Some people like to get out in nature. Others may hit the gym or curl up with a good book. But the stress-relieving outlet getting more attention these days? Crafting. As consumers of all ages turn to crafting as a wellness activity, retailers may want to consider events, partnerships and products to support the growing trend.

In Search of Wellness

The CivicScience Well-Being Index has been declining for the last year (except for brief uptick in July), but the desire to feel emotionally well is strong. As CivicScience CEO and Founder John Dick told attendees at the International Housewares Association’s CHESS event last week, “What we’re seeing is a type of post-pandemic stress disorder that kind of stuck with people whether we consciously realize it or not,” he said.

As a result, consumers — even young ones — are gravitating to crafts including knitting, quilting and scrapbooking as a form of creative expression, escapism and the chance to produce a tangible, useful item. 71% of U.S. consumers identify as crafters, according to a 2025 Mintel report, including a growing cohort of Millennials and Gen Z, as well as parents who see crafting as both a personal hobby and a bonding activity with children.

“There is a huge connection with [crafting and alleviating] stress,” Abby Glassenberg, President and Co-Founder of the Craft Industry Alliance, recently told the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “You get a sense of calm and satisfaction; you’re absorbed and don’t realize how much time has passed. That zone is an escape from stress and is good for the brain.”

A Sense of Community and Pride

Some people may like the quiet and solitude that crafting offers. But there’s something about learning new skills — especially tactile ones done while sitting — that lend themselves to conversation and community.

The personal connections that crafting can foster is an opportunity for retailers, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It’s a perfect way to use your store as a communal space, whether you sell crafting supplies or not.

Partnering with local experts, artisans or community groups on crafting events may be a way to build your customer base, as well as engaging the customers you already have. You could even join forces with a local food or drink purveyor, or look for local organizations that could benefit from your handiwork — say a cancer support group who could share knitted hats.

Making Room and Keeping It Organized

The one thing consumers don’t want from crafting? More clutter around their homes. In fact, Mintel says lack of time and space are two of the biggest challenges that can hinder participation.

For that reason, consider adding products to help shoppers contain and organize crafting supplies — and help them enjoy the crafting experience. That can mean anything from caddies and decorative baskets to hanging storage systems and portable carts.

A few examples? The EzyStorage Mode Open Basket Collection by Journe is a Scandi-inspired range that fits just about any décor. The King Jim TOOL Foldable Organizer by Bous is an attractive portable option that stands up or folds flat, and Novelinks’ Craft Storage Boxes are slim containers perfect for stacking or slipping under a couch. Also, this Metal Utility Cart from TRINITY doubles as a workspace and a storage space, which can easily be rolled in and out of sight as needed.

Find more consumer insights from CivicScience CEO & Founder John Dick and other highlights from IHA’s CHESS education conference: Day One and Day Two.

Discover more about the featured products by clicking the images below.