2. The Web Revolution The Internet has revolutionized the way the world thinks about many things – including knitting. By using social media tools, such as Flickr, YouTube, Ravelry, and others, knitters have created a unique online community.
3. Quick Historical Background In the past, knitting was just part of the normal household drudgery. With the invention of the knitting machine, knitters were able to focus on creating more frivolous and decorative projects – instead of just darning socks. The Internet provides a space to show off these finished projects.
4. Ravelry Currently has 1,232,934 registered users Allows knitters across the globe to collaborate on projects Knitting & Crocheting for charity Fosters lasting (offline) friendships with swaps
5. Yarn Companies Why build it if you can join it? Yarn companies are embracing the Groundswell through Ravelry, Facebook, and Twitter By providing incentives for knitters to use these resources, the companies are increasing traffic to their businesses.
7. Flickr & YouTube Knitters in the Groundswell use photo and video sharing tools to show their finished projects, and create tutorials for others who need help. Trying to learn a new technique just from printed words is extremely difficult! Judy’s Magic Cast-On
8. In-Person Interactions Ravelry Events Users can RSVP to knitting conventions and expos, post pictures from the events Ravelrymeetups - users can meet each other face-to-face Meetup.com Search by location to find knitting groups near you
9. Personal Interviews “…helps me see how the patterns might turn out…” - Becca S. "I can show things I've made to friends…” - Liz C. “...I love to talk to other knitters online about ideas…” - Marcia L.
11. Sources Trust Agents: Using the Web to Build Influence, Improve Reputation, and Earn Trust by Chris Brogan and Julien Smith Groundswell: Winning in a World Transformed by Social Technologies by Charlene Li and Josh Bernoff NPR Podcast: The Resurgence of Knitting Ravelry.com Google Images
