Why Do You Crochet, Knit, and Read So Much?

Hey, everyone! I hope you had a great week crafting and reading. Since I started Sparks Unlocked Co. a couple of years ago, one of my favorite things to ask fellow crafters and readers is their origin story when it comes to crochet, knitting, and reading.

People have shared some amazing stories and it genuinely gives me joy to know that crochet, knitting, and reading can be shared multiple times over. It can be passed down to others and all three hobbies still stand the test of time. I figured since I’ve asked you all your origin stories, it’s time for me to share my own. Which one do you want to know first?

Crochet

I discovered crochet in high school and since then, I never looked back. I was in a club that met in the mornings before homeroom and we were busy making blankets for animals. Rather, other club members were busy crocheting blankets for animals.

I didn’t know how to crochet, so a fellow club member taught me quickly. I don’t know how else to explain it, but I felt like I had tunnel vision. It was just me, the yarn, and the crochet hook. I still remember the color of yarn I used for the first time. It was burgundy. Pun may or may not be intended here, but I was hooked. I kept up with crocheting berets for a few years after.

Since then, I would have a crochet hook with me or would offer to crochet things for friends and loved ones. Gifting handmade items brings me so much joy and I relish the opportunity to make a gift for someone with every chance I get.

Knitting

Knitting came a few years after. I don’t remember how old I was or what year it was, but I do remember that I was in college (or university). I reconnected with a friend from middle school and we were in the same friend group. She started a knitting business with her friend and they were planning to host a pop-up shop on campus. Little did I know, that would be my first crochet marketplace experience. Crochet lit a fire in me a few years ago and I was interested. I went over to my friend’s house and she taught me how to knit. After that first session, I remember going on YouTube to look for any tutorial that I could find to practice my stitches.

Eventually, I made a honeycomb scarf and a short cowl with the stockinette stitch (very hipster, very millennial). I remember getting whatever stick that I could find as the third knitting needle to do the honeycomb stitch. Eventually, I settled on pencils and pens.

Knitting was a bit harder for me to get accustomed to, so my friend offered for me to crochet a bunch of bracelets and pins for the pop-up shop. She handed me a big bag of yarn and told me to make as many as I can. I was in heaven! I remember sitting, listening to music, and crocheting my heart away. It’s definitely a top 10, core memory, peak happiness moment. I made a small floral pin, and I still have it to this day.

The day of the pop-up shop, I spoke to so many people and we sold a lot of items. I consider that to be my first job. I made 80 dollars that day.

Reading

There are two core memories of reading for me. I remember sitting on the floor in a library. I kept reading book after book after book. It felt like the options were endless. It felt like a magical experience because in my heart of hearts, I was in my element. After that moment, I knew I would be someone who loves books and reading. I knew I would read as often as I could.

The next moment was in high school. I was awarded a list of books for my summer reading list and Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison was on the list. I read that book and I was floored. I’d never read text as rich as Toni Morrison’s writing before. I was so astounded and amazed by her writing that I read the book again, right after finishing it. For the rest of the summer, I would sit and think about that book.

In that moment, I knew I wanted to write a book, publish a book, and become an author. Toni Morrison remains my favorite author of all time to this day.

I love to crochet, knit, and read because I learn so much and it’s my hope to keep learning. There are so many techniques to explore with crochet and knitting. There are so many books to read and explore in this lifetime. These activities are rabbit holes of discovery, with endless possibilities. Crochet, knitting, and reading shock and surprise me, they often teach me new things or a new perspective, and they help me feel more connected to myself and to others. God forbid a girl experiences everyday magic through yarn and books!

I hope you enjoy my crochet, knitting, and reading origin stories. I hope it reminds you that your crochet, knitting, or reading origin stories matter and someone wants to hear them. I know I do. Let me know what your origin stories are in the comments below.

I also hope this encourages you to keep crocheting, knitting, and reading. We need more magic, whimsy, and creativity in the world, so please share yours as much as you can, everywhere you go.

Thank you for being here and for reading this article. I’ll chat with you in the next one. Good day or good night!

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Hi, I’m Kerri Olivia, an author, fiber artist, and founder of Sparks Unlocked Co. At Sparks Unlocked Co., we help fellow readers and crafters find beauty, comfort, and meaning in slow living through occasional crochet and knitting tutorials, digital third places for crafters and readers, book recommendations, and storytelling. Join these conversations with me on Threads and Pinterest.

Looking for book recs? Read my book, REQUITED.

If you’re interested in crocheting, knitting, and reading more, you’re invited to the Knots & Chapters Book Club, a place where we crochet, knit, and talk about books every month. Join here.

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