Crochet is making a comeback

Crocheting has been a method of self-expression for as long as it has existed. Using colorful yarn to create ornate and complex articles of clothing, home décor, and many other things has been a popular pastime of people all over the world, and recently it has become especially popular with younger people. Social media has allowed youths interested in crocheting to show their projects and communicate with other crocheters, inspiring many to learn the craft.  

Apps like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest have primarily motivated the spread of crochet-related trends. Specifically, many people on TikTok have begun crocheting clothing items such as tank tops, sweaters, and even skirts. Creators are able to share their patterns (instructions for creating a crochet project) with others, so that their projects can be recreated by other users. Sharing patterns and ideas for crocheted projects is greatly fueling the innovation of the craft and allowing crocheters to make new things. 

This method of making clothing by hand is also an original way to avoid supporting fast fashion—cheap clothing that is made to last only as long as trends do, and then be thrown away. Crocheted items of clothing are likely to last much longer than crudely made clothing from brands like Shein. The time required to create a crochet project and the level of personalization that can be added to an item makes it a much more desirable piece, and more likely to be kept and cherished forever. 

I have been crocheting since I was about eight years old. My great grandma was amazing at crocheting, and she taught me to love it just as she did. The way intricately created and beautifully delicate crocheted items are being made and shared online by talented people makes me hope that more will learn to crochet. Crocheting is by far one of my favorite hobbies, and an excellent way to bring people together.