Artists for Peace Helping Ukraine

When Orchard Weaves’ artist Robin Tome saw the atrocities happening in Ukraine, she quickly rallied a group of fiber artists to raise funds for the relief effort. Within a few short days the list of contributing artists grew to an international community of more than 170 individuals.

The outpouring of support and number of people willing to help stood out to Robin as a memorable part of organizing the Artists for Peace Auction. The way it has connected people from across the United States and elsewhere under the goal of peace and unity, and the value for human life, has been an incredible experience.

There are more than 150 handmade items being individually auctioned via the Artists for Peace Auction Instagram account. You can find fiber art, handknit accessories, yarns, crochet pieces, and so much more. Bidding starts as low as $5, and items are valued as high as $575.

This event to benefit the Ukrainian Red Cross was held virtually March 7-8^th, 2022. In less than 48 hours of bidding, @ArtistsforPeace_auction was able to raise $15,813.00. And it’s worth noting, the admin of the auction donated her time and coordination efforts so 100% of the proceeds went directly to @RedCrossUkraine.

We’ll be sharing more opportunities to help Ukraine as we learn more. You can also find helpful ideas through Global Citizen’s 22 Meaningful Ways You Can Help Ukraine. We invite you to join us in sharing your ideas or knitting, crochet, and other art in support of Ukraine in the comments below. Use the hashtags #artistsforUkraine, #knittersforUkraine, or #crochetersforUkraine to connect with the community of makers raising awareness.

More Support for Ukraine

Across the crafting community—fiber, fabric, art, beads, and others—are making efforts to raise funds to support relief efforts.

Sewists are supporting Ukraine by using Etsy filters to isolate their purchase to designers and business in Ukrainian cities.

Quilting community shop owners are bundling fabric collections in Ukraine’s flag colors and donating the proceeds, while designers are creating block patterns to benefit the country’s fight. 

Beaders and jewelers are creating unique pieces to raise funds and awareness, and to show solidarity through their crafts.

Gifted artists are taking to canvas to create #sunflowersforUkraine as a symbol of resistance.

Painting for Peace artists are auctioning sunflower paintings to support Ukrainian relief efforts as well.