Benefits of Knit, Crochet, and Crafts
I got this inspiration from reading an article that I came across while browsing on my phone. Here is the article by Hannah Feuer on the Seven Days website. It isn’t a long article and it is definitely worth a read. The main focus of the article is people over 60 learning weaving and the benefits of it. I don’t personally weave myself, but I do enjoy watching other people weave on YouTube. Actually, in the future it is a skill that I would like to learn. However, being in the vein of Fiber Arts I felt that the benefits talked about in the article easily translate to knitting and crochet.
A part of the article that really stands out talks about how people are processing grief. It says that, “Students often integrate a late loved one's article of clothing, such as a sock or necktie, into the tapestry.” I love that you can create something meaningful out of an otherwise grim situation. Creating something out of what was once nothing with your own two hands is a deeply meaningful act in itself. As we get older it is important to keep our mind engaged, but I believe all ages can greatly benefit from Fiber Arts as a whole.
In my experience I do think that crochet and knitting are very relaxing and that they help me step back from the world for a while. I am thankful that I came across crochet in college because I think it helped ease some of the stress of my classes. I have always been a very creative person and it gave me an outlet for creativity. Even though it did backfire sometimes when I wanted to spend time crocheting instead of doing my work.
I also did a lot of projects during the height of 2020. There was a resurgence of people learning crochet and knitting during the COVID 19 pandemic. An article by Sophie Hurst on The Boars website mentions the rise of people learning crochet during the pandemic. During such an uncertain time not only did this allow people to learn something new, but it gave them a way to unwind and slow down. If I didn’t have my crafts as an outlet during the pandemic I would have been in a worse mental state. This was also when I finally had time to knit my first sweater.
Both crafts also give me something to do while watching shows, movies and YouTube videos. Unless I am working on a complicated project or pattern. I can personally account too that working on a project can help me focus better overall. One of my favorite memories from college is when I asked my professor if I could work on a blanket during class. He said as long as I paid attention and participated that I could work on it. After class he commented on how I actually participated the most in that class than in any other class before that. Which was out of the norm for me since I didn’t talk much in school or college while in class.
There is this great article from the New York Times titled “The Health Benefits of Knitting” by Jane E. Bro that talks about the benefits of knitting and crochet. It talks about stories of how people use knit and crochet to focus and relax similar to meditation. One of my favorite quotes states “But unlike meditation, craft activities result in tangible and often useful products that can enhance self-esteem.” Making something intricate and beautiful gives you such a sense of accomplishment. Even now I will look at a project and think wow I did that. It is also nice hearing people compliment you on our hard work as well. People who don’t craft will say things like, “I can’t believe you made that.” There is great pride when you wear something you made and someone compliments you on it.
Kitty Poof that I made for my in laws for Christmas a few years ago.
Pattern is from KnitPicks by Molly E. Rivera.
Not only do fiber arts help relax people, among other mental and physical benefits, it allows you to make useful items. There are many times in my life since learning how to knit and crochet that I have said to myself I can make that. Things like blankets, dishcloths, coasters, and more are all very useful home items. Even if it doesn't save money in the long run it is nice to have personalized items in your house. It is also satisfying to make homemade items for friends and family. I love when I see the items I make in my family's homes.
This article by Katrina Norris on Spectrum Health & Human Services website talks about not only the benefits of knit and crochet but other crafts as well. I like that she emphasizes and suggests that any craft can give you these health benefits. She encourages not only crafts like knitting but also newer crafts like coloring and diamond painting which are currently very popular. My main crafts are definitely knit and crochet, but I do think there is something special about other ways of being creative too. Even something simple like coloring still gives you the sense of accomplishment that other crafts do.
I have always been an advocate for people to find something creative to do. It makes me sad when someone says that they aren’t creative. It is a firm belief of mine that everyone can be creative in their own way, they just need to find the right craft for them. As we have explored, crafts have so many health benefits, among other benefits. Why not try and find a new craft today! I loved researching this topic and think that it is an important aspect to the crafts that I do as a whole.