Whether out of necessity or entertainment, knitting and crochet have always been a part of many people’s lives. From merchants in medieval times to the ladies of the Victorian era to soldiers during both World Wars, these crafts are widespread throughout history. So how do they remain so common in an age of mass manufacturing and fast fashion? What is it about their charm that appeals to individuals of all generations?
Knitting involves using a length of yarn to create two primary types of stitches—“knits” that produce a flat V-shaped pattern and “purls” that result in a bumpy texture—that interlock to form various patterns. On the other hand, crafters use crochet, which includes six different stitches, to compose more intricate designs. Despite their differences, both knitting and crochet hold a cherished place in the hearts of people worldwide, beloved for their therapeutic qualities and the multitude of mental, emotional, social and artistic rewards they have to give.
Knitting and crochet help ease anxiety; like meditation, they can lower heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol—a harmful stress hormone. “When I’m knitting I’m able to relax and take a break from my hectic schedule,” Richard Montgomery freshman Adelaide Keller explained. “I appreciate the rhythm of the activity and how it requires little concentration to complete—so I’m able to let my mind wander or focus on a different task.” Other students also share this fondness for crafts, which allows them to take fun and effective mental health breaks in their busy lives.
In addition, both crafts promote brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive impairment later in life. Knitting and crocheting are puzzles that encourage one’s brain to navigate creative and inventive pathways, which—when practiced regularly—exercise the mind and may protect it from dementia or Alzheimer’s. However, performing these crafts too intensively may result in hand or wrist pain, which breaks and appropriate technique can alleviate.
Knitting and crochet welcome enthusiasts of all backgrounds and abilities as they only require collecting materials, following directions and paying attention. Additionally, their portability makes them suitable for keeping busy during idle moments. “On a long car ride or when I know I will be sitting for a while, I always like to bring my knitting with me to pass the time,” Keller said.
Moreover, knitting and crochet involve a unique social aspect. Many people report making lifelong friendships through craft groups, where they can meet individuals with similar interests and positively impact those around them. Some organizations, such as Project Linus, allow people to work together on blankets to donate to hospitalized children in need of comfort. These crafts not only benefit the recipient of the blanket, but they also bring fulfillment to those who work to craft them.
When a person finishes a project, their pride and satisfaction is priceless. Richard Montgomery freshman Leilia McCabe affirmed, “It’s just very rewarding to be able to make whatever I want myself.” Every project is unique, and its end design can boost self-esteem and give individuals useful accessories or clothing.
Since the coronavirus pandemic, knitting and crochet have experienced a surge in popularity among youth. “[They’re] simple and idle, which can make [them] a bit stress-relieving in this time of instability,” McCabe explained. “More teenagers care about style now and crocheting or knitting allows people to kind of experiment… [and] not through fast fashion.” Knitting and crochet impart an enduring charm—such as the authenticity of handcrafted garments—that the contemporary fashion market—driven by mass production—typically lacks.
However, more broadly, knitting and crochet deliver the timeless combination of calming, accessible and creative crafts that have thrived for hundreds of years and will continue to play a role in the lifestyles of future generations. So if you have not already, now is the time to pick up some needles, wind a skein of yarn and reap the joys that crochet and knitting offer.
Written by Daniela Naaman of Thomas S. Wootton HS
Photo by Daniela Naaman of Thomas S. Wootton HS