We recently asked our readers and other members of the crochet community, “WHY do you crochet?”
I have to admit, I was impressed by the responses and excited that so many people wanted to share their stories. While many of you crochet for a few of the same basic reasons, many of the stories behind those reasons were so heartfelt and had so much fulfilling and empowering emotion behind them that they sparked an idea.
Your stories deserve to be shared in something more than a Facebook comment!
Before we talk about how you can share your stories to be published here on Oui Crochet, I want to talk with you a little bit about some of the reasons that were shared.
When most people think of crochet, they think we are knitting. (Sorry! I couldn’t resist… but you know it’s true!)
Seriously though, when people think of crochet, they most likely think that it is just “some hobby that old ladies do to stay busy”.
You know what? Not one person gave us that answer. That doesn’t really surprise me, though. It probably doesn’t surprise you either.
The truth is, crochet is enjoyed by young and old, gals and guys, and it serves as everything from a hobby to therapy.
Crochet is an evolving art and pastime. Many learn to crochet when they are very young, and crochet their entire life. Some learn young, then pick it back up later in life. And a good number of people don’t learn to crochet until they are retired or “empty-nesters”. Crochet is enjoyed by both women and men (or girls and boys). Sure, it is traditionally a predominantly female art, but there are more and more guys that are busting into the crochet world. I have to say, they can certainly hold their own in the art as crocheters as well as designers! Crochet serves as a form of expression, art, and creative outlet. It is a way to craft homemade gifts for loved ones and charities. It is relaxing, therapeutic, and improves focus and brain activity.
So, why do YOU crochet?
Here is a partial list of some of the “short answers” that you all gave.
- Relaxation
- To help with anxiety
- To help with efforts to stop smoking
- For fun
- To help curb snacking
- To make beautiful, handmade items
- To help with PTSD
- To keep the art alive
- To pass time (in waiting rooms, hospitals, or when injured, etc.) in a productive manner
- To feel closer to a friend or family member who crocheted before they passed
- To make things to donate to various charities
- To make things to sell for extra income
- To improve memory and brain function
- To help with arthritis
- For physical therapy
- For mental therapy
- To make gifts for loved ones
- To keep the art alive
There are many more reasons that we all crochet, and many variations on the reasons above. Many of your stories are deep and really come from within. Many are fun and uplifting, Many are truly inspiring. Your stories should be shared.
I will say it again, because I truly believe it. Your stories should be shared!
That is exactly what I want to do. I want to help you share your stories right here on Oui Crochet.
Click the link below to share your story, and each week, we will choose a story to publish.
I am looking forward to reading and sharing your crochet story.
Please feel free to share this with your friends.
Happy Crocheting!