New and old knitters alike are banding together across the nation to knit ‘Melt the ICE’ red hats in a silent protest against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Knitting store owners have had to keep up with the increased demand for the pattern and materials to make these hats, according to the Craftivist owner, Jennifer Sherrock. 

“As soon as I saw the resistance hat pattern, I placed an order for $1,600 worth of red yarn, and that sold out in less than a week,“ Sherrock said. “Wholesalers across the country are out of stock of red yarn and needles used to make the hats as they struggle to keep up with demand.” 

The ‘Melt the ICE’ hat movement began in Minnesota, inspired by hats worn during World War II to protest the Nazis. Other examples of crafts being used as silent protests have been seen before. 

“There is a long history of people who use their craft as a form of activism,” Sherrock said. “It can be something that makes people think differently, draw attention to a topic or even be a way for activists to recharge and connect.”

Lisa Groth, an Atlanta knitter, has seen the red hats being spread through social media and word of mouth. 

“I have seen these hats all over Instagram and have several knitting friends who are making them,” Groth said. “I took a trip to Los Angeles and shared the story with the woman beside me on the plane. I was glad to share and felt proud that I am doing this.” 

Groth felt compelled to make the red hats in response to the expansion of ICE enforcement under the Trump Administration. 

“I was inspired to make a red hat because I feel so distressed and helpless about what has been happening in Minnesota and all over the US,” Groth said. “Even though this seems like a small thing to do, it is something. It makes me feel comforted and empowered to hear so many others are doing this too.” 

These hats are known for their signature red beanie shape adorned with a unique braided tassel on top. The distinct pattern can be bought at craft stores across the country and found online. 

“I’m hoping to finish my first of four hats very soon,” Groth said. “I love knitting and am looking forward to making the signature tassel, something new for me.” 

Knitters like Groth are using the red hats to express their desire for change in a non-violent, creative manner. 

“This hat pattern tapped into the frustration and anger about the current policies in this country that many makers were already feeling,” Sherrock said. “This gave them a place to put their energy into something positive and tangible.” 

While not everyone may have the knitting abilities to make these hats, non-knitters are still able to participate in their message. 

“Many of my customers have mentioned that they have received requests from friends and family members to knit the hat for them if they are not knitters already, “ Sherrock said. “I have another customer who is particularly active in voting rights and is sending these hats to friends across the country who volunteer as poll monitors.“ 

DeAnne Jacobson, owner of the Needle Nook, explained that her store has played a role in the hats reaching a wider audience. 

“One of our team members is making mini ‘Melt the ICE’ hats to wear as lapel pins for people who don’t like wearing hats, but still want to participate,” Jacobson said. “They’re available for $10 at Needle Nook.” 

Jacobson believes the red hats can be used as an outlet to voice change. 

“For many knitters and crocheters, craft is deeply personal,” Jacobson said. “Handmade items often carry meaning beyond the stitches, whether that meaning is cultural, political, artistic or simply personal. Craft has long been a way for people to connect, reflect and communicate something about who they are.”

Crafts have had a long history of use throughout historical movements. Groth feels this specific form of protest is especially important because women are at the forefront. 

“My grandmother was a suffragist, working on women’s right to vote,” Groth said.  “I feel this is the least I can do to speak out. She was also a knitter and sewist, so I am keeping her tradition alive.”