New trends are always coming and going, but some are here to stay. Hobbies like needlepointing, quilting, knitting, sewing, and crocheting are all so-called “old-fashioned hobbies.” Activities like these have resurfaced over the past few years.

Across social media apps like Pinterest, TikTok, and Instagram, teens are posting their embroidered tote bags, needlepoint work, and crocheted tops. What was once considered “old-fashioned,” is

now suddenly cool again. 

After spending hours scrolling and studying, many students are finding joy in taking a break. Needlepointing, embroidering, crocheting, and other crafts provide a nice break from constant screen time. They’re hands-on, peaceful, and end with a nice finished product that makes the artist feel accomplished.

Unlike doomscrolling on social media, hands-on projects like these are excellent for your mental health because it gives you a break from anxiety-inducing social media apps through a repetitive and calming activity. 

English teacher Michelle Steiner is the sponsor of the Yarnicats school knitting and crocheting club. She describes why she enjoys hands-on hobbies.

“We spend so much of our time attached to technology, so it’s really nice for us to step back and make something with our hands,” Steiner said. “I learned how to quilt when I was 12 by my Mérmére, and I still love quilting to this day. It really is a great skill to have in life.”

Steiner gives information about the Yarnicats.

“The Yarnicats club meets Wednesday mornings in my room (107), and it’s a great opportunity for students to come in and craft with other yarn-enthusiasts,” Steiner said.

These hobbies may also hold a sense of nostalgia for some students. Many teens have learned these hobbies from people whom they look up to. 

Freshman Eva Textor took on knitting from her mother.

“My mom had always been into knitting and crocheting [since] I was little. We had Angora bunnies so we could shear them and use their coat for spinning into yarn and then crocheting. I learned from watching my mom crocheting stuffed animals from our bunny’s wool when I was little,” Textor said.

Textor explains why she enjoys the hobby.

“I enjoy crocheting because it’s relaxing while also rewarding. Also, it makes me think of my mom’s creativity and memories together when I was younger,” Textor said.

In a world with new social media trends coming and going almost every week, it is nice for students to have something comforting that is here to stay. Needlepointing, knitting, crocheting, and other crafts allow students to slow down, unplug, and create something meaningful. Whether its the nostalgia that comes from learning from a loved one or the simple satisfaction of finally fishing a long project, these so-called “old-fashioned” hobbies show that sometimes it’s a good idea for students to relax, unwind, and unplug through crafting.