Autistic Culture | Where Autism Meets Identity! Autistica: Knitting Is Autistic
in this episode of Autistica, Special guest Hunter Hammersen joins Matt and Angela to share how knitting blends a stim, a special interest, and a sensory joy all in one. From the textures of yarn to the meditative repetition of stitches, Hunter explains why knitting is a perfect autistic pastime—both deeply personal and socially connective.
🎧 What You’ll Learn
- How knitting offers a socially acceptable way to stim while connecting with like-minded enthusiasts.
- The wonderfully literal magic of turning yarn and two sticks into something tangible.
- Why autistic bottom-up processing enhances the joy of noticing yarn textures and quality.
- The sensory benefits of knitting and how it can regulate and soothe the mind.
- How yarn can hold emotional meaning and become part of your personal story.
- Choosing the perfect yarn to suit your sensory needs.
- The intersection of knitting, community, and social justice.
- How to create autism-friendly systems for organizing projects and completing patterns.
Featured Guest: Hunter Hammersen
Hunter is a self-described weirdo who left grad school (ABD in the history of science and medicine) to create her own knitting patterns. In the past fifteen years, she has published a dozen books, written hundreds of patterns, and built a thriving community of knitters. Now, she shares her creativity, sensory joy, and curiosity on Patreon—often from the comfort of her pajamas.
📚 Resources & Links Mentioned
Show Notes:
Website: https://tinynonsense.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HunterHammersen
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tinynonsense
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