May 22, 2010: Yarn Bombing

The term "yarn bombing" brings images of blue-haired grannies flinging balls of yarn with fuses. But Phil assures me that it's actually a form of street art, and New Guy Alex claims it's been around for years. Apparently, the idea even got started here in Texas.

Yarn bombing consists of knitting something and placing it in a public place. Covers for utility poles are common, since they're fairly easy to do. Some knitters put scarves on statues; others add leaves to trees during winter. Although technically vandalism, the purpose seems to be adding a humanizing touch to urban areas often considered sterile. And since the materials are easily removed, it's a very pleasant form of public defacement.

-- Paul Chapman