Introduction: Leisure activities often trigger positive reactions in individuals, such as pleasure, a sense of well-being, personal satisfaction, self-esteem and joy in life, making them an important factor in quality of life. Leisure activities also include creative activities. They promote healthy aging, a positive identity and overall well-being. Most of the evidence for the benefits of creative activities is based on visual and movement-based arts, while less is known about handicrafts. In therapy, knitting, embroidery, sewing, woodworking, collage-making, lace-making and similar activities are used. Purpose: The aim of this diploma work was to explore engagement in handicrafts from an occupational perspective. We wanted to find out what experiences adults and older people have with doing handicrafts. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with six individuals who regularly engage in handicrafts and were analyzed qualitatively. Results: Based on data analysis, we formed three categories: the experience and meaning of handicrafts, the benefits of engaging in handicrafts and the motivations, challenges, barriers and adaptations for engaging in handicrafts. Participants agreed that handicrafts represent an important leisure occupation, form of entertainment and improve the quality of life. While engaging in these activities, they relax and experience a sense of flow. They mentioned benefits in motor, mental, cognitive and social areas. They are highly intrinsically motivated to engage in handicrafts, but they also encounter barriers, such as health issues, negative opinions of others and lack of time and space. For some of these barriers, they have already implemented solutions. Discussion and conclusion: Events such as prolonged hospitalization, chronic illness or retirement can lead to occupational deprivation. Handicrafts can help fill this gap, providing individuals with a sense of achievement and usefulness. Engaging in handicrafts gives people purpose and meaning in life, leading to a more positive outlook on the future. Creating handmade items builds self-confidence and a positive self-image, while the creative process stimulates brain activity. Handicrafts are an effective means of maintaining mental health, as they reduce stress, enhance positive emotions and generally improve subjective well-being and quality of life. They are suitable for everyone and therefore should not be overlooked by occupational therapists in their practice. Further research into the meaning of handicrafts for different populations is needed.
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