The Benefits of Knitting: How Playing with Yarn Can Be Good for You

Knitting is not for just one or two types of people. Men and women of all ages and backgrounds can benefit from this needle craft.

Playing with yarn has all sorts of benefits. The best reasons to knit include:

-Relaxation. Once you figure out how to knit basic stitches and patterns, you can relax and really enjoy this hobby. Many knitters use this craft to calm down and relax, which is great for your overall health.

-Financial savings. If you can knit a beanie, you don't have to pay ten or twenty bucks for one anymore. And you aren't stuck with the styles and patterns in your local stores, either: you can create your very own with any type of yarn or pattern that you want.

-Flexible spending. You don't have to spend lots of money to knit - but you can if you really want! Basic yarn, needles and other supplies are cheap: twenty dollars can get you started.

-Accomplishment. Learning a new skill or craft makes most people feel good about themselves. This is particularly true when your friends and family admire your knitting projects!

-Creative outlet. Even if you don't think of yourself as a "creative type," you can still express yourself by knitting. Design your own patterns. Choose your own colors. Make your own shapes. You're in control of your knitting.

-Being different in a cool way. Even though knitting is becoming more popular, especially among younger people, you'll still stand out a little because you knit. This is a lot better than being noticed for the wrong reasons.

-Handmade gifts. With practice and perseverance, you can learn how to make beautiful gifts for your family and friends. Scarves, caps and blankets are just a few of the hand-crafted items that you can give to your loved ones.

-Giving back to society. Many charitable organizations want your knitting! Make caps for premature infants at your local hospital. Knit scarves for women's shelters and the homeless. Help make an afghan or blanket for AIDS patients. You won't have to look long or hard to find a charity that you can help.

There are many other great reasons to take up knitting. Some might not apply to you, but some will. If you find that you like - or even love - knitting, you'll find more things to appreciate about it as you go. And if you become a yarn addict, as many knitters do, you'll probably try to get other people involved in this hobby as well.