Beyond the Mason jar: Five craft trends for 2015

After the excitement of Christmas and New Year is over, there’s no doubt we’ll all be making New Year’s resolutions and wondering what 2015 has in store for us! Whether you’re already into your crafts or want to start being more creative, below are five predicted craft trends for next year. Have a go at them yourself:

Repurposing the Mason jar

The humble Mason jar has been hugely popular this year and will continue to be – mainly because it can be used for almost anything and can be crafted 100 different ways to look completely unique! You can decorate them and use within your home to hold flowers, candles and kitchen utensils, or you could even drink your cocktails and hot chocolate out of them!

Many brides are even choosing to use them to decorate their weddings and add a “DIY touch” to the big day. Bridebox shares 15 ways that you can use them at a wedding including for centrepieces, flower arrangements, favours and candles.

Upcycling your furniture

This year has seen a massive trend in the desire to breathe new life into old furniture. Upcycling and experimenting with items such as tables, dressers and mirrors is set to continue into next year. Why is it so popular? Well, not only can it ultimately save you the cost of having to buy brand new furniture, with just minimal work (a little painting and stencilling), you can completely transform your pieces!

Handwriting

Calligraphy has long been a popular and beautiful way to inscribe cards or certificates, and in 2015 it is set to become one of the favoured ways to personalise craft projects. For example, in a baby’s room you might want to use calligraphy to create a wall hanging with the baby’s name, date of birth, weight etc. You could even use it to make a miniature version of your family tree!

Knitting

You might associate knitting with your nan, but actually, this traditional craft is coming back into fashion! If you’re a keen knitter, 2015 is your year to get creative with patterns. It also means you don’t need to worry about birthday and Christmas presents for loved ones – a handmade jumper or throw for their home will go down a treat! According to the Washington Post, it can even make you happy! A 2013 survey of more than 3,500 knitters worldwide found that 81.5 per cent of respondents rated themselves as feeling happier after knitting.

Personalising everything

Whether it’s a loved one’s initials, name, an important date, a photograph or even a quote that means something to them, personalising a piece of clothing or an object just makes it feel that extra bit special. Everyday objects like mobile phone cases, cushions, mugs and shoes can be personalised, either with the help of technology or a little art and craft. Your handmade one-of-a-kind personalised items will also make for great gifts throughout the year.

Amanda Walters