Knitting clubs

Knitting clubs are a feature of the 21st century revival of hand knitting which began in America and has spread to most of Europe. Despite the name, knitting clubs are not limited to knitting; both crochet-centered and knit-centered clubs are collectively called "knitting clubs." While knitting has never gone away completely, this latest reincarnation is less about the make-do and mend of the 1940s and 1950s, and more about making a statement about individuality and developing a sense of community.

Knitting clubs fulfill many purposes: to get together with other knitters, to learn or develop the skills of hand knitting or hand crocheting, a great fun night out. Clubs meet in coffee bars, pubs and clubs and members are drawn from all walks of life, including different generations, social classes, and genders. Crafters meet to exchange ideas about projects, chat about their lives, exchange yarns and yarn ideas for projects, or non-craft related activities, similar to a quilting bee. These clubs provide an atmosphere where beginning crafters can seek assistance from more experienced crafters. Due to the rise of the Stitch 'n Bitch books, amigurumi, and numerous other crochet and knit projects, both crafts have grown in popularity, and the demographics of those who practice the craft include younger women and some men.

In the UK there are many websites that help knitters get in touch with their local club. Stitch 'n Bitch clubs take their name from the book by American knitting guru Debbie Stoller but the term Knit and Natter is also used. There are two national knitting organisations, the UK Hand Knitting Association and Knitting & Crochet Guild.

Rowan Yarns runs clubs which get involved in charitable events. In 2007 the Rowan Knitting clubs spearheaded Knit in Public Day encouraging knitters all around the UK to knit hats for innocent Drinks Smoothie bottles to raise money for Age Concern in the Big Knit. Currently this is the biggest knitting club event in the UK.

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Wikipedia