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Monthly Craft Question: Quantity vs. Quality

December 6, 2011 by FaveCrafts

These days everyone seems to be in a hurry, especially around the holidays when gift-giving (and sometimes stress) is at its peak.  Every year I try my best to make as many homemade gifts as possible, but I usually run out of time.  It’s challenging finding the time and energy to craft everyone on your list a present, even if you really want to.  This begs the question of crafters:  When it comes to crafting, which is better: quality or quantity?   Similarly if you sell your creations, this long-time battle is something you face on a personal and professional level.

As usual, we asked our fabulous blogger and designer friends to weigh in on the topic.  Here’s what they had to say:

 

Quantity vs. Quality

Jen Goode from Jen Goode Designs
Quality is always better than quantity. Ideally, high quality in quantity can be the best option, but it depends on what we are talking about. Offering a wide variety for buyers is great, but only in a high quality. I’d love it if I could wipe out piles of fantastic creations, but quality always takes priority and usually that limits the time to make a bunch.

 

Henrietta from A Hen’s Nest
I believe that quality is definitely better than quantity when it comes to most things, including crafting. When I make an item, whether for myself, as a gift or to donate, I want the recipient to feel that I’ve put my heart and soul into it. I want them to know that the piece meant something to me, even it was something as simple as a crocheted hat. Put yourself in your work, and you will achieve a greater sense of accomplishment when you are finished.

 

Susan Barker from Susan Being Snippy
What an interesting question!  The next question is, who decides quality over quantity?  As for me I like that you have a large number of links and suggestions.  I don’t try them all and most of the time I don’t even go to all the links you suggest.  But I like that I can choose, because my choice of ‘quality’ may be very much different than the next person’s choice.  So I am thanking you for the many suggestions and for letting me choose which one(s) I like for myself.

 

Margot Potter from The Impatient Crafter
Quality.  Always and without question!  What good comes creating a lot of mediocrity?  I am a big believer in coloring outside of the lines and I am The Impatient Crafter, but I deeply believe in the importance of quality construction and good technique. 

 

Barbara Moore from Mo(o)re Whimsies!
I believe quality is much more important than quantity. I was always taught that no matter what you do, that you should do it to the best of your ability. I would much rather see a well done project as opposed to something with mistakes because I got in a hurry to finish and make more.

 

Lisa M. Pace from LisaPace.com
When it comes to crafting I feel quality is always best. Seeing items that have been put together quickly for mass production saddens me. You can always see little areas here and there that show adhesive, are not placed correctly or when painted run over into other areas of the design. If I need to create a lot of one project I allow myself enough time to complete the projects so the quality that I demand of myself when creating remains on each item. In the end taking your time to create a top notch project is far more rewarding.

 

Amy Anderson from ModPodgeRocks!
It depends on the craft! Sometimes you need to whip out something quick and it it doesn’t need to be detail oriented; other times it is very important that it’s high quality. I’m talking about this for my personal crafting (take blogging out of it). 

 

Sharon Reinhart from S.M.R. Designs
I believe that quality outweighs quantity, however it is possible to achieve both by possibly simplifying your design. Such is often the case for example with assembly line Christmas cards.  I have seen many beautiful cards created in this fashion and in large quantities.

 

Pat Sloan from Pat Sloan’s Blog
I have to say I’m a “Quantity” type of gal.. the more the better!

 

Eileen Hull from EileenHull.blogspot.com
I would have to say quality is more important to me when I am creating. Even when I am making lots of the same thing, I still try to make them well. Now doing laundry, cooking or cleaning I am not nearly as particular about because there is no end to it and as long as it gets done, it’s OK with me. 🙂

 

Alyice Edrich from The Dabbling Mum
When it comes to crafting, I think it depends on quality. It’s not how much you craft, but how much you enjoy crafting and the outcome.  One thing I’ve learned when it comes to creating crafts… if you push too hard to create an abundance of crafts, you make sub-par crafts.  If you create because it feels right, because you enjoy it, because you want to try new things, then you create better quality crafts.  But one thing to keep in mind is that you won’t always create great crafts, especially when you are learning a new technique or trying a new idea, but you will always have fun and enjoy the process if you slow down enough to do your best.

 

Catherine Hansen Peart from Gingham Cherry
I think quality definitely outweighs quantity for finished products but, having said that, quantity helps you develop the skills for quality!

 

Lynn Colwell from Celebrate Green
Strangely this is a tough one for me. Quality in terms of eco-friendly paints, glues etc. is very important to me. But I admit to being a bit of a crafting hoarder too. It’s difficult for me to turn down a bag of bottle caps or corks even though I have boxes of them. Recently I did a clean out and I’ll be attending a crafting event in the spring for which I’ve prepared baggies of goodies to give away. So I’m trying to keep my addiction in check!  On the other hand, I like being forced by lack of something I think I need and don’t have, to make a creative substitute. Sometimes the piece I’m working on really benefits from my inability to force it in the direction I plan.

 

Chef Stephanie Petersen from Cheftessbakeresse.blogspot.com
I’d rather have a few quality crafts than a thousand crappy looking ones. Just my thoughts.

 

Michelle Sybert from Muffin Tin Mom
This is a tough one. There have been so many times that I have been so thankful that I have had a certain supply on hand that I kept just in case, but I am going to have to say quality. I find that I tend to use my crafting supplies more when I know they are higher quality. Also, choosing a one or two quality tools that serve different functions can help cut down on your supplies while maintaining functionality.

 

Carol Heppner from Heppner Studio
If I had to choose between quantity vs. quality, it’s quality.  Quality wins every time .  Quality is very important when it comes to my work.  My clients expect quality, and they get quality artwork and writing.  When deciding what types of craft products to use in my work, quality wins again.  If you use cheap-looking products, you work harder to make the project look great.  Great-looking products can still be inexpensive, so cost is relative. 

