On leave(s) movement : exploring crafting in Singapore.

Abstract

‘Crafting’ is making things with your hands. In Singapore, increasingly more craft-related

events are being organized and attracting new fans. Craft practitioners cite crafting as having

benefits of de-stressing in the fast-paced modern life.

Beyond using craft as a hobby to break away from work, I am interested in looking at the

social aspect of crafting. Having facilitated craft sessions which draw participants from all

age groups and interests, I realized that the session also becomes a space for people to

interact. Bonding over the common activity, these sessions serves as good excuses to meet up

and reconnect with friends and family. Strangers too, exchange tips and share materials

eventually walking out of the venue as friends.

For young working adults, crafting becomes a retreat from the constant stress; allowing the

mind to rejuvenate and refocus in the making. With my project, I hope to create awareness of

how crafting can be used as an avenue to de-stress and achieve work-life balance creatively.

Through establishing social crafting platforms (beyond the digital screen), these young adults

are encouraged to make something, all while spending quality time with friends and

colleagues.