Learn To Knit
With The Crafty Fawkes
I am that woman. I’ve got a good job, a lovely family, and a life that looks pretty together on paper. But here’s the truth:
I’ve never been great at switching off
My brain loves a good spiral. I’ve lived with long-term depression and anxiety, and even in my downtime, I need to be doing something.
That’s why crafting—especially knitting—has been my lifeline. It gives my hands purpose, calms my mind, and keeps me grounded.
It's Time To Make Time For Yourself
Knitting As Self-Care
“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” - Eleanor Brown
Learn To Knit - Online Course
A complete beginner-friendly course you can take at your own pace, in your own space—with no pressure, no perfectionism, and no weird aunt hovering over your shoulder correcting your tension.
Hi, I'm Claire, the face behind The Crafty Fawkes.
My mum taught me to knit when I was about 6 and it has been a go to activity for me ever since, with cross stitch and crochet joining in over the years.
As someone with long term depression I find the rhythm and tactile nature of wool crafts soothing and a perfect way to keep my brain from spiralling into the anxiety and overthinking that often accompanies depression. Self care for mental health is a passion of mine and I love sharing my skills with others, whether they are new to the craft or want to improve their knowledge.
I qualified in 2002 as a woodwind teacher, gaining my Certificate of Teaching with the Associated Board of The Royal School Of Music (CTABRSM) and taught privately for 10 years. I now use those skills to teach knitting and crochet and spread the crafty joy.
I live in Aberdeenshire with my husband and a very large stash of wool. I moved here after university, having been brought up in East Sussex, and now I feel like an honorary Scot. I love that I’m close to the city but far enough out that I’m surrounded by fields and hills.
Introducing
The Crafty Fawkes Online Course Platform
My mum taught me to knit when I was about 6, and it's been part of my life ever since. Making beautiful, handmade things—whether it's a cosy hat, a thoughtful gift, or a sweater I actually want to wear—gives me a huge sense of joy and accomplishment.
Knitting gives your busy mind something gentle to focus on. The rhythm, the texture, the sense of progress… it's a surprisingly powerful tool for mental well-being.
And now, I want to teach you how to do it too.
Are you craving a hobby that actually helps you unwind?
Do you want to keep your hands busy and your brain calm?
Have you always wondered how your gran worked that knitting magic?
Then you’re in the right place
What You'll Get:
Step-by-step video lessons
Written notes to print off
A custom-designed pattern created just for beginners
Access to a supportive online community
Optional one-to-one zoom session with Claire
A Certificate of Completion (heck yes, we celebrate wins!)
Why Knitting Helps With Mental Health
Knitting is more than just loops and wool. It’s a rhythm. A reset. A quiet rebellion against burnout.
❤️ Calms anxiety with repetitive, meditative motion
🧠 Gives your mind a focused break from the chaos
✨ Builds a sense of achievement and creativity
🤝 Connects you to a community of like-minded makers
Knitting gives me permission to pause—without guilt
Calling All Overworked, Overthinking, Can't-Sit-Still Women!
Yes, you. The one who's juggling a million things and finds "relaxing" oddly stressful.
We all say we’re going to slow down.
Be more mindful.
Try new things.
But life keeps happening. The to-do list grows. And suddenly, it’s January again and you’re still on the hamster wheel.
Maybe the kids have moved out and the house is quieter than you expected.
Maybe you’re managing stress or mental health stuff and want a healthy outlet.
Or maybe… you just want to do something for you for once.
Whatever the reason, knitting might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
“I make it a point to practice self-care. I make an appointment with myself.” - Marisha Singal
What Students Are Saying:
🧶 “Was a fantastic class and I’m so chuffed with myself that I managed to knit my hat even tho it is a bit small. I feel more confident that I can knit various items in the future. Thanks Claire you are brilliant!”
– Becky R. - Learn to Knit course
🧶 “Really loved these classes and will rave about it to anyone I meet. Claire is a lovely person and very knowledgeable.”
– Joanna F. - Learn to Knit course
🧶 “...a very patient teacher! I was so ham fisted with my casting on! No problem now!”
– Morag E. - Knitting Taster Class
Don’t Wait For Time. Make it.
Whether you’ve never touched a pair of needles before or haven’t picked them up since school, I’ll walk you through every step—with patience, humour, and zero judgement.
Ready To Stitch Your Way To Sanity?
Because Self-Care Doesn't Have To Look Like Bubble Baths And Yoga
