Why Gen Z and Millennials Are Turning to Crocheting

You may have scrolled past the photos and videos: young people—mostly Gen Zs and millennials—sitting quietly in parks, buses, or cafes, looping yarn into scarves, hats, or toys. What may look like a meaningless pastime from the baby boomer generation is making a comeback, with a younger twist.

Crocheting is making its way into youth culture—not just as a hobby, but as a form of therapy, creative expression, and even a side hustle.

“There’s something calming about it,” says 22-year-old Michelle Mwende, who picked up crocheting during the pandemic and now sells handmade bucket hats on Instagram. “It started as a way to deal with stress, but it turned into a business.”

Crocheting is the art of pulling loops through loops with a single hook and a strand of yarn. But for many, it has become more than just a craft—it’s a calming escape in a world that often feels chaotic. Some say crocheting soothes anxiety, boosts mindfulness, and offers a digital detox.

With rising conversations around mental health, especially among younger generations, it’s no surprise that crafts like crocheting are making a comeback. The process demands just enough focus to keep one’s hands busy and mind present, leaving room for quiet reflection.

“It’s like meditation,” says Derrick Odhiambo, a 26-year-old recent university graduate who learned to crochet via YouTube tutorials. “You lose track of time and suddenly you’ve made something beautiful.”

Learning to crochet is surprisingly accessible. Beginners need little more than a medium-sized hook, smooth yarn, a pair of scissors, and a tapestry needle. Most start with simple techniques like the slip knot and chain stitch before moving on to single and double crochet stitches. A growing library of free online tutorials has made the craft more inclusive than ever.

But beyond wellness, crocheting is now a source of income.

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have enabled young creators to showcase and sell their handmade items. Some have turned it into a steady stream of income, offering workshops, designing patterns, or creating crochet-themed content online.

In Nairobi’s street markets, stalls featuring crocheted items by young artisans are becoming more common. Demand for customized pieces like unique baby clothes, handbags, and wall hangings is growing.

Crocheting may seem old-fashioned, but in the hands of today’s youth, it is anything but. With every loop and stitch, young people are rediscovering the joy of making, the peace in slowing down, and the power of turning passion into profit.