Hook. Yarn. Stitch. Repeat.
Three simple steps used to make intricate creations.
The art of crochet has been around for quite some time, but its origin is still unknown.
In the 1840s, during the Irish potato famine, there was a great deal of poverty and suffering. Women began to sell their crochet creations to English aristocrats for a steady income for their families.
In the 1940s during WWII, crocheting was used as a wartime effort. Women would crochet hats and mittens to send to the men who were overseas.
Crocheting really took off in the fifties during the post-war period as a form of personal creativity. Creations ranged from pillows to dresses and even blankets.
Crochet has always been thought to be “for old ladies,” but this timeless hobby has been going viral on TikTok for quite some time now, and has made its way to Asbury University.
“I think crochet is growing in popularity alongside other handcrafts and DIY projects because a lot of us feel disconnected from the items we use, the food we eat, and the work we do,” says junior Lilianna Fischer. “Crocheting and other crafts are a way to participate in the creation of our own clothing and work with our hands. There’s just something different about having and wearing something that you made yourself.”
Sophomore Kaity McCracken started to crochet over winter break to make some of her own “sweaters and cozy products,” but she also “wanted something that my hands could do to help me focus as someone who fidgets a lot.”
According to Muezart.com, crocheting has many different benefits. Crocheting can reduce stress and anxiety by focusing minds on the repetitiveness of stitching and not on the pressure and worries that would typically take up space in your brain.
The repetitiveness of stitching can create a mindfulness that is very similar to meditation. Without actually meditating, the benefits are accessible through crocheting.
“It is also incredibly helpful for neurodivergent students to help them focus,” said McCracken. “So that might be why you’ve seen people crocheting in class or chapel.”
The art of crochet has had many different uses in its rich history. From creating income during the potato famine to helping during WWII to now relieving stress and worry.
“It makes me feel grounded, connected to the world around me, and to the people that came before me,” said Fischer.
