When walking into room 316 in the Millennium Student Center on Friday afternoons, students can expect to be greeted with colorful yarn strewn across tables and calm music playing in the background. Ranges of experiences can be found here, with some students bringing in creative projects, while others come excited to start learning the craft.
As president of the UMSL Crochet Club, which launched this spring semester, I wanted to create a warm and inviting space. I have been crocheting for two and a half years now, picking up the craft during a long summer when I had a lot of free time. I found that crocheting gives me the ability to create anything I want with my own hands, bringing immense fulfillment. Starting with simple squares, I quickly learned to create bags, plushies and clothing items. This spark of creativity and inner fulfillment is something I wanted to bring to UMSL’s campus by creating a collaborative environment that fosters student growth through arts and crafts.
This first semester, the Crochet Club has attracted considerable interest, with 10 to 20 students attending meetings. I believe Generation Z has grown interested in crocheting and creative outlets after being isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic. As well as a coping method, I recognize younger people’s interest in crochet as reflecting a shift away from the ultra-consumerist culture of our upbringing towards valuing handcrafted materials. Generation Z grew up encouraged to constantly consume material in a more accessible world, whether it’s new clothes, technology, or social media. In contrast to consumerist culture, crocheting is an activity that requires active focus and mindfulness to create an end product.
The Crochet Club has many upcoming events. We are currently making granny square blankets to donate to the university’s Tiny Tritons program, hosting a baby shower on April 18th for UMSL student parents. Ultimately, the Crochet Club provides students and faculty with an opportunity to nurture our community. I look forward to the unique events and opportunities that Crochet Club will weave for students in the future. If you are interested in Crochet Club or learning how to crochet, please contact me at [email protected] for more information!
