How Knitting and Crochet Became My Unexpected Path to Mindfulness

Using Knitting and Crochet as a Tool for Meditation

Hello and welcome to another Wednesday Wondering with me, Cate Field. Today, as I sit here doing a bit of crochet, I’m excited to explore how knitting and crochet can be used as a form of meditation. These humble crafts are often overlooked when we talk about relaxation and mindfulness, but I find them to be incredibly soothing. So, let’s dive in!

When we think about meditation, many of us imagine sitting in a peaceful space with soft music, candles, and a sense of calm. While that can be a lovely experience, it’s not the only way to meditate. Craft, especially yarn work like knitting and crochet, can be a fantastic tool to relax and unwind. I discovered this during a difficult period in my life when I became quite ill. I’ve never been great at sitting still, but knitting and crochet helped me focus, quiet my mind, and find peace during recovery.

The repetitive action of each stitch—whether knitting or crochet—creates a rhythm that I find incredibly meditative. It didn’t matter if I was creating something specific or simply going through the motions. The act of making stitch after stitch helped calm my mind when other creative outlets like painting or writing just weren’t working for me.

Why Crafting Helps Us Relax

I’ve learned that crafting, especially during the autumn and winter months, has become an important part of my life. I love all types of yarn crafts, and I’m constantly learning something new. I first learned to knit as a child, thanks to my mother, but it wasn’t until middle age that I picked up crochet. My dear friend Susan Blanford, a talented crochet artist, taught me, and I’ve been hooked ever since (pun intended!).

Recently, while traveling to Canada, I found myself feeling anxious at the airport. But I had packed some gorgeous yarn, and just knitting simple squares helped keep my mind occupied and calm. Knitting, with its rhythmic needle movements, is a bit like a mantra—it flows through your hands and calms your thoughts. Crochet, for me, is even more laid-back. I often don’t need to look at what I’m doing, which is handy when I’m on a plane or in low light.

The Creativity of Yarn Crafts

What I love about knitting, crochet, embroidery, and other yarn crafts is the endless creativity they offer. Of course, learning any new skill can feel frustrating at first, but once you get the hang of it, the possibilities are limitless. When I teach these crafts, whether it’s to children or adults, I always emphasize the importance of play and experimentation.

If you’re just starting out, don’t worry about following complex patterns. I rarely follow patterns myself! Instead, I let the colors and textures inspire me. For instance, the colors I’m working with now remind me of the changing sea. That’s the beauty of yarn crafts—you can let your creativity flow and make something entirely your own.

Knitting and Crochet: More Than Just Domestic Crafts

Historically, yarn crafts like knitting and crochet have been seen as domestic activities, often done by women. But that’s changing. These crafts are gaining recognition as powerful, creative outlets. In fact, men used to be involved in knitting centuries ago, particularly in fishing communities where they made nets. Today, we’re seeing a resurgence in men knitting, as evidenced by public figures like Tom Daley, who famously knitted at the Olympics.

Despite this shift, there’s still a tendency to see these crafts as “old-fashioned” or “quaint,” often because we associate them with grandmothers knitting jumpers or scarves. But once you try it for yourself, you quickly realize the incredible skill and patience it takes to create something with your hands. That’s why I encourage everyone to give it a go, even if you’ve tried before and found it challenging.

Sharing the Love of Yarn Crafts

My sister and I both share a love of knitting and crochet, and we often talk about techniques, projects, and the inevitable mistakes along the way! That’s one of the joys of crafting—sharing ideas and learning from each other. While there’s nothing wrong with following a pattern, there’s something uniquely special about breaking away from someone else’s design and making something entirely your own.

In my art classes and tutorials, whether in person or online, I always teach the basics and then encourage my students to take what they’ve learned and make it their own. The same goes for yarn crafts. Learn the skills, then use them to express your creativity in new and exciting ways.

Getting Started with Yarn Crafts

If you’re thinking about learning knitting or crochet but feel unsure where to start, don’t worry! You don’t need fancy tools or expensive yarn. Poster paints and basic materials can work wonders in a creative project. I have a video that covers the basics of crochet—chain stitch, single, double, and treble crochet. If you’d like, I’d be happy to do an updated version with some simple lessons. Let me know if that’s something you’d like to see.

And if you’re already an avid knitter or crocheter, I’d love to hear about your projects! How did you get started, and how do you feel when you pick up your yarn and start stitching? Share your stories in the comments below!

Thank you for joining me for this week’s Wednesday Wondering. I hope this inspires you to pick up some yarn, try something new, and find peace in the simple, repetitive joy of crafting. Until next time, take care and happy crafting!

Cate