It’s that time of year again, where people are talking about New Year’s resolutions – but not me!
Personally, I prefer to take the more positive and generally more achievable view, that January lends itself to new opportunities – it’s a chance for us to broaden our horizons and to try something different. With the hustle and bustle of Christmas over, but the cold weather still here, it’s a great time to take up a new hobby that can be done indoors, or to develop an existing one.
This quote from Dr. Avril Gabriel sums up my feelings about new year:
‘Throughout life we will evolve and move forward… The aim should not be “new year, new you.” Working on ourselves should not mean scrapping the great things that are already present within us and starting from scratch. You will undoubtedly still be you in the new year, and the gift of being you means that you already have a good foundation to continue building on, acknowledge this and use it.’ (Counselling Directory)
To me, life is all about learning, evolving and growing, but in our own time and at our own pace.
What are the health benefits of learning a new skill?
Stepping outside of our comfort zone to learn a new skill may feel a little daunting at first, but once we’ve taken those first few steps, it can often feel exhilarating, satisfying and have a positive impact on our mental health too.
‘Research shows that learning new skills can also improve your mental wellbeing by:
- boosting self-confidence and raising self-esteem
- helping you to build a sense of purpose
- helping you to connect with others’ (NHS)
Why choose yarn crafts?
What I love about yarn crafts is their inclusivity. Yarn crafting really is accessible to everyone. Whether you are a total beginner (learning to knit and making a scarf) or you have years of experience in tackling more intricate projects and designs, there is so much variety in terms of what you can make and skills that can be developed. It’s never too late to learn something new.
The beauty of knitting and crocheting in Winter, is that you also get to wear what you’ve made straightaway. I’m a great believer in crafting for a purpose. It’s so satisfying to create something unique that you enjoy making and wearing and that can also keep you warm, like a bobble hat, a knitted jumper, a crocheted cardigan or a cosy scarf.
Yarn craft for beginners
My upcoming workshops can help you to unleash your creativity. You will learn new skills and get the support that you need to master them and grow your confidence with knitting or crocheting.
If you live in Lichfield, join my small group, in-person sessions, running once a month for 6 months. I can take you from a bee-ginner to a crochet or knitting queen!
If you prefer a one-off session, those are available too, the next crochet one is the 18th March, and knitting on the 29th January but I may be adding more due to demand!
You can also book one-to-one sessions with me, or join my online or in-person Craft Hive sessions – for social time with like-minded crafters.
Workshops for the intermediate or more experienced crocheter or knitter
If you are already comfortable with crochet or knitting and want to extend your skills or try something new, I am launching new, intermediate level courses, including more advanced techniques to help you level up your crafting. Keep your eyes peeled for these!
You can also book to join Craft Hive; online or in-person sessions, where like-minded crafters get together to craft, chat and share tips and ideas.
Children’s workshops
Look out for my pop-up, children’s workshops. Whether your child is naturally creative, or needs a lot of support, my in-person workshops can help them to go from a ball of yarn, to a creation that they can be really proud of. As a former teacher and a mum of two boys, I’m used to working with groups of children and helping them to learn and achieve, while having fun and being creative.
You can have a good browse of all the options of working with me on the main website.
References
‘New year, new you’: The New Year’s resolution trap’ Dr. Avril Gabriel, PsychD, CPsychol, published 20/12/21, Counselling Directory
‘5 steps to mental wellbeing’ NHS