Wales is known for its rich culture of crafts and textiles. From ceramics to portraits to woven goods, and hand carved utensils, there are lots of beautiful handmade crafts like wooden ornaments and woven textiles, designed and created all over Wales. Exploring the rich array of handmade items by Welsh artists is a great way to find ideas for home crafts and DIY. Crafts projects are ideal for adding a rustic, welsh touch to your home. If you are looking for some easy summer crafts ideas, take inspiration from the range of welsh crafts that are created and build your own, personalised project at home.
Getting started
When it comes to learning a new craft, it is best to start with something simple. For textile projects like knitting, weaving and crocheting, first learn some basic stitches and methods, before finding a pattern that can be completed with the basics. Working with yarn and wool is ideal for the colder winter months, and Wales has some of the finest yarn available which is quite lovely to knit or crochet with. For projects like these, some basic tools are required, for instance, you will need a loom for weaving and needles for knitting and crochet. Handcrafted textiles will add a great touch to any living room, kitchen or bedroom. Small projects such as cushion covers, table runners and throws can be completed relatively quickly and can add a warm, cosy touch to any room.
For more complex crafts like painting, pottery, sculpting or painting ceramics, it may be worth exploring classes in your local area. Attend a course or ongoing class is the best way to learn new skills and develop your abilities. It can also help you to familiarise yourself with the tools and utensils required for a particular type of craft.
Other simple DIY projects that can spruce up your home include the following:
- Upcycle an old piece of furniture by repainting it using chalk paint for a rustic vibe
- Bring some life and nature indoors by adding plants or ferns to a room
- Make home repairs and crafts quick and easy by exploring the range of glues and products available on solvite.co.uk
- Try out a pottery class and make a new vase, jug or cup to enjoy in your own kitchen
- There are lots of great painting classes available around Wales. Try one out and paint your own masterpiece to display on a living room or hallway wall
- For summer decor and crafts for the warmer months, be sure to use lots of light materials such as cotton, linen and lace
- Hand painting a glass vase is a great way to add a touch of colour to any room
- Try some outdoor projects such as painting plant pots and sowing brightly coloured flowers
Explore Welsh Crafts
To learn more about Welsh crafts, keep an eye out for open days, classes in artists’ studios and other meet-ups that take place throughout the summer. You can find great arts and crafts inspiration from artists at the Tywi Valley Open Studios in July, for example, or sign up for crafts classes in your local area. By exploring local crafts throughout Wales, you will discover items handmade by artists, including traditional wooden Welsh lovespoons, blankets, throws, cushion covers and bags. All of which can provide inspiration for your own home projects. Welsh slate is also an interesting one to explore, with lots of unique slate items made by artists available.
Creating your own home decor items is very enjoyable and is a great way to learn something new. Whether it’s knitted garments, ceramics or other crafts, handmade items also make excellent gifts for family and friends.