By Cassie Gerhardstein
Senior Features Writer
If you set aside the image of a grey curly hair and a walking stick, knitting is the first thing that comes to mind when you imagine the stereotypical grandma. For years, knitting and crocheting has been viewed as an old-lady pastime, pursued only after retirement has set in and all the hobbies from yester-year have been exhausted.
However, there is a new subculture rapidly emerging not only in our generation, but on Asbury’s campus as well. Crocheting and knitting is not only socially acceptable for young people, but it’s actually popular.
I’ve only been crocheting for about three weeks now, and I’m already a self-confessed addict. I’ve found myself turning minutes into hours without even realizing it. And, as with any addiction, I’ve been much more perceptive to those around me—noticing others who share my new-found love.
Freshman Macy Graham acknowledges that some people may still think crocheting and knitting is for old people but says she uses the craft to make trendy accessories.
“I have made several scarves, headbands and hats,” she said. “They are all super cute and a lot cheaper to make them than to buy them.”
Beyond the old lady stereotype, the misconception that crocheting and knitting is only for girls is being destroyed as well. Junior Nick Crockett started crocheting when he was ten years old as a way to pass the time while listening to books on tape. Crocket believes that crocheting is enjoyable and productive.
“Crocheting is practical for people who need to remain busy with [their] hands but also need to give their attention to something else, like a lecture,” Crockett said. “It’s practical with a return.”
Resident Director (R.D) of Glide-Crawford Julia Sheets enjoys knitting for the social aspect.
Since becoming R.D., Sheets has taught several girls in the dorm how to knit and has even started a club as a way to enhance the social community aspect of the craft. Last year, she started “Chicks with Sticks” and considers it a huge success.
“I love it because it draws an eclectic group of girls, and even some other staff on campus come sometimes,” Sheets said. “We get to sit and enjoy each other as we talk and share our different projects. It’s cool because girls come and knit, crochet, do needlework or even other crafts that don’t involve sticks.”
The club meets in the Glide-Crawford lobby on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.
No matter what the reason is for picking up crocheting or knitting, there are many benefits. For some, the things they create become family heirlooms that are passed down from generation to generation, while others make money selling their products at craft shows.
Another upside? Picking up this craft in today’s generation leads to endless possibilities. “It helps that sites like Pinterest are full of patterns and such,” said Junior Stacey Attig who has been knitting since she was 12 years old.
With Pinterest and other websites offering countless ideas and patterns for any project, creativity is an option, not a necessity. Anyone can do it. With Christmas right around the corner, knitting and crocheting makes for affordable and practical gift giving. ‘Tis the season to pick up some sticks and learn an easy, affordable and rewarding pastime.