Not just a granny’s craft: Why teens are getting hooked on crocheting

Crochet, once widely perceived as a hobby for older generations, is experiencing a notable resurgence among teenagers and young adults in Singapore. This revival has been driven by factors such as the accessibility of online tutorials, the therapeutic nature of the craft and its appeal as a creative outlet during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Shift in Perception

Historically associated with older women, crochet is now being embraced by youths who first encountered the craft during home-based learning periods. The availability of step-by-step video tutorials on platforms like YouTube has made it easier for beginners to learn basic stitches and progress to more complex projects.

Teen Experiences with Crochet

Eighteen-year-old Soo Qian Rong, who is awaiting university admission, began crocheting two years ago after being drawn to the “cosy and whimsical aesthetic” of online videos. She has since created customised plushies, including dolls of the rabbit character Miffy, as gifts for colleagues following her part-time job.

Nineteen-year-old Angela Liu Yik has been crocheting for seven to eight years, starting in Secondary 1. She was inspired to capture up the craft during the COVID-19 pandemic and learned through YouTube tutorials during home-based learning sessions. Liu describes the process of following patterns as “therapeutic” and finds it helpful for mindfulness.

Community and Skill Development

The growing interest has led to community initiatives such as the Silver Yarns project, organised by NYCrochers, where student volunteers teach elderly residents how to craft bags using crochet techniques. This intergenerational exchange highlights how the craft is bridging age gaps while fostering skill development.

Local craft studios like Memo’s Art House have observed an increase in young customers seeking materials and guidance. Owner Jassandra Nay noted that those who started crocheting during the pandemic have become an “entrenched part” of the local craft community.

Beyond a Hobby

For many teens, crochet offers more than just a creative pastime. The repetitive motion of hooking yarn can promote relaxation and focus, providing a screen-free activity that supports mental well-being. Some young crafters have also turned their hobby into small-scale ventures by selling handmade items online or at local markets.

Key Takeaways

• Crochet is gaining popularity among Singaporean teens due to online accessibility and pandemic-related free time.
• Young crafters like Soo Qian Rong and Angela Liu Yik illustrate how the hobby fosters creativity and mindfulness.
• Community projects demonstrate crochet’s role in connecting generations through shared learning.
• The craft offers therapeutic benefits and potential pathways to entrepreneurial activities.

Conclusion

What was once dismissed as outdated is now finding new relevance in the hands of Singapore’s youth. As teenagers continue to explore different yarn types and project complexities—from clothing to amigurumi—crochet is proving to be a versatile and enduring craft that adapts to contemporary interests while maintaining its core appeal of handmade creation.