[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 a New Hobby! A Summary of Handicraft Types [Crafts] (11–20)
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.
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.
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.
resin
Glossy resin pieces with a translucent look—some have flowers sealed inside, and others are vividly colored.
“Resin” apparently means a type of plastic.
Craft resin is a clear material that hardens when stimulated.
There are two types of resin, differing in the number of liquids you use.
Until you get used to making resin crafts, UV resin, which uses a single liquid, is recommended.
Pour the resin into a mold, add pigments, dried flowers, or pressed flowers, and build your piece.
Then place it under a UV light and wait about five minutes for it to cure.
Sand off any burrs on the hardened piece to finish.
It’s easy to try, so give it a go!
Easy Long-tailed Tit
This is about making a long-tailed tit, notable for its white and soft appearance, using faux fur fabric.
The key points are how to make the most of the fabric’s softness and how rounded to make the final shape.
You’ll cut the fabric using a pattern, sew the pieces together, then stuff them with filling to create a round form.
Since you’ll combine the body and tail before adding the stuffing, it may be important to sew while keeping the final shape in mind.
It’s also interesting that the impression changes depending on how much stuffing you use.
In conclusion
I introduced a lot of ideas—did any craft projects catch your eye? Some kits are even sold at 100-yen shops, so it’s a good idea to try those first and see how they feel. Wishing you a fun and creative crafting time!