[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.
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[Handmade] Let’s Add More Hobbies! A Summary of Types of Handicrafts [Crafts] (1–10)
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.
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.
Origami handicrafts
Origami handcrafting is a technique that uses triangular pieces made from origami paper to create three-dimensional figures such as animals and flowers.
Because you repeat the same action over and over and the work requires a moderate level of fine motor skill, it is said to be well-suited for training the brains and fingertips of older adults.
It’s exciting to watch the piece come together as you keep assembling the triangular units like knitting, and another charm of origami handcrafting is that, with a bit of creativity, you can also make practical items such as pen stands.
[Handmade] Let’s Add a New Hobby! A Summary of Handicraft Types [Crafts] (11–20)
Stencil
The technique of applying paint with a brush or sponge over a board called a stencil sheet—where letters or designs are cut out—to transfer those letters or designs onto wood, paper, and so on is called stenciling.
Instead of simply painting flatly, by dabbing the paint on with a tapping motion, you can create a slightly distressed, vintage look.
If you enjoy DIY projects with wood, you can add letters or designs as an accent to your own creations, and if you’re into cars or motorcycles, stenciling on the body or a helmet is also recommended.
Patchwork
Patchwork is the process of joining and sewing small pieces of fabric together to make a single piece of cloth.
It’s also great for repurposing leftover fabric.
You often see it used for pouches and coasters.
Many people may think it looks fiddly and difficult, but although it appears complicated, the sewing method is actually simple.
Using a sewing machine, place two pieces of fabric together, sew around all four edges, then cut only one of the fabrics into an X pattern.
Making a few of these is all it takes to finish.
Alternatively, you can sew just one edge of two small pieces of fabric together, connect pieces horizontally to the length you need, and then sew them so they connect vertically as well.
If you add a lining, it will become one complete piece of fabric.
Even leftover scraps can be turned into a lovely project.
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.
Leathercraft
Leathercraft is the art of making various items using leather.
You can create everything from small accessories like card cases and wallets to larger items like bags.
Some people might think, “Don’t you need a special sewing machine to sew leather?” but the basics of leathercraft are hand stitching.
By punching stitch holes in advance, you can sew by hand using a needle.
Start with a leathercraft kit sold at craft stores, then try making projects using patterns available online.
As you get used to it and start designing your own patterns, you’ll enjoy creating whatever you want even more.