Knitting is rapidly becoming popular as more people discover
its benefits and seek a hobby that provides a break from technology
while remaining social. Recently identified as a ‘microtrend',
the biggest growth factor for knitting has been among teenagers.
But knitting is not limited to demographics or even genders; men
are being attracted to the hobby in droves. So what is the modern
appeal of this ancient art?
Convenient
Knitting is the hobby you can take anywhere - sports events, waiting rooms,
family gatherings, in front of the TV. Even movie stars have been spotted knitting
between takes.
Social
Pull out a half-finished project and count how many people ask, "What are
you making?" Knitting is a great way to initiate conversation. In addition,
because knitting does not require intense concentration for the most part, it's
possible to also carry on a conversation. Knitting groups are becoming popular
with crafters getting together to work on their individual items or a joint
project.
Easy
No fitness level is required because knitting is not physically
demanding. Whether you prefer to learn from a personal tutor, via
a book or over the Internet, there are classes to suit everyone
to cover the basics through to more advanced techniques. There are
even free video tutorials available on-line. Learning a new skill
is not only good for stimulating the brain but also for promoting
self-esteem. It is both fascinating and fulfilling to watch a length
of yarn become something to wear or use through skill alone.
Creative
Ever get frustrated at not being able to find just what you want at the shops?
Knitting allows for garments to be made that fit perfectly because they can
be tailored to suit any body shape. Yarn comes in a huge range of textures and
colors so whether you want to an entire outfit or an accessory to brighten an
existing garment, there's bound to be a pattern to suit your needs. In
addition, knitting allows for individual creative expression and many crafters
opt to showcase their designs on a blog or forum.
Calming
Scientific research from the Mind/Body Institute at Harvard Research has found
that the repetitive actions required for knitting is akin to meditating and
is therefore relaxing. Many therapy groups are encouraging their participants
to knit as a way of reducing stress levels. Relaxing, yet at the same time knitting
is…
Stimulating
Knitting involves mathematics. What's relaxing about that you might
ask? Knitting patterns can be as simple or as intricate as you like.
Many knitters feel a sense of achievement from the challenge of
completing complex charts. Knitting is also believed to strengthen
hand and eye coordination. Better than a Nintendo DS? You bet! They
should be teaching this stuff in schools. In fact some schools do.
And while we're on the subject of games consoles, according to Dr.
Kawashima of Brain Training fame, knitting activates the prefrontal
cortex. Making something using both hands can help to keep the brain
active. Exercising the brain is believed to reduce the risk of developing
Alzheimer's.
Charitable
More tangible than giving money, knitting is a wonderful way to make a donation
and you know exactly where your gift is going. The time you spent making the
item will be personally appreciated. Blankets and scarves for the homeless,
bonnets and booties for premature babies, and chemo caps for cancer patients
are in high demand.
Cheap
As a hobby, knitting is relatively cheap. All you need to begin with is a pair
of needles and a ball of yarn. With that, you can create an accessory, a gift
or a blanket (though admittedly you would need a pretty big ball to make a throw
rug.) Quality handmade knitted gifts and garments are often less expensive than
store bought, particularly if you consider that you can create several small
gifts - such as bookmarks - from one 100gm ball.
Cheerful
Knitting allows for giving unique, one-off items. Personalized gifts are perfect
for the quirky or hard-to-buy for friend or relative. Consider too that every
time the recipient wears or uses the gift you made them, they will think of
you. Positive karma - that's got to feel good!
So if you find yourself with some spare time and decide you need a hobby -
consider knitting. It's cool, cheap, convenient, creative, clever and quicker
to learn than you might think.
