# DIY Sentimentality Romantically handmade gifts cater to those looking to express deeper sentiments. By [Tana Makmanee](https://www.trendhunter.com/tmak), SVP, Research Services at Trend Hunter | Published Feb 14, 2014, updated Apr 7, 2014 | Category: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/lifestyle-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/diy-sentimentality ## Key Figures - Trend score: 3.8/10 - Evidence articles: 6 ## What is the DIY Sentimentality trend? **DIY Sentimentality:** While store-bought gifts offer practical ways to shower loved ones with gestures, consumers are looking toward more customized techniques as an outlet for deeper expression. DIY bouquets and handmade heart planters offer individuals the chance to showcase romantic gestures through personally crafted items, showcasing not just affection, but individuality. This speaks to a redefinition of romance that is more focused on personality. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 6 featured examples - Articles from: Jan 29, 2013 to Apr 28, 2015 - Published: Feb 14, 2014 - Patterns: [Divergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/divergence), [Redirection](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/redirection) - Megatrends: [Personalization](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/personalization), [Authenticity](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/authenticity) ## Audience - Gender: 30% men, 70% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the DIY Sentimentality trend ### DIY Sentimentality Increasing focus on customization and handmade items as an outlet for deeper expression and showcasing individuality, leading to a redefinition of romance. ### Personalization Customization as a way to express sentiments and differentiate from mass-produced, store-bought gifts. As a result, hand-stamping and engraving are popular ways of adding personal touch. ### Sustainability A growing interest in repurposing and upcycling traditional household waste, such as egg cartons, into fun and environmentally-friendly holiday decor and gift packaging. ## What the DIY Sentimentality trend means for industry ### For Crafts and DIY Opportunities for innovative, handmade gifts and decorative items that showcase personality and individuality to cater to the increasing demand for personally crafted items. ### For 3D printing Capitalizing on the growing popularity of additive manufacturing to create unique, one-of-a-kind gifts and personalized decor for various occasions and holidays. ### For Retail Using personalization and customization as a way to differentiate and compete against mass-produced store-bought gifts. ## Trend signals for DIY Sentimentality Trend score 3.8 out of 10, from popularity 46%, activity 60%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 46% - Activity: 60% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the DIY Sentimentality trend 6 featured examples from Jan 29, 2013 to Apr 28, 2015. - [Romantic Candy Box Gifts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/valentine-candy-box): This DIY Valentine Candy Box is a Crafty Way to Showcase Your Love (Category: Art & Design) Implication: The gifting industry can capitalize on the demand for unique and personalized gift experiences by offering DIY kits and materials for creating custom candy boxes. - [Engraved Cupid’s Arrows](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/valentines-cards-for-him): Send Love Message Arrows as Valentines Cards for Him (Category: Art & Design) Implication: Opportunity for craftspeople and artisans to create unique Valentine's Day gifts, such as personalized metal arrows. - [Hand-Painted Egg Cartons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/easter-diy-project-1): Julep's Easter DIY Project is Easy and Fun for the Whole Family (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Craft supply manufacturers can capitalize on the trend of DIY Easter decorations by developing paint sets and accessories specifically for decorating egg cartons. - [3D-Printed Rose Bouquets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mothers-day-2015): This Unique Gift is a Great Gesture for Mother's Day 2015 (Category: Art & Design) Implication: The integration of 3D printing in DIY projects can revolutionize the way handmade and craft goods are produced and marketed. - [Sentimental Chalk-Like Notes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/valentine-cards): These Hand Drawn Valentine Postcards Send Sweet Personal Messages (Category: Special) Implication: The gift-giving market can explore incorporating personalized hand-drawn gifts to cater to customers looking for unique and sentimental presents. - [Crafty Felt Bouquets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/felt-bouquets): This Bouquet of Felt Roses is a Fun Alternative to Traditional Flowers (Category: Art & Design) Implication: The craft supplies industry can capitalize on the trend of customized DIY gifts by offering a wide variety of materials and tools for personalized crafting projects. ## Recent trend clusters - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) - [Source Signatures](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/oak-finish-whiskey) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Lifestyle - [Mystery Packaging Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cow-not-laughing) - [Multi-Benefit Protein Shakes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/comes-in-three-flavors) - [Creator-Led Learning Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/learning-series) - [Accessible Fintech Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chequing-account) All articles: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle)