Get Your Granny On

"Granny Hobbies" are trending for those nowhere near old enough to be grannies. Factors driving twenty-somethings to their granny era include digital fatigue, a desire to slow down, and a renewed interest in real-life experiences whether solo or with others. Logging off to hang with your knitting group, garden, bake, or enjoy a game of mahjong with friends can offer relaxation, a sense of connection and purpose, and often tangible results, like a handmade sweater or a backyard of beautiful irises. Whether you're trying to capture some granny joy or you're motivated to start a new cool hobby, the Library has plenty of books to help you along.  

Knitting and crocheting have never really gone out of style, but embroidery and cross stitch are making a comeback with a younger demographic in a big way. Check out Emilie Ferris' Paint With Thread, featuring gorgeous nature-inspired embroidery patterns.

If you've ever wondered if you should try you hand at canning while perusing homemade jams at the local farmer's market, the answer is yes. Put your mason jars to use for more than cold drinks with The All New Ball Book of Canning and Preserving.

Board games, jigsaw puzzles, card games, and yes, Mahjong, are bringing people together for quality time in real life time together. Once you get yourself a stunning set of Mahjong tiles, invite your friends over for a game or two. The Great Mahjong Book will get you started and provide some entertaining history along with the rules of the game.

If you're looking for a hobby to take outdoors, explore gardening in your backyard, small space, or just a few pots. For the Love of Plants will provide you with information on plants, their care, and also design inspiration. 

Another hip hobby that will take you outside is birdwatching. Direct your attention and binoculars to the many avian friends around us that you may not have yet noticed. Birdwatching Guide can get you started, but also recommend is actress Lili Taylor's Turning to Birds, a captivating book of essays on birdwatching and the art of noticing what surrounds us.

For the past few years, macrame has made it's way back into trendy interiors. Macrame is a helpful guide featuring attractive illustrations for those that are interested in this textile art. 

Let us know your favorite granny hobby is in the comments.