How Learning Crochet and Knitting Changed My Life: Discover the Joy of Creative Confidence and Double Knitting Mastery

Introduction:

Crafting has always been more than just a hobby—it's been a way to unlock creativity, find peace, and boost confidence. Learning to crochet at 16 and knit at 28 transformed how I see myself, giving me a sense of accomplishment and a way to express my imagination. In this post, I'll share how learning these skills impacted my life and led to my mastery of double knitting.

Discovering Creativity Through Crochet

At 16, my Aunt introduced me to crochet. It was an empowering experience, and I quickly fell in love with the creative possibilities. Each stitch gave me a sense of pride, and crocheting soon became my way to escape the noise of the world. Later, I discovered knitting, which took my creativity to a new level. You can read more about my journey into double knitting in my post Never Too Old to Learn.

Handmade yellow baby poncho with fringe and pom-pom ties, crocheted 52 years ago, passed down and worn by both the maker's daughters and granddaughters.

Overcoming Challenges in Knitting and Double Knitting

Learning to knit was just the beginning. Mastering techniques like double knitting, which creates a two-sided, reversible fabric, took time. Managing two strands of yarn was a challenge, but with practice, I found a method that worked for me. If you want to learn how to manage your yarn better, check out my post on Double Knitting Mastery: Holding the Yarns.

Creating My Memory Blanket: A Personal Journey

One of the most meaningful double-knit projects I have ever worked on was a memory blanket for my brother-in-law's only granddaughter. I made it for her to cuddle with after he passed as a way to help her cope and remember him. Every stitch carried love and memories, and crafting it was healing and a way to honour their bond. It became a comforting keepsake for her and a reminder of handmade items' power.

This memory blanket was lovingly crafted with a portrait of my late brother-in-law. I made it for his only granddaughter to cuddle with after he passed, offering her comfort and a way to remember him.

The Power of Crafting for Mental Peace

Both crochet and knitting have provided me with more than a creative outlet—they've given me a way to find peace. Crafting allowed me to focus on something positive when life felt overwhelming. The rhythm of stitches and the satisfaction of creating something with my hands have reminded me that I have worth and my creativity matters.

Conclusion: Why Crafting Matters to Me

Crochet and knitting are more than skills—they're tools for connecting with myself and the world around me. These crafts have given me confidence, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter, I encourage you to embrace the power of crafting for its creative and mental health benefits.

Are you learning to crochet or double-knit? Please share your experiences below, and explore my other posts for tips on mastering these rewarding crafts.