Crazy Yarn Lady

Community Created Outdoor Art Installation

What Is Yarnbombing and Why Do We Love It?

Yarn bombing is a form of public art where everyday spaces—like trees, benches, and light poles—are transformed with handmade crochet pieces. What might look like simple yarn becomes something joyful and unexpected, bringing color, warmth, and creativity into shared spaces. More than that, it’s a way to connect people, spark conversation, and create a sense of belonging. This project is about building community, sharing skills, and creating something together that everyone can enjoy—one stitch at a time.

There are many ways to be part of this project—whether you’re learning for the first time or already have experience. Through a series of classes and workshops across the community, we’re creating opportunities for people to learn, create, and contribute their own pieces to the installation.

🧶 Cedar Rapids Public Library

Our partnership with the Cedar Rapids Public Library offers a welcoming space for beginners to learn the fundamentals of crochet while contributing to a larger community art project. Over the course of the series, participants will build foundational skills and create pieces that can become part of the yarn bombing installation throughout the community. Whether you’ve never picked up a hook or just need a refresher, this is a chance to learn something new and be part of something bigger.

🎨 ImpactCR Youth Workshop

Through our work with ImpactCR, we’re introducing crochet to youth in a hands-on, creative way that connects directly to the yarn bombing project. In this session, participants will create wind spirals that can be taken home or added to the installation, giving them an immediate sense of accomplishment and connection. This workshop is designed to be accessible, engaging, and empowering—showing that even a single session can spark creativity and open the door to new skills.

💜 Marion Public Library

At the Marion Public Library, our beginner crochet series provides another opportunity for community members to learn, create, and contribute. Participants will develop their skills step by step while working on projects that can be incorporated into the yarn bombing installation. With all materials provided and a supportive, beginner-friendly environment, this series is open to anyone who wants to try something new and be part of a creative community effort.

Want to be part of the project? Join a class, attend a workshop, or contribute your own handmade pieces and help us transform our community—one stitch at a time.

This work happens in real spaces, with real people.