Just like the people on this list, every once in a while, I, too, get this urge to make something – usually something crochet that rarely ever materializes into something useful. But if you’re anything like me, you know that sometimes, the process can be more enjoyable than the end result. (In that regard, crocheting is very much like building jigsaw puzzles – another pastime perfect for those who enjoy working on things, only to tear them apart.)

Nowadays, many people seem to have found themselves hooked on some sort of a hands-on activity. According to Statista, in the last couple of years, roughly a quarter of Americans engaged in DIY and arts and crafts as a hobby.

If you’re wondering what kind of hobbies people in the US engage in the most, as of September 2024, cooking and baking topped the list, followed by reading. (The list also included being preoccupied with pets, playing video games, and enjoying outdoor activities.) According to data from the same year, the younger generations seemed more interested in DIY and arts and crafts as hobbies than those over 50 years of age.

Over the last half a decade, many people seem to have acquainted themselves with DIY and all sorts of arts and crafts projects. Studies found that between 2019 and 2021, for instance (when, likely evoked by the Covid lockdown, people’s interest in DIY projects seemingly skyrocketed), people’s spending on DIY projects grew by 44% and reached a record height of $66 billion.

With so many people taking part in all sorts of crafty activities, it’s safe to assume that at least some of their projects ended up on the ‘Something I Made’ subreddit.

Discussing DIY in a recent interview with Bored Panda, educator at The Creative School, Toronto Metropolitan University, Dirk de Waal, noted that the DIY motivator framework consists of eight reasons for and the benefits of a DIY project. “Firstly, DIY activities are motivated by product and service evaluation and identity enhancement,” he said.

“From a product and service perspective, DIY activities allow for customization, diversity of product or service, better quality, and saving money by doing it yourself. DIY activities also allow the DIYer to feel empowered and fulfilled by making something themselves, which is unique, but also the sense of community and sharing knowledge within the DIY movement is important.”

With so many things nowadays happening in the online world or with the help of the almighty internet, it’s no surprise that people turn to it when they need help with their projects, too.

Covering some interesting statistics, Gitnux pointed out that close to half (47%) of DIY consumers rely on YouTube for instructions on how to carry out certain projects. It also found that throughout the span of two years, more than 53% of homeowners in the US have taken on a DIY project.

In addition to being fun, arts and crafts can also be satisfying. A study on how arts and crafting influences subjective well-being found that such kinds of activities provide a greater sense of satisfaction than employment.

According to the lead author of the study, Helen Keyes of Anglia Ruskin University, in addition to providing us with a sense of achievement, crafting can be “a meaningful route to self-expression,” which is not always provided by employment.

“There is certainly something immensely satisfying about seeing the results of your work appear before your eyes,” Forbes cited Keyes saying. “It feels great to focus on one task and engage your mind creatively.”

Bearing in mind that crafts can provide a greater sense of satisfaction than employment, it might come as no surprise that even such hobbies as the aforementioned crocheting can positively affect one’s personal well-being. Studies suggest that many people even use crocheting as a way to manage mental health conditions and life events, such as grief, chronic illness, and pain.

One famous crochet aficionado, 11-year-old Jonah Larson, who became an internet sensation because of his skills, shared that for him, this particular type of craft helps with hand dexterity (as he’s planning to be a surgeon) as well as with his financial goals. Needless to say, learning DIY and crafting skills can come in handy in numerous ways.

Talking about what he enjoys most about DIY projects, Dirk de Waal shared that it’s the sense of knowing, the accomplishment, and gaining skills that he appreciates the most.

“By knowing exactly what goes into the project, you have a deeper understanding, appreciation and connection to the project. The sense of connection means the project will be cherished, thus making it more sustainable,” he added.

One thing about learning any kind of skill or craft is that it’s impossible to master something without making mistakes. But most creators would likely agree that practice makes perfect. “Failing is not a negative; it is an opportunity to consider a different approach or perspective and to learn new skills,” de Waal said.

So, whenever you create something, be proud as you say, “This is something I made,” and know that the next time, it will turn out even better. Just stick to it!