Tuesday, January 11, 2011

I like to learn

Have you ever gone to a craft show or flipped through a magazine and thought, "I want to learn how to do that?" I have a little list going of things I want to learn. Some of them have to do with adding to my repertoire of knitting and crocheting skills, but some are completely new things to me.

Lately I've been seeing a lot of felted crafts around, and I'm really interested in trying them out! I think the favorite thing I've seen are the cute little felted owls. Though I think I would have more use for making flowers that could be attached to a bag or hat.

I also have really wanted to get into sewing. My mom taught me some when I was younger, and I even completed a few projects, but I don't really remember much. Maybe it would come back if I tried again. Last summer, Michael and I found a pretty blue sewing machine (probably from the '50s or '60s). It was the kind that's on a table, and can be hidden when not in use. I still have not had the courage to get it out and see if it's in working condition or if I have any clue how to use it!

I don't know if this counts in the whole "crafting" category, but last summer we also bought a big sturdy dresser for our girls. It's in decent condition, but needs a paint job pretty badly. So, that's something else that I'd like to do. I haven't really started yet, because when I got the dresser the weather outside was really rainy and cold, and the only place I can really imagine working on a project like that is on our patio. So, I'll have to wait until things warm up again.

Of course my desire to try all kinds of new things often leads to a lot of craft supplies sitting around my house for months and months without me touching them because I can't find the time! Does that happen to any of you? What have been your favorite crafts to learn?

Monday, January 10, 2011

Resolutions

It's the start of a new year, and it has been a little while since I've taken an active interest in selling my handmade accessories. Of course, this last year has been a busy one with a new addition to the family, taking up coupon shopping, and an online teaching job.

But, I've been inspired with some new ideas, and am trying to get everything in place to start creating and selling again. Of course, this still has to fit in with my daily routines, so it may take me a little while. Stick with my blog and I'll keep you updated about what I'm working on and when you can expect to see my etsy.com store back up and running.

Projects I'm currently working on include a hat inspired by my mom (she always loved pictures of red cardinals in the snow), and some embellished "up-cycled" shirts and sweaters. I'm hoping I can post pictures soon, so you can see what I'm up to.