Hooked on Crochet - Helloayarn

Have you ever found yourself gazing blankly, wondering what spice you need to add to your life to feel alive again? It sounds dramatic, but that’s how I felt for a long time. I was content just surviving and going along with whatever life threw my way. I couldn’t figure out what I truly wanted, and happiness seemed like a simple word that was incredibly hard to find, define, and fulfill. This is the struggle of growing older. As the years go by, it feels like we grow increasingly sadder. Unlike when we were kids, when even the smallest things could brighten our entire day. 

I want to return to that perspective—finding joy in simple things and letting them brighten my days once more.

How a Simple Conversation Sparked My Crocheting Journey

Earlier this year, I had a conversation with a co-worker about our hobbies. We discussed various interests like mountains, diving, traveling, and volunteering. I was really impressed by how active he was, especially given the stress of his job in web development. When it was my turn to talk about my hobbies, I was caught off guard. I couldn’t think of anything exciting to share and ended up saying I didn’t have any hobbies at the moment. I used to be very passionate about crafting, music, and other activities, but I felt like I had lost my enthusiasm.

I opened up to him and explained that after losing a close friend and then my father, I felt empty and disconnected. I had been so focused on keeping up with work and not allowing myself to grieve properly that now, the accumulated grief has left me feeling sad for no apparent reason at times. It’s something I missed – not giving myself the space to grieve when I needed to.

To steer the conversation back on track, I mentioned that I wanted to learn how to crochet. Although I was interested, starting felt incredibly challenging, almost as if my body was unresponsive, like being in a coma. He encouraged me to give it a try, and I agreed blankly, hoping that agreeing would give me a reason to move forward.

One day, I met up with a close college friend, and during our chitchat, I mentioned that I wanted to learn how to crochet. To my surprise, she had been crocheting for months and was excited to hear that I wanted to learn. (she is always like this, excited for me) She was incredibly supportive and encouraged me to dive in.

I told her that although I was interested, I felt like I lacked the motivation to begin. A short while later, she went upstairs home and returned with three colors of yarn, a 3.5mm hook, and some markers. She handed them to me, saying these were the materials I could use to start crocheting. I was pleasantly surprised, and felt a bit of excitement at the thought of it.

It was a blessing in disguise to meet people who, out of nowhere, ended up helping me break free from a dark and uncertain place. If I hadn’t shared my idea, I wouldn’t have found the courage to start it and no one will push me to do it. 

Stitches of My First Project to My First Order

I started crocheting with just a single hook: a 3.5 mm hook with a yellow rubber grip, and a three-colored, 4-ply milk cotton yarn in yellow, lilac, and white. My first project was a headband, and it was entirely self-taught through YouTube tutorials. On the first day, I felt frustrated and cried because I couldn't make sense of what I was doing. However, after checking the comments section, I realized I wasn't alone; many others had the same struggles. It's always more challenging when you start from scratch, but the journey becomes more fulfilling when you overcome those initial hardships.

The friend who gave me my initial crochet materials and I met again, this time with another college friend from our trio. I brought along three crochet headbands—my very first project—which is a gift for them.

Starting with headbands, I've expanded to making fruit-themed bags, bandanas, simple crochet tops, earpod cases, bucket hats, and I'm now enjoyin in crafting crochet bouquets.

I also received my first order—a three-flower crochet bouquet for a single customer. Celebrating these small wins!

I’ve been crocheting for almost 8 months now. During weekdays, I work an 8-hour office job, and I spend my evenings crocheting. I stay up late not due to overthinking, but because I'm doing something that helps ease my mental health. Whenever I feel sad, anxious, or depressed, I turn to my crochet projects. I also enjoy spending my alone time crocheting in cafes.

Some of my finish crochet projects:

This is my first bouquet, and it's for my mom. I wanted it to be for her because she deserves it. She was so happy when I gave it to her. The flower wrap is very beginner tho.

If I hadn’t shared what I wanted to do with others, I’d probably still be in a blank space. I’ve learned that opening up and seeking help can draw support from those around you. Opening up is something only you can do for yourself. Despite occasional setbacks, progress is being made gradually. I hope you have supportive people in your magic ring who are ready to knit encouraging conversations with you.

Are you a hobbyist? Share how your hobbies help you deal with emptiness.