Red Heart recently held an invite-only "crafternoon" in New York City and the event hosted by Jaida Zabala, TikTok creator and designer for Mrs. Moon & Heaven, helped Gen Z with handmade gift-giving. Attendees got to enjoy live demonstrations, personal coaching and more.
Gen Z is enthusiastically embracing leisure activities traditionally associated with older generations, with crafting taking center stage. Digital natives are finding joy in the tactile experience of creating handmade items and beyond the allure of custom-made products, Gen Z is recognizing the sustainability aspects of crafting and reaping mental health benefits, as the slower pace of these activities provides a welcome contrast to the fast-paced nature of their digital lives.
For the holiday season, Red Heart is helping more of Gen Z enter their "grandma era" with newly enhanced, beginner-friendly patterns, step-by-step videos and other helpful resources.
Gen Z Crafting Events
Red Heart Hosted an Exclusive "Crafternoon" in NYC
Trend Themes
1. Gen Z Embracing Crafting - Younger generations are increasingly engaging in crafting activities as a way to disconnect from their digital lives and enjoy the tactile experience of creating handmade items.
2. Sustainability in Crafting - Gen Z is recognizing the sustainability aspects of crafting, including the reuse and repurpose of materials, leading to a surge in interest in eco-friendly crafting practices.
3. Crafting for Mental Health - Crafting activities are providing a welcome contrast to the fast-paced nature of Gen Z's digital lives, offering a slower pace and therapeutic benefits for mental well-being.
Industry Implications
1. Craft Supply Industry - As Gen Z's interest in crafting continues to grow, there is a need for innovative craft supply companies to cater to their unique preferences and sustainability-focused values.
2. Online Crafting Communities - The rise of Gen Z's interest in crafting opens up opportunities for online platforms and communities that provide a space for sharing ideas, tutorials, and connecting with fellow craft enthusiasts.
3. Mental Health and Wellness Industry - The therapeutic benefits of crafting for mental health create opportunities for the mental health and wellness industry to incorporate crafting as a recommended practice for stress relief and well-being.