The act of making — whether it’s cooking, building, drawing, sculpting, sewing or designing – gives you the power to shape your own world. It also gives you the freedom to experiment, fail and try again. Whether you’re just beginning or an experienced maker, the tools and technology available today make it easier than ever to go from idea to prototype. And the internet has made it even easier to share, collaborate, and iterate your ideas in real time.

Crafting isn’t just a fun hobby – it’s an important skill to learn. It can help children learn how to follow instructions, solve problems and focus on an task for a long period of time. It can also teach them that if they don’t get something right the first time, it’s okay to keep trying instead of getting frustrated and giving up.

A few decades ago, you could only have made a physical object by manually building it from raw materials and labor. However, as the smarter tools and better design software became available, it was much easier to go from concept to finished product. Today, we have a whole new generation of makers that has the opportunity to grow up with the power of digital fabrication. This enables the next generation of designers, engineers and inventors to create more with less and do it more quickly than ever before.

If you’re looking for an easy and fun way to pass the time, try this simple but creative DIY project. Use a clear glass bottle, tissue paper, Mod Podge, and other decorations to turn it into a festive decoration for any occasion. You can wrap it with the paper, decoupage it with printed paper and hearts, or glue colorful circles to it for a pop of color in your home. Find the detailed instructions here.

When people engage in artistic activities, the brain releases neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. These chemicals elevate mood and promote happiness and contentment. In addition, engaging in arts and crafts has been shown to improve cognition and increase overall mental health. These benefits are why arts and crafts have been called “therapy” or a “quiet meditation.” Creating art, drawing, painting, knitting, sanding wood and other tactile activities can provide an escape from the digital noise of our lives and offer a sense of self-expression. It’s also an opportunity to connect with others through social activities that aren’t as demanding as work meetings or Zoom calls.