There’s a quiet revolution sweeping across the country.

People from all walks of life, young and old, male and female are picking up knitting needles, crochet hooks - creating all kinds of garments, toys, home accessories, and even art pieces from yarn.

They are joining online and local groups or just working on their own, becoming totally engrossed in a creative yarn journey.

Knitting, crochet and spinning and weaving are so distinctively removed from our uber-digital, technological 21st century world that this journey could be seen as anti-consumerism and even subversive when yarn-bombing activities are involved.

But it has been well established that the involvement in these old traditional yarn crafts reduces stress and anxiety, improves dexterity and fine motor skills, and encourages creativity and self expression not always found in the digital world.

So, in essence, it’s just the right kind of revolution.

To help save the planet, eco-friendly yarns can be sourced and old patterns redesigned.

As added bonuses, yarn can be recycled and old garments can be easily up-cycled.

Finally, joining a yarn craft group - whether local or online - can foster community cohesion (you get to share your fun with your neighbours) and put a smile on the faces of the recipients of your wonderful creations.

If you are not already a part of this revolution, there are a number of groups in around Kiama to consider.

Kiama and Gerringong libraries have monthly Knit and Chat groups (contact Boni Maywald 0424 641 663) and a weekly Creative Crafts group meets at the Uniting Church on Monday mornings, as well as a monthly craft group run by Jamberoo Red Cross (contact Barb Adams 0422 206 555).

A Spinners and Weavers group is also held at The Coachhouse on Tuesday mornings (contact Marie Carr 0408 977 414).

If crochet is your thing and you are prepared to travel a little further afield, there is a very active Wollongong Crochet Club.