Close your eyes, and imagine someone doing arts and crafts.
What do you picture? It’s probably a woman sitting there quilting, crocheting and doing whatever hobby makes her happy.
You might notice now, that a man doing crafts is not really what comes to the top of your mind, and why is that? There is a blatant stereotype that comes with crafting and it’s time to break down those barriers.
Studies show that only 1% of the estimated crafters in the United States are men. Crafting should not be limited to what gender you identify as. There is no written rule that women are the only ones that can be creative and have hobbies where they put their skills to the test. However, as a society we have secretly determined that taking up a craft is a feminine trait, and ultimately deter men from doing something that they might enjoy.
The crafting community is just that, a community. Gender does not need to take over. Men should feel comfortable quilting, crocheting or even just expressing themselves through something artistic.
“It’s always fascinating – and a bit disappointing – to hear the stories of men in quilting as they enter fabric stores. Constantly asked “is this for your wife,” it can bring a sense of humiliation and shame to these men. As men in this industry, I like to believe that we are not infiltrating a space that was never intended for us. Quilting is not a gender based activity; it is a creative outlet that is open to all,” says Corey Pearson, Chief Quilt Artist and Brand Ambassador at Linda’s.
Having a hobby is not just about expressing yourself, but it is also a safe place for people to wind down and reflect. Crafting is just one way for people to center themselves and let their true colors and talents shine. Shaming a whole group of people for doing something “feminine” not only denies them the chance to be creative, but it takes away an opportunity for self care. Sometimes people just need a relaxing thing to do, where they can tune out the noise of everyday life. Putting gender stereotypes around crafting creates limits on their emotional and mental well-being.
It’s necessary now to break down those historical barriers. No matter what gender you identify as, the crafting community should welcome you with open arms. Crafting brings people together, it should not separate.
“Breaking down societal stereotypes can be incredibly challenging, especially when these categorizations are on the basis of gender. Quilting is not a discriminatory practice by any means; there are no characteristics of the art that are exclusive to men nor women. The danger of our gender roles is their inability to adapt with the times. Sure, historically, quilting had always been an activity completed by women but that doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed by men” says Pearson.
As the world evolves, so should gender stereotypes. Why does crafting have to be a feminine activity, when there are so many men out there who are itching to express themselves? We should not limit creativity to only one gender. Feeling restricted in how you can have fun in your free time is draining. Opening up a world of creativity helps people grow together. You might meet new people and form relationships you never thought possible. Having a big community of people helps foster growth and inspiration. Being exclusive within a hobby not only denies specific people from participating, but it denies you the opportunity to learn from them and flourish as a creator.
Instead of creating gender barriers, let’s create unity and projects where your talents shine.
