Getting creative on a Daley basis is sew good for men
More blokes need to follow swim star Tom and find head space with a pair of needles, learns Anna Burnside
HOLD on to your crochet hooks, June is Men’s Health Month and the nation is suffering an epidemic of mental health issues – yet blokes are missing an obvious way of managing stress and feeling better.
Mental health charity MIND has found that 43 per cent of men in the UK regularly feel worried or low.
Yet a survey by LoveCrafts shows that only eight per cent of men do any creative activities – one of the most sure-fire ways to feel better.
The Craft Council has explored the science behind this, finding that art-based hobbies enhance our wellbeing by releasing dopamine. This improves our quality of life and cognitive flexibility.
Diver Tom Daley agrees and says that doing just 10 minutes of daily knitting and crocheting has improved his mental wellbeing.
Edward Griffith, founder of LoveCrafts, said: “Crafting has the feel-good factor.
“When we make something with our own hands, it leaves us feeling relaxed, fulfilled, and proud.
“Whatever craft you do, knitting, crochet, embroidery, you name it, the effects on both mental and physical health have long been felt.
“We’re here to help makers find all the materials and instructions at their fingertips, so they can live a life full of making.”
So what type of needlework is your life needing?
KNITTING
Men have a long history of making their own jumpers and socks – sailors and lighthousekeepers had time on their hands and a need for warm clothing.
Textile designer Kaffe Fassett designs patterns as well as needlepoint and quilts. In Shetland, Gordon Cree sells knitted hats and other garments online under the brand Man-Knitted. It had a surge in popularity in lockdown and now online wool artists like Vincent Williams jnr share their wares on Instagram.
CROCHET
Knitters including Tom Daley also have crochet in their repertoire. It uses a single hook instead of a needle. It’s popular for making small, decorative items which are quicker than a knitting project. The internet is awash with great ideas for crocheting everything from rude cacti to adorable Baby Yodas.
These weekend-friendly projects don’t require a huge outlay on yarn, making them great way to begin.
EMBROIDERY
Forget ladies in Jane Austen novels doing a little needlework before they marry, there is a whole world of creative stitching out there.
Beginners can order a kit. The pattern is stamped on the canvas, and the threads, needles and the hoop required to hold the fabric tight are provided.
The website etsy.com is full of groovy ideas. Those with poor eyesight can also join in – if tiny stitches on fine fabric are too fiddly, try a coarser plastic canvas and a thicker needle.