In a fast-paced digital world, one creative hobby is quietly transforming lives across Australia—scrapbooking. What was once a simple pastime is now being recognised for its powerful mental health benefits, helping both adults and children navigate life’s challenges with creativity and connection.

Craft as a lifeline: A mother’s discovery

Tracey Schulz, a mum of three and founder of Australian papercraft brand Uniquely Creative, says she never expected crafting to have such a deep impact on her customers’ lives.

“I knew that crafting brought people joy, but I had no idea just how deeply it had helped so many of my customers through heartbreak, illness, trauma, and the tough moments of everyday life,” Tracey says.

“Multiple people have told me that crafting has saved their lives. It really is a huge part of their mental illness recovery and management.”

From her South Australian beginnings, Tracey’s small bricks-and-mortar store has grown into a nationwide ecommerce success. Today, Uniquely Creative delivers monthly craft kits to more than 1,500 subscribers—many of whom live in rural or regional areas where access to specialist craft supplies is limited.

Crafting through crisis: Carol’s Story

One of those subscribers is Carol Heriot, who turned to crafting during two of the most difficult times in her life.

“Cardmaking was a godsend. Once you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, it really knocks you to the core. But craft was something positive that I could do. It brought me joy and happiness, despite the situation I was in,” Carol says.

Following her own breast cancer diagnosis, Carol found comfort in creating handmade cards. Then, three years ago, her husband of 52 years was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer—a battle he sadly lost in June this year.

“I’ve been making albums and scrapbooks with photos of us. We were married when I was 17 years old,” she says

“I nursed him at home while he was sick and then when he was gone, my days were suddenly empty. It has been a tough year, but being able to make cards and scrapbooks has helped me process my grief. I really don’t know what I would do without my crafting activities.”

Supporting young minds

In support of Mental Health Awareness Month this October, Uniquely Creative has released a special themed collection called Heart and Soul, aimed at encouraging open conversations around mental wellbeing.

Research shows that creative expression can significantly reduce stress and anxiety—especially important for parents navigating the daily pressures of raising children, and for kids developing emotional resilience.

Crafting together as a family can:

• Boost communication and emotional expression

• Improve fine motor skills and focus in young children

• Build confidence through creativity

• Provide a meaningful screen-free bonding activity