I took part in a discussion this week on Radio 4's You & Yours programme (link below), about the growing numbers of people embracing creative activities. In the UK, one in three people engaged in art or craft activities last year. The community here at CraftCourses is growing hugely, especially for crafts like dry stone walling, where bookings have tripled over the last few years! Most people agree on the value of craftsmanship in our human lives, but what’s driving this resurgence?
You & Yours Programme got in touch with us last week to take part in an interesting piece about Dry Stone Walling and the rise of craft courses , a discussion which aired on Monday 2nd September 2024 - if you'd like to listen the full programme link is here with the craft courses segment starting at 20 minutes 15 second in).
Read on for all the reasons we think craft courses have exploded recently as the nation rediscovers its love of creative and practical arts...
Boosting Wellbeing
Engaging in crafts such as pottery to relax and de-stress. Image by master1305 on Freepik
Wellbeing is the buzz word of 2024! Art and craft have always been known to be a curative measure for anyone struggling internally. Putting the mind and body together by making something… well that is going to be relaxing by default. You won’t be stressing about work, parenting, family or what people think of you when you’re modelling clay, forging iron or working on a charcoal sketch. By learning and absorbing yourself in the practical task at hand you will not only have fun but give your conscious mind a complete rest.
So much so that we have employers who buy our vouchers for their staff to help them destress, calm down and reduce absenteeism as a result!
Having Fun!
A group of friends playing with clay as a fun craft activity. Image from freepik
Beyond the practical benefits, art and craft courses are just plain fun! Attending a craft or art course can be an immensely enjoyable experience, as evidenced by the countless glowing reviews we collect from students. Give yourself or a loved one a special and memorable experience that may last a lifetime.
Meeting people
Crafting bringing people together. Photo by Hillary Ungson on Unsplash
Who doesn’t want more friends? Or friends they can share passions and interests with? Art and craft courses also provide an excellent opportunity to meet new people who share similar passions.
These settings allow for authentic connections that go beyond swiping on dating apps or trying to strike up conversations at social gatherings. Even if you don’t meet Mr or Ms Right, you’ll leave with new friends, new skills, and something you created with your own hands.
Creative Freedom
Painting as a form of self expression and freedom. Photo by Kseniya Lapteva on Unsplash
In an increasingly regulated world, art and craft offer a rare form of freedom. Crafting allows for self-expression, tapping into ancient energies of creation that are fundamental to the human experience. This freedom helps us expand our understanding of ourselves and connects us with something deeper.
Unlike many aspects of modern life, art and craft are free from rigid structures and rules, allowing individuals to follow their instincts, experiment, and make mistakes without fear of judgment. It fosters mindfulness, grounding us in the present moment while giving us the freedom to explore our imaginations, cultivate new skills, and create something uniquely personal.
Coping with the Cost of Living
Struggling with paying bills with the cost of living crisis. Image by jcomp on Freepik
The huge rises in the utilities and food bills of the average household have hit most of us where it hurts. So how can art and craft help with the cost-of-living crisis? If you think of the costs of various sports and leisure activities, art and craft is probably on the low end.
‘Make do and mend’ is an old-fashioned tradition that has been all but obliterated by modern day consumerism. However, making your own clothes, welding, fixing your boot soles, and even foraging, all help people to live creatively on a tight budget!
Covid
Crochet crafts making a comeback during the lockdowns. Image by Bob Dmyt from Pixabay
The lockdowns were challenging… but many people used the time to develop hobbies and interests they had always dreamt of! A great many bucket list items were ticked off in these periods. The extra time at home led people to creative outlets as a way to cope with stress and boredom, sparking a surge in art and crafting. Online tutorials and virtual communities flourished, allowing people to connect, learn, and share their creations. Crafting became a therapeutic and fulfilling way to relax, express emotions, and foster a sense of community during uncertain times.
Telly
The Great British Pottery Throwdown entertaining and inspiring viewers
The knock-out success of shows like Great British Pottery Throwdown, Great British Sewing Bee, Forged in Fire and Blown Away have made creative pursuits even more appealing. These shows not only entertain but also inspire viewers to try their hand at various crafts, contributing to the rise in people taking up new hobbies.
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