Pronounced like “magazine” without the “maga,” a zine is a DIY underground publication, often made with little more than scissors, glue, and a copy machine. Thomas Paine created an early one when he distributed Common Sense in 1776 for 2 shillings. Sci-fi fan zines started in the 1930s, followed by punk zines in 1970s, and Riot Grrrl zines from 1991 on. Usually sold for a buck or two to cover printing costs, zines are a great alternative-media for activists of all sorts, including green activists.
This post focuses on zines for knitters. Here are a few places to start:

Learn how to make your own yarn with Spin-Spin. Price: $4 @ eyecandyzine.com

Slave to the Needles #3 “gives a cultural forum to read about other people (some might say obsessed) with sewing, knitting, and crafting!” Price: $3 @
microcosmpublishing.com

Knit-Knit #7 is a newspaper-style zine with patterns and articles, including one on political sweaters.
microcosmpublishing.com

Lurpl # 15 is a craft and art inspiration zine that includes a project for knit pouches. Send $10 to Lee Peterson, 6500 – 25th Ave. NE #204, Seattle, WA 98115, or email @ imago_obscura@yahoo.com

What I love most about zines is that anyone can make them, they are tons of fun, and no one can tell you that your voice isn’t media-savvy enough worth hearing. More on eco zines coming soon!

Editor’s Note: Labor Day Weekend only – in NYC – “What Women Do While Men Sit Knitting” – It’s Free and It Floats – via The NY Times.