In a time when digital influencers are dominating the social media scene, it can be difficult to stand out. But the UK is home to a number of crafters that are making waves online and off. From jewellery to resin crafts and everything in between, these creators are inspiring others with their beautiful creations.
A favourite amongst kids and adults alike, sewing is one of the hottest craft trends right now. The popularity of the BBC show, Great British Sewing Bee, has sparked a resurgence in the activity in recent years. Tesco have even reported that demand for sewing and knitting kits soared by nearly 500% last year.
For those looking to hone their own skills, the internet is full of tutorials and tips. A handful of our favourite UK craft blogs include Phoebe Mackay, whose colourful weavings encourage creativity and self-expression; Ben Goldmark, a clay modelling influencer who creates anything from fun characters to whole chess boards; and Claire at Heart Handmade, a refreshing take on adult crafting with tutorials that spark a childlike imagination while fulfilling polished grown up taste.
The Crafts from the UK and Crafts movement has had a lasting impact on the country’s crafters and designers. In the 1890s the group of artists and artisans, including William Morris, promoted themes of clean design and quality craftsmanship through their guilds and exhibitions. Their work was celebrated by merchants such as Heal’s and Liberty, and their ideals were embraced by progressive new art schools and technical colleges.
Unfortunately, the movement began to wane in the 20th century with the death of Morris himself in 1896 and the outbreak of World War I just a few years later. This coincided with a growing sense of materialism and the advent of cheaper, mass-produced goods. Craftspeople also faced increased competition from overseas suppliers, as well as rising fuel and timber prices.
As a result, many craft traditions have been pushed to the brink of survival. According to Heritage Crafts’ latest Red List, 62 craft skills have been placed in the critically endangered category. Some have been lost entirely, such as brilliant cutting (carving a pattern into flat glass), and others are being driven to the edge of viability, such as smithing arrows and making musical bows and hat blocks.
For those who want to find out more about modern British crafts, Folksy is a great place to start. Aimed at small designers and makers, the website supports cottage industries by offering them a platform to sell their work. Its blog sets out its raison d’être, highlighting the importance of quality over quantity, strength in numbers for reaching bigger audiences, and supporting small businesses with a 'David, not Goliath' approach.
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