Learn to knit with chunky yarn

For those with two left thumbs, fiber arts might seem like an impossible craft. Crocheting, knitting, sewing, embroidering, weaving and quilting all require a certain degree of hand-eye coordination. Enter hand-knitting using chunky yarn, a textile pursuit that just might be within reach for the less dexterous.

Chunky knits have become a trend in recent years, with plenty of viral videos on social media, though it’s difficult to pinpoint their origin. Regardless of when hand-knitting with chunky yarn began, it arguably offers an easier entry to knitting than manipulating a pair of metal needles.

LaShondra Jarvis, 49, of Smithtown, said she was seeking ways to fill her time. She took a class in chunky yarn hand-knitting — and was instantly hooked.

“My brain just shut off during the session,” said Jarvis, a recent widow with children transitioning into adulthood. “I had finally found something that was meditative. I had found peace in just three hours.”

Jarvis found the craft an ideal creative hobby that helped her focus, unwind and walk away with a finished product. After a year, she decided to teach her newfound skill to others with in-person workshops she offers through her website, wovenintent.com. These sessions are designed for all ages and skill levels, and for both introverts looking for a solo activity and extroverts craving conversation.

Lorna Ross, of Merrick, took a class with her daughter at The Nest in Northport and said it was a great experience, with about 10 people who sat around a large table selecting the yarns they wanted to use.

“The instruction was clear, and the teacher assisted if needed,” she said. “It was simple and relaxing.”

Ross said everyone completed the project during the three-hour class. She is now making another blanket using a similar pattern she found online, and then she plans to make a pillow.

“This is a doable project for most, with or without prior experience,” Ross said.