Michaels Report Shows Rise in Handmade Holiday Gifts

A new industry report highlights consumer preferences for personal, screen-free holiday activities.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Arts & Crafts

Bold vector editorial illustration showing crafting scissors resting on wool yarn and felt, representing handmade holiday gift traditions. — A new industry report from Michaels indicates that consumers are increasingly favoring handmade holiday gifts over traditional retail purchases. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you find handmade gifts more meaningful than store-bought presents during the holiday season?

Michaels released its 2026 State of the Holiday Season Report, revealing that a large majority of consumers now prefer personal, handmade items over expensive store-bought gifts. The findings suggest a growing desire among shoppers to move away from technology during the festive season.

Why it matters

The report captures a significant shift in holiday priorities as families increasingly seek out screen-free activities to foster deeper personal connections. This trend highlights a move toward valuing sentiment and effort over the price tag of commercial goods.

A survey conducted with Morning Consult found that 80% of parents actively seek screen-free holiday activities. Meanwhile, 78% of consumers express that a $25 handmade gift carries equal or greater value than a $100 store-bought alternative.

The players

Michaels

Michaels is a major American retail chain specializing in arts and crafts supplies.

Morning Consult

Morning Consult is a global decision intelligence company that provides data and insights through survey research.

The details

The report, released from Irving, Texas, underscores a pivot in consumer behavior toward more intentional and personal gift-giving experiences. By prioritizing crafting, families are actively looking for ways to unplug during the holiday months.

October 21, 2026: Michaels released the State of the Holiday Season Report.

Culture Shift

This trend aligns with the broader societal push toward the slow living movement, which emphasizes intentionality and mindfulness over rapid consumerism. It signals a shift where time and manual effort are becoming key markers of status and affection during the holidays.

Consumers may find that shifting toward handmade gifts reduces holiday budget pressures while allowing for more creative, screen-free family time. Integrating these activities into a daily routine can create more personal holiday memories without the need for expensive retail items.

The takeaway

Focusing on personal creation can significantly increase the emotional value of gifts while helping families disconnect from digital distractions. Consider planning a crafting session early in the season to replace time usually spent on store-bought gift shopping.