 

Shannon Bielke from Shaandco.net
When it comes to crafting, quality is definitely better than quantity. At least for me. I find great joy and satisfaction in my artwork, and I take pride in my creations. For me, sacrificing quality for quantity would defeat the whole purpose of creating something beautiful and useful. Sounds all intellectual and profound but it just means that with each project I focus on creating to the best of my abilities and don’t believe than more is better!  Best is better!

 

Carolyn Wainscott from Carolyn’s Canvas
If I must choose, I will take quality. I spend a lot of time and effort in my art [we are artists, you know] to be frustrated with substandard tools, equipment and supplies so I strive to have the best I can afford-not necessarily the most expensive. I wait for coupons and 1/2 offs to get special things I want to use. I went against my better judgment in purchasing some ginghams and was so frustrated with the whole quilt process that I will never even like the final results.

 

Helen Dickson from Bustle and Sew
Definitely quality.  One well thought-out, well-made piece is worth a hundred poor quality pieces, and is sure to be loved and treasured by the recipient.

 

Laura Bray from Katydiddys
I think quality is more important, which is why I make very small runs of anything I create!

 

Terri O from Terri O Super Simple Crafts
Quality and of course, super simple!

 

Mitzi Curi from Mitzi’s Miscellany
When it comes to crafting, I think quality is much more important than quantity, otherwise why not just go to the dollar stores and buy the junk they offer there?  I love handmade things because of the care and time that someone put into making them.  The creative process is always a labor of love!

 

Terry Ricioli from Terry Ricioli Designs
I find that quality is better.  I do like simple and easy crafts where you can make them up quickly and still preserve the quality.  But, I find if I don’t make it well, I end up taking it apart and making it over!

 

Cherish Flieder from Something To Cherish
As a lifelong student of the arts, I have come to value the role of both quality and quantity. I don’t think it is easy nor wise to simply pick between the two.  Quality is definitely my primary goal, but it can’t be achieved without creating in quantity. Both are certainly expected in my area of expertise.  When I am exploring an idea or practicing a new technique, quantity is what makes me a better artist each time. As they say, “practice makes perfect.” However, if you are seeking quality, it isn’t helpful to just keep going and going without stopping every now and then to evaluate the work and the process. This process becomes our teacher and shows us more about quality.  There is also a secret that lies underneath the power of quantity and that is there are many unexpected discoveries that will happen along the way. Artists often start out on a project with one direction or idea and may completely change direction several times as they work it out. These little discoveries are the wonderful creative sparks that lead us on to further creation and to push the envelope of possibility.

 

 


Filed Under: Craft Question Tagged With: Craft Trends, crafting news, DIY, monthly craft question

Sew and Tell: Look at What You Sewed Last Month!

October 7, 2011 by FaveCrafts

Since September was National Sewing Month, we asked all of our fabulous blogger and designer friends what they were sewing.  Here is a round up of what they made; warning: the innovative projects in this post may inspire you!

 

Beverly McCullough from Flamingo Toes
Beverly made these adorable pot holders that look like loose leaf paper!  I love the custom embroidered letters.

 

Pam Dart from Warm Hugs Design
Pam made these awesome pillow covers from vintage sheets!  Thrifting is a great way to spruce up the home decor, which is proven by Pam’s innovative creation!

 

Kate Riley from Centsational Girl
Kate made these fabulous DIY reversible place mats and napkins.  Check out how she did it on her blog!

 

Alyice Edrich from The Dabbling Mum
I can’t sew. I never learned. I have never fully grasped the concept. But I can embroider basic stitches and I love to sew on papers and old photographs!  So I sewed paper. I created a little embroidered heart for a friend of mine, on hand painted paper, then I matted and framed it. Now it’s just waiting to be mailed.

 

Jane Skoch from Maiden Jane
Oh wow, it was a pretty busy month for me!  I am most excited about this new T Shirt Quilt I made with 20 shirts.  I used sweatshirt fleece for a really cozy stadium blanket

I made a table runner out of a coffee sack.

I made an over sized football tote.

And a stadium seat out of an upcycled t shirt (and one out of a sweatshirt)

 

Nikki from Whimsy Girl Blog
I was actually part of a contest this month called the “Do Something Crafty Challenge”. I was one of 4 bloggers who were each sent the same items.  We had 2 weeks to craft something & our projects were voted on. From the yard of fabric & skein of hot pink yarn sent to me, I created these chair top covers.  So easy to make!

 

Cecilia from All Stuff Crafty
Cecilia was busy sewing items for her daughter’s 3rd birthday.  She made this adorable ruffle dress for her and these adorable snack bags.  Check out the rest of her projects on her awesome blog!

 

Pat Sloan from Pat Sloan: The Fun Quilt Website and FaveCrafts Radio
I sewed on a project that is a mystery for the cruise I’m teaching on in November!  See the special sneak peek below:

 

Jennifer Neill from Hope Studios
I sewed a Spare Toilet Paper Holder for my powder room!  A pretty way to store those extra rolls for guests:

 

Carol Heppner from Heppner Studio
I love to hand sew, it’s a gift I received from my grandmother who use to sew my mom’s dresses entirely by hand before buying her first sewing machine. Mom, also a seamstress, taught me to sew when I was very young. Mom made all our clothes and sometimes coats.  She even made a Tux or two.  While she drew the line at making my wedding dress, she did alter it for me. So, sewing is in our blood.  This month I made bracelets that required me to sew. There is the simple ribbon bracelet that is on my blog.  But, I have also been creating jewelry with twisted cabbage roses, which some people glue – I get out my trusty needle and thread.  I have other bracelets on my blog that require a needle and thread.

 

Elaine Schmidt from Fairfield World
Elaine made these cute pillows.  I love all of the different colored ribbons!

 

Lorine Mason from Its Sew Lorine
Thanks for asking, I designed and created three 10” doll outfits for a new book I am working on this month. The set includes a bathing suit each for a boy and girl, a cover-up, a shirt, capris and crop top. Lots of fun. Here is a peek at my just released book.

