Dictionary handicraftMaking by hand

noun

handicraft

HAN-dee-kraft/ˈhændikræft/

Skilled work creating objects by hand.

The neatly woven basket displays careful handicraft in its fitted handle and interlaced reeds.

A finished small woven reed basket with a neatly fitted handle rests beside a few spare reeds, clear handmade object, no hands or factory.

Etymology

handiOld Englishhand

+craftOld Englishskill, craft

Hand and craft originally expressed “skill of the hand.” The object sense names the product of that skill: something made by skilled manual work.

More examples

The community center offers classes in traditional handicrafts.
Local handicrafts fill the stalls at the weekend market.
Handicraft requires patience and careful attention to detail.

Forms

handicraft · handicrafts

Similar words

craft: Can describe a skilled trade, not just making objects.
handiwork: Emphasizes the finished work rather than the skill or activity.
craftsmanship: Emphasizes the skill and quality shown in making something.