The Real-Life Communities of Hobbyists 

The Knerdy Knitters and Crocheters of the San Fernando Valley host weekly Zoom gatherings that prove creativity knows no geographic limits. ©ADOBESTOCK
The Knerdy Knitters and Crocheters of the San Fernando Valley host weekly Zoom gatherings that prove creativity knows no geographic limits. ©ADOBESTOCK
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On screens, they look like passing trends — a viral quilting tutorial, a sped-up knitting timelapse, a perfectly lit candle-pouring reel — but across the Santa Clarita Valley, those clicks are quietly transforming into real-life communities where hobbyists gather, create and change each other’s lives one handmade piece at a time. 

Quilting 

In the growing wave of creative passion that’s sweeping town, the Santa Clarita Valley Quilt Guild stands as a reminder that craftsmanship and community go hand in hand. Formed in 1990 by a small circle of quilters, the nonprofit has evolved into a thriving group of about 80 members who are as devoted to preserving the art of quilting as they are to sharing its comfort with others. 

Each “bit of love” they stitch — hand-crafted quilts donated to hospitals, shelters, and community groups — speaks to the guild’s mission: to advance the art of quilting while giving back through philanthropy. “Our mission is to promote interest in quilting, advance the art form, and give back through service,” guild leaders explain. 

Funds are raised through membership dues, local boutiques and auctions, and the collaborative “Opportunity Quilt,” created annually to support charitable and educational projects. Monthly meetings feature guest speakers — often nationally recognized quilting experts — and workshops designed to help members refine their craft. 

The next workshop, “Filament Fantasy,” takes place March 14 at Bouquet Canyon Senior Apartments, 26705 Bouquet Canyon Rd., Saugus, while regular meetings are held the second Thursday of each month from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Santa Clarita United Methodist Church, 26640 Bouquet Canyon Rd. Visitors are welcome for a $5 fee on speaker nights; annual membership is $55 or $50 for seniors. 

The Guild will also appear at the Cowboy Festival on April 18 along Main Street, showcasing their vibrant art form and welcoming curious newcomers to join the valley’s growing “craft revolution.” 

For more information, visit scvquiltguild.org or email [email protected]

Knitters & Crocheters 

Even beyond Santa Clarita’s borders, the craft revolution is bringing makers together — one stitch and loop at a time. The Knerdy Knitters and Crocheters of the San Fernando Valley host weekly Zoom gatherings that prove creativity knows no geographic limits. 

Every Monday evening at 7 p.m., knitters, crocheters and fiber artists from across California — and sometimes beyond — log in to share their latest “WIPs,” or works in progress, swap advice and cheer on creative milestones. 

“Everyone is welcome,” their group motto reads. “We love newbies!” The casual format makes space for every level of crafter, from curious beginners to experienced artisans who simply want to enjoy good company. 

The group’s online “Yarn Club” meetings are equal parts social hour and workshop, with participants bringing projects to show off or troubleshoot. All meetups are free and open to members and non-members alike, accessible through the group’s MeetUp Events Page. 

The Knerdy Knitters and Crocheters guild itself is based in the San Fernando Valley and promotes the fiber arts through community, creativity, and collaboration. Annual membership costs $10, offering perks like a welcome gift, member-only events, and opportunities for charity projects and fiber retreats. 

For crafters throughout the region, the group’s message is simple: grab some yarn, log on, and join the circle. The digital needlework nights may span miles, but the spirit of connection threads everyone together. 

For more information, visit knerdyknitters.com or explore future events at bit.ly/46Zb1d8. 

Candle Making 

In the age of viral DIY videos and Instagram-worthy creations, locals are bringing digital inspiration into the real world — one candle, blanket, and paintbrush at a time. At Painting with a Twist, creativity isn’t scheduled — it’s spontaneous. 

This walk-in studio invites every kind of hobbyist to unplug, get messy, and make something original. Whether you’re flying solo, hanging out with friends, or entertaining teens, the space transforms online craft trends into hands-on experiences you can see, smell, and take home. 

Among its most popular offerings is DIY candle making, where guests blend scents, choose colors, and pour soy-based wax into custom containers. The process takes about an hour — short enough for an impromptu visit, but immersive enough to create a personal touch. It’s self-care, décor, and discovery all rolled into one. 

From candle making to cozy chunky blanket workshops, Painting with a Twist captures the heart of the modern craft wave sweeping Santa Clarita  —  fueled by online tutorials, yet grounded in local connection. Because sometimes, the best way to escape the scroll is to create something tangible. 

Painting with a Twist is located at 24201 Valencia Blvd., Space #3422, in Santa Clarita. For more details, call (661) 414-6454 or visit bit.ly/4tJwMHC. 

Wood Signs 

For many locals, the DIY décor they scroll past online has become a hands-on pastime, turning inspiration into sawdust and paint instead of just screenshots. At Board & Brush on Main Street, hobbyists roll up their sleeves to design and build custom wood signs that look straight out of an online inspiration board — only these pieces come home smelling faintly of sawdust and stain instead of arriving in a box. 

On Saturday, Feb. 28, from 5 to 8 p.m., the studio will host a “Pick Your Project” DIY workshop where participants choose a design from an extensive gallery, then follow step-by-step instruction to sand, stain, paint and distress their own wood sign. All materials are provided, and guests can personalize their projects with a range of paint colors and wood stain options, creating pieces suited for living rooms, patios or as one-of-a-kind gifts. The cost is 73 dollars, and pre-registration is required for each person attending. 

Guests are encouraged to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for check-in so the group can start on time. Beer and wine are available for purchase in the studio, but outside alcohol is not permitted, and all participants must be 21 or older. 

Board & Brush is located at 24417 Main Street in Newhall. For more information, call (661) 202-3044, email [email protected] or visit boardandbrush.com/santaclarita.  

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