Handmade vs. Handicraft: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Handmade refers to items individually crafted by hand, while handicraft denotes skilled work creating decorative or artistic objects by hand.
Key Differences
Handmade items are produced without the use of machinery, emphasizing the individual touch and craftsmanship. Handicraft, however, refers more specifically to the creation of artistic or decorative items, showcasing traditional skills and artistry.
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Dec 17, 2023
While all handicrafts are handmade, not all handmade items are considered handicrafts. Handmade can apply to a broader range of items, including practical objects, whereas handicraft often implies a cultural or artistic value.
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Dec 17, 2023
The term handmade emphasizes the manual aspect of production, focusing on the lack of industrial processes. In contrast, handicraft emphasizes the artistic and cultural aspect of the creation, often associated with specific traditions.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 17, 2023
Handmade products can range from simple, everyday items to complex pieces, all unified by the absence of mass-production techniques. Handicrafts, on the other hand, are usually more intricately designed, often serving as a representation of a region's or a community's cultural heritage.
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Dec 17, 2023
In the context of marketing and sales, handmade items are often promoted for their unique, personal touch. Conversely, handicrafts are frequently marketed for their cultural significance and artistic value.
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Dec 17, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Items made by hand, without machinery.
Skilled creation of decorative art.
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Dec 17, 2023
Scope
Broad, includes any manually made item.
More specific, artistic or cultural.
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Dec 17, 2023
Focus
On the manual process and individuality.
On artistry, tradition, and decoration.
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Dec 17, 2023
Examples
Homemade bread, knitted scarves.
Pottery, weaving, traditional sculptures.
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Dec 17, 2023
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Handmade and Handicraft Definitions
Handmade
Emphasizing artisanal quality;
He specializes in handmade leather bags.
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Dec 11, 2023
Handicraft
Cultural or regional artisan products;
Tourists often buy local handicrafts as souvenirs.
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Dec 11, 2023
Handmade
Made by hand, not by machine;
This handmade quilt is a family heirloom.
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Dec 11, 2023
Handicraft
Decorative or artistic handmade objects;
The fair showcased diverse handicrafts from around the world.
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Dec 11, 2023
Handmade
Individually crafted;
Each handmade candle has its unique fragrance.
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Dec 11, 2023
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Handicraft
Traditional craft skills;
Handicrafts like basket weaving are part of our heritage.
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Dec 11, 2023
Handmade
Reflecting personal craftsmanship;
The handmade jewelry at the market was exquisite.
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Dec 11, 2023
Handicraft
Artistic work done by hand;
The museum exhibited local handicrafts.
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Dec 11, 2023
Handmade
Signifying a personal touch in creation;
She gifted me a handmade birthday card.
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Dec 11, 2023
Handmade
Manufactured by hand; as, handmade shoes. Contrasted with machine-made.
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Dec 10, 2023
Handicraft
Skill and artistry in making decorative items;
Her expertise in handicraft is evident in the intricate embroidery.
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Dec 11, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can machinery be used in handmade items?
No, handmade implies no machinery is used.
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Dec 17, 2023
Do handmade items require special skills?
Not necessarily, they can range from simple to skilled.
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Dec 17, 2023
Are handicrafts always traditional?
Often, but they can also include contemporary designs.
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Dec 17, 2023
Are handicrafts commercially produced?
Typically, they are individually crafted.
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Dec 17, 2023
Can handicrafts be non-decorative?
Rarely, as they usually have decorative or artistic value.
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Dec 17, 2023
Are handicrafts more expensive than machine-made items?
Often, due to their artistry and time investment.
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Dec 17, 2023
Can someone turn their hobby of crafting into a handmade or handicraft business?
Yes, many individuals turn their crafting hobbies into businesses by selling their handmade or handicraft products.
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Dec 17, 2023
Are all handicrafts made for sale or commercial purposes?
While many handicrafts are made for sale, some are created solely for personal enjoyment, cultural preservation, or as gifts.
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Dec 17, 2023
Are all handicrafts sold as individual or unique pieces?
Many handicrafts are sold as individual or unique pieces, but some may also be produced in limited quantities for sale.
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Dec 17, 2023
Are there different types of handicrafts?
Yes, there are various types of handicrafts, including textile weaving, pottery, basketry, woodcarving, and metalwork, among others.
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Dec 17, 2023
Can handmade items be replicated exactly?
Due to their nature, exact replication is rare.
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Dec 17, 2023
Are there organizations or associations that promote and preserve handicraft traditions?
Yes, there are organizations and associations dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional handicrafts, often on a cultural or artisanal level.
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Dec 17, 2023
Can a handmade item include components made by machines?
Yes, a handmade item can incorporate machine-made components as long as the majority of the crafting process is done by hand.
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Dec 17, 2023
What are some common examples of handmade products?
Common examples of handmade products include jewelry, pottery, candles, textiles, and hand-knit clothing.
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Dec 17, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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