Somewhere along the way, we have become so connected to our devices that we started craving the exact opposite. It’s no coincidence that hobbies once associated with our grandparents—needlepoint, mahjong, sourdough baking, gardening—are finding a new audience, offering a slower, more intentional way to spend our time and connect with others.
The stitching renaissance
When I was growing up, my mom was an excellent needle pointer. She stitched everything from our Christmas tree skirts to the seat cushions on our dining room chairs, creating pieces that became part of our home and our family traditions. Now, years later, needlepoint is everywhere. What was once considered an old-fashioned hobby has become a creative outlet for a new generation, with people gathering for stitch nights, designing colorful canvases, and embracing the slower pace that comes with making something by hand. In a world of instant gratification, there’s something refreshing about a craft that rewards patience, creativity, and connection.
Tiles, not screens
My new go-to game is mahjong. I’m not going to lie, at first, I was very intimidated by all the rules of the game. But once I got the hang of it, I’ve been enjoying how it helps me concentrate for a couple of hours with my phone down. Not only does it help to relieve stress after a long day of work, but it is also a great excuse to catch up with friends or meet new ones. It reminds me that the best entertainment isn’t always found on a screen—sometimes it’s simply a table, a game, and good company.
Analog is sticking around
“Grandma hobbies” like knitting, crochet, embroidery, journaling, gardening are back for a reason. Young people are tired of doomscrolling and want something tangible to show for their time. In a world that is constantly asking for our attention, it makes sense that people are gravitating toward hobbies that ask us to slow down instead. They offer something our screens can’t: the satisfaction of making something with our hands, being fully present, and spending uninterrupted time with other people. They’re less about nostalgia and more about reclaiming focus, creativity, and genuine connection in an increasingly digital world.
As a designer, I’m drawn to hobbies that encourage intention. You can’t rush a needlepoint canvas or absentmindedly play a game of mahjong while scrolling on your phone. They ask you to be fully present, to pay attention to the details, and to enjoy the process rather than just the outcome. In a city that rarely slows down, it’s refreshing to see more people embracing activities that foster creativity, conversation, and a different pace of life. It makes me wonder—which pastime will make its comeback next?