Crafternoon Delights! 6 Easy-Peasy, Beginner-Friendly DIY Kits

If you happen to have a little time on your hands, we have just the thing to fill it with: six soul-nurturing projects that will have you stitching, knitting and knotting in no time at all. So, whether you’re new to the crafting game or a seasoned stitcher looking for something to do while you rip through Bridgerton, we have just the thing to keep those idle hands busy… 

ABOVE: CRAFT CLUB CO’S STRAWBERRY DREAMING RUG MAKING KIT

1. NOT YOUR NANNA’S NEEDLEWORK

Take it from the bloke who designed comfy chairs for a living: embracing the good life takes work. And you’ll have plenty of time to mull over Charles Eames’ wise words when you set about stitching this needlepoint project from Unwind Studio. The kit comes with everything you need to get started, but if you know what you’re doing opt for a PDF of the charted design – it’s yours for only 17 bucks.

2. JOIN THE GANG

Knitting newbie? Step this way. Cardigang’s Ollie Placemat + Coasters Knit Kit will have you dropping stitches (and picking them back up) in no time. They’ll send video tutorials to help you along, plus a super-sweet “Made by Me” tag (to ensure your guests leave the dinner table knowing you’re a creative genius).

3. LEVEL UP

So, you’re the kind of beginner who doesn’t have time to mess around with making scrunchies and pincushions. If you’re planning to bite off more than you can chew, let Common Stitch hold your hand as you do it. The Fawn Dress sewing kit comes with everything you need to make a lovely linen frock, including fabric, a printed pattern and instructions (plus, there’s a “Sew With Me” YouTube video that will walk you through the process).

4. CUTTING CORNERS 

Starry-eyed sailors of yore whiled away their days carving intricate “lovespoons” for their sweethearts back home. Of course, unless you happen to spend your days on the high seas, you probably don’t have time for all that wood-chopping and knife-sharpening. Luckily for you, BeaverCraft makes it easy to express your love with this nifty (and nice-looking!) kit that will have you whittling away in no time. 

5. KNOT SO HARD 

If tying a knot is the extent of your crafting abilities, you may want to consider a life at sea (see above). Or you could fashion yourself a retro shag rug with a super-sweet, easy-as-pie latch-hook kit from Craft Club. Once you’ve mastered the process, you’ll be able to turn your hand to matching totes and cushions.

6. SOMETHING BORROWED 

Wattle&Loop’s Slow-Stitching Kits might take a little longer to complete but once you put down that embroidery needle, you’ll have a truly unique piece. That’s because owner Kylie fills the kits with precious fabrics from all over the world, scouring French flea markets and hitting up American collectors.

“I make a point of trying to use fabrics that may not be of much use to other sewers or crafters because of holes, stains, tears and worn-out embroidery,” she says. “I believe it is these ‘imperfections’ that add the magic, personality and story to each artwork.” She even encourages you to incorporate beloved fabrics of your own, like Grandma’s old lace hankies. Awww.