Crocheting and knitting are age-old crafts often associated with grandmas, winter evenings, and Christmas. But it doesn’t have to be so. Today, many studies have shown that the benefits of these crafts go beyond creating beautiful scarves, socks, winter hats, or throw blankets. These two skills are great tools for both mental and physical self-care.
Is knitting different from crocheting?
Crocheting and knitting are forms of stitching yarn, but they have several differences. Crocheting uses a single hook where you wrap the yarn around the hook and pull it through to create stitches one loop at a time. On the other hand, knitting is done with two needles and yarn to make a fabric. You move the stitches from needle to needle and create a fabric of interlocking loops.
Another difference is that knitting has two basic stitches: purl and knit. However, crocheting has several different stitches. Also, knitted fabric is smoother and stretchier, making it great for socks and sweaters that stretch to fit you. Crocheted fabrics are more solid and less elastic, making them excellent for garments like blankets, shawls, and items that don’t stretch.
Lastly, machines can replicate knitting, while crochet stitches can only be done by hand. This makes mass-producing knitted products like sweaters, gloves, and socks easier.
Most experts believe it’s easier to learn crocheting than knitting. Still, both are portable, fun, and relaxing.
Benefits of knitting and crocheting
1. Reduced anxiety and stress
Researchers from the University of Wollongong found that participants were happier, calmer, and more productive after crocheting and knitting. They present a creative outlet that can pull people out of negative thoughts spirals and daily concerns.
Most counselors and therapists prescribe lots of crafts to help people manage their mental states. According to one study, knitting can help people cope with significant events like grief.
2. Mental relaxation
The repetitive action of both crocheting and knitting can be meditative. That’s because these activities are challenging but not in a stressful or overwhelming way. Crocheters often claim they feel a sense of ease or a sensation known as a “flow state.” This is the state where you become so engrossed that you don’t feel time passing by.
3. Increased creativity and productivity
Another benefit of crocheting is that it gives you a sense of accomplishment once you complete your project. Like all crafts, crocheters and knitters must harness their creative and artistic side. It also takes patience to learn or teach the two crafts, and they can improve your sense of self-worth and self-esteem.
A good example is the fantastic story of Linda Clarke, a 71-year-old woman who crochets and knits blankets and hats for cancer patients and the elderly in senior homes to give them hope and comfort.
4. Possible business venture
Once you have mastered crocheting and knitting skills, you may turn it into a profitable business on platforms like Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, and Instagram. Several people seek handmade items, allowing you to earn from your hobby.
Also, receiving positive feedback and knowing people proudly wear your garments will boost your self-assurance.
5. Health benefits
Research has shown that these skills have several health benefits. They include lowering your risk of Alzheimer’s disease, reducing chronic pain from arthritis, or improving your skills as you age.
6. Combat negative habits
Knitting and crocheting are great alternatives for unhealthy habits and indulgences like screen or drug addiction. Spending too much time on your screen can adversely lead to disorders such as insomnia. The good news is that knitting induces relaxation that can help you fall asleep easier.
7. Reduce loneliness
Sharing this hobby helps people connect with other knitting and crocheting enthusiasts. The two skills may differ slightly, but the two communities aren’t divided. You can connect at local events or globally on platforms like Facebook knitting groups and pages.
Learning crocheting and knitting
Generally, mastering these two techniques requires patience, hand-eye coordination, and passion. Also, anyone can learn crocheting and knitting, whether old or young, left-handed or right-handed, or male or female.
The resurgence of crafts like crocheting, knitting, or even woodworking offers a much-needed break for our over-stimulated minds. Besides creating magnificent items for yourself, your family, or your customers, these skills provide a hub of creativity, self-expression, and overall well-being.
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