I would also take issue with the idea that knitting and crochet are popular because celebrities are doing them. My perspective, of course, is perhaps very limited because I live near NY. But, from what I have observed millennials are making things as a form of self-actualization. They are finding value in "slow work". They don't want mass produced items. One thing that I find fascinating is that places are emerging where people can go to make things. They are are equipped with bulky items like sewing machines and looms. At the Textile Arts Center in Brooklyn and in Manhattan, there is equipment for weaving, silk screening and all sorts of things. They teach classes there, but also people can come for studio time to use the equipment. Another millennial acquaintance of mine has found work at a Makers Lab where one may pay a yearly (or monthly?) fee to have access to all sorts of equipment, ie. a ceramic studio, a metal shop, a wood shop, and a Fiber Studio with looms. It even has 3 D printers. I find myself tempted to join just to 3 D print myself some bobbins. Where was the opportunity to go some place and for a small membership fee use a loom when I was interested in weaving, but had no way of buying a loom and dedicating a room of a house to contain it? I might be a weaver now instead of a lacemaker. Many young people I know are living in very small, often shared, accommodations. Many are not marrying and having children because they can't afford to do so. With college debt and jobs where there are no raises for the last ten years they are not in a position to start households. The birth rate in the US has never been this low since they started keeping statistics. So, people in their thirties have time to pursue gratifying and creative endeavors that give meaning to their lives. Paying for studio time is a lot cheaper than buying a house and having children. Of course, I live in a strange place. Devon
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