Thinking of fun things to do with family this weekend?
Family crafting is one of the hottest trends in connecting relatives in our hyper-fast world. You don’t need screens, electronics, or even to leave your house.
With just a few skeins of yarn and some easy projects ideas, any weekend can be filled with family fun!
Let’s dive in…
Continue reading to learn:
- Why Everyone Is Spending More Time Crafting With Family
- The 4 Best Types of Yarn for Beginners & Families
- Easy Weekend Projects Every Family Member Will Enjoy
- Simple Tips To Keep Family Craft Night Fun
Why Everyone Is Spending More Time Crafting With Family
Grandma was right – keeping your hands busy helps more than just your mind.
Nearly 49% of U.S. adults enjoy crafts like knitting, crochet, painting, journaling, and drawing. That means almost half of the population engages in some sort of creative hobby.
But did you know…
Family craft time offers benefits way beyond frilly sweaters and adorable monsters. Making things as a family creates bonding opportunities that no TV show or videogame can offer.
When you work on crafts together, you slow down and spend quality time connecting with each other. Family members learn to work together and help each other finish projects.
You’ll be surprised at how relaxing crafting can be. Studies show that making yarn crafts like knitting, crochet and cro-hooking alleviate stress and provide calmness. One study done at the University of Gothenburg stated that knitting helped to organize thoughts.
Pretty amazing for a simple skein of yarn, huh?
The Best Types of Yarn to Use for Family Projects
Before you pick your first project, it’s important to talk about yarn. Not all yarn is created equally, especially when kids and beginners are involved.
Here are the best yarn types for family crafting projects:
- Acrylic
- Cotton
- Wool blends
- Mohair
Mohair might seem like an unusual choice, but hear us out.
Mohair yarn products are gorgeous. Soft and fuzzy with a halo-like appearance, garments and home decor made from Mohair are heavenly. When you search for high-quality Mohair yarn online, look for yarn that is blended with silk or wool. Both of these fibers help Mohair yarn become more manageable. These Mohair yarn projects make wonderful hats, scarves, blankets and accessories that whole families will adore.
Want another bonus?
Mohair is durable and hides accidental drops, making it a great choice for beginners who may be eager to rip out their hard work!
Weekend Projects Your Whole Family Will Love
Time for the fun stuff…
Below are projects that can be completed by all ages. Grandparents, parents and children can bond while making these simple crafts. No experience necessary.
Finger Knitting Scarves
If you family contains beginners or children, consider finger knitting.
All you need for this project is your hands and some yarn. Children as young as five years old have been able to learn this technique in minutes.
Here are a few pro tips:
- Each person can create their own section of scarf
- Family members pieces can be sewn together to create a larger project
- Finger knitting creates a thicker yarn than regular knitting or crochet
The thicker yarn creates a gorgeous finished product. Try picking up some bulky, soft yarn. Mohair blended yarn will create a scarf that is extra warm, while adding beautiful fluffy texture.
Pom Pom Monsters
Little kids go crazy for pom poms. And they are super easy to make. Once you and the kids have made your pom poms, get creative with glue and make silly monsters.
Here’s what you will need:
- Yarn in various colors
- Pom pom maker OR two pieces of cardboard
- Scissors
- Tiny felt pieces
- Googly eyes
This easy craft allows kids to choose whatever colors they would like to combine. Adults can assist in cutting the yarn. These sweet little guys could even make wonderful gift additions.
Beginner Friendly Crochet Coasters
Got a little more confidence in your crafting abilities? Grab your crochet hooks and try your hand at these simple crochet coasters.
All you need to know is the chain stitch and single crochet. With in-depth tutorials online, most beginners can make one coaster in less than 30 minutes. Make a set for gifts or keep them for yourself.
PRO TIP
While cotton yarn works best for coasters. Throw in a couple of Mohair yarn coasters for something pretty you wouldn’t want to spill on!
Weaved Wall Hangings
Wall hangings are huge right now. And you don’t need to know how to weave on a loom to make them.
Making your own cardboard loom is as easy as cutting cardboard. From there you simply weave yarn over and under each slot. Kids love adding materials with different textures or found items like sticks and leaves.
The finished wall hangings make wonderful decor for kids rooms or any living area.
Tips To Keep Family Craft Time Fun
Are you wondering what some families do wrong during craft time?
It usually comes down to preparation.
Try these tips:
- Don’t over do it. Crafts don’t have to take all day. 30-60 minutes is great, especially if you have young children.
- Prepare before the kids arrive. Don’t forget to grab scissors or other needed materials.
- Let your kids creativity run wild. Remember those wonky stitches and uneven pompoms make for cute keepsakes.
- Play music or listen to audiobooks. It helps everyone relax and feel more at ease.
- Take snack and stretch breaks.
Remember…
Don’t stress over perfection. Stressing over a project will destroy the purpose of crafting with your family. Cherish the time spent together and learn from your mistakes.
The Benefits of Crafting on Mental Health
Oh wait, there’s one more reason why…
According to the British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 81% of people with depression felt happy while knitting. Over half of those asked said they were VERY happy.
When you craft as a family, you all benefit from these wonderful mental health boosts. Slowing down to create teaches all of us something about patience and relaxation.
Need Ideas To Get Started?
Alright, you’ve made it to the end. Here’s a quick rundown to help you get started on your family crafting journey:
- Use beginner friendly yarn appropriate for the project you pick
- Start with easy projects like finger knitting or pom poms
- Keep your crafting sessions short and your expectations lower
- Enjoy your time together. Don’t sweat the mistakes
Grab some yarn, call the family over and have some fun!



