01 May The Hidden Benefits of Crafting with Others
By Barbara K. Stump, MA
Think about the last time you sat around a table with friends, chatting, laughing, and actually making something with your hands. If that feels like a distant memory—or if you’ve done it recently—you know there’s something magical about crafting with others. The end product is the reason we gather, but the feelings every participant takes away from these experiences are just as important. These analog, hands-on activities are a great way to connect with friends and family. In a Psychology Today article, titled How Getting Together Fosters Well-Being, psychologist Harry Cohen, Ph.D., states that, “Regular face-to-face interaction helps lower stress, boost mood, and increase emotional resilience. When we connect with others, our bodies release oxytocin and dopamine—two powerful chemicals that promote feelings of happiness and well-being.”
From my own perspective, as an artist, crafting is different, but not necessarily less important because of the social connections that can be made through sharing an activity. Usually, crafting is accessible to everyone, regardless of your artistic talents, and it allows for a more community based support time. What’s better than a chance to try a new experience and bond over making something with someone who is special in your life?
Recently, I had a wonderful afternoon in Traverse City, Michigan, with one of my friends making candles. This is something I have wanted to try for a while. So, when I threw the idea out there, and also tossed in lunch—food is always a good mix with any activity, I was so happy to hear she was up for it!
On the day we made our candles, my friend chose citrus scents for her candle and I went with ocean and sea salt to create my beach vibe candle. After our crafting experience, we both walked away from the day feeling uplifted, and with a sense of gratitude for a day well spent.
The next day, after my candle had cooled and set, I was able to pick it up. I love the way it turned out! In addition to selecting our scents and containers, we were able to embellish our candles by choosing different toppings, which our crafting assistant added for us as it cooled. It smelled so good, and my dog, Maple, gave it a scent approval thumbs up (or paws up) rating.
If you are in charge of planning the next friends’ gathering, why not book a craft experience for all of you to enjoy? Or, thinking ahead to Mother’s Day, maybe consider carving out an afternoon for intentional connection infused with crafting? That could include celebrating with a maternal figure in your life, or honoring the memory of a mother no longer with you. Perhaps pick someone in your life to connect with and craft, all in the spirit of care. There are a multitude of crafting activities you can choose from. In addition to making candles in Traverse City, @ https://shopevilqueen.com/ , some other recommendations include glazing pottery—that has been pre-made in Leelanau @leelanaupotteryco.com , and making jewelry in the Detroit area @halieandco.com .
I do think craft nights are booming right now because they offer us the opportunity to connect face to face with others, help with stress relief by building a supportive community, and offer an analog escape. Besides the venues I mentioned above, you might even have some old crafts sitting in your closet. Why not send out some invites to your friends for a fun craft night at your house? Enticing food and beverages included of course!
Barb Stump is an art education consultant and G3 contributing writer.
