There is a “connotation of crocheting being a granny activity,” said Club Founder and President, Chelsea Carlson, 9th.
There is a “connotation of crocheting being a granny activity,” said Club Founder and President, Chelsea Carlson, 9th.
The group was formed organically when a student in Mrs. Cleveland's 7th hour Spanish One class around two months ago after a classmate brought crocheting material to class. Instantly, Mrs. Cleavland noted that she crocheted too and thought that it was just her beloved pastime, that teens today were uninterested in. However, several other students showed their interest in the activity. Once they realized how many students were interested in crochet, they decided that a club would be fun and beneficial.
When I heard of the club, I knew I would like it, " said Micayla Edkin, 9th
Like Micayala, many people showed interest and attended the first meeting where seating was limited and there was a range of abilities of crocheters present. The Club understands that many people may not know how to crochet and or want a little bit more of a guided direction. However, Micayla says that once you get the hang of things; it’s easy and comes naturally.
“I didn’t learn to crochet in the class. I used to do it when I was like eight or nine with my grandma. Then I kinda fell out of it. But now that it’s a hobby of mine again, I'm excited,” said Micayla.
Micayla uses templates she finds on pinterest and other places on the internet. These templates have how many stitches you need, how to make it look clean and well put together. She uses these to make sure she’s on track while still being able to add her own touch.
Although Micayla stopped crocheting for a handful of years, she compares the skill to riding a bike.
“After I stopped and restarted, I could still crochet like before. It wasn’t hard to pick back up. Which is kind of nice cause I know it's a skill I will have for forever,” she said.
Although the club hasn’t had many meetings, the group has made many things like blankets for shelters, hats, gloves, baby hats for hospitals and lap blankets for nursing homes; things that people need that are also nicer when handmade.
According to Chelsea, here are some Club Goals (in no particular order):
Normalize crocheting (it’s not only for grandma’s)
Create a sense of community for people to come together
Promote other people's work either through displays or promotion of small businesses
Donate creations to those in need