Usually, around the new year, many of us make resolutions to change and improve our lives. For some, it could be losing those extra kilos gained during the holiday; for others, it could be trying a new hobby or following their passion.

However, sometimes we need a little motivation and inspiration to keep going. For instance, the r/crochet community, which has a whopping 1.2 million admirers, is full of creative and original ideas for crocheters around the world.

It’s a space where people can proudly share photos of their work and also discuss and exchange ideas with other members. If you are a newcomer, you can seek advice from fellow veterans. The wholesome community supports beginners and experts alike.

Now, if you’re someone who wants to start crocheting or is simply curious about the art, let us tell you that it’s quite different from knitting. Despite the fact that both of them require the use of yarn and a stick to create fabric, they differ greatly from one another.

People who knit have to use two long, pointed needles, one held in each hand, to make the stitches. However, the hook used in crocheting is very different from knitting needles. More specifically, individuals need to use one hook instead of two needles. While knitting, you need less yarn compared to crocheting.

Often, people crochet to make structured items like coasters, while knitting is popular for making clothing items like sweaters, cardigans, and shawls.

In general, crafting as a hobby is good for our mental health. Psychologist Sahra O’Doherty told the Guardian, “Crafts can be a useful antidote to depression because they help pull us out of negative thought spirals and refocus us on things that give us a sense of achievement, which can combat feelings of worthlessness, helplessness or hopelessness.”

Crocheting is also a powerful tool for processing challenging emotions like grief. O’Doherty points out, “Allowing ourselves time to sit and process and not be distracted by things like our phones is absolutely important.” When we make a particular design, we have to keep repeating the stitches. The process of repetition helps to absorb some of our attention while still allowing us to think deeply about other things.

Additionally, the repetitive motions help to induce a state of mindfulness, which is similar to meditation. So if you’re making a coaster, it can be quite calming and relaxing. For individuals who have struggled with meditation in the past, crocheting might be an attractive alternative.

Engaging in mentally and physically stimulating activities like crocheting can help prevent moderate cognitive impairment (MCI), according to a Mayo Clinic study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

Remembering techniques and mastering stitches is a good way to engage your cognitive abilities. If we engage in mental workouts daily, we might be able to slow down or stop memory loss.

Another great advantage of crocheting is the feeling of satisfaction you experience upon completing your project. With a multitude of things that you can make, it surely boosts your productivity. And the joy of sharing your creative creation with others gives you a sense of achievement.

These hand-stitched projects are beautiful and inspiring. Did any of these posts encourage you to pick up a needle and start stitching? Don’t forget to share this with a crafting enthusiast or someone who is looking for a new hobby!