10 Profitable Crafts Trending Globally— Turn These Ideas Into Sold-Out Workshops!
Hosting craft workshops is a fantastic way to combine creativity with a solid income stream— whether you want to host workshops full-time or you have another crafty business and want to add a new revenue stream, the key to success lies in picking the right craft that’s both trending and in demand. By tapping into craft trends, you not only stay relevant but also ensure your workshops are something people are excited to join. Whether you're new to crafting or a seasoned workshop host, offering projects that align with current trends can make your workshops a hit and highly profitable.
Below, I’ve collated 10 profitable craft ideas that are trending worldwide— and I believe it could easily be your next sold-out workshop!
1. Dip & Dye Candle Making
Candle-making workshops are timeless, but dip and dye candles are taking this classic craft to the next level. The process allows participants to create unique gradient designs that are both colorful and practical. It’s a simple craft that provides a ton of room for creativity, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned crafters.
It’s not the easiest to set-up due to the upfront costs with tools, but once you nail your tools and materials it’s pretty straight forward to run it.
I’ve seen a few people running workshops like this, but my favorite ones HAS to be Miranda from Frobel! They look dreamy and I’ve been tempted to create a similar experience. Take a look👇
2. Chunky Blanket Knitting
Knitting isn’t just for grandmas anymore! The chunky blanket knitting trend has gone viral for its cozy aesthetic and large, luxurious yarns. Participants in your workshop can craft their very own super-soft throw blankets, using giant knitting needles or even their hands. These blankets are not only a joy to create but are a high-ticket workshop item because of the materials and the final product.
Eva from Craftiful The Creative Studio is launching her Arm Knitting Workshops and I’m not going to be surprised when they sell out. All of her workshops are to-die-for and I would like to permanently move into her studio in Surrey, UK. Can I book a plane ticket?!
4. Polymer Clay Earrings
Polymer clay is still trending, particularly in the jewelry-making scene. From earrings to necklaces, this versatile medium allows for endless creativity in shapes and colors. This is the workshop I run the most, I’ve travelled to two different cities to deliver these workshops — making it the most profitable workshop of my entire business (so far!).
What I love the most about polymer clay is how versatile the material is and how creative you can get with the format of the workshop! I’ve done countless Earring-Making sessions, Christmas Decoration sessions, and the very first workshop I hosted (with a friend) was a S&x-Positive themed-workshop called Cocks & Cocktails (*yes, that really what is was called).
5. Punch Needle Embroidery
Punch needle embroidery continues to be a big trend, especially for creating home decor like pillows and wall hangings. The technique is simple, beginner-friendly, and results in impressive, textured artwork. Fiber/textile crafts are making a huge comeback and I sense punch needling is only going to grow.
It’s no surprise at all to see Punch Needle World’s workshops sell out!
6. Watercolor Painting
Watercolor painting is timeless, but the modern twist is focusing on minimalistic designs, florals, or even personalized name art. These workshops are popular with both beginners and intermediate painters who want to improve their technique. The low setup costs and flexibility in class size make watercolor workshops highly profitable. Plus, it caters to a wide demographic, from hobbyists to those looking to de-stress through art.
I’ve done now six sessions of Watercolours & Sip workshops and they are always a sold out success! Paint & Sip has been going around for a while and I don’t think it’s going anywhere. Doing ‘spinoffs’ like using watercolours, or painting ceramics seems to be attract attendees everywhere in the world.
Three of my students have done watercolour workshops in the past, with the most recent launched by Anita from Studio Gather — it’s a autumn-themed watercolour workshop!
7. Crochet and Amigurumi
Crochet has seen a resurgence, particularly with the rising popularity of amigurumi—small, crocheted toys. These workshops are perfect for teaching people how to create adorable, handmade creatures that can be used as gifts or decor. Materials are inexpensive, and the learning curve is gentle, making it easy for beginners to feel accomplished by the end of the session. Plus, the amigurumi trend continues to thrive.
The joyful team at Tiny Rabbit Hole hosts the cutest crochet and plush-making workshops in Singapore. Their shop seems like an explosion of happiness and colour — the perfect ingredients for crafting imo.
8. Paper Flower Making
Paper flowers are another popular craft, especially for weddings, home decor, or special events. Participants can learn how to craft intricate and realistic blooms using various types of paper and techniques. With minimal materials, participants can create high-quality, beautiful products. These workshops are in demand for people looking to add a personal touch to their home decor or event planning.
My neighbour (from the other side of the pond aka Australia), Carrissa from Jotterbook Flowers hosts the most incredible workshops where participants can make a variety of flowers. I’m not kidding when I say I checked the price of flights to Perth to attend one of her workshops, several times.
9. DIY Upcycling Projects
Upcycling workshops require minimal costs since participants bring their own materials, or you can source them in second-hand shops. The focus is on creativity and sustainability, which appeals to eco-conscious attendees willing to pay a premium for hands-on crafting experiences that benefit the environment.
My absolute favorite DIY project (as of late) is upcycling glass bottles into unique, usable glass cups. I’ve discovered this project through Luna from Creative Atelier La Salamandre who went viral after posting the most beautiful mosaic wall she created. She’s also hosting her own upcycling glass bottles workshop.
10. Terrarium Making
Terrarium workshops appeal to plant lovers and those who want to bring greenery into their homes in a unique, creative way. To be honest, they seem a little frightening to me, but that is probably because I don’t have much of a green-thumb. I can totally see why these workshops are popular though, they offer a blend of design, nature, and creativity, PLUS you leave with a piece of live decor for your home.
Leslie from The Seaside Succulent, who is a member of the Crafts Workshops Academy, is not only an absolute rockstar when it comes to plants, but she’s also a terrarium making master workshop host! She’s done a workshop with 160 people 🤯
I’ve found all these amazing crafters, artists and makers through the power of social media and I’m forever grateful and in awe of the community of over 20,000 people that I’ve encountered through the journey of sharing my own journey.
If you would like to be featured in my next blog, please email hello@craftymariana.com, and I’m happy to include in a future article!