Chains to changemakers

Picture this, kids as young as 8 or 9 years old are crocheting on a bus while commuting to school. They are crocheting in class during their free time or break time. From making  a quilt to a beanie or a stuffed toy, this craft form is witnessing a resurgence in popularity in schools and universities around the world.

When I was growing up, crochet was seen as a domestic craft, practical but not trendy.It was seen as something that grandmothers did and a lot of outspoken and opinionated people did tell me that.
However being inspired by my mom and my aunts I have always been fascinated by yarns and fabrics. I went on to express myself creatively through crochet.
Of course social media has been that magic wand that has helped hobbies like crochet to thrive and be trendy. Young people today are finding creative ways to express theselves and they are unabashedly displaying  their love for their hobbies. I regularly see a crochet stuffed toy, a bag or a beanie in school.
In fact, I see crochet embellishments on trees sometimes which makes me stop in my tracks, have a silly smile on my face, admire it before slipping back into the real world.
When I ask kids what draws them towards crochet, I get interesting answers.
Some do it to make a customised and unique item for themselves. A large cohort does it to feel a sense of accomplishmment at a product they have created. Some understand the value of a handmade item compared to an industrialised  store bought item.
Every time I see a  child crocheting I like to stop by and see what they are doing and hear their story. It is wonderful to see the positivity surrounding this craft among the youngest in society.
One student summed it eloquently - crochet is a statement against the unsustainable  nature of fast fashion. It is not just a hobby it's a life style!