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| Please tell me why... |
I thought I'd get right to it and start the up the first weekly discussion topic as I promised at the end of the Blog Celebration. Just add your comment with your thoughts to this post when you can - and check back every so often if you want to see what others have to say. I'll have a link to the discussion post at the end of each daily post for the week to make it easier to follow along by keeping all of the discussion topic comments in one place.
Yesterday we drove to New Jersey so we could attend our son's Senior Project performance which is happening Saturday afternoon. He is a Music major (Computer Science minor) and this performance is one of his graduation requirements. It is the culmination of over a year of work and I can't wait to hear and see what he has prepared. While we were driving, I was thinking about some of the projects I'd like to work on. Some of them will require a lot of time and some will require a lot of materials. I probably could purchase items that would give similar results for far less time and money.
This made me wonder - is crafting a rational activity? Does it make sense to invest in all of the tools and supplies that we think we "need" just to have them available for what often turns out to be a very small amount of use? From a purely economic standpoint, most crafters are not able to justify the cost of our "toys" with the amount and monetary value of the things they produce.
So there have to be other reasons to be a crafter. Some people enjoy working with their hands and manipulating raw materials into objects of beauty. Others find the time they spend crafting to be a much needed break from the stresses of their daily life. Crafting can also be a social event if you participate in crops or meetings with other, like-minded people.
Does the act of creating something from your imagination give you a sense of accomplishment? Do you spend the time and effort required to hand craft an item to show how much you value the person that will receive your finished item? Is crafting your "happy place" where you can focus on colors, shapes and textures that appeal to you? Do you need to produce a lot of finished products to feel that this activity is worthwhile or is the process just as important as the end result? If you didn't craft, what would you do with the time and money that would be available to you?
Just some food for thought - I am curious to see what your thoughts are on this topic...
Here's something you might like to know...
Creative Charms is doing a "more bang for your buck" promotion. Send them $1 and a stamped, self addressed envelope and they will send you back $3-4 worth of embellishments. The envelope must be postmarked by April 30th. You can get all of the details and the address at THIS POST on the Creative Charms Blog.
Thanks for all the nice comments yesterday about my projects for the Core'dinations Design Team call - I'll let you know if I hear anything...
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I do mostly scrapbooking and like seeing what I can do to make an ordinary photo (or 4!) look extraordinary. I love the process of matching papers, especially coordinating patterns, to really show off my photos. I tend to take a really long time to finish a layout (mostly 2-page layouts) but always love the end result and sharing them with my scrapping friends and family. Scrapbooking is always worthwhile especially since there are new techniques to learn or new ideas available to spark my scrapping mojo. Plus it has opened up a whole new circle of friends for me. Not sure what I'd do if I didn't scrapbook since I've lost interest in playing golf but it's sort of like one of my best friends says..."it's this or diamonds!" Gotta love her...
ReplyDeleteI'm a card maker, it relaxes me, as I have to STOP AND THINK (LOL!!) about who and what they like. I have been crafting since I was 3 years old, my Nana taught me to knit and at the ripe old age of 3, I made my first scarf, matching gloves AND socks LOL!! at 5 I learnt how to crochet and made Lamp shade overlay's, I then went to school to learn how to draw using indian ink & many different art media, so I'm pretty arty LOL!!
ReplyDeleteHugs Adele
Crafting is ME TIME. When my kids were little I had no time for me. It was all about them. Now that they are all grown ups (my youngest is 20) I have more time at hand. It's the time to forget my worries and troubles. I have always love to craft,and enjoy the creative process. The end result is important but the process is even better. It's a way of keeping my brain in shape.
ReplyDeleteSecond to crafting I would say that I love reading; so I can lose myself in a book.
I don't spend much in crafting; first because I can't; second because I have the cricut and it has help me to create things with less.
Hope you had a great time with your son.
I have always had something creative to do. I now just do it w/paper. I started scrapbooking 10 years ago after my 2 sisters had been doing it. I wasn't sure it was the craft for me. Well, it took over and I have surpassed them. I show them what I learn. I make cards too. I am at the point where I would love to buy a card because I don't have the time to make the right card but can't bring myself to pay $3-4 for one. I also feel I can make it more personal by making something the person likes. For example, my aunt really wanted cards that said '80' when she turned 80. I was able to make a card w/lots of 80's. This year she is 85- I will make a big purple (her favorite color) 85. She'll love it. I could go on and on but should stop here. great question. Tammy
ReplyDeleteI craft to express myself and be creative. Because the product is created quickly (unless I have a block), there's personal satisfaction and gratification for making something unique and mine. I also like to give them away and know that my work is appreciated by someone else. It's also turned into a way to chronicle my family's history through scrapbooking. Instead of having pictures crammed into boxes where I can't see or remember them, I have a book of memories that I can share. Thanks for asking -
ReplyDeleteI get joy out of making a card or a scrapbook page that turns out beautifully. Pulling all the papers and embellies together and then seeing the project come out the way I anticipated is so fulfilling. Of course, it does not hurt my ego at all when someone says "You made that?"
ReplyDeleteI used to think I scrapped to relieve stress, but, have discovered when I am stressed I cannot scrap, so I think it is happy playtime with friends, the social aspect coupled with the art form. I also like painting and photography, both of which it is easier to do when stressed... Nice subject!!
ReplyDeleteFor the loe of it all!
