,Are you feeling crafty yet? March is National Craft month and there are crafts for virtually every interest out there. If you’re one of those “I’m not creative” types, sorry, nope, you’re wrong. Everyone can create something. Check out my post from October. It explains why being creative increases our happiness. and how everyone is creative in their own way.
The key to enjoying crafts is to let go of the need to be perfect. Being crafty doesn’t require being professional. That’s what makes it fun. Don’t compare your creations with others (especially those perfect pictures on Pinterest). No doubt comparison is the thief of joy. Instead, just enjoy the experience of creating.
Have you ever noticed how much most children like to craft? They still know how to enjoy the act of creating. If you have kids, start there. Pick a craft they can take part in and have fun together. No kids? No problem. Pick something that interests you.
Check out this list of craft ideas. Of course, there are many more than these. This is just a list to get you started.
I am trying my hand at candle making this month. My husband gave me a kit for Christmas that I had been wanting. Yes, it’s three months in and I haven’t started. So now I have an excuse. Stay tuned. I’ll post something about my experiences later this month.
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Where to Get Started
So you’re interested in starting a new craft, but don’t know where to begin. There are many places to look for ideas, supplies, and even lessons. Here are my favorites:
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Amazon
You can find supplies for just about any craft idea you have on Amazon. My Soy Candle Making Kit
came from there. I have also ordered bath bomb making supplies, soap making supplies, art supplies, and idea books.
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Pinterest
Pinterest has millions of ideas to look at, attempt, and tweak to meet your needs. Check out my Being Crafty board for some examples. I have pinned everything from washi tape use to jewelry making ideas, to painting and sewing projects. Oh, and there are some candle making ideas there too.
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Local Craft Supply Store
In my area, we have a Hobby Lobby, a JoAnn’s Fabrics, and a Michael’s within 15 minutes of home. They all have different focuses and different sales to hit. I go to Hobby Lobby the most often because it is the closest and almost always has what I’m looking for. And they always have a 40% off coupon available on my iPhone. If you have a local mom and pop store, all the better. We have a locally owned bookstore in my hometown that sells some art supplies. I like to give them some business. Local stores often have lessons to get you started. Our local bookstore has a Zentangle class and Michael’s offers various classes for kids and adults alike.
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Internet Craft Sites
There are so many of these types of sites to choose from. Craftsy.com and craftgawker are two of my favorites. Which ones do you recommend?
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Etsy
Sure, Etsy is mainly known for selling the crafts that other people make, but it’s also a great spot for inspiration and supplies. After a quick search, I found patterns for all sorts of things, food craft supplies, craft kits of all kinds, paper crafting items, beads and other jewelry making supplies, and even doll parts!
Being Crafty for Less Money
Crafts can be expensive depending on what craft you want to do and how many supplies are required. If you don’t want to invest too much into it yet, try taking a class at your local craft store. Or check out your local library. Ours has craft classes and a knitting group. Or pick a craft that uses something you already have a lot of.
Another less expensive way to try out a new craft is to buy a kit. I have found that kits are a great way to try out something new. It’s fun to do them with kids or with friends. Here are a few of my favorites:
Walnut Hollow Deluxe Wood Burning Kit – $23.99
My hubby gave me a wood burning set for Christmas too. I plan on making Christmas ornaments with it. I have made some cute decorated wooden spoons. They make nice bridal shower gifts.
Dimensions Needlecrafts Needle Felted Characters – $5.99 per animal
Just in case you didn’t know, these felt animal kits are really popular right now. Is it any wonder when they are so stinkin’ cute? I love the little hedgehog, but I have also seen foxes, bunnies, bears, and even dinosaurs.
Japanese Origami for Beginners – $10.84
Origami has always intrigued me, but I’ve never been very good at it. My daughter can make a mean paper shirt out of almost anything. I do love all the pretty paper though.
Quilled Creations Beginner Quilling Kit – $18.51
I think paper quilling is beautiful. At a local craft fair last year, I came upon a booth selling earrings made using this technique. They were so cool! I haven’t tried this craft yet, but it is on my bucket list.
Speedball Block Printing Starter Kit – $16.69
I once made holiday cards using this technique. It was loads of fun, but a bit messy. If you’re going to do this one with the kids, keep that in mind.
Have Fun Being Crafty
That should be enough to get you started. Please share what crafty stuff you get into this month. I’ll update you on my candle making adventure and maybe I’ll find some inspiration for crafts with kids too.Or perhaps the best craft books. After all, I’m a sucker for a good book.
Thanks for reading, and please share with someone who loves being crafty!
