I was just wondering, being a male knitter (been making gloves recently) if there were any grounds for knitting being perceived as effeminate, or if it's just a silly notion people have.
2007-01-02 04:31:25 · 10 answers · asked by Simon 3 in Games & Recreation ➔ Hobbies & Crafts
It's just a silly notion.
Historically, there have been times when knitting was something men and not women did--either it was a part of their profession (making fishing nets) or it *was* their job (when knitted stockings were worn with short trousers, and rich men had to have a number of pairs).
In Waldorf schools, both boys and girls learn to knit--it's a great way to learn not just motor skills, but math, and it gives kids a break from strictly mental stuff. Here's a link to a story about men and boys who knit: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/02/04/national/main671644.shtml Pay attention to the bit about the guy who uses knitting to attract women!
There are a number of books out now by and for men who knit; Knitty.com had a special men's issue and now has a male knitting columnist; here's s site for men who knit: http://www.menknit.net/main.html
At my high school, the coolest guys started a knitting and crocheting club. They make a lot of scarves and beanies. I'm impressed that you are making gloves!
Knit on!
2007-01-02 16:58:38 · answer #1 · answered by hoptoad 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
It sounds pretty silly to me. There are men who knit, cook, sew, etc. and there's nothing wrong with that.
There are two excellent knitting podcasts put out by men who knit if you need encouragement. Sticks & String and It's a Purl, Man.
There are also a bunch of knitting blogs by men as well that you can find through the Men Who Knit blog ring.
2007-01-05 09:50:26 · answer #2 · answered by tplemel 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think that th terms masculine and feminine only apply when one hasn't been able to break the barrier of sexuality.
Do you enjoy it? Does it hurt anyone? have at it and keep doing it. I was looked at as effeminate in grade 5. that was 1985'ish.
Think about it like this for a second. A boy who plays with dolls is only practicing to be a dad. :)
2007-01-02 12:45:26 · answer #3 · answered by Eric E 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I find that a lot of the best crafters are men. I don't find that any craft is totally female. I have seen some of the best quilters, knitters, and all over crafters as men. And there is nothing wrong with a man doing it. It is good for the mind, body and soul. It is proven to be relaxing and energizing for the soul.
Go for it. Don't worry what any "manly men" might say, they are just afraid to be themselves. Good for you, need any tips let me know.
2007-01-02 15:31:05 · answer #4 · answered by Tracie B 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Get thyself away quickly from those who say knitting, or any other form of craft or handwork is effeminate. They don't deserve to know you! Enjoy that knitting!!
2007-01-05 05:06:28 · answer #5 · answered by Pat H 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It is not effeminate.
Famous football players knit
Knitting is good for your brain chemistry.
It increases seratonin production.
Stand your ground. If someone thinks it's effeminate, they are suffering from a case of ignorance.
2007-01-02 12:40:03 · answer #6 · answered by E V 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I used to do French knitting when I was a kid and now I knit my own dresses, so it hasn't really feminized me that much.
2007-01-02 12:40:45 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
aloha if you are not old enough to remember the great football player Rosie Greer(spelling?) used to knit on all his journeys between games. i believe there are plenty sports folks that knit and crochet.
2007-01-02 12:41:20 · answer #8 · answered by carey c 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have never thought that anything in which you wield pointed sticks with deadly accuracy can be considered effeminate.
2007-01-02 13:22:47 · answer #9 · answered by angk 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
A guy who can do it all...more power to you! Being capable is never effeminate.
2007-01-02 12:36:43 · answer #10 · answered by kalliope 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