 

Laura Bray from Katydid-Designs
Laura made these awesome pillows from vintage tea towels.  Check out her blog for pictures of the tea towel tote she also made.


Debbie Shouse from Doing More For Less Diva
To answer the monthly question, I have been using thrift store finds to make baby quilts and diaper bags for the new grandbaby.

 

Krystie, a FaveCrafts reader
This month I sewed an ice skating dress from scratch, start to finish and one skating dress which I started out from using a danskin bodysuit then built over it to form a fun skating outfit!

 

Filed Under: Craft Question Tagged With: DIY, Full Project Tutorials, monthly craft question, Sewing, thrify

Monthly Craft Question: If you had more free time, what would you make?

September 9, 2011 by FaveCrafts

As part of the monthly craft question fun here at FaveCrafts, we asked our fabulous designer and blogger friends what they would make if they had more free time.  It’s a daunting question, I know, but all of them gave great answers.  See what they had to say below!

 

Carol Heppner from Heppner Studio
As a writer, artist, and design member of the Craft and Hobby Association, I am always creating projects for various publications and manufacturers.  That leaves me very little time to create items for myself.  If I had more free time, I would love to create more altered books, jewelry, and some stained glass pieces.

 

Catherine Peart from Gingham Cherry Blog
If I had all the free time in the world I would do wood carving.  I just found out about swedish spoon carving.  I would love to try this.

 

Sheila Daniels from Cheeky Magpie
I don’t feel like I have to time to invest in crafting like I used to. Now I’m dabbling in jewelry, mixed media, sewing, paper, all sorts of crafts. I would love to follow an idea all the way through, to explore all possibilities before I have to turn my attention elsewhere, and last but not least, I yearn to spend some quality time with my blowtorch. Sigh.

 

Jen Goode from JGoode Designs
If I had more free time.. or better yet, all the free time in the world, I would make a gazillion and one things! I’d finish all the projects I’ve started and run out of time to finish. I’d decorate every room in my house with things that I recycled, re-purposed, refinished and rediscovered. I’d paint… the walls and art. I’d draw more. I’d garden more. I’d learn how to cook more things. I’d create hand made gifts for every occasion and I’d make tutorials for all of it all along the way.  I really wish I had more free time!

 

Shannon Bielke from Shaandco
You know what I would make? Honestly? I’d make myself an official workspace so I can create in one place, find the tools I’m looking for, have room to spread out, and find things when I put them down for just a second! I work in my family room and never seem to be able to find anything once I get started.  Seriously, who has time to take the time away from creating to create a working space? Not me!!

 

Alyice Edrich from the Dabbling Mum
If I had more free time, I would definitely learn to reupholster furniture and make some new cushions for my couches! I’d even like to learn to refinish the kitchen table… in an environmentally safe way, of course.

 

Jennifer Juniper from Hope Studios
To be honest, I would learn to slipcover and change up all my furniture!  I bought several drop cloths last winter hoping to learn how to sew professional looking covers with piping and they are still sitting in the packages on the chair I’d hoped would be my first…victim!

 

Eileen Hull from Eileen Hull: Thoughts from My Studio
Well, that’s never going to happen! But if I did have more time, I would like to make my granddaughter Trinity a quilt.

 

Berta Gilholm a FaveCrafts Designer
I am always making things for everyone else, If I had the time I would make MYSELF a Beautiful, Furry, Coat like the one at Lion Brand made out of Fun Fur. I really like that one!

 

Marie Segal from Art from My Heart
If I had all the free time in the world I would probably just do more of what I am doing now.  I love what I am doing, all clays, books, paper crafting, jewelry making, and a myriad of other things.  I would just do lots more of it.  I would, though, like to play more with ceramic clays and get back in to that again.  I am so grateful to be able to do what I love.  How could my life get any better than that?

 

Terry Ricioli from Terry Ricioli Designs
I have always wanted to learn how to weld and cut and form large metal pieces.  I would like to make large metal sculptures for my garden in the shape of angels and birds and flowers.  So far, I’ve only made small wire shapes that are cold-connected, but someday!

 
Mitzi Curi from Mitzi’s Miscellany
I would sew more.  Sewing projects are always the ones I never have time to work on.  I’ve been collecting wonderful vintage fabrics and would love to sew a bunch of decorative pillows with them.

 

Tresa Edmunds from Reese Dixon blog
I’d make something super fiddly and involved. A wall sized crosstitch, or beaded furniture, or a quilt made entirely out of 1/2″ squares. Something that would take me decades to do with my current obligations.


 

Filed Under: Craft Question Tagged With: Crochet, jewelry, Knitting, mixed media, monthly craft question

Monthly Craft Question: What is your favorite craft trend?

August 8, 2011 by FaveCrafts

It’s that time again: time for the monthly craft question round up!  For July we asked our blogger and designer friends, “What is your favorite craft trend? What types of trends would you like to see in the future?”

Here is how they responded:

Eileen Hull from Eileen Hull Thoughts From My Studio

 


I am jumping on the mixed media trend. I love that it’s OK to take some of your favorite craft supplies and make a project that is uniquely you!

 

Madeline Faiella

Madeline Faiella from Madeline Faiella’s Designs and Earth Safe Finishes

 

 

Re-furbishing furniture, apparel and accessories, and pushing that envelope to reach way out of the box is what excites me and I see some of that.  I would like to see more of that.  It’s as if the up side of the economical slack is seeing people create  things out of items they would normally be tossing out.  I’ve been doing it for many years and I thank my creative genes and personal vision for that.  People are quite creative and given a challenge, they are resourceful to means they never believed they could reach.  Yup, I would like to see a lot more up-cycling.  We did it as children and it’s proven to be frugal, fun and fantastic!

