In today’s fast-paced world, it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed and isolated. That’s where crafting can come in. For some people, crafting can be really helpful – not just as a creative outlet but as a mindful activity that can improve our wellbeing. It’s also a great way to bring people together.
How crafting can help
Whether it’s crocheting, painting, scrapbooking or journalling, for some of us having a creative outlet can be a useful tool in managing our mental health. Crafts often include repetitive actions that can feel mediative and calming, helping us stay present.
The benefits of crafting together
While some may prefer the peace that comes with solo crafting, there are many benefits to crafting as a group. Whether it’s with friends or a local community, creating together can offer more than what’s made by hand. It can provide a natural setting for sharing interests, experiences, and support. This can be a great outlet for those of us who find traditional social settings challenging.
Joining or starting your own craft club can also provide a sense of connection, especially for those of us who are experiencing loneliness. It’s a wonderful way to come together as a community and build meaningful relationships, whether through shared experiences or mutual love for a hobby. Sometimes, just having someone to talk to can help and be a reminder that you’re not alone.
Crafts to get you started
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, we’ve highlighted some crafts below that you can do as a group or solo (whichever you prefer) to help improve your mental wellbeing.
Painting
Not only can painting be fun, but it can also be useful if you find it difficult to put your thoughts and feelings into words.
Mixing colours and seeing your art come to life can be a soothing experience. Whether you start from scratch with a canvas or pick up some wooden crafts to create some beautiful decorations for your home – there’s something for everyone.
Host your own paint and sip session and invite your friends or attend a local class to meet new people. Painting with others can create a shared space where conversation can flow naturally, or where silence can feel comfortable. You could also work on projects together or take inspiration from others to enhance your own creation.
If you're after a relaxing afternoon project, check out this easy DIY painted floral wreath tutorial.
Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking is a great mindful activity. The process of cutting, sticking, and arranging the layout of your pages can be a satisfying task, and with the freedom to choose any theme, it allows you to slow down and reflect on the things that matter most to you.
Your pages could focus on your favourite hobbies – whether it’s movies, flowers, books, or travelling – or you could create a sentimental scrapbook that is a walk through your life. Include your favourite memories or places you’ve visited – the choice is all yours.
Whether you’re crafting with friends or in a larger group, you could work on a scrapbook together giving everyone a chance to contribute their ideas.
If you're unsure on where to start, read our beginner's guide to scrapbooking.
Colouring
You’re never too old for a colouring book and this simple activity can do wonders to promote mindfulness and relieve stress. Using your favourite colours to fill in all the sections can help you to focus on the present.
It can also work as a form of expression, depending on what you decide to colour and if you choose colours that reflect your mood. If you’re struggling to vocalise your feelings, let them unfold on the page instead.
Whether you’re colouring with a friend or in a group, it’s a low-pressure activity that can help you relax and provide a safe space to open up and connect.
Drawing
Like painting, drawing offers a calming outlet to express emotions, thoughts, and creativity. Don’t feel pressured into thinking you need to be able to draw a masterpiece either. Whether you sketch from your imagination, use a reference to mimic on paper, or just doodle random shapes and designs, any form can help to promote mindfulness. Focusing on the lines, shapes, and shading will help your mind to slow down.
Drawing can also provide a unique way to share how you and others see the world around you. Each person’s perspective, style, or approach is reflected in the art they create. Drawing side-by-side can not only inspire creativity but also give you a better understanding of the person who created the piece.
Knitting / Crocheting
Whether you're into knitting or crochet, these crafts offer a calming, creative outlet that helps you slow down and unwind. The repetitive motion of each stitch not only promotes relaxation but also provides a gentle focus that can ease a busy mind. There’s also a real sense of satisfaction that comes from watching your project grow - whether you’re making a simple scarf, a colourful blanket, or learning a new pattern for the first time.
And you don’t have to go it alone. Whether it’s chatting with friends, family, or fellow crafters, crafting with others can be a great way to connect and share ideas. Whether you're just starting out or already hooked, there are plenty of free guides and patterns to help along the way.
This list of free crochet patterns is here to help you up your stitching game.
Mental health support
Mind are one of the leading mental health charities in England and Wales. We partner with Mind to help support the mental wellbeing of our colleagues and communities across the UK. If you’re struggling with your mental health, you can find advice and support on Mind's website.
