The History and Significance of International Women’s Day
International Women's Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8th, has been an important day for advocating women’s rights, celebrating their achievements, and highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality. The origins of IWD can be traced back to the early 1900s, when women began to organize strikes and protests for better working conditions, voting rights, and gender equality. This movement has evolved over the years, gaining global recognition for the empowerment of women, regardless of their race, class, or nationality.
The celebration of Women’s Day began in the United States in 1909, but the event gained much more prominence globally after the Second International Conference of Working Women in 1910. Since then, it has become an international day of protest, reflection, and celebration. Today, IWD is recognized by governments, corporations, and individuals worldwide, with many focusing on different issues, including workplace equality, access to education, healthcare, and women's rights in politics.
Inspiration for Gifts: Women’s Day offers a perfect opportunity to celebrate and show appreciation for the women in your life. One of the most meaningful ways to honor this day is through thoughtful, handmade gifts. Unlike mass-produced items, handmade gifts reflect care, time, and personal effort. Whether it's a woven coaster, a handcrafted tote bag, or a personalized piece of jewelry, these gifts can express love, admiration, and solidarity with women.
The Connection Between Crafting and Feminism
Crafting has long been an essential part of women’s history. From the early days of quilting and weaving to modern-day macrame and embroidery, women have used crafts not only as a means of expression but also as a way to build community, foster creativity, and even challenge gender roles. Historically, crafting has been a form of labor that was often undervalued or relegated to the domestic sphere, but today, it's a powerful way to make a statement about creativity, empowerment, and independence.
For many women, crafts serve as a form of economic independence. Today, many female artisans sell their goods on platforms like Etsy, Society6, and ChillFuzz Handmade, turning their passion into a source of income and a platform to support other women. The rise of women in entrepreneurship, especially within the craft industry, has helped redefine what it means to be a woman in business, creating a space where women are recognized not just for their skills but for their artistic vision and entrepreneurial spirit.
By purchasing handmade goods from female artisans, you're not only getting a unique and beautiful gift but also supporting women's economic independence. This kind of support contributes to the broader movement for gender equality by empowering women in the workforce and recognizing their contributions to art, culture, and society.
Handmade Craft Gift Ideas for Women’s Day
1. Woven Coasters – A Blend of Tradition and Modern Design
Why It’s Special: Woven coasters are functional and beautiful, combining modern designs with traditional craftsmanship. These coasters not only protect surfaces but also add a touch of personality and charm to any space. The process of creating woven coasters is a calming and meditative experience, and gifting a handmade set is an excellent way to express thoughtfulness.
How to Make It:
- Select natural fibers such as cotton yarn, hemp, or wool.
- Use a small loom or simply hand-weave using the basic techniques.
- Experiment with different colors and patterns for a personalized touch.
- Add decorative tassels at the corners for added flair.
For a detailed step-by-step guide, visit The Spruce Crafts, which offers great advice on how to weave your own coasters.
2. DIY Embroidered Tote Bag – A Stylish and Sustainable Gift
Why It’s Special: A custom-embroidered tote bag is not only practical but also environmentally friendly. Instead of buying mass-produced plastic bags, you can gift a personalized fabric tote bag that carries both style and a message. Embroidery also allows you to incorporate empowering messages, feminist slogans, or personal designs that speak to the recipient's personality.
Steps:
- Start with a plain cotton or linen tote bag.
- Choose a design or slogan that resonates with the person you are gifting it to (perhaps an empowering feminist quote or a fun, quirky saying).
- Use embroidery threads to hand-stitch the design.
- Add extra flourishes such as beads, sequins, or fabric paint.
For embroidery patterns and ideas, visit DMC’s Pattern Collection.
3. Handmade Candles with a Feminine Touch
Why It’s Special: Scented candles are always a great gift, and when you make them yourself, you can infuse them with personal touches that store-bought candles lack. You can experiment with a variety of essential oils to create scents that the recipient will love, and you can also add dried flowers or crystals to make each candle unique.
How to Make It:
- Melt soy wax or beeswax in a double boiler.
- Add essential oils like lavender, rose, or jasmine for fragrance.
- Pour the wax into a jar with a wick secured in place.
- Embellish with dried petals or herbs before the wax hardens.
For candle-making instructions, visit CandleScience, which provides excellent tutorials for beginners.
4. Resin Jewelry – A Timeless Handmade Keepsake
Why It’s Special: Resin jewelry allows you to preserve tiny flowers, glitter, or special keepsakes in a beautiful, durable form. This type of jewelry is perfect for anyone who loves a personal, unique accessory. You can create pendants, earrings, rings, or bracelets, all of which can hold sentimental value.
Steps:
- Mix the resin and hardener according to the package instructions.
- Pour the mixture into molds of your choice (there are endless shapes and sizes to choose from).
- Add dried flowers, glitter, or small decorative elements into the mold.
- Allow the resin to cure for 24-48 hours before sanding the edges for a polished finish.
For a detailed tutorial on resin jewelry making, check out Creative Jewelry Academy.
5. Macrame Wall Hanging – A Boho-Chic Gift
Why It’s Special: Macrame wall hangings are perfect for adding a boho-chic vibe to any room. These pieces are perfect for adding texture and warmth to a living space, making them a thoughtful and creative gift.
Materials Needed:
- Cotton macrame cord (or yarn)
- Wooden dowel or branch for hanging
- Scissors and beads for decoration
Learn macrame techniques and patterns from Macrame for Beginners.
Supporting Women Artisans
If you’re not into DIY but still want to celebrate Women’s Day with a unique and meaningful gift, consider supporting female artisans and craft businesses. By purchasing from female artists, you’re directly contributing to the empowerment of women and supporting small businesses.
Some great platforms to shop from include:
- Etsy’s Women-Owned Shops: A marketplace full of handcrafted items from women artisans.
- Society6 Female Artists: A platform where women artists can sell their artwork and designs on various products.
- ChillFuzz Handmade Kits: Offers beautiful handcrafted items and DIY kits created by female artisans.
By choosing handmade, you are not only gifting something special but also supporting the artisans who pour their heart and soul into their craft.
Conclusion
Celebrating Women’s Day with a handmade gift is a powerful way to show your appreciation and support for the women in your life. Whether you choose to craft something yourself or purchase from female artisans, the effort and personal touch will make the gift even more meaningful. Handmade gifts reflect the creativity, strength, and individuality of women everywhere, and they carry with them a message of empowerment and solidarity.
This Women’s Day, let’s celebrate women not just with words but through action—by gifting something that speaks volumes, something that has a story and a purpose. Whether it’s a woven coaster, a personalized tote, or a beautiful piece of resin jewelry, the gift will always carry meaning.
Which craft will you try this year? Let us know in the comments!