Crafting

Creating something with your own hands brings peace and satisfaction. Whether you have an afternoon free or are planning a major project: crafting is the perfect way to let your creativity run wild. On this page, you will find all the inspiration, techniques, and material knowledge you need to get started right away.

Why crafting is good for your brain and mood

Crafting is more than just a pastime. It helps you escape the daily hustle and bustle for a while. When you are being creative, you clear your mind. Scientists also call this the 'flow'. This reduces stress and improves your concentration. Moreover, completing a self-made project gives a huge boost to your self-confidence. After all, you are creating something unique that didn’t exist before.

What do you really need for crafting?

Before you start, it is useful to have a good basic kit. You don’t have to buy everything at once, but these basics will take you a long way:

• Cutting tools: A sharp craft pair of scissors is essential. For precision work, we recommend a craft knife and a cutting mat.
• Types of glue: Use craft glue for paper, but a glue gun for heavier materials like wood or plastic. Double-sided tape is ideal for making cards without leaving marks.
• Paper and card: Consider different thicknesses. Thin paper (80 gsm) is good for folding, while sturdy cardstock (200 gsm or more) is perfect as a base for cards.
• Measuring tools: A metal ruler lasts longer than a plastic one, especially when you are cutting along it with a knife.

Choose your favourite crafting theme

Crafting for every target group

Creativity knows no age. Anyone can learn to make things, whether you are a beginner or have years of experience.

Crafting for adults

For many people, crafting for adults is a form of relaxation. It often involves refining your skills. Think of hand lettering, creating detailed miniatures, or decorating your interior. The goal is often to make something that is not only fun to do but also truly fits in your home.

Crafting with children

Sitting together at the kitchen table is a great treat for children. Crafting with children stimulates their motor skills and imagination. Choose projects with quick results, such as working with clay or making cheerful paper animals. Safety is important here: always use child-friendly glue and safety scissors.

Crafting techniques and materials to discover

There are endless ways to make something beautiful. Some techniques require patience and precision, while others are very free and expressive.

Working with paper and card

Paper is one of the most versatile materials in the world. When crafting with paper, you can think of the ancient art of origami, but also modern scrapbooking. Two techniques that will take your projects to the next level are:

• Punching: With punches, you can easily press perfect figures out of paper. This is ideal for making confetti or decorations for your cards.
• Die-cutting: Do you want to cut out truly intricate shapes that wouldn't work with scissors? Then die-cutting with a special machine is the solution. You use metal shapes (dies) to cut out patterns very accurately.

Colour, paint, and textiles

Want to add more depth and colour to your work? Why not try watercolour painting. With watercolours, you create soft transitions and dreamy effects. It is a technique where you learn to let go of control, as the water partially guides the paint.

For those who prefer working with thread and textiles, macramé is a fantastic technique. By knotting threads in a specific way, you can make your own wall hangings, key rings, or plant hangers. It is a soothing activity that you can do anywhere.

Other popular techniques:

• Wood burning: Use a special pyrography pen to engrave drawings and text into wood. This gives a beautiful, natural look to your projects. Discover more about wood burning.
• Fuse beads: It’s not just for kids! When you craft with fuse beads, adults can also create stunning pixel-art masterpieces.
• Making flowers: With crepe paper or felt, you can craft flowers that stay beautiful all year round.

Crafting by season or holiday

Nothing gets you into the right mood faster than decorating your home for a special occasion. By following the seasons, you always have a new subject to think about.

Crafting for the four seasons?

• Spring: When nature awakens, it’s time for fresh colours. Think of spring crafting like cheerful little birds or flower wreaths.
• Summer: During the holiday period, there is time for larger projects. Use materials from nature, such as shells and stones, and enjoy some summer crafting.
• Autumn: Autumn is the ultimate crafting season. It’s cold outside, so we make it cosy indoors with autumn crafting. Think of lanterns or decorations with leaves and pine cones.
• Winter: During the dark days, we make atmospheric lighting and paper snowflakes during winter crafting.

Celebrating the holidays

• Christmas: The most creative time of the year! Make your own tree hangers or an advent calendar with Christmas crafting.
• Easter: Paint eggs or make a cardboard Easter bunny during Easter crafting.
• Halloween: Get into the spooky spirit with homemade spiderwebs and pumpkins during Halloween crafting.
• Valentine's: Create a heartwarming gift for that one special person with Valentine's crafting.

Personal gifts and special moments

A handmade gift tells a story. It shows that you know the recipient well and have invested time in their happiness.

Making cards and gift wrapping

Making cards is the start of a crafting hobby for many. With a beautiful stamp or a handwritten text, you create a card that people often keep for years. Don’t forget the presentation either. With the right gift wrapping techniques, you can turn a small gesture into a grand moment.

Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Weddings

Surprise your parents with something you’ve designed and made yourself. Look for ideas for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. DIY projects are also popular for celebrations. Think of wedding crafts like name cards for the table or a unique guestbook.