On July 19th 2021, for many parts of the UK, Covid-19 restrictions eased and the doors of opportunity felt open again for the first time in over a year. For our course providers and makers it was a sigh of relief, a time to reflect, but also a good time to get excited about taking bookings and welcoming people back through their workshop doors. 

 

At CraftCourses we took this date as an opportunity to review the top 10 crafting trends for 2021, so far. We want to celebrate them with you and share the top workshops and kits from each category.

 

#1 Blacksmithing and bladesmithing

 

 

Dating back to 1500BC this traditional craft has seen a modern revolution with the release of 'Forged in Fire' on Sky television. The craft has appealed to all age groups, and although considered to be a largely male dominated craft, also appeals highly to both genders. We have tutors from forges across the UK that promote their workshops with us, you can create anything from a Viking blade to a fire poker, a floral metal sculpture for your garden to a restaurant quality chef's knife. 

 

 

#2 Pottery throwing

 

Somewhere between 6000 and 4000BC (quite a range) we know the first potters wheel was formed. With the help of incredibly inspiring teachers across the UK, and Keith Brymer Jones on 'The Great Pottery Throw Down' we all have a new found love of pottery throwing and ceramics. You can create simple eating and drinking vessels, astonishing works of art and larger functional pieces like bathroom sinks, with this addictive craft. 

 

#3 Glassblowing and glass art

 

 

Positively modern in comparison, glassblowing was invented by Syrian craftsmen in the area of Sidon, Aleppo, Hama, and Palmyra in the 1st century BC, where blown vessels for everyday and luxury use were produced commercially and exported to all parts of the Roman Empire.

 

This artform has remained popular with CraftCourses since our inception but has increased in popularity since the television show 'Blown Away' on Netflix. 

 

#4 Wood turning

 

 

The origin of turning dates to around 1300 B.C. when the Egyptians first developed a two-person lathe. We think the craft has remained popular as it is so hands-on and uses such natural materials and processes. We are proud of the work our wood turners do to teach future generations this essential skill. 

 

#5 Willow basketry

 

 

This one really is an oldie!! The weaving of baskets is as old as the history of man. Traces of baskets have been found in the Egyptian pyramids, either as a lining to ceramic vessels or as carriers of food and goods. 

 

 

#6 Resin art

 

Natural resins have been used for a long time, with earliest evidence dating back to Ancient Greece. The more modern chemical and epoxy resins are relatively new (in comparison with the crafts above.) It took a chemist from the 1930s to discover the chemical reaction needed to create epoxy resin. The artistic effects that are achieveable with epoxy resin are astounding and it continues to be a popular choice with our students across the UK.

 

#7 Welding

 

 

 

We can trace welding back to 1881. This high-octane craft has soared in popularity over the past 12 months, as people look to change their careers, or simply add this essential skill to their creative repertoire so they can fix their own cars or make their own metal crafted items. 

 

#8 Upcycling

 

 

The term 'upcycle' was first coined in 1994. Whilst it has exhisted in many guises throughout history, upcycling has been reborn with programmes such as, 'Money for Nothing' and 'The Repair Shop' receiving high viewing figures. With the expansion of online marketplaces and a renewed passion for recycling and reusing, furniture upcycling and repurposing is becoming a popular pastime. 

 

 

#9 Dry stone walling

 

 

Stone walls have been built by farmers for more than three millennia across England, Scotland and Wales. The earliest examples date to around 1600 BC, during the Bronze Age. Of all the crafts to make it to the top ten trends of 2021, this seems like the most surprising. It is a super rewarding craft and you get a real sense of achievement, knowing your work will protect the land for years to come. We wonder if it's rise in popularity has been as a result of the recent Covid-19 lockdown? People are certainly more keen to get outdoors and mix with like-minded individuals, in a gorgeous setting. Check out our top courses below.

 

 

#10 Macramé & textiles 

 

 

The origin of macramé is generally attributed to Arabic weavers during the 13th century, using decorative knots to finish the loose ends of hand-woven textiles. However, decorative knot-tying can also be traced back to third-century China on ceremonial textiles and wall hangings.

We have noticed a boom in textile crafts! As well as macramé, we have seen a rise in crochet, knitting, embroidery and sewing workshops. These crafts have also been easily adapted to be available as online workshops, kits and virtual classes. Top macramé and textile listings below. 

 

 

Wow! That was a history lesson!

Who knew these traditional crafts originated such a long time ago??! They still hold a firm position with you, as top craft trends for 2021 and we can't see any signs of their popularity slowing down. 

 

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To view all our kits and artisan gifts click here>

 

Inspired to sign up as a maker/tutor?

Would you like to earn an income from your creative passion? You too can promote your craft workshops, online classes, craft kits & finished items through CraftCourses. It is totally free to sign up and add listings, we will only take a payment once we have secured you a booking or order. It's easy to do, please sign up and if you have any questions that we can help with don't hesitate to contact us.