The air of English teacher Shana Saddler’s classroom after school is filled with soothing music and a tranquil energy. Students file in after the bell and take their seats, chattering quietly amongst themselves, as they begin to reach into their bags. But instead of pulling out textbooks or Chromebooks, they pull out various colorful spools of yarn and begin diligently working on various crochet projects.
The crochet club, started by sophomore Ashley Kim and sponsored by Saddler, is a newer club that meets in Room 201 on Thursdays directly after school. In the club, they work on both individual and guided crochet projects, as well as enjoy snacks and friends alike; this time of day is set aside for them.
“I have so much fun in the crochet club,” said sophomore Putul Gaganiya. “I get to talk to many new people; I have made friends in the crochet club. …I really love the vibe there.”
The club was founded by Kim and sophomore Sabaaha Ahmad, who are now the president and vice president of the crochet club, respectively. The idea for the club was formed during lunch and was later proposed to Saddler.
“I saw a lot of my friends crocheting, and I thought, ‘What if we give them a time for them to study… and work on their projects?’” said Kim. “So, I decided to make that time for them.”
Saddler monitors the crochet club for legal reasons, but also enjoys participating in the club after school. She is trying to learn how to crochet herself, and the club helps support her in her learning.
“I look forward to [my time with them], because it’s chill, it’s not stressful at all,” said Saddler.
The crochet club is welcoming to all students, regardless of previous experience crocheting, gender, or any other factors. The members of the crochet club get along smoothly, and are always looking for new people to join their little community.
“The relationships [between members] are really nice, I feel like they are coming along great,” said Ahmad.
Once the projects are done, the group plans on donating the finished products to hospitals and homeless shelters during this frigid Michigan winter. Any completed pieces not donated are owned by the original creator, whether they decide to wear it, gift it, or just have it as a keepsake.
“[Crocheting] is a really healing thing to do,” said Kim. “You feel proud after you make a project, and it’s really fun because… you can wear [them].”
