It's rush hour on the London Underground. Most commuters are reading the morning paper, a favourite book, or are stabbing away at a BlackBerry to pass the time. But one young woman reaches into her bag, pulls out a set of knitting needles, some wool, and continues with her knitting. It's a sight that is becoming increasingly common.
What used to be viewed as a pastime for the elderly is suddenly fashionable with the young and trendy. Stitch 'n' Bitch – just one of the knitting communities that has grown in popularity over recent years – claims that celebrities such as Julia Roberts, Cameron Diaz and Madonna also enjoy this therapeutic hobby.
Knitting Together
Whether you have been knitting for years, or have only just learnt how to cast on, the Stitch 'n' Bitch groups are well worth attending. Held regularly in pubs, bars and cafés across the UK, they are sociable events where people of all ages exchange tips and ideas over a few drinks.
Some of the work created my more advanced knitters is astonishing. Forget ghastly Christmas jumpers and twee baby sets, those in the revived knitting community enjoy trying their creative hands at almost anything, from bags and soft toys, to coasters and camisoles. Sophie Spence, a newcomer at the Balham group says: "I learnt to knit when I was about 12, but it's been a while since I've made anything. I heard about the group through a friend and it's got me knitting again. I'd forgotten how relaxing it is. I'm planning to make a few things and giving them away as presents."
A Purse-friendly Pastime
Unlike some hobbies, knitting doesn't have to be expensive. Rather than spending a small fortune at John Lewis' haberdashery department, you can find cheap wool and needles in charity shops. eBay is also worth a look for bargain bulk buys. If you don't have anyone to teach you, you can learn how to knit by following step-by-step guides found on countless websites, or by watching videos on YouTube.
Once you have the equipment and the basic know-how, there are plenty of free patterns available to download online. A few of them are listed below:
- www.nationalknittingweek.co.uk/free_patterns.asp
- www.knittingpatterncentral.com/directory.php
- www.dailyknitter.com/patterns.html
- www.simplyknitting.co.uk/page/simplyknitting?catname=/FREE%20Patterns!
Whether it's the economic climate that's prompting us to look for cheaper entertainment, or simply a case of fashion going full-circle, knitting is bringing generations together in a positive, creative way.
To find your local Stitch n' Bitch group, or to start your own, visit the website.