 

Amy Anderson from Mod Podge Rocks

 

Amy Anderson from ModPodge Rocks Blog

 

My favorite craft trend is state fair ribbons like these.  They are up-and-coming still – I know it!

Kendra Halterman from My Insanity Blog

I love the way crafters are getting creative about repurposing materials in crafts. It’s Frugal and eco-friendly! I’d love to see this trend continue because it shouldn’t cost more to make stuff than it does to buy it.


Shannon Bielke from Shaandco.net

My favorite craft trend is definitely the mixed media trend!! Love it! And! It’s been my thing long before it became so popular; in fact I’ve been
teaching a mixed media class at our local college for a year now. What’s wonderful about mixed media becoming so popular, is there are lots of
new books out giving me all sorts of new ideas! I’d love to see the almost-anything-goes trend continue this way, leading toward a freedom in design and color which can only lead to other new and beautiful trends in art!


Carol Heppner from Heppner Studio


My favorite craft trend is embellishing clothing and shoes. There are so many great products on the market these days that make it so easy to personalize ready-to-wear items.  A simple white shirt or white sneakers can be transformed into wearable art.


Jen Goode from JGoodeDesigns.com

My favorite trend is all the layering I’ve seen. Piling on textures and adding dimension to otherwise flat surfaces is so fun! I’d love to see mixing of materials even more, layering papers and fabrics and paints to create even more interesting effects and layers.


Berta Gilholm, a featured FaveCrafts Designer

My favorite trend this season is the way crafting is using layering designs in everything from objects, graphics and clothing. I would love to see monthly artistic designs from antique to modern. For instance, first month checkerboard designs, second month stripes designs, third month paisley designs, etc. I think suggesting designs for any craft would bring on a rush of creativity and fun.You may even bring out some new designs in crafting.


Phyllis Serbes from Many Creative Gifts

 

 


I’ve been seeing a lot more crochet and macramé making their way into jewelry, with some really fun and sophisticated looking necklaces and bracelets.  I really hope the trend continues and that we see even more beaded, crocheted, and macramé accessories in the future.

 


Tiffany Windsor from Cool2Craft

 

 

My favorite craft trend is mixed media. This brings back the focus on general crafting that the craft industry has been missing for SOOOOOOO long!  Grab your supplies and mix it up! Since I’m launching a new product line in 2012 featuring plaster – I think that should be and will be the next trend 🙂 It’s a super cool base for so many crafting projects and can be colored with watercolors, acrylic paints, inks, waxes and much, much more.

 


Niki Meiners from Live a Life Handmade

 


My favorite trend would have to be mixed media.  To me, mixed media equals artistic freedom.  It gives me the opportunity to explore and to color outside the lines.  I have always loved working with metals an mow I am incorporating them into my canvas work.

Filed Under: Craft Question Tagged With: cool2Craft, Craft Trends, monthly craft question

Monthly Craft Question: How do you go green with your crafting?

December 14, 2010 by FaveCrafts

For November, the monthly craft question was: How do you go green with your crafting? Do you enjoy making eco-friendly projects?

As always, we asked our favorite bloggers and designers for their input and advice.

Here’s what they had to say:

Kimberly Crawford from For the Love of Paper
Yes! I love when I can repurpose the packaging of my supplies.

Jane Skoch from Maiden Jane
I have a hard time throwing things away in the house!  I like to turn old t-shirts into quilts and pillows.  Recently I started making totes from sweatshirts!  I have also discovered some creative uses with coffee bags which are often discarded by local coffee companies.  I love when I can create something practical and functional from garbage!

Shannon Bielke from Sha & Co
I teach a papercrafts class at our local jr. college, and almost all of our projects are green! We create beautiful, useful items using old cardboard boxes, wrapping paper, paper towels, used dryer sheets, and many other items found around the house. It’s not only satisfying to create beautiful projects, but it’s fun to see people’s surprise when we explain that our artwork was made from recycled paper goods. Somehow our projects are more personal when created from used products.

Kenda from My Insanity
I think the best way to be green about crafting is to “shop the house” and find what you can re-use/re-purpose.  My mom has been “green” long before it even had a name.  If clothing wore out, she would save the buttons or anything reusable before getting rid of it.  She actually made my son an entire suit, out of a retired man-sized suit.  I’m sure I have a long way to go in the “green” department, but I really feel that re-using materials, refurbishing furniture, and looking for project supplies in my own home first, is a good start!

Jen Goode from JGoode Designs
I love making projects out of things I have around the house already. The transformation from one thing to another is really fun to watch. Not only do I try to use basic recycled items like soup cans or plastic containers, but I also try to re-purpose fabric from old clothing or reuse the embellishments from other un-used items. I also make a point to save scraps for smaller projects and I teach my kids to do the same.

Jaime from Chirpings of Little Bird
I definitely enjoy making eco-firendly crafts! Most anytime I use felt for a project, I go to my stash of eco fi felt, which is made from post consumer recycled plastic bottles. I also enjoy using vintage findings to make fun pendants and such. I think it’s good to mix a little vintage/recycled/repurposed into ones crafting and find ways to keep things a little green.

Janet Perry from Nuts About Needlepoint

Although needlepoint is generally not considered to be an inexpensive craft, I have been thrifty with my needlepoint for almost 20 years.  This has taken mainly two forms. First, I save all the odds and ends of threads into what I call my “scrap bag.” Inspired by Scrap Bag Quilts, I’ve made lots of needlepoint using primarily these threads. In fact, I have designed over  two dozen projects based on these threads and had coverage in national magazines for them.  But primarily, whenever stitching a new needlepoint, I always “shop my stash first.”  All to often the tendency in needlepoint is to buy all new threads for every project. But that is wasteful and inexpensive. It also, I think, limits creativity.  So I don’t buy threads when I buy a new project, I look through my stash to find threads that will work for the project.  It’s been very successful. In fact, last year I challenged myself to use stash threads for as many projects as possible. I managed to use up over 200 threads in my stash.  While it’s been a habit for quite awhile, it’s become a real passion for me to explore my threads to find the right one without buying a new thread.  Finally my habit of shopping the stash first has now been expanded to include canvases as well. In my profession as a needlepoint teacher I often review new threads. I used to try them out by making small samples. Now I put my stash of canvases to use, by picking one from my stash and stitching it with the threads to review. Because they were in my stash I’m not spending money to buy them. But they probably never would have gotten stitched otherwise. This way I not only serve the purpose of my review but I am also able to make something that might not have been stitched. By doing this I was able to make five Christmas ornaments this year. Pieces that wouldn’t have been done otherwise.

