So You Want to Get Hooked? 9 Reasons Why You Need to Start Crochet

So you’re searching for a new skill? 

Something artistically creative, functionally usable, and not playing an instrument? 

A cute hobby that makes grand things, things that make people say “gosh, you really made that?” while you humbly look down and say “yes, yes, I did”.

An accessible activity that helps your brain to chill out and lock in. All while needing minimal equipment, perfectly shovable in a tote or drawer.

Well then, welcome to yarn-based craft.

Since you’re already interested, let us help push you over the edge in joining the fibre craft community. 

There are many reasons why lots of people have fallen in love with crochet and knitting. Here are just nine ways that learning to crochet or knit can add meaning to your life:

1. Personalisation

You’ve planned the perfect outfit, and you’re ready to go out and meet friends. But wait… something is off. The scarf doesn't match, or maybe the handwarmers you found from three years ago are looking a bit drab. It's moments like these when knowing how to crochet or knit come in particularly handy. Because no manufacturer will know how you want to express yourself better than you do.

2. Gives a sense of accomplishment 

So much of the growth we make in our work and studies goes by unappreciated by ourselves because we can't always see it. Yarn-based crafts are so rewarding because you’re making something physical with your own two hands and can hold and touch what you’ve done with your time. This makes it easy to track your progress, giving you a nice sense of accomplishment and pride. 

3. Eases anxiety

Life gets tough sometimes, and it’s awful. In moments like these, leaning on the repetition and counting of stitches can help to keep you grounded. Busy hands can distract the mind from things you’d rather not think about or support you in working through them. 

 

4. Concentration 

While some find it calming, others say it lets them focus. Whether it's a meeting, speech, TV show, or podcast, having a productive way to fidget can help some tune in. With the average attention span being only 8.25 seconds, repetitive movements act as low-level stimuli for those with hyperactive minds, giving the restless part of the brain just enough to keep it passively occupied and keeping your thoughts from wandering.

5. Handmade gifting

Nothing says I care like something you took the time and effort to make. It shows they’re important to you. While small projects like scrunchies, bookmarks, and potholders take less than 20 minutes, blankets can take over 20 hours and usually require weeks to complete. In both cases, definitely not a last-minute present, and it shows a lot of thought went into it. Plus the smiles, gasps, and hugs in response to your gift are the best part, and make the time put in oh-so worth it. 

6. Community

Creating things with yarn is more than just a hobby; it knits/threads (hehe couldn't help it) people together and creates a sense of community. Whether these connections are made online, in local groups or workshops, the communities you build are something to cherish.

More than 50 million people know how to crochet or knit. That's a lot of crafters out there. Seeing people sharing their projects and giving tips is so amazing.  You’ll definitely never be short of inspiration.

7. To pass the time 

You’ve likely had to compromise and watch something you’re not interested in before. At this point, spare yourself the boredom and reach for your yarn and hook to keep you entertained. Likewise, long commutes can also get kind of dull, but conveniently, crochet tools are light and take up hardly any space. So travels go by much quicker as you become more absorbed in projects.

 

8. Get technical 

Crocheting can be relaxing, but if you choose, these skills can also be a bit of a brain teaser. You have the freedom to learn more complex techniques like mosaic crochet and freeform or stick to the tried-and-tested basics. Crochet and knitting can be as simple or stimulating as you like. From coasters made out of a single granny square to [two piece outfits?]

 

9. Wind down 

Most people use screens in some capacity for work. And when it's not work, we use our phones to communicate and keep ourselves up to date. But while we use our phones to look at what's happening in the world, sometimes it feels like the world is looking back at us, and it all just feels too much. You find yourself wanting to switch off and have a peaceful, screen-free evening. But what to do? 

There are plenty of crafts, like painting and pottery, that are beautiful and amazing ways to express creativity. But we find crochet a cosier way to wind down, with soft yarn and minimal cleanup – because at the end of a long day, we do not have the energy to wash paintbrushes. Stitching in bed or on the sofa is my personal favourite way to wind down, and it helps me process the day, giving me a much more peaceful sleep. 

We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about all the wonderful benefits of taking up yarn-based crafts. And are now scribbling down an exciting list of all the things you can’t wait to make!

We can help you get started with one of our thoughtfully crafted kits if you would like to dabble at home. Or if you prefer in-person guidance, we’d love to see you at one of our beginner workshops, where you also get to take home the hook, yarn, and step-by-step instructions to help you along your crafting journey. Sign up to get started.

Happy making!