From knitting to collecting: hobbies matter

By Lethbridge Herald on January 12, 2026.

Herald photo by Joe Manio Lethbridge Centennial Quilters Guild member Teresa Petriw works on a quilt at a recent meeting at Casa.

By Joe Manio

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter- Lethbridge Herald

They say “everybody needs a hobby” and Lethbridge residents have plenty to choose from. Whether it’s outdoor adventures, sports leagues, arts or community events, people are finding ways to fill their spare time — and sometimes their homes with new projects.

Hobbies offer more than just entertainment. They provide relaxation, spark creativity and give people a chance to connect with others. For some, even the most introverted participants can find a way to come out of their shell.

“We started a new program called Studio Time, which is one Saturday a month and it’s either in the textile studio or our 2D printmaking studio,” says Casa education manager Courtney Faulkner. “And folks can come and spend a couple hours working on their own personal project, bring something in you may want a bit of help with…or maybe you just want to create alongside other artists.”

A hobby is an activity done regularly for enjoyment, relaxation or personal interest, rather than as a job. Hobbies can include sports, arts, crafts, collecting, outdoor recreation or other leisure pursuits that provide satisfaction and personal fulfillment.

Hobbies can run the gamut from cheap and cheerful — like walking the dog or finger-painting — to wallet-busting pursuits such as golf, skiing, collecting or tinkering with specialized gadgets, proving there’s a pastime out there for every budget… and every level of commitment.

Many hobbies once rooted in necessity have become creative pastimes. Knitting and crocheting began as ways to make warm clothing; sewing allowed households to produce and repair garments; and quilting turned fabric scraps into durable bedding. Over time, these practical skills evolved into traditions valued for creativity, mindfulness, and community.

“Knitting has come a long way since grandma sitting in a rocking chair,” says knitter Sharon Hudemka, owner of Knitting Time in Centre Village Mall. “It’s now enjoying creating with color. People now look for modern garments you know…they want style.”. 

Knitting, crocheting, sewing, and quilting are hobbies that blend creativity with skill. What began as practical ways to make and mend clothing or household items has grown into a form of self-expression and relaxation. Crafters often find satisfaction in turning simple materials into functional or decorative pieces, while also connecting with a long tradition of handmade artistry

“I like creating things and I like playing with fabrics and colour,” says Lethbridge Centennial Quilters Guild member Teresa Petriw. “The satisfaction you get when you complete something…and a lot of my quilts, I give away as well. I like to see the faces of the people that I give them to.”

Collecting is another hobby that captures curiosity and dedication. It can include coins, stamps, comic books, and of course trading cards. Like other hobbies, collecting offers a sense of accomplishment and connection, turning small objects into personal stories and long-standing traditions.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game for example has been around for more than 30 years and can be played or collected. Game cafes and clubs let players trade, battle and connect, making it a hobby families can enjoy together.

Lethbridge residents enjoy a wide range of outdoor hobbies. The city’s extensive trail systems and parks make walking, running, cycling and hiking popular year-round activities. Residents also take advantage of the Oldman River for fishing, canoeing, birdwatching and picnicking.

Organized sports remain popular, with hockey, curling, soccer, baseball and skating drawing participants of all ages. Curling in particular has deep local roots, with leagues and clubs active throughout the winter months.

Pickleball has been growing in popularity since the early 2000s and saw a surge in participation after the COVID-19 pandemic. Another recent addition to local recreation is competitive cornhole, like the Cobra Chicken Cornhole Club.

For those looking for a hobby or exploring ideas for one, Casa Lethbridge offers a variety of arts and crafts programs for residents looking to explore a hobby or develop creative skills. Participants can take classes in drawing, painting, printmaking, pottery, textiles, stained glass, woodworking and photography. 

“We have lots of introductory level classes for people, so if you want to try something new, you’re very welcome here. And if you want to get more into something that you already know a bit about, we also have classes for that in a variety of mediums. We also have some dance classes and writing classes as well,” says Faulkner. 

No matter the activity, hobbies prove there’s more to free time than just scrolling on a phone. Whether it’s painting, pickleball, Pokémon or cornhole there’s something out there to keep everyone busy — and maybe even a little happier.