In the 21st century, many younger generations are turning back to their roots in search of happiness and fulfillment, embracing what has been termed ‘grandmacore’ or ‘granny hobbies.’
This trend, characterized by nostalgic and slower-paced activities, has particularly captivated millennial and Gen Z women.
Instead of engaging with social media after dinner, these individuals are opting for pursuits like crocheting, knitting, and cultivating vegetable gardens.
The University of Utah has recognized this growing fascination, offering 29 classes this summer through its Lifelong Learning center focusing on these charming activities.
Class offerings range from baking and watercolor painting to knitting and creating homemade bath products.
For those interested in weaving, the classes also include mastering the creation of personal bags and growing microgreens.
Patricia S. Dixon, a clinical psychologist, emphasized the mental health benefits of immersing oneself in such hobbies, highlighting the role these activities play in providing a calming escape from daily pressures.
Dixon explained that engaging in hobbies can enhance self-confidence, promote cognitive growth, and foster meaningful social interactions.
The classes, open to all adults aged 18 and older, do not require any degrees or prior experience, making them accessible for anyone keen to learn.
The bag-weaving class, partnered with the Salt Lake Weaving Studio founded by Catherine Marchant and Deanna Baugh, serves as a fantastic entry point to this ancient craft.
Weaving is often viewed as a challenging hobby due to its complexity and the significant investment needed for looms—beginner looms start around $200, while new floor looms can cost upwards of $8,000.
To counter this barrier, the studio allows students to use its looms, making the art of weaving more approachable and enjoyable.
Marchant aims to showcase the fun aspects of weaving through the university’s introductory class, encouraging participants to return for more advanced learning.
With a vibrant community surrounding the craft, students have the chance to connect with fellow learners, making the process less daunting.
Marchant highlighted that the Salt Lake City weaving community is exceptionally welcoming, with regular guild meetings providing opportunities for individuals to showcase their work and seek advice.
The diverse age range of participants, from a barely 20-year-old student to someone in their 80s, reinforces the idea that these hobbies transcend generational divides.
Practitioners come from various professional backgrounds, including doctors, engineers, and professors, hailing from different parts of Utah.
Carol Watts, who joined the university’s weaving class at a friend’s invitation, remarked on the technical aspects of weaving—reflecting both its complexity and the mental challenges it presents.
She encourages wider participation in community arts, believing it’s a valuable experience for meeting new people and acquiring new skills.
Lee Enyart noted that the class has significantly benefited her mental health, stating, “This is my therapy. It’s really nice to create something. It really helps with grieving.”
Jessica Campaign, another participant, attributed the revival of hobbies like weaving and knitting to a growing disillusionment with fast fashion and consumerism.
She observed that many are opting for items which are one-of-a-kind and meaningful instead of disposable goods, reflecting a shift towards valuing durability and uniqueness in possessions.
Campaign plans to gift her niece the woven bag she creates in class, illustrating the sentimentality associated with such handmade items.
While some may argue that granny hobbies are dying arts, Marchant vehemently disagrees, pointing to the consistent class attendance as evidence of their resurgence.
“Every single one of our university classes is full,” she reported proudly.
Furthermore, Marchant noted the omnipresence of textiles in modern life, stating, “Look around you. You are surrounded by something that’s woven.”
From medical applications to the upholstery in cars and the decor of homes, woven textiles remain a vital part of daily life, emphasizing the importance of these arts in contemporary society.
As the appeal of grandmacore continues to grow, the University of Utah stands at the forefront of this initiative, providing a nurturing space for individuals to explore their creativity and rediscover the joys of traditional hobbies.
image source from：https://www.deseret.com/education/2025/04/24/granny-hobbies-are-trending-so-much-university-of-utah-is-offering-classes/
