Supporting blind and sight-impaired potholder weavers through accessible pattern transcription.
Writing out weaving patterns so they can be read aloud or used with screen readers is not flashy work. It’s careful. It’s detailed. And yes — it can be tedious.
And, it matters.
Each transcribed pattern expands access to creativity, independence, and generosity throughout the potholder-weaving community.
This is what potholder weaver generosity looks like in action:
Over the past five years, more than 4,000 potholders have been distributed in person through the Thanksgiving Potholder Project alone. Many were made and contributed by blind and sight-impaired weavers.
That’s the ripple effect: What you give to weavers, they, in turn, give to others.
Two Ways to Make Transcribing Easier (and More Fun)
If writing patterns solo feels like a big lift, you don’t have to do it alone!
You can partner with Shelley Schuett, coordinator of the blind and sight-impaired weavers, or create your own buddy system.
Here’s how …
1. Read and Type Partnership with Shelley
Shelley Schuett has generously offered to type while you read instructions aloud. If you’d like to partner with her, simply introduce yourself by email: shelleyschuett@telus.net
2. Create a Buddy System
Team up with another weaver — or a friend, spouse, neighbor, or family member. One reads. One types. Switch roles when you’d like. Send your completed work to Shelley.
Your buddy doesn’t have to be a weaver. They just need a willingness to help.
And, the buddy system isn’t limited to geography.
Private potholder weaving groups make it easy to connect with weavers near and far. A simple read-and-type partnership can spark new friendships while opening doors for blind and sight-impaired artists.
If you’ve been wondering whether you can contribute, this is a meaningful way to begin — as pattern buddies. You don’t need to sign up for an ongoing commitment. Choose one pattern. Complete it. Share it with Shelley. That alone expands access.
Sharing artistry, craftsmanship, and connection. That’s the heart of this community.
Thank you for all that you weave.
Namaste.
