Have you ever wondered what truly separates art from craft? Often lumped together, the two terms embody distinct realms of creativity, each with its own unique significance and impact. Both art and craft are vital to creative expression and cultural heritage.

Camilla Hyson is the founder of Scribble and Scratch, an online store selling arts, crafts and stationery. She also creates content related to art and craft to share the love and joy she has found in creativity with others. She explains the differences between art and craft, exploring their historical contexts, definitions and the emotional resonance each holds.

What is the meaning of art?

“The term artist has a very regal connotation. A fine artist was traditionally highly valued in society. The Oxford dictionary defines art as: The application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form, such as painting or sculpting, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.

“Taking this one step further, art is the expression of emotional feelings, thoughts and observations. We could even go so far as to say that for art to be considered in its true form, it needs to be original and not copied,” Hyson says.

Artistic activities stimulate creativity in children, read our article for ideas.

What is the meaning of craft?

“With such a dramatic meaning of art, we need to turn our focus to craft. Referring again to the Oxford dictionary, it is defined as: An activity involving skill in making things by hand”.

“Traditional examples of craft include weaving, carving, pottery, embroidery, origami, beading, quilting, among others. The list of what is considered craft has grown significantly over the last few years to also include broader categories such as DIY. The Craft Council of America implies that crafts can be powerful and can act as an antidote for therapy, counterculture and deception,” explains Hyson.

Crafting enables children to express themselves and learn skills.  It’s even better when they learn to create art from recyclables.

What is the difference between art and craft?

“There is certainly some overlap, but in essence, art uses tools to express emotions or ideas, while craft uses those same tools, but produces a tangible product or object that “brings joy.”

“Both concepts are important and carry differing benefits and expressions in the world of creativity. We couldn’t live without either one,” Hyson notes.

She continues: “At Scribble and Scratch, we celebrate and embrace both of these concepts and promote products that can allow anyone, beginner or expert, to dive deeper into their passion. The term arts and crafts is definitely making a resurgence with so many psychological and emotional benefits for our children.”

creative therapy

Art and craft therapy encourages children to better understand and process their thoughts, feelings and behaviours, express themselves freely. It helps build confidence and self awareness.

Last thoughts

Although art and craft may differ, they both offer invaluable benefits and opportunities for growth. Arts and crafts are definitely making a resurgence with so many psychological and emotional benefits for our children.