2015-08-25

Nowadays we’re always talking about whatever’s trending, whether it’s Rainbow Loom projects or Washi tape. We creative types rarely pause to look back, because we want to come up with the next big thing. However, there are lessons to be learned from the vintage crafts of yesteryear.

For our celebration of nostalgia this week, we want to take a walk through some of the top vintage craft trends that kept our grandmothers and mothers busy. #DoYouRemember these captivating vintage crafts?

Crafts of the past emphasized practicality and frugality. Many crafters took up skills like sewing or crocheting simply because these hobbies benefited their families, whereas today it’s not as needed – you can get a cheap winter hat at Wal-Mart.

Crafts were also useful for making your home more ‘lived-in’ – people had more homemade decor instead of the latest pop-art print from Target. My parents certainly have a lot of family-made crafty artwork in their home from my great aunts. Most everyone has a homey vintage quilt around.

Looking back on these vintage crafts, you’ll probably think of certain family members, specific craft pieces that you’ve come across, or your own experiences with these kinds of crafts. Please share your memories in the comments. We’d love to hear about your craft nostalgia!

5 Vintage Crafts From Yesteryear

Embroidery



Embroidery is coming back into fashion with modern twists that usually play off the pleasantry of this craft. We see lots of funny ‘rude’ embroidery artwork now. In the past, though, it was all about delicate flowers and feminine artistry.

Vintage French Dishtowels

Delicate Flowers Embroidery Pattern

Crafting with Noodles



Noodles are the ORIGINAL cheap craft. Can’t beat ’em!

Pasta Angels

Macaroni Art Box

Cross-Stitch



Cross-stitch was once in vogue… modern stitching tends to go rogue.

Mini Cross-Stitch Quilt (for decor)

Plastic Canvas Crafts

I remember making these in good old Girl Scouts. Talk about a throwback!

22 Free Patterns for Plastic Canvas

Crochet Doilies

Doilies gave crochet an old-timey reputation for quite a while. Still, there’s room in this world for crochet doilies.

Prettiest Passion Flower Doily

Pretty Pinwheel Doily Pattern

Share your vintage craft memories!

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