What makes handmade items so special? Why do people turn to handmade items? Why do people enjoy creating these items?
I think there are a multitude of reasons, and let’s look at some of them.
Imperfections
Listen, this might come as a shock to you, but I’m not perfect. (Cue the gasps of horror!) I’d argue that none of us are, although some people might *think* they are. Handmade items are usually not perfect either. Maybe you dropped a stitch. Maybe that cookie is a little overbaked. Maybe your plant isn’t doing so well and needs a little TLC. That’s totally normal! Practice doesn’t make perfect, but it does improve skills. Learning to embrace the imperfections and the journey to make them better is a life skill. And we all might identify with the sad little tree on a tough day.
Community and Connection
Regardless of what craft you practice, there is a community associated with that craft. In our digital era, it is easier than ever to find that community and connect with like-minded people. We also may feel more connected to our family when doing particular crafts, especially if we have fond memories of a person doing it.
Accomplishment
Let’s face it, it’s nice to feel like you have done something. Anything, really. Being able to point to one of your crafts and say “I did that” is a great feeling. Since these skills are not always as commonly enjoyed, saying that you made a shirt, or grew your strawberries, or baked a pie is sometimes seen as amazing. And it’s pretty simple, when you look at it closely, but it’s nice to say that you’ve done it.
Why do you enjoy doing what many people think are traditional crafts? Why do you keep coming back to it?