GITNUXREPORT 2025

Knitting Statistics

Global knitting market valued at $5.3 billion, growing worldwide, popular, stress-relieving.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

Approximately 60% of knitters in the United States are women

Statistic 2

The average age of knitters in the UK is 45 years old

Statistic 3

The most popular yarn weight among hobby knitters is worsted weight

Statistic 4

The number of active knitting groups increased by 15% globally during the COVID-19 pandemic

Statistic 5

78% of knitters in the US learned the craft from family members

Statistic 6

The average knitter owns approximately 24 unique skeins of yarn

Statistic 7

The most common project among beginners is scarves, followed by hats and mittens

Statistic 8

55% of knitters prefer circular needles over straight needles

Statistic 9

The popularity of knitting podcasts has increased by 200% since 2019

Statistic 10

70% of knitting teachers report an increase in class enrollment every year

Statistic 11

The most popular knitting pattern worldwide is the simple garter stitch

Statistic 12

65% of knitters have learned new techniques via online tutorials

Statistic 13

The average duration to complete a basic knitted scarf is 8 hours

Statistic 14

Women account for approximately 85% of all knitting-related social media content creators

Statistic 15

The average knitter spends approximately 4 hours per week on their craft

Statistic 16

The most common method of dyeing yarn used by hobby knitters is hand-dyeing at home

Statistic 17

Over 25 million people in Europe participate in knitting or crochet activities

Statistic 18

77% of hobby knitters are interested in creating sustainable or eco-friendly projects

Statistic 19

The average lifetime of hand-knitted garments is approximately 10 years with proper care

Statistic 20

The share of men involved in knitting activities is growing, now representing approximately 15% of all hobby knitters

Statistic 21

The average cost of knitting classes varies from $25 to $75 per session, depending on location and level

Statistic 22

68% of hobby knitters prefer to knit during leisure activities such as watching TV or listening to music

Statistic 23

The average number of knitting projects completed per hobbyist per year is 12

Statistic 24

Decorative knitting techniques, such as embroidery and embellishments on garments, are used by 25% of advanced knitters

Statistic 25

The majority of knitting patterns sold online are classified as beginner or intermediate difficulty, accounting for over 70% of total sales

Statistic 26

The most common knitting accessories beyond needles include stitch markers, row counters, and yarn organizers, used by 80% of knitters

Statistic 27

The average number of years a professional knitter has been in the business is 12 years

Statistic 28

Over 50% of all knitting events worldwide are now held virtually, due to increased digital adoption

Statistic 29

43% of knitting patterns are now designed specifically for sustainable and eco-conscious consumers

Statistic 30

The average age of new knitters in recent years has decreased to 32, indicating a youthful resurgence

Statistic 31

Knitting-related search queries on Google increased by 250% during the pandemic lockdown periods, indicating rising interest

Statistic 32

80% of knitting educators report an increase in adult enrollment compared to previous years

Statistic 33

The most common knitting technique among advanced crafters is stranded colorwork, used by 45% of experienced knitters

Statistic 34

The average project completion rate among hobbyists is approximately 80%, indicating high project follow-through

Statistic 35

The demand for personalized knitting patterns has increased by 40% as consumers seek unique designs

Statistic 36

The average price point for commercially sold hand-knit sweaters is around $150, reflecting the labor-intensive process

Statistic 37

About 65% of knitters prefer natural fibers over synthetic ones

Statistic 38

The use of sustainable and eco-friendly yarns increased by 50% from 2018 to 2022

Statistic 39

The most popular type of yarn for baby garments is acrylic due to its softness and affordability

Statistic 40

The global demand for eco-friendly yarns is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% until 2028

Statistic 41

Knitting yarns made from recycled fibers are among the fastest-growing segments in the industry, with sales increasing by 35% from 2019 to 2022

Statistic 42

The sustainable knitting movement has led to a 60% increase in demand for organic cotton and hemp yarns

Statistic 43

The average knitting project consumes about 3 to 5 skeins of yarn, depending on the item

Statistic 44

The record for the largest knitted blanket measures over 1000 square meters

Statistic 45

The fastest knitting record is completing a pair of socks in under 2 hours

Statistic 46

The use of digital tools has improved pattern design efficiency by over 60% among professional knitters

Statistic 47

The oldest known knitted item dates back to the 11th century, found in Egypt

Statistic 48

Artificial intelligence tools are beginning to assist knitting pattern design, with 10% of professional designers adopting such solutions

Statistic 49

The number of knitting-related patents filed in the last 5 years has increased by 22%, indicating innovation in yarn and tool technology

