In today’s chaotic world, more and more people are looking for ways to relax, unwind, and reconnect with themselves. The ongoing rise in popularity of crafting is no accident – it’s a trend rooted in this pursuit of mindfulness and creativity. If you’re seeking for ways to diversify your categories, adding a craft section could be the perfect choice – and as it currently contributes over £3.4 billion to the UK economy every year, you could be missing out on a lucrative market.
Stephanie Carswell, Founder and Creative Director at Hawthorn Handmade explains why craft kits are the ideal addition to your product ranges, and what to look for when sourcing kits.
The Growing Demand for Mindfulness and Creativity
Crafting isn’t just a hobby – it’s a form of mindfulness and relaxation. As we’re all increasingly screen focussed, it’s easy to see why people are starting to crave hands-on activities that allow them to switch off, relax, and enjoy a break from the real world.
All crafts encourages concentration, reduces stress, and provide a sense of accomplishment – something your customers will love! Whether it’s needle felting or embroidery, cross-stitch or crochet, these mindful activities can help your customers take time out for themselves whilst producing something beautiful they will be proud of.
Why Craft Kits Are an Easy Addition to Your Shop
1. Ready Made, Hassle Free Products
The easiest way to add craft to your shelves is with kits. They are self contained and often beginner friendly. A good kit should come with all the materials needed whether it’s wool, needles, thread, or fabric, plus detailed instructions written by experts in that craft. This means your customers don’t need to buy multiple supplies or worry about missing any essentials, and you don’t need to stock all the separate bits and bobs saving you big on inventory management time!
2. Compact and Giftable
Kits are often beautifully packaged and easy to display. Their compact nature makes them ideal for both bricks and mortar stores and online shops, fitting perfectly in gift sections or impulse buy displays, and nice and simply to wrap and ship. Craft kits make a thoughtful gift that encourages creativity and personal expression.
3. Appeal to a Broad Audience
You can find craft kits designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned crafters. Depending on your customer you might want to focus on beginners, or maybe you know they’re more likely to look for a more advanced option. Kits also appeal across wide age groups, making them a truly versatile product offering. Whether your customers are parents looking for a creative activity to do with their kids, or adults wanting a mindful escape, craft kits provide a simple and enjoyable way to get started with a new hobby.
How to Find Good Craft Kits
It’s vital to look for high quality kits that have everything the customer needs, and that come with detailed instructions and support from craft experts – you don’t want to be getting customers returning poor quality kits that were missing materials or didn’t explain what to do, so think carefully about sourcing from small experienced suppliers over the bigger mass produced kits available – it makes a huge difference with repeat purchases, even if the initial kit is more expensive.
Look at reviews on the supplier’s customer facing website to get an idea of what customers are saying. Ask your supplier for help educating your customer with POS or even staff training, and try to offer a nice variety of crafts for your customer to choose from. Some of the most popular crafts are:
Needle Felting Kits: A popular option for beginners and seasoned crafters alike. These kits allow your customers to create fluffy, tactile designs with wool – often small animals, ornaments, or even home décor. Look for British wool and high quality felting needles and avoid any kits with polystyrene.
Embroidery Kits: Timeless and versatile, embroidery kits range from simple patterns for beginners to more complex designs. These kits are ideal for customers looking to create something they can display or gift. Look for quality threads, pre-printed fabric patterns and kits that include a wooden hoop.
Felt Craft Kits: This is a fast growing craft, with kits often perfect for beginners. Kits make anything from home decorations, adorable animals and toys. Look for wool mix felt and clear instructions.
Knitting and Crochet Kits: Offer your customers the joy of creating cosy scarves, blankets, or even stuffed toys. Knitting and crochet kits are always popular, though they tend to be for more experienced crafters. Look for high quality yarns and well written patterns.
Crafting is More Than Just a Product – It’s an Experience!
When you introduce craft kits to your store, you’re not just selling a product; you’re offering your customers a cosy, creative experience. Crafting can be a deeply rewarding activity that combines mindfulness, creativity, and a sense of achievement. Your customers will walk away with a finished product they can feel proud of, and your shop will become associated with offering a valuable, enriching experience. You could even expand into workshops once you have a successful craft section!
A Sustainable and Ethical Choice
Lots of craft kits are now made with high quality, sustainable materials, aligning with the growing consumer demand for ethical products. Stocking kits that use natural fibres, eco-friendly packaging, or ethically sourced materials can further enhance your shop’s appeal to mindful shoppers.
Final Thoughts
Adding craft kits to your store is a low risk, high reward decision. Not only do they align with the growing trend for mindfulness and creative expression, but they also offer versatility in terms of audience, ease of stocking, and giftability. By tapping into this market, you’re positioning your store as a place where customers can not only shop but also discover and experience the joy of making something with their own hands.
Now is the perfect time to diversify your product range and embrace the craft trend—your customers (and your bottom line) will thank you!
About Hawthorn Handmade
Hawthorn Handmade is an award-winning craft company based in Dorset, creating craft kits for beginners and beyond, all designed and made in the UK. The kits feature stunning designs and easy to follow instructions, plus beautiful materials and tools that make getting creative a joy.
Exclusive Offer: Cultural Enterprises members can get 10% off their first wholesale order from Hawthorn Handmade. Email Stephanie at wholesale@hawthornhandmade.co.uk to claim your discount.