I don’t think of what I’m doing as “green” in particular for a couple of reasons. First off, it just seems to me that the tradition of crafting and handwork has always in America made good use of what we had on hand. I remember my grandmother making me lovely clothes from women’s skirts or the bolt ends of men’s suiting fabrics she get from tailor friends.  My husband’s family made quilts from salesman’s samples of men’s fabrics. I like to know that instead of following a trendy idea I’m following in their footsteps.  Second, it also seems to me that our spending for crafts can consume us. But it’s not prudent or good stewardship of our finances or our resources to buy new all the time. We should be using what we have.

Tiffany Windsor from Cool2Craft
I have to definitely credit my mother Aleene, the original trim your trash guru! And my sister EcoHeidi has inspired me for years to go green with crafting. My favorite is her waterbottle bracelets. I love using water bottles to create fun fashion accessories.  I’m also one to save most every scrap of paper, fabric and leftovers from other projects because there is always a use to be creative with even the smallest scraps! I even developed a line of craft embellishments called Ecodellies which I make from the leftovers I use when I pour my plaster trinkets. I couldn’t bear to throw even a few drops away so they became fun craft trinkets for others to enjoy and create with.

Lynn Colwell from Celebrate Green
I always try to substitute something I have on hand or can make myself (i.e. paint), when I’m doing a project. I have stopped buying much of anything other than non-toxic glues ( E600 is the exception since I’ve yet to find a sub). My crafting has become about what I have on hand and can turn into something wonderful.  I aim to recycle as much as possible, buy larger sizes of things I might use often so I don’t have a bunch of little plastic bottles to toss. If I’m going to purchase something, I really consider the packaging and the life of the item. So  many craft items are packaged in plastic that can’t be recycled. I do try to use it in projects if I can.  Crafting with a conscience brings me greater satisfaction than any I ever receive from buying new.

Amy Anderson from ModPodge Rocks
I use old and recycled surfaces as much as I can.  There’s no feeling better than turning something old or ugly into something new and pretty.  It feels very good to keep items out of the landfill too.  You won’t believe what you can make with Mod Podge and toilet paper rolls!

Ashely from Domestic Fashionista
My main way of going green (and saving myself some money!) is by using every little scrap.  I have a whole drawer full of scrap fabric that gets used on little projects and I also use it as stuffing.  By using what I already have (every tiny piece of it) I cut back on waste and do not have to buy more.


Alyice Edrich from Alyice Edrich Creatives
I am famous for having stacks of recently emptied cans and jars on the kitchen sink, to later be placed in boxes for upcycling. I love to alter them with scrap papers and paint. They make nice vases, trinket holders, and decorative pieces.  I also like to cut hand painted papers that are too small for other crafts into triangles to later use in mosaics. Little by little I am discovering new ways to upcycle stuff around the house and the art studio. In the end it saves both the environment and my pocketbook.

Niki Meiners from Live a Life Handmade
Most of my craft projects incorporate some form of “green” crafting.  It could be anything from buttons from and old shirt to toilet paper rolls turned into a gift card holder.  One of my favorite items to recycle into my craft projects is cardboard boxes.  The work so well in my Sizzix Big Shot and can be inked and painted.  Do you enjoy making Eco-friendly projects?  Absolutely I enjoy making Eco-friendly projects!  Green crafting is a habit that is addicting.  My husband and 8yr old son ask me if I need an item before they place it in the recycle bin.

Michael Sellick from the Crochet Crowd
Green doesn’t always mean you have to be a tree hugging individual.  It could also mean use what you got or what will come to you anyway.  Christmas is one of the most environmentally unfriendly times of the year. Flyers and newspapers are readily available. It’s why you will see my gifts wrapped up in newsprint and not fancy Christmas wrap. Fancy paper is really pretty to look at and people claim to save it, but the reality is more of us just chuck it and how many people will actually recycle it?  Bottles of wine are perfect ideas for crocheting a cover for them to give away. More than likely the cover will be recycled and used again. It’s almost like re-gifting the cover over and over. You could choose non dyed yarns that are natural alpaca or even muskox. They will cost you more but it’s natural and projects usually are amazingly soft and warm. Crafting in general is green for yourself.  It’s your own creativity that inspires your brain cells to spark and think, process, and then create. It brings you joy and you can spread your happiness through friends and charities.

Kara LLC Jones from Mother Henna
Green Art Experiment
Solstice Doll
Solstice Doll 2

In the first link above, I shared a doll that was sort of a “green” art experiment, made for last year’s holiday season.  I tried to go as green as possible with that doll and the solstice dolls featured in the other two links above: first one being a how-to, and the last link being a photo feature of the finished dolls.  I had bags of scrap fabric sitting around last year.  I used the larger pieces to free-hand cut patterns for the dolls.  Then I diced up all the fabric left over to use as stuffing for the dolls.  I figured it was better than filling the land fill with fabric!  On the larger doll, with the button crown, I also used found elements like the buttons, net from produce bag, found beads, and an old broken pin.  It was all just sort of a challenge to make pretty and meaning-FULL things out of exactly what I had on hand, without buying anything more!  Recycle, reuse, renew, and basically refuse to make scrap stuff into refuse for the land fill!  Hoping to do something mindful like that again this year, too, but still dreaming on what exactly I’ll be making.  Here’s to a “Green” New Year, too!

