Yarn rave organisers say crafting does not stop dancing

People attending yarn raves at the Põhjala factory can dance while knitting or crocheting, the organisers told ERR’s Terevisioon programme.

One of the event’s initiators, Kaari Põlder, said the raves welcome both craft enthusiasts and people with no previous experience. “You can do anything while knitting and crocheting, including dancing. It is extremely easy,” Põlder said, adding that she had not done handicrafts for more than 20 years before picking up a crochet hook again at a yarn rave.

Craft teacher Kristiin Sidok advised participants to bring a simple project rather than something with a complicated pattern. “You do not have to embroider or do anything particularly difficult,” she said.

The rave takes place in the anchor hall at the Põhjala factory. Two DJs each play two hours of dance music, and visitors can also request songs, Põlder said.

The event runs from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., allowing it to start earlier than many parties. The organisers said they got the idea after seeing a video of similar events in Amsterdam.

Visitors who do not want to dance can sit and work on their crafts. Sidok said the atmosphere could inspire people who arrived without any handicraft project to take up the hobby. She also made a special bag for keeping balls of yarn in while dancing.

Yarn bags are also available to borrow at the venue, Põlder said.