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[Handmade] Let's Add a New Hobby! A Summary of Handicraft Types [Craft]
If you’ve ever thought, “I want to start a new hobby,” or “I want to make the most of my dexterity,” this article is for you! This time, we’re rounding up various types of crafts and needlework you can enjoy right at home.
We’ve picked a wide range of ideas—from sewing and knitting to accessory-making—that you can put to use.
It’s also recommended for those who want to participate in events where handmade goods are sold.
Be sure to read to the end and find the perfect fit for you.
[Handmade] Let’s Add More Hobbies! A Summary of Types of Handicrafts [Crafts] (1–10)
Tsumami-zaiku
Tsumami-zaiku is a traditional craft handed down since the Edo period, and when it comes to hair ornaments for Coming-of-Age Day, those made with tsumami-zaiku are the classic choice.
By folding thin fabrics such as chirimen (crepe), you create motifs like flowers.
While the basic steps are simple, the greatest appeal of tsumami-zaiku is the freedom to explore—choosing materials, combining colors, and deciding how to form the motifs.
All you need is fabric, tweezers, and glue, so why not start by getting a kit or an instructional book and making your first piece?
crochet
If you’re thinking, “I want to try knitting,” crochet is a great place to start.
Crochet is a fundamental technique in yarn crafts, and with a bit of practice you can quickly pick it up.
Even if you have little experience—or you’re completely new—you can begin without much difficulty.
Some projects can be quite challenging, so be sure to gather information and start with the basic stitches.
Basic crochet stitches include the chain stitch and single crochet, among others.
As you master different stitches, the range of projects you can make will expand.
Enjoy the process and have fun crocheting!
satin stitch
You can really feel the delicacy in the embroidery on cushions and tapestries, can’t you? There are many stitching methods in embroidery, but let’s try the basic satin stitch.
As its name suggests, the satin stitch creates a glossy, satin-like surface and is useful for filling narrow areas.
Bring the needle up through the fabric from underneath along the printed design and start stitching.
If you’re a beginner, using two strands is recommended.
The number of strands refers to how many threads you pass through the needle’s eye, and it changes the overall look of the embroidery.
Use one strand for fine designs or a refined finish, or try four strands if you want a bolder, more textured look that emphasizes the stitch marks.
Adjust as you like!
tatting lace
Tatting lace is a lace-making technique that originated in Europe, built up through a series of knots.
The only tool you need to make the lace is a thread winder called a shuttle, which makes it easy to get started—another part of its appeal.
As you’d expect from a European-born lace technique, the finished pieces are exceptionally delicate and beautiful, giving a refined impression.
You can make accessories like earrings and necklaces, as well as small items like coasters, so the fact that you can enjoy using what you create is perhaps its greatest charm.
wool felt
Needle felting is a craft in which you use a special needle to poke wool fibers so they tangle together, allowing you to shape them into various forms.
The unique fluffy texture of wool felt is very cute, and it makes animals, anime characters, and even foods look absolutely adorable.
Another appeal is that the main task—repeatedly poking the wool with a needle—is simple and lets you quietly lose yourself in the process, which many people enjoy.
As you improve, you’ll be able to create pieces with a wide range of expressions, so start with something simple and give it a try.
Dekopodji
Decoupage is a stylish way to decorate by cutting out your favorite paper and sticking it onto plain accessories.
For decoupage, you normally need a decoupage medium to apply before attaching the paper, and a finishing coat to apply over the paper.
But with Decopodge, you can handle both the attaching and the finishing with a single liquid.
Of course, there are also types you can use to paint a white base when the surface has color, or to give a glossy finish.
Decopodge products are available for different base materials you want to adhere paper to, so choose the one that matches the style of piece you want to create.
By getting creative with how you combine Decopodge products, you can make an even wider variety of items!
amigurumi
Amigurumi refers to stuffed toys made with knitting or crochet.
They’re typically worked using a crochet hook, and the handmade look of the stitches adds to their charm.
Recently, quite a few people have taken up amigurumi as part of their fandom activities, making their favorite anime characters as amigurumi.
An amigurumi piece is made by crafting the outer shell with yarn and then stuffing it with filling.
You can use not only yarn but various types of thread, so you can also change the texture of the finished piece, which is another appealing aspect.
Sewing
Have you ever spotted a cute handmade bag or a fabric with a lovely pattern and thought, “I want to try making that”? When that happens, give sewing a try—using needles and thread to stitch pieces of cut fabric together.
It might seem difficult, but there are plenty of beginner-friendly methods.
Incidentally, one of the most common first projects people choose is a dress.
These days, there are lots of inexpensive clothes available, but the charm of sewing lies in originality and the ability to customize things to your taste.
Why not add sewing—which lets you enjoy the making process itself—to your list of hobbies?
beadwork
One type of handicraft that’s easy to start with is beadwork.
Tools for beadwork are sold at 100-yen shops and even in children’s toy sections, so you can easily gather materials and enjoy making projects regardless of age.
You can string beads on fishing line, cord, or wire, and there are several weaving methods, so the range of creations expands.
When you make accessories or keychains in your favorite designs, you’ll feel more attached to your work.
Once you get used to it, try challenging yourself with delicate, lace-like beadwork.
temari (Japanese handball/embroidered decorative ball)
Temari are traditional Japanese playthings that are now enjoyed as handicrafts.
You stitch decorative patterns with embroidery thread onto a spherical base.
One method is to create the base by wrapping yarn around a Styrofoam ball and then stitching over it, but to begin with, try a temari kit or a project that lets you start from the stitching stage using embroidery thread.
The temari you make will look lovely displayed at home.
This craft is recommended for anyone who wants to enjoy a handicraft with a traditional Japanese aesthetic.