10 Famous Personalities Who Knit

Knitting is centuries old but very much in trend. What started as a practical skill has transcended into a therapeutic hobby and even more. Knitters are found all over the glove with no bar to age or gender. Many well-known personalities have embraced knitting and benefited from the mindful benefits of the craft. Here’s a look at 10 famous figures who knit. They are yarn lovers who’ve taken up knitting needles to be a part of a delightful, meditative hobby. If you are a knitter or are thinking of taking up the craft, these personalities will inspire you.

1. MICHELLE OBAMA

Former America’s First Lady Michelle Obama is a knitter who took to the craft during the COVID-19 lockdown. In her memoir, The Light We Carry, she describes knitting as a therapeutic activity that helped her handle stress and find joy amid the uncertainty. Her knitting journey is relatable to many who turned to craft during challenging times and found joy, mindfulness and peace with the creative process.

In an interview, Michelle Obama shared proudly that she has knit a blanket, five scarves, three halter tops, a couple of hats for Mr. Barack.

If you are inspired by Mrs. Obama, you too can start with Symfonie Yarns’ Bella range. The worsted-weight yarn is easy to work with. The hand-dyed yarn range is available in semisolid and variegated shades.

2. TOM DALEY

Olympic diver Tom Daley came into the spotlight for knitting poolside at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. A self-taught knitter, took up the craft during the pandemic as a way to relieve anxiety and improve focus. He showcased his skilled work in Paris 2024 Olympics. His passion grew rapidly, and now he shares his projects on a dedicated Instagram account, @madewithlovebytomdaley. Daley is inspiring athletes and people from all walks of life with his knitting skills and efforts to raise funds for charity through his handmade pieces.

Specializing in both knitwear and crochet projects, his impressive designs range from sweaters, vests, bags, pouches and more.

If you are interested in following Tom’s footsteps Viva yarns has a huge collection. You can enjoy knitting as well as crocheting with the DK-weight yarn in hand-dyed semisolid and variegated shades.

3. JULIA ROBERTS

A much-loved Hollywood actress, Julia Roberts has long been known for her love of knitting. She picked up knitting on movie sets around 30 years back and continued her passion, using the craft as a way to relax between takes on the set, movie premiers and even talk shows. She has frequently been spotted knitting, effortlessly juggling her acting career with her passion.

4. RYAN GOSLING

A Hollywood heart-throb, Ryan Gosling is another surprising knitter. He learned to knit while filming the movie Lars and the Real Girl as the crew arranged a knitting lesson for him on set. He quickly fell in love and took to the craft. He describes the day he started knitting as one of the most relaxing of his life. Since then, he occasionally knits for enjoyment and relaxation.

5. RUSSELL CROWE

Academy Award-winning Hollywood actor Russell Crowe is a lesser-known knitter. Crowe discovered knitting as a stress-relief method while working on intense film projects. The grounding effect knitting has made him take the crafting hobby. To date he follows knitting as a passion, allowing him to take a mental break and focus on something entirely different.

6. SARAH JESSICA PARKER

A fashion icon and Hollywood actress, Sarah Jessica Parker is well known for her love of knitting. She picked up the craft to unwind after long days on set. With time she found joy in the repetitive, calming nature of knitting. Her dedication to the craft has shown fans that creativity extends beyond the screen, as she shares her handmade pieces on social media.

7. DAVID ARQUETTE

Another actor who is among passionate knitters is David Arquette. He is often seen knitting and regularly sharing his creations on social media. He initially took up the craft as a way to manage stress and practice mindfulness.

Arquette even participated in a knitting battle with actress Julia Roberts on popular television The Ellen DeGeneres Show. His enthusiasm has helped normalize knitting as a hobby for men, showing that it’s a craft anyone can enjoy.

8. KRISTEN STEWART

Actress Kristen Stewart learned knitting as a way to relax and channel her creative energy during downtime on the set. Knitting has become a staple for her when she needs a break from the fast-paced Hollywood life. Stewart’s unique style even extends to her knitting projects, as she crafts pieces that reflect her individuality.

9. KIEFER SUTHERLAND

Famous for his intense movie roles, Hollywood actor Kiefer Sutherland is a longtime knitter who believes in the calming effect of knitting. Sutherland took up the craft to combat stress and enjoys the quiet, meditative activity. He’s been spotted knitting on film sets and appreciates the calm the craft brings to his hectic life. His passion highlights how knitting can be a perfect escape from the high-intensity world of acting.

10. DEMI LOVATO

Singer and actress Demi Lovato has been open about using knitting as a mental health tool. Lovato began knitting as part of her self-care routine to manage anxiety and find a peaceful outlet for her creativity. She has shared her knitting projects with fans on social media, encouraging others to try the craft for its therapeutic benefits. Lovato’s advocacy for mental health makes her embrace of knitting all the more meaningful, as she inspires fans to find solace in creative activities.

From handling the stress of fame to enjoying creative freedom, these famous personalities have shown that knitting is a craft for everyone. They remind us that taking up a hands-on hobby can bring joy and even mindfulness to our lives. So, if you've been thinking of picking up knitting, remember you're in good company. With each stitch, you're joining a long line of passionate creators, famous and otherwise, all finding peace and fulfillment in this timeless craft.

It all begins with love for yarn and a passion to create something with your own hands. Symfonie Yarns collection of hand-dyed yarns in semisolid and variegated colors is sure to inspire you. The extrafine merino wool and fiber blends work for all kinds of projects whether you knit for yourself or a loved one.