If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the state of the world and wished there was something tangible—something meaningful—you could do, then Crafting a Better World by Diana Weymar is the book you didn’t know you needed. It’s not just a craft book; it’s a rallying cry, a guide for turning anxiety into action, and a reminder that small, handmade acts of resistance can ripple into something much bigger.
Weymar, the creative force behind the Tiny Pricks Project, has spent years turning embroidery into a political and social statement. With this book, she expands on that idea, offering a collection of hands-on projects, artist profiles, and inspiring essays that prove craft can be both personal therapy and powerful activism.
Whether you’re stitching a welcome blanket for immigrants, baking “vulva chocolates” to fundraise for reproductive rights, or simply embroidering a message of resistance onto a thrifted handkerchief, this book provides real, actionable ways to make art that makes a difference.
One of the things I loved most about Crafting a Better World is its balance between deep, thought-provoking essays and actual things you can do right now. Weymar brings in a dynamic mix of voices—artists, activists, and creatives—each offering their own perspective on why craftivism matters today.
You’ll find contributions from:
Jamie Lee Curtis (yes, that Jamie Lee Curtis!)
Roz Chast, celebrated cartoonist
Gisele Fetterman, activist and philanthropist
PEN America, defenders of free expression
Nadya Tolokonnikova, founding member of Pussy Riot
Guerrilla Girls, the iconic anonymous feminist art collective
Their insights add depth and urgency to the book, making it clear that creativity is not just an outlet—it’s a tool for change.
For the Makers, the Dreamers, and the Doers
What makes this book so engaging is its inclusivity. You don’t have to be a master crafter to participate. You don’t even have to consider yourself an activist. Crafting a Better World meets you where you are, offering ways to get involved that feel natural and authentic to you.
Maybe you express yourself through embroidery, painting, or zine-making. Maybe your craft is in the kitchen, through writing, or even through community organizing. Whatever your medium, Weymar encourages you to use it—to create, to connect, to contribute.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Anyone Who Wants to Do More
In a world where doomscrolling and despair can feel all-consuming, Crafting a Better World offers a refreshing alternative: action through art. It’s empowering, beautifully written, and brimming with ideas that make activism feel accessible, creative, and even joyful.
So if you’re ready to take your skills—no matter how small they may seem—and channel them into something meaningful, this book is your starting point.
? Grab your copy here: Amazon – Crafting a Better World
? Follow Diana Weymar for more craftivism inspiration: Instagram – @tinypricksproject
