Knitting and Crocheting in Germany: Results of a 2025 DIY Survey
- 1. Knitting is part of everyday life for many
- 2. Relaxation is the main motivation
- 3. Inspiration from the internet
- 4. Between free downloads and paid patterns
- 5. What convinces people to buy a pattern?
Habits, motivations, and trends among hobby knitters and crocheters
Knitting and crocheting continue to enjoy popularity not only in traditional crafting circles but also among younger members of the DIY community. But how often do crafters in Germany pursue their hobby, what motivates them, and where do they find their ideas?
To answer these questions, we conducted a representative online survey in July 2025 together with Evergreen Media® and SKOPOS. A total of 1,004 people in Germany who knit or crochet at least occasionally took part. Participants were aged 18 or older and represented various age groups and experience levels within the DIY community.
Curious how others structure their knitting or crocheting routines? We’ve summarized five particularly insightful results from the survey — covering habits, motivation, sources of inspiration, and how people use patterns when knitting and crocheting.
1. Knitting is part of everyday life for many: More than half knit at least once a week
For most respondents, knitting or crocheting isn’t an occasional pastime but a regular hobby. More than half of those passionate about yarn crafts knit or crochet at least once a week — about 45% even several times a week or daily.
About 23% are “occasional crafters,” who still manage to find time for their hobby a few times per month. The remaining respondents only knit or crochet a few times a year.
These numbers show that knitting and crocheting are a fixed part of everyday life for most people — not just a seasonal activity.
2. Relaxation is the main motivation — “Saving money” barely matters
Why do people knit or crochet? The survey clearly shows that relaxation and stress relief are the top reasons. Almost 90% of respondents cited this as their main motivation.
Other important motivations include:
- Creativity and creating unique pieces: approximately 75%
- Giving handmade gifts: 68%
- Learning new skills: 64%
- Sustainability: 40%
- Saving money: 33%
- Social aspects (knitting together, craft groups): 16%
The results clearly show that relaxation and creativity are the driving forces behind the hobby — far more than practical or social reasons. While aspects such as saving money or social interaction matter to only a minority, the strong focus on stress relief and creative expression highlights that knitting and crocheting are primarily ways to enrich life and enhance personal well-being. Intrinsic motivation clearly takes center stage.
3. Inspiration comes from the internet: YouTube and other platforms as key sources of ideas
The survey makes it clear: those looking for new knitting or crochet ideas primarily turn to online sources — especially video platforms.
Other sources of inspiration include:
- Social networks such as Instagram or Pinterest
- Specialized platforms for knitting and crochet patterns
- DIY blogs
About one in seven respondents mentioned other sources, such as personal contacts or specific magazines.
4. Between free downloads and paid patterns: How knitters use available resources
Knitting and crochet patterns are widely available online for free — but paid options are also of great interest. Almost half of respondents have purchased at least one pattern, either because they were convinced of its quality or because their desired project required a specific design.
About four in ten hobby crafters primarily use free resources but have occasionally purchased a paid pattern. A smaller yet dedicated group regularly buys paid patterns and actively supports designers through their purchases.
Despite increasing openness to paid content, free access remains the preferred choice for about half of respondents. The results show that while free patterns still dominate, the willingness to pay is clearly present — especially when quality, creativity, or exclusivity stand out.
5. What convinces people to buy a pattern? — Unique designs and detailed instructions
When knitters and crocheters are willing to pay for a pattern, there’s a good reason. Paid patterns offer clear added value compared to free ones — whether through a greater level of detail, unique designs, or new learning opportunities.
The following factors are especially influential:
- Clear, well-structured instructions with step-by-step guidance
- Special or distinctive design
- Desire to learn and explore less common techniques
- Overall quality
Overall, the results show that people tend to buy patterns that are especially helpful, clearly explained, or offer an exceptional project idea.
Note: The results presented here come from our 2025 DIY Survey on knitting and crocheting. All data refer to the surveyed target group (people in Germany who craft at least occasionally). When using this data, please credit this study as the source. Enjoy exploring more of the wonderful world of needlework!