The Art of Knitting: Creativity, Wellbeing and How to Get Started

I was 5 when I picked up my first pair of knitting needles. Under my mothers patient tutelage I started with a simple garter stitch scarf before progressing to learn how to knit stocking stitch and then rib. My first ever 'grown up' project was a little blue and white colour-block jumper for my teddy bear, I was so proud of that little jumper! I can still see it in my minds eye.

This week one of my favourite television programs is back with its new season. 'All Creatures Great and Small' seems to awaken my nostalgic side as I am transported back to a time where it was common place to have something on the needles. My eye is ALWAYS drawn to the knits that the cast wear and inevitably, I spend hours going down a rabbit hole trawling patterns on Ravelry.

Knitting is often seen as a traditional craft, but it's increasingly recognised for its modern benefits, from fostering creativity to improving mental health. Whether you're drawn to the tactile pleasure of yarn, intrigued by the artistic potential, or simply looking for a soothing hobby, knitting offers something for everyone.

I have gained so much joy from knitting, and I love seeing others find that same joy, so I thought I wouild write a post on the art of knitting. This blog post explores the many benefits of knitting, debunks common misconceptions, and offers practical tips for those just getting started.

The Creativity Boost

Knitting is an incredible way to unleash creativity. While it may seem repetitive, each stitch can be part of something entirely unique. From picking yarn colors and textures to experimenting with stitch patterns, knitting allows for artistic expression in a way that few other hobbies do.

Some knitters stick to following patterns, while others modify or create their own designs, making every piece they craft truly personal. In fact, the freedom to customize your work fosters problem-solving skills, as you learn to adjust patterns or fix mistakes. Moreover, research shows that engaging in creative activities, such as knitting, can increase overall life satisfaction. A study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology highlights that creative pursuits promote feelings of accomplishment and reduce stress .

Knitting for Wellbeing

In addition to its creative benefits, knitting is renowned for its positive impact on mental health. One of the primary reasons knitting is so beneficial for wellbeing is its meditative quality. The repetitive motion of knitting can induce a calm, focused state often likened to mindfulness meditation. This helps reduce anxiety, stress, and even chronic pain. A study by the Craft Yarn Council found that 85% of knitters said they felt a sense of calm after knitting .

Knitting can also improve cognitive health. Studies have shown that activities requiring both mental and physical engagement, such as knitting, can enhance cognitive function and may even help reduce the risk of dementia . Keeping your hands and mind busy with a hobby like knitting is a healthy way to maintain sharp thinking, especially as we age.

Social connection is another key factor in the wellbeing benefits of knitting. Joining a knitting group or community, either online or in-person, can provide a sense of belonging and camaraderie. The social interaction involved in sharing tips, techniques, and even the triumphs of finishing a piece can combat loneliness and build lasting friendships.

Debunking Common Misconceptions

Knitting is often misrepresented, and these misconceptions can deter people from picking up the craft. Let’s tackle a few of these myths:

1. Knitting is for older people: While knitting has historically been associated with older generations, this stereotype has long been debunked. Younger generations have embraced knitting as a trendy, creative hobby, with celebrities like Ryan Gosling and Julia Roberts known for their love of knitting. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are filled with vibrant knitting communities where people of all ages share their projects and tips.

2. Knitting is difficult: While knitting might seem intimidating at first, it’s not as hard as it looks. Like any new skill, there’s a learning curve, but once you grasp the basic stitches—knit and purl—you can build your skills progressively. Today, there are numerous online tutorials, videos, and knitting communities available to guide beginners.

3. Knitting is expensive: While luxury yarns and supplies can be pricey, knitting doesn’t have to break the bank. Beginners can find affordable yarns and needles at local craft stores or online. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll learn how to source materials according to your budget, and many knitters find the long-term cost of knitting to be less than other hobbies.

How to Get Started: Practical Tips for Beginners

If knitting sounds like something you’d like to try, here’s a beginner’s guide to help you cast on (pun intended!):

1. Start with the right tools: As a beginner, it’s important to choose tools that are easy to handle. Opt for medium-sized needles (US size 8-10 or 5-6 mm) and a smooth, medium-weight yarn (such as worsted weight). Bamboo needles are great for beginners because they’re less slippery, giving you more control as you learn.

2. Learn the basic stitches: There are two fundamental stitches you need to learn in knitting: the knit stitch and the purl stitch. With just these two, you can create a variety of patterns. There are countless tutorials available online to teach you these stitches, and many knitting books break them down step by step. Once you’ve mastered these basics, you’ll be ready to follow simple patterns.

3. Pick a simple first project: It’s tempting to dive into making a cozy sweater or a detailed blanket, but starting small will help you build confidence. A simple scarf or a dishcloth is an ideal first project because it allows you to practice your stitches without needing to follow complex patterns or make size adjustments.

4. Use online resources: YouTube, knitting blogs, and Ravelry (a social media site for knitters) are goldmines for tutorials, patterns, and advice. Many beginners find video tutorials particularly helpful because they can pause, rewind, and watch techniques as many times as needed.

5. Don’t worry about mistakes: Every knitter drops a stitch or makes a mistake from time to time, even seasoned ones! Part of the learning process is embracing these mistakes and learning how to fix them. There’s a wonderful term in the knitting community called “frogging” (because you rip-it, rip-it out), which simply means unraveling your knitting to fix an error.

6. Join a community: Whether it’s an online group or a local knitting circle, joining a knitting community can be incredibly motivating and helpful. Many communities are supportive of beginners, and seasoned knitters often love sharing their tips and patterns.

For me, knitting is far more than just a craft—it’s a gateway to creativity, a means to boost your wellbeing, and a relaxing hobby that can be as social or solitary as you wish. With its proven mental health benefits and its ability to enhance cognitive function, knitting is a timeless activity that’s accessible to anyone.

Whether you’re looking for a way to unwind, express yourself creatively, or simply keep your hands busy, knitting has something to offer. With just a few basic tools and a bit of patience, you’ll find yourself well on your way to creating beautiful, handmade items and reaping the many benefits of this rewarding craft. So, why not give it a try? Happy knitting!