With mental health challenges on the rise among college students, finding creative ways to cope has never been more important.
According to the Healthy Minds Study, which gathered data from over 373 campuses nationwide, more than 60% of college students met the criteria for at least one mental health problem during the 2020-2021 school year.
At Ringling College of Art and Design, a new student-led club, Scraps ‘n Crafts, is tapping into a growing trend of hands-on creativity as a means of stress relief.
A Student-Driven Initiative for Creative Wellness
Scraps ‘n Crafts was founded this year by students looking to connect with others who share an interest in scrapbooking and journaling.
Club president Iris Wong, a sophomore studying illustration, explained, “The idea for the club started when my vice president, Maya Weck, and I were discussing our respective scrapbooking habits. We realized there wasn’t a club we could join that fit into our niche, but we knew we couldn’t be the only people on campus with this hobby, so we decided to start a club around it.”
Beyond simply crafting, the club provides a communal space to help students to better their mental health.
Wong has seen these effects firsthand among members. “I’ve spoken to quite a few members who find journaling or scrapbooking to be a therapeutic exercise that allows them to get emotions onto a page that might otherwise be difficult. Other members have spoken about how it’s a nice break from schoolwork. Something calming that can help take one’s mind off of a stressful day, even if it’s only for two hours.”
Fostering Connection Through Creativity
Though scrapbooking is often considered a solitary activity, Scraps ‘n Crafts fosters a strong sense of community. “I enjoy creating around other like-minded people,” Wong said. “Back home, a few of my friends would meet up to work together on our scrapbooks, and it was a ton of fun! I realized I missed being able to do that here, so I thought, why not start a club for it?”
This trend of crafting as a form of connection extends beyond Ringling. Similar creative communities have been emerging nationwide. Reported by Fabiana Ungaro for Watermark Out news In Orlando a Junk Journal Club, founded by Bela Colamarco, provides a space for members of the LGBTQ+ community to connect through scrapbooking.
Vice President Maya Weck sees Scraps ‘n Crafts as a way to strengthen the student community at Ringling. “I like to hear what’s going on. Our club is a perfect way for me to do that.” Meetings provide an opportunity for students to not only exchange supplies but also share stories, creating an environment where friendships form organically.
The Mental Health Benefits of Scrapbooking
Neo Scheele, a sophomore illustration student creating a spread.
Beyond its therapeutic benefits, scrapbooking allows students to take a break from the pressures of academic life and simply enjoy the creative process. Neo Scheele, a sophomore illustration student, used their scrapbook to create a spread on aromantic asexuality, incorporating stickers, cut-out paper, and even a Pokémon card to match the colors of the pride flag.
“I did some scrapbooking when I was younger,” Scheele said, “but doing it again is fun. It’s my break from drawing.” Unlike graded assignments, their scrapbooking is focused purely on what they call the vibe of the spread. “The most important factor is the vibe and if that makes me happy.”
A Space for All Students
As college stress continues to mount, student-led clubs like Scraps ‘n Crafts provide a much-needed creative escape. Whether students are seasoned scrapbookers or newcomers looking to explore a new hobby, the club offers a supportive, judgment-free space to relax and connect with others.
For those interested in joining, Scraps ‘n Crafts meets every Sunday, providing a chance to unplug from academic pressures and engage in creativity with like-minded peers.
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