Statistic 50

The oldest known knitted stockings are from the 16th century and are kept in museums such as the Victoria and Albert Museum

Statistic 51

The use of 3D knitting technology is emerging in the industry, with 5% of professional knitters adopting it for complex pattern creation

Statistic 52

The trend of upcycling old garments by unraveling and reknitting has gained popularity, with 15% of hobby knitters participating

Statistic 53

The emergence of knitting as a form of digital art and installation has been noted in contemporary art galleries, with a 25% increase in exposure over the past decade

Statistic 54

The use of smart technology, such as digital row counters and LED-lit needles, is growing among tech-savvy knitters, with 20% adopting such tools

Statistic 55

The global knitting market was valued at approximately $5.3 billion in 2020

Statistic 56

40% of knitters sell their handmade items online

Statistic 57

The global online knitting community has over 3 million members across various social media platforms

Statistic 58

Knitwear sales increase by 12% during winter holiday seasons globally

Statistic 59

The average cost of knitting supplies per hobbyist is $150 annually

Statistic 60

There are over 250 different types of knitting needles available commercially

Statistic 61

The price of luxury yarns can reach up to $50 per skein

Statistic 62

Over 40% of professional knitters earn income solely from selling handmade items

Statistic 63

The craft tourism industry related to knitting has grown by 20% over the past 5 years

Statistic 64

The global market for knitting machines was valued at approximately $984 million in 2019

Statistic 65

The number of professional knitting designers has increased by 30% over the last decade

Statistic 66

The expenditure on knitting supplies accounts for about 12% of total craft-related spending in the US

Statistic 67

Online knitting pattern sales increased by over 300% during the COVID-19 pandemic

Statistic 68

The average size of a knitting business that sells online is 4 employees

Statistic 69

The World Knitting Industry Conference is held biannually and attracts over 1,000 industry professionals worldwide

Statistic 70

The global market for knitting accessories, such as needle cases, project bags, and yarn bowls, is projected to reach $1.2 billion by 2025

Statistic 71

The average consumer spends around $200 annually on knitting supplies, including yarn, needles, and accessories

Statistic 72

Knitting pattern downloads have surged on platforms like Ravelry, with more than 1 million patterns downloaded per month in recent years

Statistic 73

Knitting therapy programs have been incorporated into some healthcare systems to support mental health, with positive reported outcomes in 75% of cases

Statistic 74

The annual global demand for sustainable and ethically sourced yarns is projected to reach $850 million by 2025

Statistic 75

The annual revenue generated from knitting workshops and classes worldwide exceeds $120 million, statistics indicating the craft's educational market

Statistic 76

Knitting is reported to reduce stress levels by 25% among hobbyists

Statistic 77

Knitting can burn approximately 100 calories per hour, similar to a light walk

Statistic 78

85% of professional knitters sell their work at craft fairs and boutiques

Statistic 79

Knitting was historically a common activity for soldiers, used for creating warm clothing in wartime

Statistic 80

Artistic knitting, such as complex colorwork and textured patterns, is practiced by 35% of experienced knitters

Statistic 81

The school curriculum in some countries now includes knitting as part of home economics classes

Statistic 82

Approximately 35% of knitters participate in charity knitting projects, such as making blankets or hats for hospitals and shelters

Statistic 83

Knitting as therapy was first documented in the 1920s as a way to promote mental health recovery

Statistic 84

The most common reason cited for taking up knitting is relaxation and stress relief, at nearly 70%

Statistic 85

Only about 10% of knitters participate in professional competitions or knit-offs, illustrating the hobby's amateur popularity

Statistic 86

The popularity of "slow fashion" has contributed to a 30% increase in demand for handmade knitted clothing over the last three years

Statistic 87

In some Scandinavian countries, knitting is considered a national cultural activity, with over 65% of households engaging in regular knitting

Statistic 88

Over 85% of knitters find inspiration in nature for their designs and color choices

Statistic 89

The most common reasons for gifting hand-knitted items are sentimentality and tradition, cited by 72% of recipients

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Key Highlights

The global knitting market was valued at approximately $5.3 billion in 2020
Approximately 60% of knitters in the United States are women
The average age of knitters in the UK is 45 years old
About 65% of knitters prefer natural fibers over synthetic ones
The most popular yarn weight among hobby knitters is worsted weight
40% of knitters sell their handmade items online
Knitting is reported to reduce stress levels by 25% among hobbyists
The number of active knitting groups increased by 15% globally during the COVID-19 pandemic
78% of knitters in the US learned the craft from family members
The average knitter owns approximately 24 unique skeins of yarn
The most common project among beginners is scarves, followed by hats and mittens
The global online knitting community has over 3 million members across various social media platforms
Knitting can burn approximately 100 calories per hour, similar to a light walk

Discover how knitting has evolved from a centuries-old tradition to a $5.3 billion global industry, captivating millions with its stress-relieving benefits, eco-friendly movement, and vibrant online communities.