Maize Hutton from Maize in Montana
I keep a list of items I need for craft projects in my purse.  I frequent thrift stores on a weekly basis and look for items that I can reuse for my projects.  I’ve found knitting needles, crochet hooks, fabric, yarn, and many items I can cut apart, spray paint or re-invent!  I’ve also found things at thrift stores that I actually need at home and I often pay less than what I’d pay for them new.

Tina Johnson from TStitchesandCrafts
One of the Green Things I do when it comes to crafting is I keep a scrap box. My scrap box is a box that contains bits of fabric that can’t be used for anything but scrap. I use these scraps as fill for projects that don’t require “fancy” fill. For example I made a kitty bed and I used batting for the top of the bed but I used scraps and other recycled filling under the batting to fill the middle and the bottom. I love when I can recycle something. I found how-to instructions on the internet for making cookie sheet memo boards. I grabbed three of my old cookie sheets, a can of spray paint, magnets and a few other misc. items and made my nieces memo boards for their rooms (Shhh! Wink! Christmas Gifts). Have a Happy Creative Day!

Laura Bray from KattyDiddys
Crafting green is so easy!  I love to use dried out coffee filters (they are already “dyed” a beautiful sepia by the coffee).  They make great flowers and you can even use them as tracing paper!  I am also planning a quilt for my daughter’s room made from her old baby clothes.  When you reuse your items, you are lowering the need for manufacturing  & shipping of new products & you don’t have to use gas for your trip to the stores-the benefits of green crafting expand way beyond simply saving something from going in the trash!

Heidi Borchers from Eco Heidi
I’ve been Creatively Recycling/Green Crafting all of my life – My mother is Aleene as in Tacky Glue.  Way before it was called green or eco or even recycling I was doing it!!  It’s kind of cool it now has a name so I consider myself an EcoArtist.  I make jewelry from plastic water bottles for other crafters to make and enjoy.  I have a line of jewelry from aluminum soda that I sell on my site and in galleries across the country.  My passion is finding useful creative projects from things we normally throw away. I currently show my Eco Crafting on Cool2Craft  Crafting TV on your computer .Check it out and Happy Eco-ing.

Terri Ricioli from Terry Ricioli Designs
Green crafting is one of my all-time favorite things.  Whenever I design children’s crafts, I try to incorporate at least one type of recyclable material, but I’ve also used them in adult crafts.  I’ve used everything from plastic lids to foam packing peanuts to the plastic mesh bags that hold vegetables. One of my favorite materials is paper bags.  I’ve even made jewelry from them.  Stop by my blog in December for some simple ways to re-purpose and recycle materials you have around the house.  Happy crafting!

Einat Kessler from Scrappin’ It
I enjoy making Eco-friendly projects and I always try to be as green as possible. Being a scrapbooker and a paper artist I always have trees on my mind. I try to use recycled paper in my scrapbbok layouts and design recycled projects, like this recipes box I made from a milk carton. I try not to throw anything. If I have CD’s I don’t need I’ll make a mini album from them. If I have empty cereal boxes I’ll use them for covers or pages for a card or a mini album. my friends call me the queen of scraps because I always use all my supplies even the packing. I think taking care of our planet is very important and we as artists and designers can show others how to use scraps in a creative way. After all one man’s garbage is another man’s treasures!

Marisa Pawelko from Modern Surrealist
I make all kinds of fun accessories and room décor items by upcycling my trash! Check out some of my great ideas here on my you tube channel:
Modern Surrealist.

Filed Under: Craft Question Tagged With: eco-friendly crafts, go green crafts, monthly craft question

Monthly Craft Question: Who Inspired You to Become an Artist? Why Do You Create?

October 5, 2010 by FaveCrafts

For September, the monthly craft question was: Who inspired you to become an artist?  Why do you create? Who better to answer this question than some of our favorite craft designers and bloggers?

Here’s what they had to say:

Eileen Hull from www.EileenHull.blogspot.com
Probably my mom, she always had a project going on in the middle of raising six kids. I love designing for many reasons: I have the freedom to try new techniques and make them my own, love setting my own hours, and basically I can share who I am in a fun way. I will always enjoy creating whether I am making money at it or not.

Joanie Gorman from Nini Makes
I can’t say there is any one person who inspired me, I just always felt the need to create things using just about anything I got my hands on – newspaper, fabric, paint, branches from the garden, string… There are people who helped me learn things along the way, my mother, 4-H teachers, art school teacherssomething, and all of them brilliant.
I think as a child I liked to create to escape my crazy family and get attention with the things I made. Now, it’s a little of the same; I love the meditative feeling of getting lost in whatever I’m making and the feeling I get when I’ve created something new.

Amy Anderson from Mod Podge Rocks!
My mother gets all of the credit!  She started me down the path early, letting me play in the woods and always doing activities with me like making natural fruit roll ups and jams, gardening and, of course, crafting.  All of these things contributed to my imagination developing at an early age.  I don’t call myself an artist, but I’m definitely creative.  I see raw materials and picture everything coming together in different ways.  I like creating for so many different reasons, but I really love creating when it’s done.  What I mean is that there is hardly anything better for me than the satisfaction of looking at a project I’ve completed, especially when I love it.  It’s a feeling like no other, and it’s very fulfilling.

