2008 Woodie Awards
Grandma's Not the Only One Knitting These Days
Jackie Foster
Issue date: 3/28/08 Section: Entertainment
What do Julia Roberts, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Katherine Heigl all have in common? Well, besides being among today's most popular actresses, they all share a common hobby: knitting! These stars are proving that knitting is no longer just for your grandmother; this old pass time has become a hot new trend. So why in a world filled with television, video games, and Facebook, are people turning to knitting as a way to spend their leisure time?
One explanation could be that people want to engage in a constructive activity, and as a result, have something to show for time well spent. Almost immediately, even novices can begin creating scarves, hats, and blankets. After a bit of practice, knitters can advance to larger projects such as tote bags and sweaters.
"Stitch & Bitch" parties, at which friends gather to socialize and share their common hobby, have become popular in many circles, which adds a social aspect to further explain knitting's growing popularity. Social networking sites have also provided a means for fellow knitters to connect with Facebook's largest knitting group, "Addicted to Knitting," which boasts over 6,000 members.
In addition to its constructive and social elements, some people take up knitting for its relaxing effects. The fluid and repetitive movements of knitting have a calming effect on some; knitting has even been used in therapy to relieve anxiety.
Although many people feel intimidated the first time they watch someone knit, it is really an easy skill to pick up. With just a little bit of time and patience, anyone, even those who consider themselves less than coordinated, can begin knitting.
This summer, both old and new knitters alike can look forward to a new film featuring their favorite hobby. The Friday Night Knitting Club, starring Julia Roberts, opens in theaters on June 6. The film, which is based on the Kate Jacobs' novel, focuses on a group of women who meet weekly to discuss the events of their lives, and of course, knit.
It seems Hollywood will continue to fuel this trend in the coming months, and it is probably safe to say that knitting is here to stay.
One explanation could be that people want to engage in a constructive activity, and as a result, have something to show for time well spent. Almost immediately, even novices can begin creating scarves, hats, and blankets. After a bit of practice, knitters can advance to larger projects such as tote bags and sweaters.
"Stitch & Bitch" parties, at which friends gather to socialize and share their common hobby, have become popular in many circles, which adds a social aspect to further explain knitting's growing popularity. Social networking sites have also provided a means for fellow knitters to connect with Facebook's largest knitting group, "Addicted to Knitting," which boasts over 6,000 members.
In addition to its constructive and social elements, some people take up knitting for its relaxing effects. The fluid and repetitive movements of knitting have a calming effect on some; knitting has even been used in therapy to relieve anxiety.
Although many people feel intimidated the first time they watch someone knit, it is really an easy skill to pick up. With just a little bit of time and patience, anyone, even those who consider themselves less than coordinated, can begin knitting.
This summer, both old and new knitters alike can look forward to a new film featuring their favorite hobby. The Friday Night Knitting Club, starring Julia Roberts, opens in theaters on June 6. The film, which is based on the Kate Jacobs' novel, focuses on a group of women who meet weekly to discuss the events of their lives, and of course, knit.
It seems Hollywood will continue to fuel this trend in the coming months, and it is probably safe to say that knitting is here to stay.