Having a hobby was my way of forgetting the past 2 years and the global pandemic. With the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic, many of us have been stuck at home for months on end because of the lockdown protocols, so to pass the time, you might want to take up a new hobby. Why not try knitting? NO, it is not a hobby for only grandmas. Though it seems like an old-fashioned hobby, it is pretty unique and easy to learn, yet takes years to master. Knitting can be a pretty fun and therapeutic recreation during these trying times.
What you’ll need
Knitting is not an expensive hobby; the best thing about it is that starting it means you’ll need only a few pieces of equipment which you can easily get at your local craft store or a Joann’s Fabric. You’ll need two things before you venture on your knitting adventure – a set of knitting needles and yarn. The whole thing will cost you less than $20, or you can even thrift for your knitting needles if you want to be frugal.
If you are a perfectionist like me, I advise you to buy a beginner’s book on knitting, which will ease you into the waters of this hobby. If you are a visual learner, then by all means, watch Youtube videos on how to start knitting, as this will help you visualize the technique. If you are just starting this as a hobby, buy a strong yarn that is more forgivable than a fuzzy or thin one. Most beginners begin with scarves because they tend to be short, don’t require long knitting needles, and are more user-friendly.
Advantages of knitting:
1. Easy to pick up.
The most common fear associated with knitting is that you have to be artsy or creative to do it. This is a misconception; knitting is relatively easy and is pretty simple to pick up. There are only 2 main stitches that you’ll need to learn before you becoming the next knitting genius.
Granted, it may take some time to actually get it right, but once you know it, you’ll never forget it. It’s a bit like cycling; once you learn how to do it, you never forget it; it’s muscle memory. Remember, your first creation will never be perfect; it’s a bit like pancakes, the first one is always a bit wonky and the more you make, the better it gets.
2. It’s a cheap stress relief.
Life can be hectic and fast-past; knitting allows you to sit down, switch off your brain and just knit. Whenever I feel stressed out or overwhelmed and know that even rereading my favorite book won’t help, I pick up knitting. It gives my hands something to do and keeps my mind focused on this single task.
Poof, you forgot about your stress and are entrenched in your new design. I really get in a zone when I do this and it feels like I am meditating. Even Olympic diver, Tom Daley, knits to forget about the stress of his competition and he got a gold and bronze medal during this past Tokyo Olympics.
3. Prevents diseases.
Not only is it helpful for your mental state, but it also has some health benefits; it reduces blood pressure, keeps you sharp and may even prevent arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that affects our bones and joints and can be especially acute as we grow older.
Keep your joints, especially those in your hands mobile. The movement will at less alleviate the pain and stiffness associated with it. This is why it is the hobby of a lot of grandmas. Knitting not only keeps your hands moving but also keeps your fingers dexterous, which will, over time, build up cartilage and make them stronger.
Sound off in the comment section below if you are going to pick up knitting as your next hobby.
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