Once upon a time, once someone reached retirement age, they automatically became part of an “exclusive club” — a club that included knitting, embroidery, and sewing as activities that were supposed to be done only after you passed a certain age. But today? These hobbies are finally getting the attention they deserve, regardless of age.
Many content creators are proudly sharing their “grandma’s” hobbies. A viral video by Alex James shows off all the sweaters she’s knitted in 2024. “Maybe I’ll finally try knitting a sweater,” one commenter wrote. In another video, a girl shares her favorite embroidery pattern, while the web is awash with videos on fermenting dough for homemade bread or tips for beginners in gardening.
@alexjames_fiber #knit #knitting #handmade #handknit #sweater #knitsweater #handknitsweater #sweatercollection #stepbystepsweater by @florence #blouseno1 by #myfavoritethingsknitwear #winniesweater by @Céline #esthersweater by @Petiteknit #petiteknit #florencemiller #woozybyceline #fiber #art #craft #diy #fiberart #fiberarts #yarn #haul #fyp #foryou #knittok #knitspo #knittinginspo #inspiration ? original sound - alex james
But why are young people so gravitating towards hobbies that were once considered for older generations?
One of the main reasons is screen fatigue. After years of holding your phone in your hand and “doomscrolling” through bad news, many are looking for something slower and more peaceful. Hobbies like knitting, embroidery, or gardening offer a way to disconnect from the digital world and create something with your own hands – whether it’s a warm sweater, a ripe tomato, or a loaf of bread with a perfect crust.
In addition to disconnecting from technology, “grandma hobbies” are also a form of self-care. A good portion of young people don’t have any hobbies, and these activities are an easy way to find a new passion. Moreover, the positive impact on mental health is undeniable. Another interesting aspect of the revival of these hobbies is the social side. Once considered individual activities, they are now turning into ways to create community. Those who are already in the “grandma era” are connecting with other people who share the same passion. Parties, game nights, and cooking clubs are being organized.
At the end of the day, this trend is a way to find joy in everyday life again. In a reality filled with uncertainty and challenges, creating something with your own hands can make you feel more in control. So, if you've been thinking about learning to sew or have been watching videos about fermenting dough, take this as a sign to get started. Your mind and screen time ratio will thank you!
Sources: Pop Sugar