Mark Montano from www.MarkMontano.com
Growing up in a small town in southern Colorado with limited means there wasn’t much of a choice but to create the beautiful things we desired. One of my earliest memories is of my mother antiquing an old desk and then decoupaging cut out roses to each drawer. She was making the most out of something we had and it ended up being a magnificent piece of furniture which is still in my family today.  Our living room sofa was wicker with horsehair cushions from the 1940s. My dad was about to take it to the dump for someone as a favor in his truck when my mother insisted that we keep it — because she always sees the potential in such things. That’s where I got it from. For the next few years it sat on our back porch, where we would pick off the old paint with seam rippers to get it ready for a new coat of paint. For hours we would chat and pick and laugh and think about how it would look when it was done.  When we finished and it was repainted and with the new upholstery (which my dad did), we had an awesome sofa which instilled a sense of pride in me and my mom. You see, going out to buy a new sofa or a new desk just wasn’t in the budget for a family with 5 growing boys and a new house to pay for. I’m still in awe at the grace and beauty of my parents and how they raised us.  So, without any hesitation I’d have to say that my mother and father are the reason I’m an artist today.

Sharyn Sowell from www.sharyonsowell.com
I fell in love with the smell of paint and turpentine when my grandma taught me to paint dainty florals on china as a child.  Today I create because it is who I am. If I have no art materials I find myself drawing with a stick in the sand or making a pebble sculpture along a trail.  My kindred spirits are those like me who create purely for the joy of it. We live and breathe art the way the birds fly: because it’s who we are.

Stacey from Freshstitches
It wasn’t any one particular person who inspired me, but I’ve heard countless people (older and wiser than me) say, “I wish I had gotten a job that didn’t feel like work”… so when thinking about what I wanted to do with my life, I thought, “goodness… I might as well start with something I really love!”  To me, that meant becoming a designer!
I love to create because by the end of the day, I’ve usually made a stuffed animal that sits on my coffee table and stares at me- and it always cracks me up!  I love that what I make can make others happy- it’s really a great job to have!

Myléne Hillam from www.millanestudio.com
There hasn’t been a single person or moment that inspired me to become a designer but rather a collection of people and opportunities over time which made it happen.  But the single most important moment was the first CHA trade show I attended when I saw how big the crafting industry was and it was then that I realised I could actually turn what was a hobby at the time, into a real business.  It’s been onwards and upwards since then and now I have the most fabulous job in the world.  Being a designer allows me to create every single day (and I legitimately don’t have to do the housework because I’m working!).  And creating every day satisfies my artistic side – it gives me a sense of achievement and fulfilment.

Pat Sloan from PatSloan.com
I always created and I was the only one in my family who did. It’s an inner urge to draw and then really to ‘make’ things.  I started with barbie clothing stitched by hand, dioramas in shoe boxes, crochet, and eventually clothing.  Later I discovered that working with fabric is what makes my soul sing! I love to take a wonderful piece of fabric and turn it into something I can see in my mind.  I think I will always create. If I go a few days without making something  I can feel the need to sit and stitch something!

Madeline Faiella from Madeline Faiella Designs
I have always been an artist but I had an uncle who was a fabulous artist.  He used to give me some of his brushes and supplies and he gave me a few books on how to draw.  I would sit and draw an eye for days.  Mickey Mouse was a big accelerator in my artistic life as well.  I had a kit with a film that fit over the TV and I would draw on that film copying and mimicking the cartoons.  My Mom was a phenomenal dress designer and taught me how to make my own patterns.  She had a family and of course, as with many, her dreams of going to New York one day did not come true.  She continued to sew and I continued to learn.  My Dad was an outstanding and could build anything.  I used hammer and nails and paint from an early age.  There you have it.  The rest is osmosis and then formal training at The School of Visual Arts.  I am blessed to have had such talent around me.

Melanie from Whimsical Creations
My mother inspired me to be an artist.  As a child we would do all sorts of art & craft projects.  She was always creating one thing or another.  Making salt dough ornaments were one of my favorite things to do with her.  Over time salt dough evolved into using polymer clay.  I love to create because it is very relaxing.

Heather Parsons from Small Fry & Co.
My mom was always creating but my best friend really got me started doing crafts in High school.

Jennifer Juniper from HopeStudios
Art was always a calling I felt inside.  I have an itch, an urge to create that causes what I like to call “inspiration mania”. I cannot rest until a spark of an idea reaches fruition.  I have a very artistic father I reconnected with in my teen years, so I believe I was born with the ability and the desire to create.  When I am in the midst of creating art I feel confident, alive, and fully aware. It is one of my most comfortable places in life, aside from being a mother.

Phyllis from Many Creative Gifts
Another great question, but it’s like asking me “why do you breathe?  why do you eat or drink?”  Because I just have to!  Designing and creating art is just a necessary part of my living a good and healthy life.  It works a different part of my brain and makes me use skills that are different from those I use in my “real” job.  It’s so fun and satisfying to take whatever medium I’m in the mood to use (usually yarn for me) and see what new twist I can give to an old idea or what new creation I can come up with!  And, for me, it all started with a favorite 6th grade teacher and my aunt, both of whom are great crocheters and were willing to teach me.  My fondest memories are of sitting with each of them, just watching them crochet, listening to their explanations and stories about how they learned, and then giving it a try myself.

Kelly from Kelly Knits
My infant son was my encouragement to learn to loom knit.  Now that he’s 3 he’s really excited about what I make him and always says my knitting is beautiful!

Catherine Peart from Gingham Cherry
I am not sure if any one person actually created the desire – it is something I have just always done.  From making my own mock magazines at age 8 or 9 through to designing furniture for my house a few years ago to the crafting/sewing/making I do now while I work out how to make a career of it, I just can’t stop!  There have been plenty of inspirational people through the years who have helped direct my efforts though.  Too many to mention I guess but it probably all starts with my 102 yr old Nana who is an avid crocheter and embroiderer still.  She could pretty much turn her hand to anything (I have a small cupboard she painted bright orange in the 70’s – there were matching beds as well) and I guess I picked it up from her and my equally adept Mum.  I like to create because I find it calming and endlessly satisfying.  I get a great kick out of seeing something go from an idea in my head to reality.

