Perfect for winter! Easy yarn crafts for seniors
Yarn is something that’s often used in handicrafts, isn’t it?
Especially in winter, many people probably knit scarves and gloves with yarn.
Handicrafts might sound a bit difficult, but this time I’d like to introduce some easy yarn crafts for seniors that can be made using yarn.
The materials can be easily found at 100-yen shops and the like, so they’re recommended.
There aren’t many difficult steps, so even those who aren’t good with fine work can give them a try.
Enjoy creating charming pieces that only soft, fluffy yarn can offer.
Perfect for winter! Easy yarn crafts for seniors (1–10)
coaster
Crafting is fun, isn’t it? Making coasters with yarn is a great DIY project for seniors, too.
You can easily make them using cardboard.
It’s almost like weaving, and it might bring back memories.
Threading and knitting with yarn use your fingertips, which can help stimulate the brain.
The finished coasters are perfect not only for your own use but also as gifts for someone special.
Choose yarn in your favorite colors and create a one-of-a-kind piece.
It’s also wonderful to make them together with everyone and have fun.
Heart Pom Pom
Here’s an idea for making a “heart” out of yarn pom-poms.
You can use it as a keychain or ornament, so why not give it a try? First, wrap yarn around a fork 20 times.
If you don’t have a fork, a small piece of cut cardboard will also work.
After wrapping, slide it off and tie the middle with another piece of yarn to bundle it.
Cut through the loops with scissors and trim it into a round shape.
Make three of these.
On one of the three, thread another piece of yarn through the knot to create a loop.
Glue the other two pom-poms to the upper right and upper left of the pom-pom with the loop, and trim with scissors into a heart shape to finish!
bracelet
Let me share an idea for a bracelet you can make by knitting with yarn.
You won’t use knitting needles—just your hands.
First, make a loop at the end of the yarn and place it over your thumb.
Take the yarn connected to the ball and, starting from your index finger to your pinky, wrap it in the sequence front, back, front over each finger.
When you reach your pinky, go back in the opposite direction from your pinky to your index finger, again wrapping the yarn front, back, front over each finger.
Next, pull the yarn connected to the ball to the right and lay it along the base of your fingers.
Then, pull the yarn that’s on each finger forward and lift it over the finger so it passes underneath.
Repeat this process to continue knitting.
Once it’s the length you like, cut the yarn from the ball, tie the two ends together, and your bracelet is complete!
Knitting with cardboard
Knitting with cardboard sounds interesting.
It seems like something older adults could enjoy as well.
It’s very simple: make slits in a rectangular piece of cardboard and hook the yarn over them.
When threading the yarn, alternate over and under to create a neat checkered pattern.
Once you’re done, just tie off the ends to finish.
You can make scarves or neck warmers, which are perfect for the cold season.
Moving your fingers also helps stimulate the brain.
It sounds like a fun way to spend time while creating warm, cozy pieces with fluffy yarn.
pom-pom
Pom-poms are an easy craft that’s perfect for the winter season.
Since you use yarn, they feel soft and cozy.
Because you make them with a fork, older adults can enjoy the activity safely.
All you do is wrap the yarn, tie the middle, and cut with scissors, so it also serves as good hand exercise.
The finished pom-poms look lovely as straps or keychains.
It might be fun to combine a few to make a heart shape, too.
It’s also nice to enjoy pleasant conversation while making them together with older adults.
flower(s)
As a craft activity for seniors using familiar materials, here’s a method for making flowers with yarn.
Using the fingertips stimulates the brain and can help prevent dementia.
Yarn is easy to obtain and familiar to many older adults, which can also lead to reminiscing about the past.
The flowers are simple and safe to make, though care is needed when using needles.
The finished flowers can be enjoyed as brooches or bag decorations.
It’s also nice to make them together with seniors while enjoying lively conversation.
arm warmers
This is knitting using a loom that’s also sold at 100-yen shops.
This time, let’s make arm warmers! Knitted arm warmers are handy for walks and outings.
Once you learn the technique, they’re easy to make and suitable for older adults as well.
To make them, wind the yarn around a circular knitting loom and knit.
Creating the thumb opening and removing the piece from the loom require a bit of technique.
If it seems difficult for an older person, please support them by making it together.
