The article compares the dynamics of economic indicators of the handicraft market in Russia, the USA, the European Union, China and India. The characteristics of the digitalization of this sector of the economy, which have contributed to the formation of a favorable climate for the operation of private workshops in certain countries, were identified. The reasons hindering the development of handicraft activities in Russia were particularized. The article describes the interrelation of handicraft production with cultural peculiarities, traditions of the local population, economic, geographical and other conditions. Special attention is paid to digital tools, which allow craftsmen to meet the growing needs of economic entities and successfully compete with factory production. This research is aimed at finding ways to promote the development of the Russian handicraft market by studying the accumulated global experience of digital transformation of industry. The article is addressed to craftsmen, researchers, and students interested in the global experience in the production and promotion of handicrafts.