Stat: Hobbycraft and Mind study links crafts to better mental health 

UK – A new survey from Hobbycraft and mental health charity Mind has revealed that 72% of people believe healthcare experts should recommend arts and crafts to support wellbeing. The research, conducted to launch the retailer’s partnership with Mind, highlights the growing role of creativity in tackling the UK’s mental health crisis. The report also shows that 59% of people gain a real sense of achievement from creative hobbies. 

With 8.8m Britons already turning to crafts for support, Hobbycraft CEO Alex Willson said: ‘Crafting is so much more than just a hobby. Whether it’s stitching, painting or pottery, these hands-on activities help people slow down, express themselves and feel connected.’ 

Mind information content manager Rosie Weatherley added: ‘The solution to the mental health crisis requires a wide range of approaches, and acknowledging the role crafting can play in people’s wellbeing should be part of that.’ 

The study found that 88% of parents believe crafting is vital for children’s development, but time, cost and screen use remain key barriers. To address demand, Hobbycraft will launch free Mindful Mondays sessions in selected stores from September, offering creative spaces for community connection and mental wellbeing. 

In our recently released Viewpoint, Tactile Touchpoints, LS:N Global spoke to Nathalie Valmary, founder of notebook brand Louise Carmen, on how analogue rituals such as journaling are gaining traction as tools for self-care, reflection and identity-building.