What It Is
#LatchHook celebrates the yarn craft of pulling pre-cut strands through mesh canvas using a latch hook tool to create textured rugs and wall hangings. The 1970s craft experienced a Gen Z revival driven by TikTok nostalgia and cottagecore aesthetics.
History & Cultural Impact
Dormant Era (1990s-2017):
- 1970s-1980s: Peak popularity (Aunt Lydia’s kits)
- 1990-2017: Considered “grandma craft,” minimal social media presence
Gen Z Revival (2018-2021):
- November 2018: Instagram users rediscover vintage kits
- 2019: Thrift store latch hook kit hunting trend
- 2020 Pandemic: “Cozy craft” resurgence, meditative appeal
- 2021: TikTok videos hit 20M+ views (satisfying yarn-pulling ASMR)
Modern Adaptation (2022-2023):
- 2022: Custom latch hook patterns (pet portraits, abstract designs)
- 2023: Tufting gun vs latch hook debates (speed vs accessibility)
Popular Projects:
- Small rugs (2x3 feet, entryway)
- Wall hangings (decorative textiles)
- Pillows (chunky texture)
- Coasters (beginner projects)
- Pet beds (functional craft)
- Vintage kit completions (found at thrift stores)
Why It Revived:
- Nostalgia (childhood memories, grandma’s crafts)
- Low cost ($15-40 kits vs $300+ tufting guns)
- Meditative repetition (ADHD-friendly)
- No electricity needed (portable)
- Cottagecore aesthetic alignment
- Satisfying ASMR (yarn pull, latch click)
Supplies:
- Latch hook tool ($5-10)
- Rug canvas (mesh backing)
- Pre-cut yarn (acrylic, 2.5” lengths)
- Pattern (printed or canvas-stamped)
- Binding tape (finishing edges)
Related Hashtags
#LatchHooking, #RugHooking, #LatchHookRug, #VintageCraft, #CottageCore, #NostalgicCraft, #ASMR, #MeditativeCraft, #YarnCraft, #ThriftedCraft