What better time of the year to start a new hobby than right at the beginning of Autumn.
We have darker evenings and I don't know about you, but I get that hunkering down feeling. Wouldn’t it be a positive feeling to start something you’ve never done before – a new hobby!
Here are my top 5 reasons why you should consider Knitting as your new hobby
Knitting is cool again
The traditional craft of hand knitting has never been so current and on trend, it’s having a renaissance! Support and inspiration are abundantly available both in indie yarn shops, online platforms, virtual and actual workshops and specialist trade shows. With entire YouTube channels dedicated to just casting on, it’s never been easier to learn from the comfort of your own space.
Satisfaction in creating something with your hands
It’s a unique experience; taking time out of a busy life to concentrate on making something with your hands - perfect or imperfect, for yourself or someone else, it marks a moment when you forgot the outside world and concentrated on something else. And you have something at the end to show for it!
Learn a lifelong skill
There’s no greater feeling than the sense of pride in learning a new skill, challenging yourself and being creative. Even as an experienced knitter with many years under my belt I’m still learning, still experimenting and still enjoying the process. Research also shows that when you learn something new you actually create new pathways in your brain, so keep your mind fit and healthy too.
Knitting is portable
With just 2 needles and yarn you can achieve a finished product anywhere and on the go. I’ve seen people knitting at bus stops and also on posh cruise ships! Once you’ve learned the very basic techniques of knit and purl, you’ll be amazed at the infinite possibilities that can be achieved with the minimal amount of equipment.
Knitting is the new mindfulness
Hand knitting is scientifically proven to improve brain function and memory skills, that’s why it’s been called yoga for the mind. It has all the feel-good factors of yoga without the need for specialist clothing, sweaty rooms and body contortions. The repetitive motion of knitting, of gentle counting, and the relaxing click clack of the needles soothes a busy mind and relaxes the heart rate.
What have I been knitting lately?
My recent therapy has included knitting this lovely simple shawl on a circular needle, in fine merino and silk wool. So soft and snuggly. Can you see Monet’s Water Lilies in the colourway?? One skein was all I needed from Joanna Wood Paint who hand dyes and spins these amazing colourways, inspired by artists and their paintings.
Every knitter deserves a fabulous project bag!
This project bag is perfect, just what you need to keep your projects tidy while you are on the move. Let me know if you would like one!
Learn to knit, it could be good for you!