Grandma's Got her Groove Back: The Resurgence of Handicrafts in Fashion

When we think of knitting, images of withered old grandmothers rocking slowly in wooden rocking chairs often come to mind. We hear the steady clicking of metal knitting needles as Grandma creates, from her spot, sweaters, scarves, socks, anything you could imagine with just two needles and some yarn. In recent years, however, knitting has shifted from being something old women did to pass the time to an activity that people of all ages and genders can partake in. This is especially true, as during the global pandemic, knitting has become a way to pass the time, while also being a creative and productive outlet. For people worried about becoming too reliant on their screens, or too caught up in the onslaught of 24/7 news, knitting is a way to destress and unplug, just like the days of yesteryear.

The art of knitting has existed for centuries across the globe. Every culture on this earth has its own form of knitting, making its history a vast and interesting thing. Knitting is often associated with the northern hemisphere solely because many knit items are made from thicker types of yarn and are created with the goal of keeping its intended wearer warm. Nevertheless, knitting was also a thriving craft in warmer climates, such as ancient Egypt, but thick wool was traded in for fine wisps of linen and cotton. Nowadays, a wide variety of yarn exists, and can be ordered online from different online retailers. Take, for example, Lovecrafts – their website sells a wide variety of yarn in a multitude of colours, thickness, and material. Needles, be it in wood, metal, or plastic are also sold, along with fantastic patterns for all skill levels. Stores like Michaels or other indie craft suppliers like We Are Knitters sell knitting kits, which can save the time and energy when it comes to deciding on a project.

But, how does one learn how to knit in this day and age? As the older generation fades more and more into the chorus of Heaven, not everyone has a grandmother to teach them how to knit. Bookstores such as Chapters have a wide range of books on knitting, though your local library would also have a large collection available. What I personally really like about Chapters is that they currently have a section on their website dedicated on various crafts, such as knitting, crochet, painting, and even embroidery. If written instructions aren’t really your cup of tea, YouTube is an incredible source of learning as long as you have a screen and an internet connection. As folks like to say, if you ever wonder how to do something, there’s probably a YouTube video for that.

Knitting has also creeped its way back into fashion. Publications like Vogue Knitting feature patterns for the poshest garments, and as the season turns colder and colder (you’ve got to love snow in October if you’re Canadian) knitwear takes center stage. With more and more people working from home nowadays, a spotlight is being shone on comfy, cozy clothes rather than high fashion. Knitwear is the perfect addition to this change in trend, and with magazines like Vogue Knitting to satisfy those hankering after high fashion aesthetics, everyone can be happy with just a few balls of yarn and needles.

Hi! I’m Jules.

Jules is a second-year student at Algonquin college hoping to become a successful ghostwriter someday. She spends most of her time reading books, playing adventure games on her Nintendo switch, and giving her cat plenty of love.