Chronicles of Yarnia welcomes new knitters

The Sea Cliff Village Library has been hosting the Chronicles of Yarnia, a knitting group focused on sharing their love for art with like minded individuals as well as bringing together the community.

The Chronicles of Yarnia have been coming to the Sea Cliff library for almost a year now and are open to the public and no prior experience in knitting is required. Although there is no specific instruction given at the event, library director Camille Purcell says everyone there is willing to give a helping hand.

“It is a very chill, open forum style program, where like minded people can come to knit or crochet,” Purcell said. “They can collaborate among each other, they can bring their works, they can come and ask questions and offer help if they have problems and there are people with more experience than others that come and lend a helping hand.”

Since the doors to the Chronicles of Yarnia opened, both Joanna Greespoon and Sherry Zipp have been helping members of the community knit and crochet, as well as work on their own projects. Zipp, one of the longest standing members of the group, has been coming to the library to create art for many years as a part of the old Fiber Arts group at the library, and says it’s always good to lend a helping hand to like-minded individuals.

“There’s something about being with like-minded people who love to come together and knit and create art work,” Zipp said.

The group has brought in new participants each week, broadening its reach and creating new connections within the local knitting community. The relaxed atmosphere has helped create new friendships, while also allowing members to enhance their skills and share creative ideas.

Knitting has been around since the early 11th century in Egypt. It was widely regarded as one of the most popular art forms amongst men and women around the 16th century. It’s continued popularity lasted until around the industrial revolution with the rise of machine-made textiles that made clothing production much faster and cheaper.

There has been a recent resurgence in the popularity of knitting recently. Many people have rediscovered the art form as a form of relaxation and self-expression. Research has shown that knitting has been enhance motor skills, reduce stress and anxiety, and even improve cognitive function.

Knitting continues to be appreciated as not only a practical skill but as a meaningful way to connect with others and contribute to ones mental well-being. Crafting groups like the Chronicles of Yarnia have played a crucial role in trying to preserving traditional skills while also encouraging social connections.

The Chronicles of Yarnia continue to meet every Friday from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Sea Cliff public library.