The power of craft to uplift is especially important amid today’s global mental health crisis, with recent research confirming that the act of making can improve wellbeing (Hobbycraft, 2025). As such, creatives are pursuing more joy, satisfaction and connection in craft via emotive narratives, vibrant communities, and soothing and experimental practices. And, despite digital fatigue, social media is fuelling engagement.

Craft is being recognised as a powerful means of fostering resilience, solidarity, emotional repair and personal expression. As a result, craftivism narratives and emboldened community projects are on the rise, as is vigilance against craftwashing, and the safeguarding/futureproofing of (endangered) skills and cultural knowledge.

Craft is being wielded to reconnect people to both their senses and to the natural world. Nature as a muse is emerging as a notable focus, with craftspeople either emulating its enigmatic beauty or reflecting its vulnerability. Meanwhile, bold, gestural approaches to colour, material and texture respond to cravings for more sensory and emotional stimuli.

Alongside the growing reverence for human skills, the tension between traditional techniques and digital production is inspiring the next generation of craft narratives. Artists are seeking out an equilibrium between hand- and machine-made, precision and decoration, and ancient and futuristic. Climate-responsive craft is also evolving, aimed at strengthening our connection with nature.