Crochet, the art of creating textiles, clothing, decor materials by using a hook to interlock loops of yarn. This was the popular hobby of women (and men?) of years past. Man of the house left home for work while his wife tended the house. When everything was in order in the household, the wife prepared her set of crochet hooks and balls of yarn ready to sit in the tumba-tumba or rocking chair positioned near the window. She started to crochet, the pattern etched in her mind. When the husband came home in time for dinner, he was delighted to find a freshly crocheted table runner adorning the dining table. A labor of love that lasted for generations. In no time, the household was decorated with crochet materials that added to the coziness of the home — curtain, piano cover, tablecloth, placemat, coasters, center table or flower base liner, refrigerator topper, pot holder — in a variety of designs and colors.
Today, we seldom see this kind of home decor anymore. If there are some left of crochet materials, they are usually hidden in the aparador or closet. These are usually what is left of our lola’s heirloom, handed down to our mom which most of us have ‘inherited.’
If only today’s generation can learn how to crochet instead of just playing mobile games or tinkering in their smartphones. Because the art of crochet is an enjoyable and creative way that may benefit mental health, which most of the young suffer from. It can help relieve stress, lessen anxiety, improve hand-eye coordination, stimulate brain activity, boost self-esteem, make one feel good.
Have you still some antique or vintage crochet pamana left from your great granny? If you haven’t, why not start making one or more for your children and grandkids to enjoy and cherish in the years to come.
