When children become adults handmade crafts are unfortunately something that is generally omitted from everyday life, except of course for those like myself who just have to include creativity in their life. Many people find great satisfaction with textile related hobbies like sewing, knitting, crochet and embroidery, which can be attested to by the great number of yarn and fabric companies that exist today, though of course if you step into a big box store like Michaels you'll quickly realize that there are so many creative hobbies one can pursue! For me going into such a store is a bit dangerous as I want to buy it all, so I'm currently trying to use up what I have first!
Age is absolutely not important when it comes to crafts, and for those individuals, like students, who are often under stress, crafting can truly be a live saver. There are so many crafts and creative activities that don't have to take huge chunks of time and/or can be worked on slowly over the course of weeks or even months. The satisfaction of making something with your own hands can help anyone facing challenges to relax. Got it? So lets get crafting!
Why Are Crafts Great for Students?
In college, many students can only dream of creative pursuits, especially if most of the subjects studied are technical. Studying for tests can often be very difficult, and sometimes it is helpful to distract yourself with a hobby that takes your mind off the pressure, even for just a small pocket of time. Of course if one is truly on the verge of quitting and needs some outside help by asking the professionals to "do my powerpoint presentation for me" that can be a solution in a pinch, but not of course because the crafting took over!
While many might think crafts seem trite, they can actually be highly beneficial. Here are a few points that describe the benefits of crafts for students:
- Development of creativity and imagination. Crafts allow students to express individuality and develop their imagination by creating unique designs and shapes. This is especially useful for those who rarely encounter creativity during training and helps to distract themselves so as not to burn out mentally.
- Stimulation of the educational process. Crafts can stimulate students' mental activity, improving their concentration, attention, and memory. Changing activities is very beneficial for productivity. A golden rule is that you must take a break from mental activity during physical activity.
- Self-expression and self-affirmation. Making crafts helps students express their talents and interests, building their self-confidence. Looking at the results of our work in real life, we receive a dose of joy hormones necessary for quality study and work. After all, students often have to complete tasks that they cannot feel or see offline.
- Relaxation and stress relief. Crafts can be a great way to relax and relieve stress after school or work, helping students unwind and take their minds off daily worries. Immersed in a process on which academic performance does not depend and there is no deadline, the brain forgets about anxiety.
- Improved motor skills. Working with materials such as paper, fabric, and natural elements helps improve hand-motor skills and coordination. Scientists periodically research how crafts affect children's development and claim that it is no less useful for adults.
Okay, now that I've given you solid proof that delving into DIY craft projects is NOT a silly waste of time, lets get to it!
DIY Home Decor Craft Ideas For Every Level
Above: So simple and cute, this boho style photo hanger can be put together in just an hour or so.
Many experts say that the space that surrounds us affects productivity and motivation. So home decor crafts are especially great for students who are both on a budget and looking to make their personal space a haven. We have collected a range of ideas that will interest you and will make your room or apartment brighter.
Boho Style Tree Branch Photo Hanger:. Create a unique photo display wall hanging using simply a real branch and string, plus some wooden clothes pins. Add faux flowers and tiny lights to the branch if you like, but it can also look great without it. Take a look at the photo above for inspiration, and then do it your way! This is a fun project to do for a friend, and consider making a bunch to enjoy and gift.
Decorative pillows with embroidery: Personalize your interior with embroidered pillows. Purchase a pre-sewn pillow cover made either from very simple fabric or something that you love, then add patterns or words using embroidery. Embroidery on velvet looks amazing, and patterns like checks and stripes can be used to help you place your designs. Don't forget that sometimes adding pom poms or tassels at the corners can make your project look amazing, and even consider adding a pocket just for fun! These unique pillows will be the perfect accent in your home, and since a cozy atmosphere has a significant effect on productivity do make a bunch!
Kraft paper or cardboard vases: Make stylish flower vases from craft paper or even cereal box cardboard. Fold the paper into vase-like or urn-like shapes, then staple or glue them together and add paint or pattern for decoration. Place a plastic bottle within the vase to hold water, and add flowers or plant cuttings.
Wood panel wall art: Create unique wall art using wood panels and acrylic paints, plus gel medium or decoupage medium to add collaged elements. Apply abstract patterns or geometric shapes to the panel using brushes or stencils, then add images of your choice on top. It's an easy way to add originality and style to your home. Plus, you can add photos and memorabilia to the panel to make something that is special for you.
Macrame plant hanger. An elegant hanging for plants, that is easy to create using the macrame technique. Using a natural cord or rope, you can knot beautiful patterns that add texture and style to any interior. Macrame is an ancient technique that can be used in so many ways, so consider giving it a try!
Seasonal Craft Ideas
Crafts and creativity that respond to the season are sometimes so very fulfilling, whether it means making something cozy for winter, or collecting wild flowers in the spring to press and use in decoupage. Seasonal crafts make especially great gifts, so stay in tune with the season when you think about how to spend your creative time.
Decorative candles. Make your candles using special molds and wax bases. Garnish them with dry leaves, cinnamon, or aromatic oils to create a cozy atmosphere. You can add any scent and color to candles, and they can warm you up in any weather. Wreath on the door. Make a beautiful wreath of dried leaves/branches, berries, and pine cones to decorate your front door. Add a ribbon or bow for an extra effect to make the craft more colorful. A wreath is an excellent idea for any season and is always a great decoration for the home.
Pumpkin crafts. Pumpkins are one of the main symbols of Halloween. Buy several small pumpkins and use acrylic paints to create original designs or designs. These pumpkins will be an excellent decoration for your home or yard and will be able to immerse you in childhood when there was no long research and writing coursework.
Knitted or crocheted blanket. Knit or crochet a blanket from soft, chunky yarn to create a cozy atmosphere in your home. This blanket is perfect for those chilly autumn evenings when you can benefit from a bit of added coziness. Knitting a blanket by hand using large tube yarn is very simple, and you can finish the job in just one evening.
Recycling Home Decor Craft Ideas
Take your crafting one step further by being eco-conscious and focus on recycling crafts. Crafting with supplies that cost next to nothing and are saved from the landfill gives your projects that much more meaning, truly!
Furniture made from pallets. Take old pallets and turn them into stylish and functional furniture for your home or garden. Create cozy chairs, tables, or flower pots while adding a unique touch to your interior or landscape. You can ask for pallets for free from any store and then allocate a budget only for paint and necessary materials.
Decorative pillows from old T-shirts. Give a second life to your old T-shirts by turning them into cozy and original throw pillows. Use knitting, embroidery, or applique techniques to create unique designs. If you have been thinking for a long time about throwing away your favorite T-shirt or not, then now is the time to turn it into a valuable thing.
Creativity with metal. Use old metal objects such as cans, lids, or wire to create unique projects for your room. Create candlesticks, vases, or sculptures while adding unexpected elements to your interior. Most likely, you have seen more than once how people turn tin cans into flower pots or pencil organizers.
A second life for old porcelain items. Transform old porcelain cups, plates, or saucers into unique decorative items with the use of strong glue like Gorilla glue. Use stacked creations to create flower vases, candle stands, or garden decor. A few coats of paint may or may not be a great idea to bring your piece some uniformity, though a collage of colors can also be great.
Plastic Bottle Containers and Vases: The bottles you use can become vases or even sculptures. You only need a few supplies, like paint or scissors, to create a simple, environmentally-friendly craft.
Okay friends, I don't know about you but after this list that is literally just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to DIY home decor, I'm ready to get creating! Do make time for crafts and creativity in your busy life and chase away the anxiety and stress!