Craft Trends to Watch in 2026: What's Hot in DIY Projects & Handmade Crafts
If you've been scrolling Pinterest or TikTok lately, you've probably noticed the craft world is having a moment. And, obviously, I'm here for it!
Whether you're an experienced crafter or trying to find a hobby for your "new year, new me" goals, 2026 is already shaping up to be an exciting year! Here's what's trending - and more importantly, what's actually worth your time:
1. Gel Plate Printing
Okay, I might be biased here, but gel plate printing isn't slowing down anytime soon. If anything, it's evolving in really exciting ways!
What's trending:
More experimenting - new surfaces, color combos, textures, and more!
Mixed media combinations (gel printing + collage + hand lettering)
Why it works: It's accessible, affordable, and endlessly creative. You don't need to be an "artist" to make something beautiful - you just need paint, paper, and a willingness to experiment.
How to get started: Check out my beginner-friendly gel plate printing tutorials to see what all the hype is about.
2. Junk Journaling & Memory Keeping
This one's huge right now, and it makes total sense. I think people are really craving analog experiences... something tactile in our very digital world.
What's trending:
Vintage ephemera aesthetics
Sustainability focus (using recycled scraps, old book pages, packaging)
Functional journals (not just pretty - actually used for planning, gratitude, etc.)
Why it works: It's low-pressure creativity. There's no "right way" to do it, which is incredibly freeing. Plus, it's a great way to use up craft supplies you already have on hand!
How to get started: Grab a notebook (or make your own!), some old magazines, glue, and just start. That's it. Check out my junk journal step-by-step guide for some inspo.
3. Sustainable & Upcycled Crafting
This shift toward eco-conscious crafting isn't slowing down anytime soon! People want to create without the guilt of waste.
What's trending:
Upcycling items from thrift stores (turning old picture frames into art, repurposing jars, etc.)
Using sustainable materials (pressed flowers, leaves, branches)
Zero-waste crafting (using every scrap of paper, fabric, etc.)
Why it works: It's budget-friendly AND planet-friendly. Win-win!
How to get started: Before buying new supplies, look around your house. What could be transformed? Old t-shirts become tie-dye projects. Glass jars become paint storage. You get the idea.
Upcycle your win bottle! Step-by-step tutorial here
4. Dopamine Décor & Maximalism
Minimalism is officially out. We're embracing color, pattern, and personality in our homes!
What's trending:
Bold, colorful DIY décor
Gallery walls with handmade art
Statement pieces (think: hand-painted furniture, custom wall hangings)
Why it works: After years of greige everything, people are ready for spaces that feel joyful and expressive.
How to get started: This is where gel printing shines. Create your own custom art prints, frame them, and suddenly your space feels completely you.
DIY Disco Christmas Ornaments (Anthro Dupe!)
5. Rhinestone & Embellishment Crafts
Rhinestones are SO back. Not just for crafts - they're everywhere. Clothing, accessories, home décor, you name it!
What's trending:
Customized drinkware (tumblers, wine glasses, water bottles)
Game day gear
Personalized gifts
Why it works: Rhinestoning is an easy way to take something basic and make it feel special. Plus, the results are immediately satisfying.
How to get started: Start with something simple like a water bottle or picture frame. Just make sure you're using the right glue (trust me on this... I've learned the hard way🫣).
6. Polymer Clay Crafts
Polymer clay is having a major resurgence, and it's not just for kids anymore.
What's trending:
Statement earrings and jewelry with bold designs
Miniature objects like food and dollhouse accents
Textured patterns and marbled effects
Custom keychains, magnets, and personalized gifts
Why it works: It's incredibly versatile, doesn't require special equipment, and the results look professional even if you're a beginner. Plus, you can create truly unique designs that reflect your personal style.
How to get started: Grab a starter pack of polymer clay in a few colors, some basic tools (or just use what's in your kitchen), and experiment. Bake your creations according to package directions, and you'll be amazed at what you can make.
7. Resin Art
Resin crafts are everywhere right now... and for good reason. The professional finish makes everything you create look like you bought it from a boutique. And if you're making any handmade gifts this year, try experimenting with resin! The wow factor can't be beat.
What's trending:
Resin coasters with embedded flowers, glitter, or photos
Jewelry (earrings, pendants, rings)
Serving trays and home décor pieces
Why it works: Resin gives your projects a high-end, finished look that's hard to achieve with other mediums. It's perfect for handmade gifts that look store-bought. Once you get the hang of mixing and pouring, the possibilities are endless.
How to get started: Start with a beginner-friendly resin kit (epoxy resin is most common). Work in a well-ventilated space, follow the mixing ratios carefully, and start with something simple like coasters. Pro tip: have a heat gun or torch handy to pop any bubbles.
8. Tie-Dye
Tie-dye never really left, but it's evolved way beyond the spiral patterns we all remember from summer camp.
What's trending:
Simple designs that anyone can master
Bleach tie-dye on dark fabrics
Different patterns from traditional spiral (shibori, ice dye, ombré)
Custom items for teams, events, and gifts
Why it works: It's fun, forgiving, and instantly transforms plain fabric into something special. Plus, it's a great group activity! Perfect for parties, team events, or just a creative afternoon.
How to get started: Grab some white cotton t-shirts, fabric dye (or bleach for reverse tie-dye), rubber bands, and get messy. There's no wrong way to do it, and even "mistakes" usually turn out cool. Check out my tie-dye tutorials for step-by-step techniques.
9. Crafting as Self-Care
This isn't just a trend... it's a movement. People are turning to crafts not just for the end result, but for the mental health benefits.
What's trending:
Traditional crafts like needlepoint, crochet, and knitting are making a huge comeback as forms of meditation
Crafters who are focusing on the process, not perfection
Community crafting (virtual craft nights, local groups, community events)
Why it works: In a chaotic world, making something with your hands is grounding. It's a break from screens, a chance to focus, and a reminder that you can create something beautiful.
How to get started: Choose a craft that feels calming to you, whether it's repetitive like diamond painting, creative and open ended like Geli plate printing, or sculpting polymer clay into your new favorite earrings. Set aside 20 minutes and see how you feel. The goal isn't a finished product; it's the peace you feel while creating.
So... What Should YOU Try in 2026?
Here's my advice: Pick ONE of these craft ideas that genuinely excites you. Not what looks cool on Pinterest, but something that actually makes you want to create.
The best part? Most of these types of trending crafts require minimal supplies and zero experience to get started.
Start small.
Give yourself permission to be a beginner.
And remember: the goal isn't perfection. It's joy!
If you're curious about gel plate printing or rhinestone art, I have a 2-for-1 deal on both my digital courses through the end of the year, and I'd love to answer any questions you have along the way!
I've also got tons of free beginner-friendly tutorials to get you started here on the blog, and I’m looking forward to sharing even more in 2026.
What craft trend are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments - I'd love to hear what you're learning in 2026!
Thank you for crafting along with me! 🥳
