Students in the Professional Crafts Fiber Program at Haywood Community College created ten blankets to support the community in response to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. These blankets were created during the fall 2024 semester as part of student coursework to give them away for a good cause to help the community.
Shortly after the storm hit the area, Amy Putansu, Professional Crafts Fiber instructor, wanted to take action like many. This is when the stars seemed to align. In addition to a wool mill in the eastern part of the country shutting its doors and looking to donate their wool and the need for classroom lab hours to be made up in the curriculum, this initiative was developed, and blankets were made.
“We who fared well in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene were desperate to help those in our community who suffered horrible losses. This project provided us with a challenge and the opportunity to intensely focus on our craft, all the time knowing that our efforts will benefit many.” – Allison Teeples, first-year Professional Crafts Fiber student and blanket weaver.
Each weaver chose a historical overshot pattern to convert into a double weave for this project. The patterns are very recognizable as they are identified with the Appalachian tradition of handwoven coverlets and are constructed of washable wool. Each weaver carefully considered pattern and material to ensure they are highly functional, beautiful, warm blankets.
The online auction is made available in partnership with WARP (Weave the Real Peace), with 100% of the proceeds of the blanket sales benefiting two local organizations – BeLoved Asheville and the Craft Emergency Relief Fund. The auction is open January 13 – 19 at the following website: https://weavearealpeace.org/2025-online-auction/
For more information about Haywood Community College, visit haywood.edu or contact at [email protected] or 828-627-2821.
Written by Haywood Community College.