Young people are turning to old-school hobbies to get off their phones

Droves of young people who are turning to tactile, analog hobbies and activities as a means of escaping technology and reconnecting with childlike creativity and exploration. Somewhat ironically, this analog movement has been galvanized by its trendiness on social media. Hobbies including needlepoint, bird watching pottery and even blacksmithing have gained traction with Gen-Z and millennials. Many hobbyists said they don’t see the enthusiasm about these activities as a temporary trend, but rather as part of a more intentional moment towards the analog world — but many also see their online platforms as an extension of the creativity and expression they achieve through their offline hobby.