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Looking for a new hobby that’s both relaxing and rewarding? Knitting & crocheting are the perfect choices! These timeless crafts offer a creative escape, a sense of accomplishment, and even a boost to your mental well-being. Whether you’re looking to create handmade gifts, decorate your space, or simply unwind after a busy day, knitting and crocheting have something for everyone. In this post, we’ll explore 10 reasons why these hobbies are not only fun but also incredibly beneficial to pick up!
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1. Knitting & Crocheting Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Knitting & crocheting have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by calming the mind and giving your hands something to focus on. The main reason I asked my grandma to teach me to knit was because I’m always so fidgety—I simply can’t relax. I can’t just sit still; I need to have something for my hands to do. Knitting provides that outlet, allowing me to unwind while sitting and creating a peaceful, zen-like feeling that’s similar to yoga or meditation. After my kids go to bed, I can settle in, watch a show, and knit/crochet, which helps me feel calm and ready for rest. As a mom, this is something I truly need. When I haven’t had the chance to knit or crochet in a while, I can feel my stress and anxiety levels creeping up. Knitting & crocheting helps me find that “Ahhhhh…” moment of relaxation.
FREE Temperature Blanket Knitting Tutorial!
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2. These AMAZING Hobbies Can Help with Depression and Boost Self Confidence
The sense of accomplishment is a powerful thing. When I finish a project, I want to show it to everyone! The feeling you get when you set forth on a project, finish that project and use the finished product is such an amazing feeling. Often times us moms feel like failures at everything we do, so having made/done something you can feel proud of once in a while can really help with feelings of worthlessness.
3. Knitting & Crocheting Improves Memory and Focus
Knitting & crocheting are fantastic ways to improve memory and focus! By reading and following patterns, counting stitches, and concentrating on picking up stitches, you’re actively exercising the parts of your brain related to memory and concentration. In fact, knitting & crocheting have even been linked to a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia.
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4. These are Perfect Hobbies for Introverts and Extroverts
Knitting & crocheting are the perfect hobbies for both those who love to knit/crochet with others and those who prefer to do these hobbies solo. It’s experiencing a resurgence, bringing back the “sewing circle” tradition from our great-grandmothers’ time. There are countless knitting & crocheting communities to join, whether online or in person. As a mom, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by family and work responsibilities, so having a knitting/crocheting groups to connect with can be incredibly therapeutic. I always get so excited to chat with another knitter or crocherter—seriously, let’s be friends! On the flip side, if you’d rather curl up in a quiet, cozy spot and work on a project alone, that’s just as rewarding. While we may crave social interaction outside the home, having a personal hobby to focus on can offer a sense of peace and relaxation all on its own.
5. Knitting & Crocheting Travel Well
Want a hobby that’s super portable? Just grab your cable needles or your favorite crochet hook and a small ball of yarn, and toss them in your bag! You can take your knitting & crocheting project just about anywhere. Want to knit/crochet in the park? Go for it! Tired of scrolling through your phone while waiting for your kids to finish school? Knit or crochet in the car! These hobbies are the ultimate time-killers, so take it with you wherever you go—you’ll never be bored again.
I have “car knitting” that I keep in the center console of my car for when I am waiting in my car…like when I pick my daughter up from school.
6. Kitting & Crocheting Can Be Picked Up and Tossed Aside at Ease
Alright, this one’s based purely on my own experience as both a mom and a knitter/crocheter. I tend to stick with simple projects—pillow covers, blankets, bags, headbands, beanies, that sort of thing. The reason I choose these types of projects is that they don’t require much counting or switching up stitches. As a mom with a toddler who’s constantly getting into everything, I need projects I can easily set down at a moment’s notice. Honestly, it can be tough just to get through a full row sometimes, but every time I sit down, I make progress, even if it’s just a few stitches.
If I’m Sitting, I’m Knitting (or crocheting!)
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7. Knitting & Crocheting Releases Dopamine
Studies have shown that knitting and crocheting triggers the release of dopamine—the “feel good” chemical in the brain. As you sit and knit/crochet, your mind calms, and that warm, fuzzy feeling follows. I experience this all the time; I can literally feel the joy knitting & crocheting brings me. While these hobbies can be frustrating at first when you’re learning, once you hit your stride, it becomes truly addictive. And on that note…
Crafty Favorites: Knitting, Crocheting & More!
Discover my go-to yarns, tools, and lifestyle essentials for all things crafting—knitting, crocheting, and beyond. Plus, some fun extras like fake nails to keep your creativity going strong!
8. Knitting & Crocheting Can Help Break Unhealthy Habits
Looking to break some unhealthy habits? Knitting & crocheting are incredibly habit-forming hobbies. If you’re trying to cut down on mindlessly scrolling through your phone, knitting/crocheting are the perfect alternative. Personally, I only scroll when I’m specifically intending to do so. Otherwise, when I’m just sitting around, I’m much more likely to grab my knitting needles or crochet hook than my phone. Knitting & crocheting have also helped me cut down on late-night snacking. By keeping my hands busy and my mind focused, I’m not as tempted to wander into the kitchen out of boredom.
I am addicted knitting & crocheting
9. Knitting & Crocheting are Affordable
These days, money is tight for just about everyone, and my family is no exception. I don’t have hundreds of dollars to spend on a hobby—heck, I don’t even have one hundred! But here’s the great news: knitting & crocheting is incredibly affordable! To get started, all you really need is a pair of needles or a crochet hook and a ball of yarn—less than $25 to dive in. And the best part? Once you buy your needles and hooks, you’re set for a long time. If you want to invest a little more upfront and never worry about buying needles again, I recommend the ChiaoGoo Twist Red Lace Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needle Set. I have them, and I absolutely love them! And if you are looking to buy one set of crochet hooks that will last you, I would grab the SEVENSUN MIMOSA Crochet Hooks. Although these sets are not as affordable as others, they are worth every penny and should be the last sets you will need! Knitting & crocheting are hobbies where you can spend as much or as little as you want!
Looking for the perfect tutorial to help you master your knitting or crocheting skills?
Check out my YouTube Channel for step-by-step tutorials!
10. Yarn is Pretty
Yarn is SO pretty! I love some pretty yarn! There are so many different kinds of yarn that the possibilities are endless. I have a cupboard full of gorgeous yarn that I have bought because I thought it was pretty and one day the perfect project will come along for it. Over the next year, I want to try to use only the yarn I have on hand, but not before I spent some of the money I got for Christmas on some new yarn to round out the year.
If you’re looking to pick up a new, healthy hobby, I really hope you’ll consider knitting or crocheting. As a busy working mom with two young kids, I can’t even begin to describe how much peace these crafts bring me. If you decide to give knitting or crocheting a try, be sure to follow me on Instagram (@amandahknitanddesign) for more knitting and crocheting content—I’d love to be friends! And don’t forget to sign up for my monthly newsletter and blog post notifications so you never miss a new post or pattern!