Einat Kessler from scrappin’ it
Since childhood I have always been known among friends and family as the creative talented one. I enjoyed making things and creating.  However the inspiration to start scrapbooking came from my grandfather. He was always good with his hands. After each trip he and my grandmother had he would create the most beautiful scrapbook. He would make the cover, the pages and all the embellishments all by himself (we are talking about 20-30 years ago). When I was a child I used to sit with these Albums and fly on the wings of imagination to all the faraway places. When I grew up and my son was born, my grandfather suggested I create a scrapbook for him. This was the first scrapbook I ever made. It was old style scrapbooking with hardly any materials (no one in Israel knew what scrapbooking was at the time). But I was hooked!  Slowly I discovered an amazing scrapbooking world out there, I developed as a designer, experimented with tools and materials, learned so many new things and  became who I am today.  And the one who started it all was my grandfather, who by the way, is 90 years old and designing scrapbooks on his computer!

Kara LC a.k.a. Mother Henna from MotherHenna.com
Well, I’ve been a writer my whole life.  But a grade school art teacher once told me I could not do art “correctly” because I couldn’t follow his directions for some craft project or another.  I hated the visual mediums for years and years.  Then, one night while I was in college, I was sitting at the kitchen table complaining about something to my roommate.  She listened for a bit, then abruptly got up and left the room.  She returned with a drawing pad and chalks.  She slid them across the table to me, the way you’d slide a beer across a bar top.  She said, “You must shut up and stop whining.  I will not talk to you again until you DRAW the situation that’s bugging you.”  And she walked away.  I was stunned.  And challenged.  And intrigued.  And in wonder that she believed I could do such a thing.  So I stayed up all night.  Drawing.  It was amazing.  Such freedom when I got away from words!  As to why I keep creating?? Habit.  Choice.  Unavoidable impulse from a power larger than little old me.  Love.  Creativity is the only thing I’ve found to be a real antidote to my run-ins with grief.  I continue creating so I can breathe.  Without the expression of creativity, I think the gremlins in my head would suffocate me!!

Tina Johnson from Tina Stitches and Crafts
I was very fortunate to have two loving and patient grandmothers who shared with me their many talents. They both were wonderful teachers. They made learning fun and they were very patient. They made me the the Creative Person I am today.  Why do you like to create?  For me creating is like breathing I have to do it to survive. Some people do yoga to relax others go to a spa me I head to my craft room or curl up on the sofa with a blanket, yarn, a crochet hook and the tv remote. Sharing my creations with my friends and family is one of the biggest reason I create. The look on someones face when they see a hand made gift I made just for them makes my heart smile. Creating makes me happy and content.

Marisa Pawelko from Modern Surrealist
The Fashion Designer Betsey Johnson and Surrealist Painter Rene Magritte!!!

Phyllis Dobbs from Phyllis Dobs Art & Design Studio
I think I was inspired from 2 directions to become a designer and artist.  I was taught crafting at an early age from my mother and aunt, with some additional inspiration from my grandmother’s quilts.  My mother taught me sewing and my aunt taught me needlework, all at a very early age.  I grew up with a love of crafting and through this love came the inner desire to design my own projects and paint.  Creating gives me a sense of calm and peace as well as what I enjoy doing.  I think creative people are born that way, and once you get a taste of being creative, the creative urge is like letting the genie out of the bottle.  You can’t put her back in!

Shannon Bielke from Sha & Co.
Ever since I can remember I have been inspired to be an artist because my mom is an amazing artist! When I became older I realized I am inspired from within. I have always ‘needed’ to create and depending on time, finances, and family situation I have always found a way. The need to create leads to the love of creating; it’s a joy, a release of all responsibilities and abandoning myself to the unpredictability and satisfaction of artistic expression.

Linda Walsh from Linda Walsh Originals
I have loved dolls, sewing, floral arrangements, and crafts since I was a very little girl and was always making or sewing something.  Even at a very early age I wanted hundreds of dolls and hundreds of clothes and the only way I was going to get them was if I made them myself. But, before I could do that I had to learn how to sew.  And, for that inspiration I would have to credit both my Mother and my ancestors.

My mother taught herself how to sew, my grandmother was a seamstress, my aunt was a seamstress, etc. Women from sewing families know what I mean when I say sewing runs in the family. It’s in the blood. So, not only did I have the “sewing gene” but, I also had the “crafting gene.”  You see, my Dad loved crafting and wood working and he learned that from his Father, who learned it from his Father and so on.  My Father always loved to involve his children in whatever he was making and would spend hours on end just teaching us how to do something and do it right.  However, from an early age I liked to rebel so while I learned how to do things “right” I also learned what I liked and didn’t like. At a very early age I was already trying to establish my own individuality and creativity.

Despite my rebellious nature my Mother was able to painstakingly teach me how to sew.  I say “painstakingly” as even at an early age I didn’t like to follow the patterns and read all the instructions so many of my creations were let’s just say “crude” at best.     However my Mother was able to properly teach me how to sew and sew I did. But, my Mother did more than just teach me how to sew properly.  She also reinforced my individualism and creativity.  She said it never hurts to experiment.  That’s what they make seam rippers for.  If it doesn’t work just rip it out and start again.  So, I did time and time again until I developed my own style.  And for my style and passion I would have to credit my grandmother for that. You see, when I was a very young girl she gave me a very old print of Godey’s Fashions for August 1870 that belonged to my great, great aunt Flossie. I was captivated by the frilly, beautiful dresses and from that moment on I was hooked. From that moment I wanted to make beautiful Victorian dolls.  My Grandmother, my Mother, and my Father have all been a source of inspiration for me.  Each brought a different kind of inspiration which I would have to say formed the basis of my creativity as it exists today.

Jen Goode from JGoodeDesigns.com
There is a long list of influences that inspired me to become and artist. I’ve been lucky to have a great support system that has encouraged creativity throughout my life.I like to create because I thrive on the feeling of accomplishment that comes with making something that inspires someone else to smile.

Filed Under: Craft Question Tagged With: easy craft ideas, monthly craft question

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