Making is more than just a creative hobby; it has been shown to improve mental agility and decrease stress overall. In fact, many people who suffer from PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression or any level of chronic pain have found relief by engaging in some form of making.

The benefits of making are wide-ranging and often overlooked. It stimulates the areas of the brain associated with learning, problem-solving and memory. It also builds confidence, self-esteem and provides a sense of accomplishment with each project completed. It’s also a great way to teach kids new skills, and to encourage the use of fine motor movement.

With the advancement of tools and design software it’s been getting easier to go from a concept to a finished product. The internet and social media have contributed to this as well by allowing makers to share their ideas and designs. This has helped to reduce the barriers of entry for anyone wanting to start a makerspace or make something.

When deciding on the best material to use for your next project, it’s important to consider both function and aesthetics. The physical properties of the materials are essential for ensuring the final product will perform as it is designed. This includes mechanical and chemical properties as well as temperature, UV, and chemical resistance. It’s also important to note that the materials used must be suitable for the intended application, as different environments can cause materials to behave differently.

Incorporating a mix of both durable and recyclable materials into your design will help to ensure you have an end-product that is as sustainable as possible. The cost and availability of the materials should also be taken into account as these will impact the final production costs.

A big benefit of crafting is that it provides an engrossing and distraction-free experience. When you’re engaged in your latest sewing, knitting or beading project, you’re completely immersed in the process. This allows you to completely disconnect from daily stresses and focus on the moment, a similar sensation to meditation. Even the gentle rhythm of stitching or tying knots has been proven to be calming.

One of the most important things to remember when starting a new craft is that it’s okay to be bad at first. The more you practice, the better you’ll get. If you find yourself feeling frustrated, it’s best to take a break or recognize that this may not be the hobby for you. Learning to be ok with frustration is a valuable life skill that can be applied to other aspects of your life as well.