Demographics and Consumer Preferences

Approximately 60% of knitters in the United States are women
The average age of knitters in the UK is 45 years old
The most popular yarn weight among hobby knitters is worsted weight
The number of active knitting groups increased by 15% globally during the COVID-19 pandemic
78% of knitters in the US learned the craft from family members
The average knitter owns approximately 24 unique skeins of yarn
The most common project among beginners is scarves, followed by hats and mittens
55% of knitters prefer circular needles over straight needles
The popularity of knitting podcasts has increased by 200% since 2019
70% of knitting teachers report an increase in class enrollment every year
The most popular knitting pattern worldwide is the simple garter stitch
65% of knitters have learned new techniques via online tutorials
The average duration to complete a basic knitted scarf is 8 hours
Women account for approximately 85% of all knitting-related social media content creators
The average knitter spends approximately 4 hours per week on their craft
The most common method of dyeing yarn used by hobby knitters is hand-dyeing at home
Over 25 million people in Europe participate in knitting or crochet activities
77% of hobby knitters are interested in creating sustainable or eco-friendly projects
The average lifetime of hand-knitted garments is approximately 10 years with proper care
The share of men involved in knitting activities is growing, now representing approximately 15% of all hobby knitters
The average cost of knitting classes varies from $25 to $75 per session, depending on location and level
68% of hobby knitters prefer to knit during leisure activities such as watching TV or listening to music
The average number of knitting projects completed per hobbyist per year is 12
Decorative knitting techniques, such as embroidery and embellishments on garments, are used by 25% of advanced knitters
The majority of knitting patterns sold online are classified as beginner or intermediate difficulty, accounting for over 70% of total sales
The most common knitting accessories beyond needles include stitch markers, row counters, and yarn organizers, used by 80% of knitters
The average number of years a professional knitter has been in the business is 12 years
Over 50% of all knitting events worldwide are now held virtually, due to increased digital adoption
43% of knitting patterns are now designed specifically for sustainable and eco-conscious consumers
The average age of new knitters in recent years has decreased to 32, indicating a youthful resurgence
Knitting-related search queries on Google increased by 250% during the pandemic lockdown periods, indicating rising interest
80% of knitting educators report an increase in adult enrollment compared to previous years
The most common knitting technique among advanced crafters is stranded colorwork, used by 45% of experienced knitters
The average project completion rate among hobbyists is approximately 80%, indicating high project follow-through
The demand for personalized knitting patterns has increased by 40% as consumers seek unique designs
The average price point for commercially sold hand-knit sweaters is around $150, reflecting the labor-intensive process

Demographics and Consumer Preferences Interpretation

Knitting, once a cozy family tradition averaging 24 skeins per enthusiast, has blossomed into a global movement—boosted by a 200% surge in podcasts and virtual events—where the rising age of new knitters (now averaging 32) and a growing male presence (15%) weave together sustainability, online tutorials, and a penchant for personalized, eco-friendly creations, proving that in the digital age, crafting patience and skill are more vibrant and inclusive than ever.

Fiber and Material Preferences

About 65% of knitters prefer natural fibers over synthetic ones
The use of sustainable and eco-friendly yarns increased by 50% from 2018 to 2022
The most popular type of yarn for baby garments is acrylic due to its softness and affordability
The global demand for eco-friendly yarns is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% until 2028
Knitting yarns made from recycled fibers are among the fastest-growing segments in the industry, with sales increasing by 35% from 2019 to 2022
The sustainable knitting movement has led to a 60% increase in demand for organic cotton and hemp yarns
The average knitting project consumes about 3 to 5 skeins of yarn, depending on the item

Fiber and Material Preferences Interpretation

As eco-conscious knitters increasingly favor natural fibers and recycled yarns—driving double-digit growth in sustainable materials—the industry is unraveling a future where soft, affordable acrylic for baby garments is giving way to a greener, more responsible cloth crafted from organic cotton, hemp, and recycled fibers, all while the demand steadily stitches upward at an 8% CAGR through 2028.

