Did you know there’s a special day just for crochet lovers like us? It’s called International Crochet Day, and it happens every year on September 12th.

Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been crocheting for years like I have, this day is all about celebrating the art we love.

For me, crocheting is a fun and relaxing hobby that lets me make everything from scarves to stuffed animals.

And I know I’m not alone, people all over the world take time on this day to share their love for yarn, hooks, and handmade treasures.

Crocheting isn’t just about making pretty things; it’s also good for the mind and body. I find that it helps me focus, unwind, and feel proud of what I’ve created with my own two hands.

In this blog, I’ll share how International Crochet Day got started, some creative ways we can celebrate, and how crochet brings people together no matter where they live. Let’s get started!

What Is International Crochet Day?

International Crochet Day is a fun day for anyone who enjoys crocheting. It’s celebrated every year on September 12th.

The day was started in 2007 by a man named Jimbo, who wanted to help more people learn about and enjoy the art of crochet.

This special day is all about celebrating creativity and community. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or have been crocheting for years; everyone is welcome.

You can spend the day working on a new project, teaching someone else how to crochet, or just enjoying the peaceful feeling of stitching.

It’s a time to feel proud of your handmade work and connect with others who love crochet too.

How to Celebrate International Crochet Day

There are so many fun and meaningful ways to celebrate International Crochet Day.

If you want to spend it alone with your yarn or share it with others, this day is all about enjoying the craft and feeling part of a bigger community.

You don’t need anything fancy to join in, just a hook, some yarn, and your love for crochet.

1. Try a New Crochet Pattern

One of the easiest ways to celebrate is by starting a new project. Pick a pattern you’ve never tried before.

Maybe a new stitch, a cute amigurumi animal, or a cozy scarf. This is a great time to challenge yourself and learn something new. There are tons of free patterns online that you can download and follow step-by-step.

2. Share Your Work Online

Use social media to post pictures of your crochet projects. Tag them with #InternationalCrochetDay so others can see what you’ve made.

You can even scroll through the hashtag to see what people around the world are working on. It’s a fun way to connect and get new ideas. Don’t worry if your project isn’t perfect; everyone starts somewhere, and progress is something to be proud of!

3. Teach Someone to Crochet

If you have a friend, family member, or even a child who wants to learn, this is the perfect day to teach them.

You can start with the basics, like holding the hook and making a chain. Teaching someone else can remind you how much you love crochet, and it helps keep the craft alive for future generations.

4. Join a Crochet Group or Event

Look for local events or online crochet-alongs (CALs). These are fun group projects where everyone follows the same pattern and shares updates.

Some yarn shops or libraries might host in-person crochet events. If you can’t find one near you, try joining a crochet Facebook group or checking out Instagram Lives or YouTube streams from other crafters.

5. Donate Your Creations

Use this day to give back. Many charities accept handmade crochet items like hats, scarves, or baby blankets.

Check with local hospitals, shelters, or animal rescues to see what they need. Your handmade gift could bring comfort to someone who really needs it. It’s a thoughtful way to use your skills for good.

6. Support Small Yarn Businesses

If you’re shopping for supplies, consider buying from small yarn shops or online sellers who hand-dye or hand-spin their yarn.

Supporting these small businesses helps the crochet community grow. Plus, you might find some beautiful, unique yarn you wouldn’t see at a big store.

Celebrating International Crochet Day doesn’t have to be big or fancy. It’s all about doing what makes you happy with your hook and yarn.

Global Crochet Traditions: International Crochet Day

Crochet isn’t just popular in one country; it’s loved all around the world. People from different cultures have been using hooks and yarn for generations.

Even though the tools and styles may be a little different, the heart of crochet is the same everywhere: creating something beautiful with your hands.

In Ireland, crochet became popular during the 1800s when people made lace to earn money. Irish lace is very detailed and fancy, and it’s still admired today. Some people still use the old patterns that were passed down through families.

In Japan, crochet is very neat and organized. One special style from Japan is called amigurumi, which means small, stuffed animals or toys. These cute little creations are often made with bright colors and simple shapes. Many people love to collect them.

In South America, especially in Peru and Brazil, crochet is often full of bold, bright colors. You’ll see people making bags, blankets, and clothes with beautiful patterns that reflect their culture and environment. Sometimes the designs are passed down through generations.

In Africa, many artists are using crochet as a way to tell stories. They mix traditional African colors and symbols into their work. In some areas, crochet also helps women start their own businesses and support their families.

Every place has its own special twist, but they all share a love for yarn and creativity.

Popular Crochet Events Around the World

People who love crochet often come together to share, learn, and create. There are lots of fun crochet events, both big and small.

• One popular event is World Wide Knit in Public Day, where people take their yarn outdoors to show others how fun and relaxing yarn crafts can be. It happens every June and encourages people to connect and make friends.
• Some countries have crochet festivals, where people gather to shop for yarn, take classes, and show off their projects.
• In the United Kingdom, yarn shows like Yarndale bring thousands of fiber lovers together each year. In the United States, events like Stitches Expo and Vogue Knitting Live include crochet workshops, too.
• Online crochet events have also become very popular. There are crochet-alongs (CALs) that you can join from anywhere in the world. Everyone works on the same pattern at the same time and shares their progress online.

Learning about crochet traditions from other places helps us appreciate the craft even more. It shows us that crochet is more than just a hobby; it’s a way people connect, share stories, and support one another.

When you take part in crochet events, whether in your town or online, you’re joining a worldwide family of makers.

So on International Crochet Day, remember that you’re part of something big. People from every corner of the world are holding their hooks, pulling yarn through loops, and adding beauty to the world, one stitch at a time.

Benefits of Crocheting

Crocheting isn’t just a fun hobby; it also comes with some amazing benefits for your mind and body. Some simple but powerful ways crocheting can help you feel better, stay focused, and enjoy your free time are:

1. It Helps You Relax: Crocheting has a calming effect. The repeated motion of pulling loops through yarn can help slow your thoughts and ease stress. It’s a great way to unwind after a long day.

2. It Boosts Your Mood: Finishing a crochet project gives you a sense of achievement. Even small wins, like learning a new stitch, can make you feel proud and happy.

3. It Keeps Your Mind Sharp: Following patterns and counting stitches keeps your brain active. It helps improve focus, memory, and problem-solving skills, which is good for people of all ages.

4. It Improves Hand Strength: Crocheting works the small muscles in your hands and fingers. This can help improve grip and hand movement, especially for older adults or people who want better coordination.

5. It’s Great for Fighting Boredom: Crocheting gives you something creative to do with your time. Whether you’re waiting for an appointment or relaxing at home, it’s a great way to stay busy and avoid boredom.

6. It Connects You with Others: Many people join crochet groups online or in person. Sharing your projects and learning from others is a great way to make friends and feel part of a community.

7. It Encourages Patience: Crochet teaches you to slow down and take your time. You might make mistakes, but you’ll also learn to fix them and keep going. That’s a good life skill, too!

Conclusion

International Crochet Day is the perfect time to celebrate a craft that brings so much joy, peace, and creativity to people around the world.

If you’re a beginner or have been crocheting for years, this day is all about enjoying the process, sharing your work, and connecting with others who love yarn just as much as you do.

From learning new stitches to teaching a friend or donating a handmade gift, there are so many ways to take part.

Crocheting isn’t just a hobby; it’s a way to relax, feel proud, and be part of a caring community. So grab your favorite hook and yarn, and make something special today.

Share your creations, spread the word, and enjoy every stitch. On September 12th and beyond, let’s celebrate the beauty of crochet and all the wonderful things it brings into our lives.