Did you know that March is National Craft Month? The Craft and Hobby Association created this designation back in 1994 to encourage Americans to get involved in crafting and to learn about the benefits associated with these endeavors. Even if you don't consider yourself to be naturally artistic, this month-long celebration is one in which you can participate. There are numerous activities and mediums you can try out, including drawing, painting, sewing, crocheting, woodworking, scrapbooking, jewelry making, and much more.

And while having a chance to explore a new creative hobby might be fun for many people, crafting can also promote cognitive function, relieve emotional stress, and even minimize physical pain. What's more, the items you make can be turned into good ideas for gifts! Although global retail e-commerce sales are expected to nearly double between 2016 and 2020, taking up a hobby can help you make presents for special people in your life or inform your gift-purchasing decisions when you do opt to buy creative gifts online.

In other words, there are numerous reasons to get involved in crafting this month. But where should you get started? We're sharing a few options for beginner hobbyists to try out in March -- and how you can even add some of these crafts into your Easter celebrations.

Embroidery

When perusing creative gifts online, you've probably seen cute embroidery hoops with funny pop culture references or funny sayings. If you've searched for "little gifts for her" and have come across these, you've probably been tempted to place an order. These gifts tend to be unique and can function as decor, so it's only natural that you might have at least considered giving one to a friend. But why not go the DIY route and learn how to do some embroidery yourself? This relaxing and creatively fulfilling activity can occupy your free time and allow you to make something truly one-of-a-kind. There are even starter embroidery kits that can guide you along the way! In no time, you'll feel confident stitching something truly amazing for someone you love (or for yourself!). You can really show "some bunny" you care with this Easter basket gift.

Candle and Soap Making

Candles and soaps always make great gifts, which explains why so many people look for them when they shop for creative gifts online. Supporting independent artists by purchasing these items can be a great way to contribute to your local community or ensure a small business can thrive. But if you want to join their ranks or take part in creating your own, it's never been easier. These disciplines have been around for centuries, but they've definitely made a comeback in recent years. Not only can you cut down on personal toiletry costs or prepare for loss of electricity, but you can experiment with unique scents, ingredients, and colors. You can even create themed soaps and candles for holidays like Easter. Something bunny-themed or with a spring twist would make a perfect addition to any Easter basket!

Knitting or Crocheting

Knitting and crocheting can be great ways to unwind and express yourself in a creative way. These activities can be highly therapeutic and allow you to make custom pieces -- like scarves, blankets, hats, socks, baby garments, and more -- to delight your friends and family. If you aren't comfortable handling those needles, you might also consider crafting with felt or other fabrics. Sewing can be an excellent outlet for creativity that will allow you to supplement fast fashion for personalized apparel that'll last far longer. No matter what you make, these items can make great gifts (and Easter basket fillers!).

Basket Weaving

With Easter well on its way, you can put your own creative spin on your baskets by making them yourself. Not only can you fill the baskets with delicious candy and thoughtful little gifts, but you can also learn how to weave the baskets themselves this month. This ancient art requires a few tools and some high-quality raw materials. But it'll be an incredibly rewarding skill to learn that goes far beyond Easter. You can create baskets of all shapes and sizes that can be used year-round to hold everything from fresh produce to electronics or toiletries. Of course, you can paint or decorate your baskets to make them look even more festive for when the Easter Bunny hops down to your home in April.

Flower Crown Making

What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than to learn how to make unique and beautiful flower crowns? All you'll really need is some craft wire, hot glue, and fabric flowers -- but you can get as creative as you want to. You might even consider adding bunny ears for an Easter spin! This is also a craft that parents and kids can do together to bring the outside in. This is the sort of craft that's fun to do as a group, as well; even if some people don't think they're particularly artistic, it's an excellent way to get started. You can even make flower crowns to hand out in Easter baskets to surprise your recipients this year.

Whether you’re looking for creative gifts online for the National Craft Month or creating your own craft ideas to try out for this Easter season, we offer small gifts for all the above, especially the perfect basket filler ideas that our website has to offer!