More and more Gen Zers are turning to this tactile, analog hobby as an antidote to anxiety—and the wider impact may surprise you.

In an era where screen time often feels inescapable, a curious trend is taking root across Gen Z’s social media feeds — not another TikTok challenge or app, but something delightfully analog: knitting.

Yes, knitting. Once stereotyped as the domain of grandmas and Etsy sellers, this tactile hobby has been repurposed by a younger generation not only as a creative outlet, but as a tool for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and community building.

What started as a quiet movement on platforms like Reddit and YouTube is now blossoming into full-blown digital subcultures.

The hashtags #KnittingTok and #SlowCraft boast millions of views.

Some creators stream hour-long sessions where the only action is the rhythmic loop of yarn over needle. For followers, it’s not just about making a cute cardigan—it’s about soothing an overstimulated brain.

But here’s the kicker: This revival isn’t just nostalgic or aesthetic—it’s deeply functional.

What the research says about repetitive crafts and mental health

Studies have found that individuals who engage in repetitive crafting activities like knitting, crocheting, or needlepoint report significantly lower levels of anxiety and depression.

Sometimes participants even experienced a “flow state” during these activities, which can mimic the effects of meditation or yoga.

Dr. Joanna Nordstrand, an occupational therapist and PhD candidate at the University of Gothenburg, conducted a study highlighting the mental health benefits of knitting. Her research found that knitting provides calmness, structure, and a sense of identity for individuals, aiding in coping with life’s challenges and improving mental health.

In short, the slow-and-steady pace of crafting creates a buffer between an overstimulating digital environment and the mind’s need for rhythm and rest.

Why Gen Z in particular is leaning in

This isn’t just about seeking calm—it’s about reclaiming time.

Many Gen Zers have grown up in a hyperconnected world defined by urgency and immediacy. Algorithms dictate what they see, how they feel, even when they should rest. Picking up a knitting project is a form of gentle rebellion—a way to slow down, opt out, and create with intention rather than consumption.

“Knitting gives me something real to hold onto,” says 22-year-old Meagan J., a fashion student in Chicago. “When I’m anxious, I grab my needles. Even just fifteen minutes centers me.”

For others, it’s about the community. Online forums like r/knitting and Discord channels such as Stitch & Switch offer digital-first Gen Zers a space to connect over physical things. Members swap patterns, troubleshoot stitches, and share life updates—no filters, no pressure.

Sustainability as part of the loop

The benefits aren’t just personal. This return to handmade hobbies also intersects with Gen Z’s broader passion for sustainability.

Fast fashion’s environmental toll is a major concern for younger consumers. Many are turning to slow fashion—sewing, mending, and yes, knitting—as both an antidote to overproduction and a way to reclaim power in a system that often feels broken.

“I learned to knit during the pandemic,” says Ari, 25, who now sells plant-dyed yarn online. “What started as a coping tool turned into a business rooted in sustainability. I only use recycled or ethically sourced fibers. My customers love knowing exactly where their sweater came from.”

Knitting allows for traceability, intention, and circularity—all values that resonate deeply with eco-conscious Gen Zers.

Getting started: A zero-pressure beginner’s guide

You don’t need to be a Pinterest-perfect crafter to start knitting.

Here’s how to ease into it without burning out or buying gear you’ll never use.

1. Start with the basics—literally

Begin with a pair of size 8 bamboo needles and a skein of worsted weight yarn. These are ideal for beginners due to their manageable size and texture. Local craft stores often offer beginner kits that include simple patterns to get you started.

2. Learn via short-form video

Platforms like YouTube and TikTok are rich with tutorials. Seek out creators who focus on beginner-friendly content, and avoid jumping into advanced techniques like lace knitting until you’re comfortable with the basics.

3. Make your first project small

Start with manageable projects such as dishcloths, headbands, or sampler squares. These allow you to practice stitches and build muscle memory without the pressure of complex patterns.

4. Join a community

Engaging with fellow knitters can provide support and inspiration. Online communities like Reddit’s r/knitting and Facebook’s “Beginner Knitters Unite” offer spaces to share progress, ask questions, and connect with others. Local libraries or craft stores may also host knitting groups.

5. Remember: it’s the process, not the product.

No one cares if your scarf has wonky edges. What matters is the time you spent making it—loop by loop.

Embrace the learning curve and understand that imperfections are part of the journey. The act of knitting itself offers relaxation and a sense of accomplishment, regardless of the final product.

Beyond the yarn: A pattern of reconnection

Knitting is a metaphor as much as it is a craft. It’s about interconnection, patience, and the slow joy of building something meaningful one step at a time.

As Gen Z reclaims old-school hobbies for new-school problems, they’re showing us what healing can look like when it’s unplugged, intentional, and wrapped in yarn.

Whether it’s in the form of cozy hats or clearer minds, the results speak for themselves.

So the next time you see a teen on the subway, earbuds in and needles out, know this: They’re not just making mittens. They’re weaving a quieter, steadier future—one stitch at a time.