Archive · 18 Jul 2026
Gen Z Embraces Grandmacore: Analog Hobbies Rise
Imagine you're always on your phone or computer, and you start to feel a bit tired or stressed.
Some young people have found a fun way to take a break from screens by doing things like knitting, making pottery, or writing in journals.
They call this 'grandmacore' because it's like the hobbies their grandmothers might have enjoyed.
These activities help them feel more relaxed and creative.
They can meet new friends, learn new skills, and even start their own businesses.
Some people keep a special bag with craft supplies to remind them to take a break from their phones and do something hands-on instead.
Studies show that these activities can be really good for their mental health, making them feel happier and more relaxed.
Gen Z is embracing analog hobbies like knitting, pottery, and calligraphy, dubbed the 'grandmacore' movement.
Workshops and classes are popping up in cities across India, with prices starting at Rs 99.
Participants report improved mental health and a sense of accomplishment from these activities.
The trend has seen a significant increase in interest, with searches up by 136% in the past six months.
Some entrepreneurs are capitalizing on the trend by offering workshops and selling craft supplies.
- Who
- Primarily Gen Z individuals, aged 18-26
- What
- A trend of embracing analog hobbies, dubbed 'grandmacore'
- When
- The trend has been growing over the past year, with significant increases in interest in 2026
- Where
- Workshops and classes are held in cities across India, including Delhi/NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Indore, and Kochi
- Why
- To escape digital overload, improve mental health, and engage in creative, tactile activities
Proponents of Grandmacore
Critics of Grandmacore
Mental Health Benefits
Proponents of Grandmacore
Proponents argue that analog hobbies like knitting and pottery significantly improve mental health, providing a respite from digital overload and promoting mindfulness.
Critics of Grandmacore
Critics suggest that these activities may not be accessible to everyone due to cost and time constraints, and that their mental health benefits are overstated.
Cultural Shift
Proponents of Grandmacore
Supporters see this trend as a positive cultural shift towards valuing handmade and tactile experiences over digital consumption.
Critics of Grandmacore
Opponents view it as a fleeting trend that may not have long-term staying power, and could be a form of performative nostalgia rather than genuine interest.
- Key Activities
- Knitting, pottery, embroidery, calligraphy, journalling, gardening, film photography
- Workshop Prices
- Starting at Rs 99
- Popular Locations
- Delhi/NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Indore, Kochi
- Increase in Interest
- Searches for analog hobbies up by 136% in the past six months
- Mental Health Impact
- Crafting has a bigger impact on mental health than employment, according to a 2024 UK survey