The New Old: Gen Z’s Revival of Nostalgic Hobbies

Administrator

20 May, 2025

Image source: Pexels

Knitting, Embroidery, and the Rise of Crafting

The Edin Yarn Fest, an annual event in Scotland for knitting enthusiasts, reported a 75% increase in sales of knitting supplies from 2020 to 2022. Interestingly, the majority of these customers were between the ages of 18 and 34.

This younger demographic expressed a passion for creating personalized knitted items such as blankets, sweaters, and stuffed toys. They also found the act of quietly knitting or embroidering to be relaxing and a way to disconnect from the digital world for a while.

The Vinyl Revival: A Spin Back in Time

As many turn to phone apps for music, vinyl record collecting has spun its way back into popularity, especially among the youth. This trend is contributing to the resurgence of vinyl, with young people making up a significant portion of new collectors.

Vinyl Alliance, an international association promoting vinyl culture, reported that 80% of their new members are young individuals. Moreover, 76% of these collectors purchase at least one vinyl record monthly. Whether it’s acquiring special editions from their favorite artists or hunting for vintage records, this hobby has become an integral part of Gen Z’s lifestyle.

Gardening: Nurturing a Green Thumb

A recent survey by Draper Tools, a company specializing in high-quality tools and equipment, revealed that 83% of young people find gardening appealing. According to the company representative, “They want their living spaces to be green, believing it improves their well-being.”

Birdwatching: Soaring with the Birds

The 2022 Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation report by the US Fish and Wildlife Service showed that 96 million Americans participated in birdwatching. This hobby spans generations, with many young people taking up birdwatching or keeping birds as pets, finding solace in their company.

The Art of Handwritten Letters: A Nostalgic Revival

In an era dominated by technology, the act of writing letters may seem outdated. However, a study by Stamps, an online provider of postal stamps and shipping labels, revealed that 48% of Gen Z individuals send letters or gifts several times a month. Many young people appreciate the nostalgia and warmth that handwritten letters convey. Bryan Driscoll, a generational researcher, explains, “This generation craves authenticity, and handwritten letters embody that in a meaningful way.”