When one thinks of Christmas, they are typically filled with memories of running to open their presents from under the Christmas tree. Especially as a child, that jolt of excitement as the clock strikes midnight on December 25, marking the start of this beloved holiday, was a feeling truly unforgettable. However, the days leading up to it typically consist of stressful hours searching for last-minute online gifts. Questions like “Have I gotten them this before?” or “Do they already have this jacket?” instantly come to mind.
That is where the fun, addicting hobby of crocheting comes into play. Making winter classics like scarves and socks can involve as little as one hook and a single ball of yarn. As crocheters become more advanced, they can add more variety to their pieces by expanding their choice of colors or testing out new stitches. Though beginners will experience many learning challenges, their patience will be worth it once they see the smile of their friend or family members’ faces as they receive this handmade Christmas gift.
Making a handmade gift for a loved one makes the present that much more thoughtful. It also allows crocheters to tap into their creative sides by adding more specific decorations and details that would cater to the gift recipient’s preferences. That could mean using brighter colored yarn instead of duller colors or opting for a turtleneck instead of a t-shirt. Taking the time to think about these extra parts will make the receiver even more appreciative and grateful for the thought and effort put into their gift.
Junior Annie Stump has been an avid crocheter since eighth grade and made various articles of clothing, her favorite being tank tops. Over the last couple of years, she has found joy in gifting close family members and friends her handmade items.
“As a crocheter, I know it takes a really long time to make things, especially made well, and I think…taking the time to make something…special for them is really meaningful,” said Stump. “Buying it is still meaningful, but it isn’t the same as handmade, which…takes hours to complete.”
Though taking on this new hobby sounds exciting, crocheting requires many hours of patience and resilience. The most attractive looking pieces are made of stitches that are relatively the same size, but beginners’ might look uneven from inexperience with using a metal hook for the first time. It can be frustrating having to rewind YouTube tutorials multiple times or constantly inspect images on Google. But similar to riding a bike, with enough practice, most people eventually start to get the hang of it.
A common misconception about crocheting is the supplies are expensive and overpriced. However, many retail stores have sale sections where customers pay less for buying in bulk, which saves money in the long run. Additionally, simply making something with your hands, a hook and yarn is worth more because of its sentimental value.
“At Michaels,…there is a section where you can get [yarn] rolls for like $5..and during the holidays, they sell three [rolls] for $5. It’s great. That’s where I get all my yarn to make all my big projects, including tops,” shared Stump.
Learning to crochet allows one to fully express their creativity by making handmade gifts for Christmas and the next holiday or birthday that comes around next.
