Manual activities are an essential part of everyday life. Whether it’s for relaxation, expressing creativity, or sharing unique moments with loved ones, DIY has become a popular and beneficial practice today. In this context, Cricut, a leading authority in the world of creative hobbies, unveils the results of its French study conducted in partnership with OpinionWay.
“84% of French people believe that DIY helps boost their self-confidence.”
Eight out of ten French people believe that DIY boosts their self-confidence.
In the face of the fast pace of everyday life, more and more French people are finding a respite in handmade creations. Creating, crafting, and transforming: simple actions that restore confidence and soothe the mind. A true antidote to stress, handmade creations play a key role in personal fulfillment.
- 76% of French people say DIY helps them refocus. This practice is more common among men (79%) than women (71%).
- 64% view it as a positive way to disconnect from screens and daily stress.
- Nine out of ten working people say that creating something themselves helps them unwind after a day at work. This sentiment is widely shared, as 88% of French people consider manual activities an effective way to unwind after a difficult day.
Beyond well-being, DIY fosters a sense of purpose for 9 out of 10 French people, while also promoting social connection. Creating also means sharing quality moments with loved ones.
“48% of French people say they engage in manual activities to disconnect from social media.”
This is also a great source of creativity. By unleashing imagination, it encourages more sustainable, personal, and meaningful consumption. Nearly 9 out of 10 French people (88%) believe that DIY stimulates their imagination. Six out of ten French people have already made a unique gift, demonstrating a desire to create in a different way.
Giving a homemade creation also brings real personal satisfaction. 67% of French people consider it a reward in itself.
DIY is a rapidly growing trend in France
Hobbies like origami, painting, or drawing and coloring help you fully focus on the present moment. The popularity of manual activities is undeniable, with over three-quarters of French people expressing interest in handmade items.
“Do It Yourself” is also a great way to strengthen family bonds. It appeals to all generations, particularly those under 35. 82% of people under 35 engage in a creative activity – such as DIY, gardening, or personalization – for their well-being. This is also true for 72% of people aged 50 and over. During workshops or group activities, these shared moments create precious memories.
Key takeaways
Over three-quarters of French people express interest in manual activities and handmade items. It’s seen as a genuine way to refocus and unwind. This fosters shared moments of togetherness.
DIY appeals to all generations, but especially to younger ones. They see it as a genuine way to disconnect from social media and nurture their well-being.
It is also recognized as a source of self-confidence. It stimulates creativity and adds an economic dimension by encouraging creation rather than consumption. Creating and giving a unique object brings real satisfaction. French people see it as a reward and a source of pride.
Cricut, the brand for creators
Many French people engage in manual activities. It’s seen as a genuine way to refocus, unwind, and rediscover a sense of purpose. This fosters shared moments of togetherness.
With its high-quality tools and machines, Cricut empowers creators—both beginners and seasoned professionals—to bring their handmade, personalized projects to life. In Europe, the community includes over a million enthusiasts, with more than 200,000 in France. Together, they have already completed over 1.5 million projects. This illustrates a strong trend: a growing market for creative hobbies, driven by a quest for meaning, authenticity, and the joy of creating.
