Let's be honest - we all love that calming rhythm of crochet. There's something so satisfying about creating something beautiful from just yarn and a hook.
But here's what I've discovered: crochet pairs amazingly well with other hobbies! Whether you want to boost your creativity, relax even more, or just make the most of your crafting time, combining crochet with another activity can be a total game-changer.
Let me share some of my favorite hobby combinations that work beautifully with crochet.
1. Audiobooks and Podcasts (My Personal Favorite!)
This one's a no-brainer for me. Crochet is often repetitive - especially during those long stretches of single crochet on a blanket. Your hands are busy, but your mind is free to wander.
Here's what I love doing:
- Queue up a long fantasy series while working on big projects like afghans
- Listen to educational podcasts (I'm obsessed with learning new things while I stitch!)
- Try calming soundscapes during more complex patterns when I need to focus
My go-to audiobook services:
I've tried a bunch of different apps, but I keep coming back to Audible and Everand (formerly Scribd). Here's why they work so well for my crochet sessions:
Audible gives you one credit each month, which is perfect for those really long fantasy series I mentioned. Plus, their Plus catalog has tons of free books - I've discovered some amazing titles I never would have picked up otherwise.
Everand is my other favorite. For a monthly fee, you get access to a huge library of audiobooks. I love browsing through their collection when I'm starting a new project. And if you're like me and go through books quickly, they have an upgrade option that gives you even more free books each month.
Pro tip: Most audiobook apps let you bookmark sections, so you can mark your spot if you need to count stitches or take a break to check your pattern.
2. Coffee and Tea Time
If you're like me, crochet already feels like a cozy ritual. So why not make it even better with your favorite warm drink?
I've started creating little "crochet and coffee" moments where I try a new blend each week. It's become my favorite way to unwind after a long day.
Try this:
- Set up a small tea or coffee station near your crafting spot - I've had this tea kettle for a while as well as this Ninja coffee maker that you can use grounds or pods with
- Keep a little notebook where you jot down your favorite drink and project pairings - this is a super fun book for coffee enthusiasts to track all those yummy coffee drinks
- Just avoid super dark drinks when working with light-colored yarn (learned that one the hard way!)
3. Project Journaling
As crocheters, we're already pretty organized with our patterns and yarn stash. Taking it one step further with journaling just makes sense.
I started keeping a simple crochet journal, and it's become one of my favorite parts of finishing a project.
What I track:
- Yarn type and hook size used
- Pattern source and any modifications I made
- How the project turned out (and what I'd do differently next time)
- Sometimes I even tape in a little yarn sample!
Bonus idea: Use a bullet journal to map out your crochet goals for the year. Want to learn Tunisian crochet? Planning a temperature blanket? Write it down!
4. Photography (Show Off Those Finished Projects!)
After spending weeks on a project, don't you want to capture it in the best light possible? I've gotten really into photographing my finished pieces, and it's helped me see my work in a whole new way.
Simple photography tips:
- Use natural light whenever possible (near a window is perfect)
- Try flat-lay photos to show off stitch detail
- Create a little "photo shoot" setup for your finished items
The best part: You'll have a beautiful digital record of all your hard work, plus photos to share on social media if you want to show off your skills!
5. Creative Writing
This might sound unusual, but hear me out. Crochet really gets my creative juices flowing, and I've found that writing complements it perfectly.
Fun writing ideas:
- Give your amigurumi characters names and backstories (I'd read that!)
- Write about the memories attached to your projects (like that scarf you made for your daughter)
- Start a simple blog about your crochet journey
Even if you just jot down a few thoughts about each project, you'll be amazed at how much deeper your connection to your work becomes.
6. Language Learning
Since crochet doesn't require much verbal focus, it's actually the perfect time to train your ear for a new language!
Easy ways to combine them:
- Use language apps with audio lessons during simple projects
- Listen to beginner podcasts in your target language
- Learn crochet terms in another language (Japanese crochet charts are absolutely beautiful!)
Keep it simple - just 10-15 minutes a day while you crochet can really add up over time.
7. Gardening (My Spring Obsession!)
If you love the slow, nurturing pace of crochet, you'll probably love gardening too. Both hobbies teach patience and reward you with something beautiful.
How they work together:
- Crochet garden accessories like plant hangers or sun hats
- Take your crochet outside and work in the fresh air
- Try natural plant-based yarn dyeing with flowers from your garden
There's something really grounding about crocheting surrounded by plants and fresh air. My cozy little crochet corner includes lots and lots of plants! It's my happy place.
Ready to Try a New Combination?
Crochet is already such a rewarding hobby, but pairing it with something else can open up whole new levels of creativity and relaxation.
Whether you're sipping coffee, listening to a Spanish lesson, or documenting your latest project in a handmade journal, you're creating your own unique rhythm of inspiration.
Start small: Pick one combination that sounds appealing and try it for a week. You might just discover your next favorite way to spend an evening!
Looking for more crochet inspiration? Follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for daily pattern ideas and tips! And if you're ready to tackle a new project, check out our collection of free crochet patterns perfect for trying out these hobby combinations.
