How traditional crafts are bringing generations together, and why we’re all reaching for the yarn again.
The Great Hobby Revival
Across the UK, more people are rediscovering the joy of crafting. What used to be seen as a pastime for older generations has found new life in living rooms, cafés, and online communities everywhere.
Our research shows a sharp rise in online searches over the last decade:
- ‘Crochet pattern’ searches are up 85%
- ‘Crocheting’ up 80%
- ‘Pottery’ up 87%
- ‘How to crochet’ up 27%
These crafts are back in fashion, but more importantly, they’re helping people relax, connect, and express themselves.
“It’s wonderful to see how older generations are inspiring a new wave of creativity,” says Sam Mayes, Managing Director of Agincare live-in care service.
“Many of the hobbies we once thought of as ‘old-fashioned’ are now being embraced by younger people who see the joy, mindfulness, and community these activities bring. It’s a beautiful example of generations learning from one another.”
Social Media Gets Crafty
It’s not just something happening quietly at home. Platforms like TikTok are full of creative energy, with millions sharing videos of their handmade work.
Between 2023 and 2025:
- #Crochet views grew by 145%
- #Knitting views grew by 176%
- #BakingTok views surged by 130%
From pottery wheels to crochet hooks, more people are celebrating the joy of making something with their own hands. These figures show that traditional hobbies are thriving, not disappearing.
This rise is fuelled not only by traditional crafters but also by young influencers who are bringing handmade skills to huge new audiences. For example, @crochetby.mel, who shares colourful crochet tutorials and cosy project inspiration, has attracted over 3,000 followers and more than 18,000 likes, showing just how much appetite there is for relaxing, skill-based content.
Similarly, knitting creator @holmespun, known for her warm aesthetic and easy-to-follow knitting videos, has grown a community of more than 1,400 followers and 400,000 likes, proving that slow craft resonates strongly with Gen Z and millennials.
Over in the baking world, @_poppycarr delights her audience with nostalgic home-baking recipes and creative cake designs, building a following of around 145,000 followers and nearly 9 million likes. Together, they exemplify how handmade hobbies have become social media phenomena.
“We’re seeing a fascinating shift where older adults are becoming unexpected influencers,” adds Sam.
“Videos of grandparents teaching crochet, baking or pottery are going viral, not just because of the craft itself, but because people are drawn to the warmth, patience and skill of those who’ve spent a lifetime perfecting it.”
“It shows that social media can be a space for sharing wisdom as well as trends and that creativity doesn’t have an age limit.”
From Nostalgia to Mindfulness
The growing interest in crafts reflects a wider shift. People want to slow down, take a break from screens, and find meaning in small, mindful activities.
At Agincare, we see how creative hobbies help people stay connected, boost wellbeing, and bring joy to everyday life, whether that’s in one of our care homes, through live-in care, or in supported living.
“Creative activities are so important as we age,” says Sam.
“They keep the mind active, support fine motor skills, and give people a sense of purpose. But perhaps most importantly, they bring joy, whether that’s through creating something new or teaching someone else how to do it.”
“When older people share their skills, it’s empowering. They see their experience valued, and younger generations gain something real and lasting in return.”
Join the Movement
Whether you’re picking up your first pair of knitting needles or helping someone rediscover a favourite craft, there’s joy in making something by hand. It’s never too late, or too early, to start.
About Agincare
Agincare is a leading independent care provider which delivers a wide range of fully managed and flexible care options nationwide, all tailored and designed for each person’s individual needs.
Since 1986 we’ve remained a family-owned care provider, trusted by thousands of individuals to deliver reliable, high-quality care every day. We are regulated by the Care Quality Commission and provide a range of care options, from residential care to personlised support at home, live-in care, supported living and children’s services.