I learned to sew when I was about 6.  I was making my own clothes by 8.  I learned to knit for a Brownie Scouts project - I was probably 8 or 9; but I did not retain that skill.  I re-taught myself to knit when I was about 13 and probably learned to crochet about the same time.  I don't remember how I learned to crochet, whether I was self-taught or someone showed me.  I taught my mother how to crochet when she was probably 50 or so.  I don't remember teaching her, but she swears I taught her

I taught myself how to needle tat a few years ago, but have been unsucessful in teaching myself how to shuttle tat - I think I need someone to sit with me to help me with that one.

I seem to be the family "throw-back" to the old needle arts.  I'm the only one in my family that really learned and worked the crafts.  Learning from someone else would probably be easier than self-taught, but I seem to figure most stuff out on my own.  There are some great videos on the internet that can show you how to knit and crochet.  I wish they had been available to me when I was learning - then maybe my technique would be better!  I don't think you are ever too old to learn - stubborn maybe - but never too old. 

Don't assume DH wouldn't knit.  Knitting was originally a man's craft (along with crochet and macrame').  I know of a number of men who knit (my husband has even done some!).

I figure if I can do woodworking, foundry and welding, guys can do knitting, crochet and macrame!