Craft Boom Among Young People – Social Media Behind Increased Interest
A significant increase in interest in crafts and handiwork among young Swedes is attributed to the influence of social media.
Recent data from the Swedish Authority for Cultural Analysis reveals a notable rise in the interest for crafts and handiwork, with participation among Swedes climbing from 24% to 31%. The most significant growth is observed among young individuals aged 16 to 29, highlighting not only a cultural trend but also a shift in community engagement. Mats Granér, the head of the agency, noted that these figures signify a broader cultural interest, especially among the younger demographic.
The report also indicates a gender disparity within the crafting community, as women continue to dominate the field. In 2025, the percentage of women engaging in handiwork rose substantially from 28% to 33%, while men's participation increased from 19% to 27%. Granér emphasizes that this trend reflects longstanding patterns of higher cultural activity among women, which remains true even in the realm of crafts, suggesting a potential area for cultural policy focus.
Katharina Dorn, a shop owner in Stockholm, attributes the surge in interest to social media, pointing to the rise of 'stickfluencers' and young knitting designers who effectively leverage platforms for community building. Their ability to showcase craftsmanship and connect with a broader audience signifies the changing landscape of how traditional crafts are perceived and engaged with by the younger generation, potentially leading to a revival of various craft forms and a shift in consumer behavior toward handmade products.