iSchool students interested in crafting and socializing with their fellow students should check out the Stitch & Bitch student group. Despite the group's name, a knitting background is not necessary, and all students are welcome regardless of their level of crafting experience.
"Stitch and Bitch is a nationwide club based on ladies who wanted to get together to knit and talk," explained master's student Monica Hoh, the group's president. "For some people, with their jobs, online classes, etc., our club meetings are the only time they have to socialize."
Group members work on a variety of projects, and crafting supplies—including yarn, needles, hooks, coloring books, and colored pencils—are available at the meetings. Hoh usually knits and works on cross stitch projects at the meetings. She is currently working on a simple cross stitch that reads "Relentless Kindness" as well as making a shoulder strap for a toolbox. At least one student has knitted a sweater at Stitch and Bitch meetings, and someone is currently working on a cosplay costume.
Meetings are held on Thursdays from 5:00-8:00 p.m. in room 109. Students can stay for all or part of the meeting, arrive late, leave early, and bring their supper. Hoh describes the atmosphere as "very chill."
Hoh is looking into holding a few Stitch & Bitch meetings at other locations on campus, such as the Krannert Center (Krannert Uncorked) and the Illini Union.
"It would be great to get more exposure to crafting and make it a little different for people in the club. Crafting is a very portable activity," she said.