2026 brings a blend of sustainability, tactile creativity and a renewed love for handmade detail. Makers and crafters are fed up of seeing AI generated content that looks nothing like the real article.
Sustainability continues to be a leading trend but 2026 brings a more refined approach. Crafters are choosing sustainable products such as recycled metals, plant‑dyed fabrics and biodegradable embellishments over ready made new items, whilst still retaining a quality feel.
Project idea: hand dyed fabrics to make napkins.
Fragrance crafts
Candle making has expanded into a wider world of home fragrance. Reed diffusers, wax melts, simmer‑pot blends and essential‑oil room sprays are all popular. Makers are experimenting with botanicals, seasonal scents and personalised blends.
Project idea: Make a embroidered sachet with dried lavender and rose petals to hang in your wardrobe.
Textured Fibre Art
Texture will be everywhere in 2026, oversized tufting, chunky macramé, layered weaving and mixed‑media fibre canvases.
Get started: Combine weaving with embroidery or punch needle to create a multi‑dimensional wall hanging.
Miniature worlds
Miniatures continue their rise in popularity. Tiny polymer‑clay food, dollhouse furniture, fairy‑garden accessories and micro‑embroidery are all thriving. Their charm lies in their detail, collectability and shareability.
Fun make: Craft a miniature bookshelf scene using balsa wood, air‑dry clay and scrap fabrics.
Slow stitching and mindful making
There is a strong return to slow, meditative crafts. Sashiko, visible mending, long‑form cross stitch and hand quilting are all gaining momentum. These crafts offer calm, focus and a sense of connection to the materials.
Simple start: Try visible mending on a favourite pair of jeans using sashiko thread and geometric patterns.
Community Crafting
Crafting together is becoming more important than ever. Online workshops, local craft circles and skill‑swap events are thriving as makers look for connection, encouragement and shared learning.
Get involved: Host a small craft‑and‑chat evening with friends or your online community.
Whatever trend you decide to follow, enjoy your crsftingnin 2026
What Kate Made Today 