warmth," which was organized by the charity fund Ukraine — Reboot, Ukrainian craftsmen presented a knitted installation Volunteer Tree. The performance organizers say that it is a way to express honor, respect, and support to everyone for self-sacrifice, friendship, and continuous help to those who hold the sky above us.

How does it work?

Over 40 craftsmen sent knitted elements to create the Volunteer Tree. Photo: Larysa Stepanushko

A bright and unusual art object that appeared in one of the parks of the city of Irpin is a joint creation. More than 40 craftsmen from 17 regions of Ukraine, Norway, Lithuania, Poland, and the USA sent elements for creating knitted graffiti to the Knitted Things for Soldiers group organizers.

"When I was asked for a photo of what it should be, I didn't even know what would come of it. During the preparation, I also received negative reviews and accusations — they say I use human resources, time, and threads," says Larysa Stepanushko, the founder of the Knitted Things for Soldiers project and the head of the Ukraine – Reboot charity fund. According to Stepanushko, the project ignited many people. For example, one woman from Kherson sent fragments that she knitted herself and a brown scarf from her grandmother, born in 1919, requesting to attach this scarf at the bottom, closer to the tree's roots. "It was very heartfelt and symbolic — we must remember our history, our roots," says Stepanushko.

The process of making knitted graffiti. Photo: Larysa Stepanushko

The result of the work of dozens of artisans exceeded all expectations. A tree tied with openwork pieces creates a uniquely positive atmosphere — adds color and joy and sets the mood for positivity. A tree is alive — it breathes, and it can be hugged.

"I am glad we chose a living object," says Stepanushko. "The next day, in the morning, I specifically went to observe the reaction of the townspeople — not a single person passed by, everyone was taking pictures, babies were brought up to touch the tree, older children ran by themselves."

Rubryka reported about the volunteer group Knitted Things for Soldiers in the fall of 2022. Soon, we received incredible feedback — artisans from the US, having come across this material, also decided to join the good cause. Then, they sent a package with 51 knitted products for Ukrainian soldiers to the editorial office.

According to Stepanushko's observations, many people joined volunteer knitting for the front last winter. Many people joined already existing communities — among them was the group Knitted Things for Soldiers. During this season, the community increased from 1.5 to 2.6 thousand participants.

"The war does not last 550 days, but the tenth year," reminds Stepanushko. "All this time, our group is functioning, developing, and expanding its assortment." For example, the team added adaptive socks and stump covers in winter and spring. "Of course, we need extra hands with fresh strength. In addition, conscious volunteering is needed to help with what the military really needs at the front or in the hospital. To do this, you need to keep in touch with the recipients of assistance and be flexible to quickly adjust to the performance of urgent tasks if necessary."

The process of making knitted graffiti. Photo: Larysa Stepanushko

The community's founder adds that everyone who knows how to hold a hook or knitting needles in their hands are different people, but they are united in their desire to help the front, involve others, and influence society.

"We chose this path ourselves because we cannot stand aside. Ukrainian knitters will continue supporting Ukrainian soldiers — this is our decision and contribution to the desired victory! The Volunteer Tree is a manifestation of our respect and support for every volunteer for their faith, self-sacrifice, friendship, and devotion to our common and such an important cause," says Stepanushko.

Does it really work?

You can see the Volunteer Tree with your own eyes in the Central Park in Irpin.

The Ukraine — Reboot charity fund received approval from the city management to create knitted graffiti. One tree was chosen, but when Kateryna Pasyuk, the head of the communal enterprise City Improvement Department, came to the park, she asked to tie another one on the other side of the path instead of just one tree. After design, these trees will visually create a knitted gate. Therefore, in September, the Knitted Things for Soldiers team plans to design a second tree.

Another embellished tree will appear in the Central Park of Irpin in September. Photo: Larysa Stepanushko

Thanks to the Volunteer Tree, the volunteer work is spreading. Stepanushko says that one woman she met near the installation noted that the tree could be seen from their window and asked permission to take care of it. Now, she will take a needle and thread for a walk and, if necessary, hem the fragments. Knitted graffiti will need maintenance, so it's good that people are willing to help with this.

Even more useful solutions!

According to certain signs, experts predict a colder winter than the previous one.

During the off-season, many craftsmen knitted warm clothes because they understood that the war would not end until winter. A lot of clothing, such as hats and gloves, is lost due to shelling. That's why they need to be restocked. In severe frosts, the soldiers can't do without woolen socks. Soldiers love warm vests and belts. Soldiers with limb injuries and amputations will need adaptive clothing. Therefore, there is a lot of work ahead," says Stepanushko.

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