Birmingham’s NEC will be a hive of activity on 17 & 18 May, as crafters, DIYers and hobbyists flock to Maker’s Central. With two days of demonstrations and hands-on activities, this is a dream event for creative individuals who prefer handmade to mass-produced. As we put a spotlight on craft makers, we explore the option of turning your interest into a business.
Is There a Market for Handmade Gifts?
According to Etsy, searches for the term ‘handmade gifts’ have increased 238% in the year to Q1 2024. A year on and there is no sign of decline. The arts and crafts industry has seen a 20% increase in businesses and a doubling of turnover in the last 10 years. And, 13.3% of adults in England purchased at least one handmade item in 2024.
Research* identifies that individuals under 35 years old are the most likely to buy handmade goods. Popular purchases include upcycled furniture and clothing, along with candles, jewellery and cards. It seems that the desire for something unique and sustainably made is driving this resurgence of interest in bespoke goods.
What’s more, there’s a desire to get creative, with 23% of the UK population enjoying a DIY or craft hobby. Online tutorials have made it more accessible to learn a new skill or technique and nearly half of adults have attended a creative workshop in the last year. When you’ve tried a craft, you gain an appreciation of the skill and time that goes into making handmade goods.
Handcrafting a Side Hustle
Meanwhile, starting an art & craft maker business has been identified as the most popular idea for a side hustle. With the option of selling online through sites including Folksy, Patchy Art, and Etsy, it’s possible to sell all year round, rather than waiting for the next craft fair. However, buying directly from the maker has a strong appeal for many shoppers. That’s when you get the story and inspiration behind the goods.
Several of our creative customers started as hobbyists, who bit the bullet and launched a side hustle. They include:
Dallas Designs creates and supplies modern needlepoint kits for others with a passion for sewing. Find out more about this business and how we assisted with the design of their kit boxes.
Kihaia Prints is a specialist in designing and making 3D-printed homeware. We helped them to tell their story and explain the process with printed boxes.
Packaging for Craft Suppliers
Alongside the small start-ups, we manufacture boxes for large-scale businesses in the industry. A great example is Groves Ltd, the UK’s leading distributor to art and craft retailers. Supplying top brand names to trade, they require a high volume of protective shipping boxes to keep pace with the rise in craft maker purchases.
Bespoke Boxes for Quality Craftsmanship
When a product has been custom made using techniques that have been honed over a lifetime, the finishing touch is a bespoke box.
Woodfield Guitars is a stunning example of the finest craftsmanship, making instruments that look amazing and perform brilliantly when played. We also supply large, heavy duty boxes to Ercol for their iconic handcrafted furniture.
So, if you need branded e-commerce packaging for craft maker supplies or your handmade creations, get in touch 01296 436888 or enquiries@abcbox.co.uk. Our helpful team will listen to your requirements, make recommendations and provide a quote.
*https://www.axa.co.uk/business-insurance/business-guardian-angel/trends-in-uk-craft-businesses/
