Why has Tom Daley become a crochet influencer?
Traditional crafts came back with a bang during lockdown and Olympic gold medallist Tom Daley was partly to thank for a surge in the popularity of crocheting and knitting in particular. His social media posts sharing his colourful creations inspired thousands of followers who had never crocheted before to pick up some needles and give it a go.
Hooked on crafting
The Olympic diver started crocheting in lockdown and has gone from strength to strength, crocheting tank tops, cardigans and jumpers and posting them on his dedicated Instagram knitting page. He even knitted a pair of swimming trunks and a holder for his gold medal, as well as a plant holder, cuddly toy for his toddler and Christmas decorations.
On trend
Tom’s popularity, combined with his ability to showcase the many things that can be crocheted, has meant that others have been buying knitting kits online and taking up crocheting as a hobby.
There are hundreds of different projects to make from specialist online retailers such as Wool Couture. They offer the chance to create a variety of items from the relatively simple, like a scarf, to more complex jumpers and other clothing.
Tom even made a copy of a designer dress for fellow influencer Sophie Lee, which followers claimed looked exactly the same as the original. And he also has his own range of knitting kits.
Charity UK Hand Knitting has more than 400 knitting groups registered. It names countless celebrities who enjoy knitting, including actors Ryan Gosling and Meryl Streep and singers Madonna and Lily Allen.
Sales of yarn hugely increased back in the 2020 lockdown as people discovered the meditative joys of knitting. And they look set to continue as shoppers turn away from fast fashion and the cost-of-living crisis bites.
