A surprising resurgence of old-school handcrafting skills has emerged in an age dominated by technology and mass production. For many, like them, turning to traditional crafts is not simply about hobbies, but about reconnecting with the past, embracing sustainability and cultivating mindfulness. Here are seven of those handcrafting skills that are being served up from the archives in the DIY time.
1. Knitting and Crocheting
Once regarded as a pastime of older generations, knitting and crocheting have exploded in popularity with younger people. In addition to creating one-of-a-kind garments, these crafts have been associated with alleviating stress and improving concentration. The repetitive action of stitching has even been likened to a form of meditation for its calming effect on the mind.
2. Woodworking
As the movement towards minimalism and eco-friendly lifestyles gains momentum, more people are choosing to craft their own furnishings and décor. Woodworking involves customizing, creating, making craftsmanship, and finally creating something tangible. And as mass-produced furniture has gotten increasingly disposable, handmade pieces are prized for their durability and individuality.
3. Hand Embroidery
No longer merely a utility skill helping friends keep vintage outfits intact, hand embroidery is an art form that has been reimagined for contemporary use. Embroiderers are personalizing clothing, making home decor or even creating elaborate portraits. It’s a meditative, slow-burning activity that offers a sense of satisfaction with each stitch.
4. Candle Making
The appeal of natural scents and customized scents has made handmade candles a huge resurgence. As people learn more about the toxins found in mass-produced candles, DIYers have taken to making their own out of beeswax or soy wax. Anyway, custom, hand-poured candles make nice gifts and sell well on online marketplaces.
5. Homemade Soap and Skincare Products
With using commercial skincare products consumers have become more turned-on to the chemicals in these products, this has led to a trend in homemade soap and natural skincare. With just essential oils, herbs, natural butters, and other raw ingredients, some are making face and body oils and lotions, ensuring no harmful additives will be applied to the skin.
8. Lettering and Calligraphy Tutorial
In a digital age filled with designs made up of fonts that’s the new normal, however, hand lettering is making a comeback in the world of modern creativity. Calligraphy is becoming increasingly popular as a hobby and professional skill, from wedding invitations to decorative prints. So much of readability is in the tactile experience of writing with ink and a brush — an artistry that digital text simply cannot match.
7. Leatherworking
Leatherworking, once an indispensable craft, has returned to the realm of DIY, where many now make their own wallets, belts and bags. “The skill needs patience and precision, and an appreciation for quality materials.” My apologies for the mix-up; this is an article.
How Are These Crafts Making a Comeback?
The revival of these skills can be traced to several different impulses: a desire to unplug from screens, a need for sustainable options, an emotional gratification that comes from making things yourself. Many are turning to crafting, too, as a way to escape the daily stresses of life and foster mindfulness. Even the industry of sports betting has seen this (offering platforms that give you an old-school, hands-on gaming experience) — a nod to nostalgia for DIY enthusiasts.
Wrapping Up
In nothing but an age of convenience, there’s something very rewarding about returning to traditional handcrafting skills. Whether it’s knitting, woodworking or candle-making, these resurgent crafts provide a sense of fulfillment and creativity that mass-produced goods simply don’t deliver. With so many homebodies looking for productive, creative, tactile hobbies, it’s safe to say that the DIY era isn’t going anywhere.