For many of us, a quilt made by Grandma or a rocking chair that Grandpa built with his own two hands are counted among a family’s most treasured possessions. What could possibly be better than having something like that to always remember a person you dearly love. Even better—having the knowledge of how to make things the way your loved ones did and to pass those vintage craft skills down to your kids and grandchildren.
Learning a unique skill is only half of the benefit. Spending precious time with your loved one gives you a chance to make meaningful connections and memories that last long after they’re gone.
Traditional skills like quilting, woodworking, cooking from scratch or preserving food, knitting, sewing and pottery making are reemerging among younger generations. After all, making something with your own hands can touch people in a way that virtual experiences cannot.
Vintage craft skills seniors can share with their grandkids:
Sewing
With easy access to affordable clothing and home finishes, the need for sewing has diminished over the years. That doesn’t mean, however, that learning how to handle a needle and thread can’t be fun. Making clothes is a unique skill that can elevate your wardrobe. Curtains, pillows and countless other creations are all within reach when you know how to make things yourself.
Cooking, Canning and Preserving Food
Who doesn’t remember how good the food was during those cherished visits to Grandma’s house growing up? Who wouldn’t choose to have her pot roast, spaghetti and meatballs or chicken and dumplings one more time instead of going to the fanciest restaurant in town? Now is the time to pass along those family recipes so those dishes aren’t lost forever. As a bonus, making those meals provides a great “excuse” to gather the whole family around the table. Plus, canning homemade jams or pickling your favorite veggies isn’t as common anymore, but can be a great way to try new things in the kitchen.
Woodworking
There are lots of things that woodworking can be useful for, from creating a soap box derby car ready for a Boy Scout project, to making or repairing fine furniture. Turning lumber into something beautiful and useful is a fantastic way to instill confidence in a young person because it’s an inspiring illustration of what’s possible if you put your mind to it.
Knitting, Crocheting, and Quilting
Who doesn’t love a warm and beautiful blanket? The wonderful thing about these creative endeavors is that they can become lifelong pastimes and produce items that can be passed down through family members. You can visit with friends or family, talk on the phone, catch your favorite show on television, or just spend some well-earned quiet time, all while practicing these skills.
Looking to the Future
The possibilities are practically endless when it comes to vintage craft skills you can pass down to future generations. Communication is key! Talk to your grandchildren about what they might like to learn or ask grandparents to share something that has always interested them.
What matters most is that you find something to bond over and use as a way to spend time together. And hopefully, your family’s talents and skills will continue to connect your descendants for decades to come.
Find more crafting and hobbies to try with the whole family on our Health & Wellness blog.
