Knitting is taught from age 5-6. By 10, Amish girls knit socks for sale.
Basics
Socks: 5 needles, circular. Last 5+ years (vs 6 months store-bought). Mittens: 2-3 evenings. Double-layered for cold. Scarves: perfect for beginners.
Materials
Wool from own sheep, self-spun. Or bulk yarn. Cotton for summer.
When
Winter evenings. Waiting. Group gatherings. Knitting = meditation.
Economics
16 pairs socks for family of 8 = $320-640 savings per year. Material $0 with own sheep.