“I just love it”: Avid knitters describe health and well-being through occupation

Abstract

Background. Examining craft-based occupations is necessary to explicate the relationship between occupation and well-being. Purpose. This study aimed to understand the role of knitting in the lives of passionate knitters and their experience of how knitting contributes to health, well-being, and occupational identity. Method. Principles of phenomenology guided interviews with 21 knitting-guild members (with and without health conditions) and observations at seven guild meetings as well as guided the data analysis. Eight interviewees and 24 additional guild members confirmed key findings in writing. Findings. Five main themes capture how knitting (a) “makes me happy,” (b) is “the mental challenge I need,” (c) is “a hobby that joins” through social connections and skill development, (d) sustains identity such that “I can’t imagine life without knitting,” and (e) is a creative outlet “reflecting my personality.” Implications. This in-depth description of how knitters experience their craft in daily life bolsters the philosophical assumption that favoured occupations have the power to promote health and well-being.