The last couple of years, we've all learned a lot about keeping ourselves occupied in our own homes! Thanks to millennials and Gen Z, social media platforms such as Tik Tok have been booming not only with new dances but also craft trends to make the time fly by. The current fad is making wall hangings, jewelry, and self-care items with whatever you can get your hands on. Try your skills at anything from yarn to craft resin, but you are sure to find something to keep yourself busy.
The macrame trend was huge in the 70s for adding an organic touch to any home. These wall hangings, plant holders, and even hammock chairs are the perfect craft for those who love to work with their hands. Using tying fibers like yarn, twine, jute, or hemp, intricate 3D art is created through knotting patterns that are then typically hung from driftwood or wooden dowels, or even metallic hoops. Macrame brings an instant shot of texture, and it's something interior designers can't stop talking about.
A generation that craves texture has shed a newfound light on the fiber art world. Woven wall tapestries are created with wooden looms and even round embroidery hoops. Using multiple fibers — from merino wool to sari silk ribbon—artisans use tapestry needles to create intricate patterns or colorful abstract art for the home. Bohemian stores such as World Market and Anthropologie have made these wall hangings extremely popular, but as a DIY project, you can really embrace your own aesthetic.
Another hot yarn trend right now is simple pom poms! Although you can purchase pom pom makers at any craft store, you can also make them yourself with a piece of cardboard. This craft is as easy as wrapping the yarn, tying it off, and snipping. Pom poms make festive holiday garlands and birthday banners. Wreaths made from these joyful balls are also on the rise as a quick little DIY to spruce up your front porch on a budget.
Resin crafts have become increasingly popular on social media as makers begin to show their behind-the-scenes, step-by-step processes. The beauty of resin is that you can put just about anything in molds of almost any shape, from pressed flowers to confetti and glitter. Resin crafts also bring great variability. Popular end products these days include keychains, bookmarks, hair clips, jewelry, and so forth.
Polymer clay is another craft material emerging through social media platforms as makers create visually pleasing videos showcasing different clay colors being rolled together to create unique designs. Increasing popularity also comes from the fact that polymer clay is extremely affordable; just about anyone can give this craft a shot.
Hand embroidery is making a comeback, with a modern twist. The fun part about embroidery is that everything can be a blank canvas with endless color and design possibilities. Texture lovers are also spinning this trend to include things other than thread, embracing charms and reintroducing beads to instill a 3D look. Suitable for both wall hangings and clothing, embroidery requires only a few tools to get started, and YouTube how-tos abound.
The younger generations have found a love for granny squares and are bringing old-school crochet back into fashion. Bucket hats, cardigans, and even miniature stuffed animals—called amigurumi—are the talk of the town. This is an easy craft that can be learned through a few YouTube videos and is suitable for all ages, thanks to the lack of sharp tools. Crotchet clothing items are also expected to be a hot trend for this spring season.
Tie-dying has made an enormous comeback in recent years, but there's a twist to the formerly popular methods that the original hippies would be proud to see: a more eco-friendly approach eliminates the use of harsh chemicals like bleach. This art is being marketed as a great way to upcycle old clothing items and bring them back to life. Tie-dying always has many methods—obtaining color from fresh florals or kitchen items like avocado pits and carrot tots. Whether you choose to tie-dye the old fashion way or try out something new, like ice or snow dying, you're sure to fit right in with today's stylish trendsetters.
Candlemaking is everywhere, and there's no better year than 2023 to embrace this craft trend that has never really faded from popularity. Candle-making kits are already available to purchase at craft stores, but many are choosing to make their own pours and try out unique molds. This is also a fantastic eco-friendly craft if you want to use old mason jars and soy-based wax, making this self-care item completely upcycled and eco-friendly.
Not only a craft trend, soap bars are also making a statement in the beauty community. Making your own soap—or buying it from someone local who does—cuts out extra plastic waste, and lots of environmentally minded folks are eager to try this no-waste hygiene product. With color and scent options available from dozens of all-natural sources, the results are endless. Even those not interested in making their own soap are flocking to the satisfying soap-cutting videos on social media.