3 reasons to learn to knit

I will never forget the moment I bought my first ball of yarn and set of needles. The idea to try a new craft had been on the back of my mind for some time and on my way to the supermarket I crossed a craft store, so I went in, grabbed the fluffiest and pinkest items I could find and made the 3 euro purchase that started a passion.

Since that day, I’ve experienced a lot of advantages because of this hobby, and today I’d like to share with you some of those benefits.

Why you should learn to knit

Here’s why I think you should also learn to knit

1. Experience the enjoyment of making something with your hands

cof

When we spend our days working behind a laptop, we need something to keep us grounded to the real world. In my experience, more and more people my age (20-30) want to do things that connect them to their senses. Making something with your hands is such a nice experience, just try it! The fact that you can actually use the final result makes it also very satisfying.

2. Use it to relax or to manage your anxiety

According to an in-depth literature review on the Health Benefits of Knitting by the organization Knit for Peace, knitting has shown to lower blood pressure, reduce depression and anxiety, reduce loneliness and isolation, among many other benefits. The repetitive motion keeps your mind busy enough to let you relax, however not busy enough to do other things. Which brings me to my last next point:

3. You can do other things at the same time – in fact, a lot of people experience an increase in attention while knitting

Unlike most crafts, knitting can be combined perfectly with other activities. For me this is a huge advantage — when I tried other crafts, I was always put off by how much attention it required. While knitting, I can still enjoy watching Glow, play board games with my friends or even participate in business meetings. Some people – who are probably witchcrafters – even read while they knit. Knit anywhere, and everywhere, while doing… a lot of different things!

Are you also a knitter? What other benefits have you experienced? Share them in the comments below.

5 modern knitting patterns you will love to make and wear

One of the biggest problems about hand knit items is that they are often ugly and old fashioned. Finding something I would enjoy wearing is difficult and browsing through pattern databases such as Ravelry or LoveKnitting can be overwhelming.

Hand knit items in a minimalist wardrobe

Hand knitting can be a great way to complement a modern, minimalist wardrobe. Every time I shop, I wonder: “why can’t they just make this more simple?”. I’m looking for basic, beautiful, quality items that I can wear year after year and combine with any style.

By knitting your own items you gain control of the design, fit, color and materials of your clothes. If picked and crafted with care, you can create high-quality, timeless items that look bought out of expensive minimalist stores.

My favorite modern knitting patterns

Here is my selection to my (current) favorite modern knitting patterns in, mentioned in no particular order.

1. The Vertical Stripes Sweater by PetiteKnit

 

This sweater looks great. It reminds me of some of the knitwear by Acne Studios, which is one of my favorite clothing brands. The ease on it makes it look very comfortable but not frumpy. I want to knit one in white, black, grey, navy, mustard and deep green, and wear them every day of the week.

2. Striped Spring Shirt by Purl Soho

 

Purl Soho offers a number of modern knitting patterns, and this is one of my favorites. I’ve had an obsession with striped items since I can remember, because they go so well with basic block color items while adding a bit of interest. This lightweight sweater is perfect to wear on summer nights.

3. GAP-tastic Cowl by Jen Geigley

This chunky cowl is super cosy for the winter and it’s easy to knit even for absolute beginners. I love how it wraps to shape a warmth fortress around your neck, perfect for cold winter days.

4. Cordova by Michele Wang

 

If you are looking for a challenging and fun knit look no further. This timeless sweater, knit in the awesome Brooklyn Tweed Shelter yarn will make for a warm yet lightweight garment.

5. Slush by Allison O’Mahony

For the last pattern, I picked a chunky hat. It’s super easy and fast to knit, and it makes for a fashionable item. Make it in any neutral color, and this is all you need in the winter.

What are your favorites?

What are your favorite modern knitting patterns or designers? Share it with me in the comments below.