Turns out crafting isn’t just a nifty way to kill time. Brand new research shows that arts and crafts hobbies like knitting, crocheting, and painting can actually make you happier and more satisfied with life. So, while that TV show won’t fix your mood, your next scarf just might.

If you’re craving some creative ideas, look no further than CraftyFun’s Instagram page, boasting over 342 thousand followers who can’t get enough of their crafty posts. Dive in for our top picks, and don’t miss what the expert, Dr. Sarah Hegge, has to say. She’s the genius behind thecraftblogger.com, and trust us, she knows her stuff.

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“Right now, my coffee is resting on a linen rug mug I made about 4 years ago, and I’m wearing hand-knit socks I’ve worn holes in and repaired twice,” Dr. Sarah Hegge tells us, radiating with pride. Hegge is a strong advocate for crafting things meant to last. Just think about it—how differently would you approach your crafts if you knew they’d be around forever?

Hegge lives and breathes arts and crafts. Her specialty? Fiber and textile arts. On her blog, thecraftblogger.com, you’ll find tips galore, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro looking to elevate your craft. Plus, she’s got teaching cred: she’s an instructor at her local community college. Originally a fashion design student, she’s now a master of traditional techniques like pad stitching. Impressed yet?

After hopping from bridal seamstress to theater costume shop worker and fashion instructor, Hegge eventually earned a PhD in Design. For her dissertation, she meticulously reproduced historic dresses to compare sewing skills. The epitome of dedication!

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Like many others, Hegge gets lost in her art. “Crafting brings me back into the physical world and my own body,” she says. “We spend so much time on screens, but crafting is all about the textures, colors, and sounds. You can’t really multitask it.”

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Crafting is ingrained in Hegge’s DNA, thanks to her parents. Her mom quilts and crochets, and her dad is always knee-deep in home improvement projects. No wonder she grew up believing crafting and repairing are as essential as breathing!

Hegge’s crafting mantra is simple: focus on the process, not the product. “When I’m knitting, I cherish the feel of the yarn, the colors, and the comforting sound of needles clicking,” she says. So, even if you have to restart multiple times, it’s all part of the joyful experience. And if it’s not stained, holey, or a little frayed? You’re not doing it right!

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*Lies in cardboard-box it came in* 😸

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One of Hegge’s favorite projects? A 100% hand-sewn quilt. Each piece was sewn by hand, and the layers were meticulously quilted together. Hand sewing takes forever but is so serene. The quilt now lives on her bed, a daily reminder of her dedication and skill.

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LOVE IT!!

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Cute!!!

Even experts like Hegge still take classes. Recently, she learned new spinning techniques and hunted down a spindle on Etsy. Learning never stops!

If you’re a beginner feeling overwhelmed, Hegge has some sage advice: find a good kit or take an in-person class. Bad supplies make learning frustrating, so let experienced teachers guide you. You’ll thank her later!

Okay, what a cute idea for a special piece. 🥹

As always, keep your tools organized. You’ll thank Hegge when you’re not scrambling to find a ruler. And speaking of rulers, can one ever have too many?

“I once saw a Reddit post where crafters had rulers tattooed on their forearms—commitment to the craft or what?”

Hegge keeps an eye on trends and notices a growing interest in ethical and environmentally friendly crafting. Natural dyes and eco-printing are having their moments, alongside a renewed effort to make clothes to dodge the harms of fast fashion.

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Oh geez. It’s so creepy that I can’t look away! 🙈

Hegge’s crafting doesn’t just stop at clothes. Her tools are lined up, ready for the next burst of creativity. Her motto: create and use what you make, no matter if it gets a little worn out.

Great idea. Opens up more communication pathways.

The crafting world isn’t just about making as much as you can; it’s about making well. Quality over quantity, folks! So, next time you pick up a crochet hook or needle, think about the joy and longevity your creation might bring.

CraftyFun’s Instagram is living proof that the crafting world is brimming with ideas just begging to be explored. And who knows? Maybe your next project will inspire someone else to dive into the world of DIY bliss.