Innovations and Trends in Knitting

The record for the largest knitted blanket measures over 1000 square meters
The fastest knitting record is completing a pair of socks in under 2 hours
The use of digital tools has improved pattern design efficiency by over 60% among professional knitters
The oldest known knitted item dates back to the 11th century, found in Egypt
Artificial intelligence tools are beginning to assist knitting pattern design, with 10% of professional designers adopting such solutions
The number of knitting-related patents filed in the last 5 years has increased by 22%, indicating innovation in yarn and tool technology
The oldest known knitted stockings are from the 16th century and are kept in museums such as the Victoria and Albert Museum
The use of 3D knitting technology is emerging in the industry, with 5% of professional knitters adopting it for complex pattern creation
The trend of upcycling old garments by unraveling and reknitting has gained popularity, with 15% of hobby knitters participating
The emergence of knitting as a form of digital art and installation has been noted in contemporary art galleries, with a 25% increase in exposure over the past decade
The use of smart technology, such as digital row counters and LED-lit needles, is growing among tech-savvy knitters, with 20% adopting such tools

Innovations and Trends in Knitting Interpretation

From ancient Egyptian origins to cutting-edge AI-assisted designs, knitting proves that whether wielded by 11th-century artisans or 21st-century innovators, this timeless craft continues to stitch together history, technology, and creativity into a surprisingly dynamic fabric.

Market Size and Economic Impact

The global knitting market was valued at approximately $5.3 billion in 2020
40% of knitters sell their handmade items online
The global online knitting community has over 3 million members across various social media platforms
Knitwear sales increase by 12% during winter holiday seasons globally
The average cost of knitting supplies per hobbyist is $150 annually
There are over 250 different types of knitting needles available commercially
The price of luxury yarns can reach up to $50 per skein
Over 40% of professional knitters earn income solely from selling handmade items
The craft tourism industry related to knitting has grown by 20% over the past 5 years
The global market for knitting machines was valued at approximately $984 million in 2019
The number of professional knitting designers has increased by 30% over the last decade
The expenditure on knitting supplies accounts for about 12% of total craft-related spending in the US
Online knitting pattern sales increased by over 300% during the COVID-19 pandemic
The average size of a knitting business that sells online is 4 employees
The World Knitting Industry Conference is held biannually and attracts over 1,000 industry professionals worldwide
The global market for knitting accessories, such as needle cases, project bags, and yarn bowls, is projected to reach $1.2 billion by 2025
The average consumer spends around $200 annually on knitting supplies, including yarn, needles, and accessories
Knitting pattern downloads have surged on platforms like Ravelry, with more than 1 million patterns downloaded per month in recent years
Knitting therapy programs have been incorporated into some healthcare systems to support mental health, with positive reported outcomes in 75% of cases
The annual global demand for sustainable and ethically sourced yarns is projected to reach $850 million by 2025
The annual revenue generated from knitting workshops and classes worldwide exceeds $120 million, statistics indicating the craft's educational market

Market Size and Economic Impact Interpretation

With a knitting market valued at over $5.3 billion and a vibrant online community surpassing 3 million members, it’s clear that whether for craft, therapy, or profit, knitting is not only a cozy pastime but a thriving global industry showcasing both tradition and innovation—where even luxury yarns can fetch up to $50 per skein and a single pattern download can top a million, proving that sometimes, the right stitch can truly weave a world of opportunity.

Motivations and Cultural Influences

Knitting is reported to reduce stress levels by 25% among hobbyists
Knitting can burn approximately 100 calories per hour, similar to a light walk
85% of professional knitters sell their work at craft fairs and boutiques
Knitting was historically a common activity for soldiers, used for creating warm clothing in wartime
Artistic knitting, such as complex colorwork and textured patterns, is practiced by 35% of experienced knitters
The school curriculum in some countries now includes knitting as part of home economics classes
Approximately 35% of knitters participate in charity knitting projects, such as making blankets or hats for hospitals and shelters
Knitting as therapy was first documented in the 1920s as a way to promote mental health recovery
The most common reason cited for taking up knitting is relaxation and stress relief, at nearly 70%
Only about 10% of knitters participate in professional competitions or knit-offs, illustrating the hobby's amateur popularity
The popularity of "slow fashion" has contributed to a 30% increase in demand for handmade knitted clothing over the last three years
In some Scandinavian countries, knitting is considered a national cultural activity, with over 65% of households engaging in regular knitting
Over 85% of knitters find inspiration in nature for their designs and color choices
The most common reasons for gifting hand-knitted items are sentimentality and tradition, cited by 72% of recipients

Motivations and Cultural Influences Interpretation

While knitting remains a beloved pastime rooted in history, stress relief, and national culture—burning calories and inspiring charity in the process—the hobby's steady rise in "slow fashion" and its gentle dominance among amateurs underscore that sometimes, the best way to unwind is simply to stitch oneself a cozy escape from the chaos.