Did you know that crochet is over 5,000 years old or that it is one of the only arts that cannot be replicated by a machine?
The Library Crochet Club is returning for Terms 2 and 3, creating a welcoming space where beginners can learn and practise a new skill, and experienced crocheters can come for advice or to work on a project they already have. All yarn and hooks are provided, and we have a variety of patterns available for students to use.
Crochet is not only fun, but also good for you. Learning a skill that requires hand-eye coordination, pattern reading and memory has a number of benefits for the brain. These are some of the benefits (Houtman, 2017) (Burns & Der Meer, 2021):
- Crocheting can reduce stress and anxiety because the rhythmic, repetitive motion helps calm the nervous system
- Crochet supports mindfulness by keeping attention on the present moment, which can interrupt rumination and mental overload
- Crochet can contribute to cognitive reserve by challenging the brain with a learned skill and repeated practice
- Crochet may improve mood and help with low feelings by creating a sense of accomplishment
- Crochet gives the brain a structured motor-and-cognitive workout, since you have to coordinate hand movements, follow patterns and track stitch sequences.
This year, Crochet Club has a theme: Scarves! Scarves are an easy way to practise a variety of stitches, from basic to advanced. They are also very quick to make, leaving you with a cool new piece of clothing for winter and the feeling of satisfaction that comes from making something with your hands. Students are also welcome to let their inspiration take the lead and try something else from the variety of patterns we have available in the Library Makerspace.
Crochet Club will run during Terms 2 and 3 in the 榴莲视频直播 Campus Yangadlitya Library on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at lunchtime. Everyone who is interested is welcome. For more information, please contact me.听
Catherine Manthey
Library and Archive Technician
References
Burns.P., Van Der Meer. R. (2021). Happy Hookers: findings from an international study exploring the effects of crochet on wellbeing. Perspect Public Health. 141(3):149-157. doi: 10.1177/1757913920911961.
Houtman. B. (2017). How Crochet and Knitting Help the Brain. Anxiety Research Centre Blog and Podcast.