ReplyDeleteGreat question and great responses from your fans. I, too, have been crafting since a very early age. I would not know how to live without quilting, knitting, scrapping and card making! There is something so satisfying about taking scraps of paper (or fabric, or yarn) and turning that into a gift or page or quilt that can be treasured forever. The thrill of designing, making, and sharing creations is so rewarding. Finding new techniques only makes the process more fun - stretches the brain and keeps us moving forward. It's no wonder I am so slow up in that craft room - I never want to leave it! :)
ReplyDeleteCrafting is an expression of me and as I pour my heart and soul into the project, I feel that I am passing that energy onto whomever is blessed with said project. It is a win-win situation!
ReplyDeleteI have loved crafting since the construction paper/glue sessions in elementary school. I wasn't able to indulge myself until the kids were grown and out of the house. I have too many supplies, too many "reference" books and too many tools. I really do believe that I'm a craftaholic. I just feel better while I'm making cards or scrapbooking. I also love knitting, crocheting and cross-stitching. It is self-soothing.
ReplyDeletefor me it's a way to destress. after working all day with a million procedures to follow new rules coming at me every day, I get to go home look at beautiful colors and no one can tell me what to do. There’s “no that's not the way to do it” or “those colors don't go together”. It's freeing, artist and personal. When you share you work in a card and it brings other people happiness it then becomes rewarding.
ReplyDeleteI "craft" because I LOVE everything about it...shopping for all the fun goodies to use, putting all those goodies to use...and it just makes me "happy"..I sew too, so selecting paper is like fabric to me....no, I can't justify all the expense it is....and what I do for the most part is allow myself to spend a certain amount per month and one Cricut cartridge per month...it works....I have tons of punches...and use them alot...I use my stuff for the most part and am a "tool" girl...but have to admit I had my Bind It All for over 2 years and finally used it this year for the first time and asked myself what was wrong with me that I hadn't used it earlier...I love that thing...and with the Cricut we can make so many shaped "mini albums....I always tell myself I could have worse habits...I just love creating ...can't imagine not!!
ReplyDeleteCrafting may not be a rational activity; however, it is a necessary one. I watch my grandchildren most days and they love to create with me. I love the smile on someone’s face when they see what has been created just for them. I do have a lot of toys, but who doesn't. This is a past time that that is rewarding and fun, and I do have a sense of accomplishment every time I create something special for someone. I have recently found Operation Write Home. Making cards for our Heroes is a very fulfilling past time. Thanks for all you do.
ReplyDeleteI have been making something since I can remember. My mom has pictures of me painting the house with water & paintbrush. I was maybe 4yrs old. Crafting for me is letting my creative juices flow. It is a relaxing time. I don't know what I would do if I didn't craft.
ReplyDeleteThere is something inside me that has always wanted to create. As a child, I made Barbie clothes, knitted and cross stitched. I played with crayons and paper and glue. Always making something. My Mom was a very good artist and once I was born, she translated that into sewing beautiful, one of a kind clothing for me. She also came from a musical family and my grandfather was said to have run away for a bit with the circus to play the organ in their orchestra. I just think that the creative part of my brain is the most active part and I really think it can run in families-although not everyone chooses the same medium. It is just a part of me-an itch that must be scratched. I love it all! Thanks for asking this question-it really made me think and I think I found something I needed to know!
ReplyDeleteIn a world that is increasingly standardized - to one size fits all, or everyone looking/having the same, it is a true pleasure to craft and generate customized items from paper, vinyl, fabric. Yes, maybe it is not the most efficient time wise, or most economical - however - it is definately the part that makes us human! Of course, some elephants paint so --- maybe it is what makes use most soulful and closest to divine.
ReplyDeleteI definitely find my "happy place" in crafting. It is something I do strictly for me in a world where I'm constantly pulled along by everyone in my family's needs. I discovered a few years ago that I am a very tactile person. This means that I love touching different textures and temperatures of things. Interestingly I figured this out in labor with my 3rd child. Trying to focus by looking at a loved object or listening to soothing music just doesn't "do it" for me. But, over 2 years later and I can still remember the distinct "bumpy" texture of the bed rails that I rubbed over & over through contractions.
ReplyDeleteLastly, when I am crafting it is so refreshing to shut down all of those other parts of the brain. You know, the one that holds the ongoing grocery list and the kids' schedule and whatever the current worry of the day is? ;) When I finish a project I'm renergized and just so darn happy that I created something pretty!
Thanks for making me think on questions like this! I'm going to start keeping a copy of my answers to your questions... maybe I'll scrap them into a little blurb about ME someday ;)
I craft for the love of doing something solo or with friends. The recipients of my endeavors ALWAYS love the result of my crafting time. I find the time in my 'studio' to be an antioxidant for my brain! I walk away with a feeling of sartisfaction.
ReplyDeleteGreat question, Diane!
ReplyDeleteI create because it is in my DNA. I come from a long line of female artists. A great-great-Aunt, blind from birth, who crocheted and tatted lace and played the violin; a great-Aunt who was an internationally recognized watercolor artist; a cousin who is a photographer and mixed media artist; another cousin who is a photographer (the only male artist in our family); a great-grandmother who hand-painted her own china; many talented seamstresses through the generations; and an aunt who is a remarkable seamstress and sculpts metal with an arc welder.
I create because I breathe -- if I didn't create I believe a large part of who I am would wither up and die! I love the creative process, the creating itself and the end result. The only part I don't like -- is cleaning up!
Through the years I have dabbled in all sorts of crafting -- cross stitch, painting, rubber stamping, wearables, scrapbooking, etc. But my favorite, the one that has held me in its grasp the longest, is paper arts.
Is crafting rational? Well, my husband would tell you it keeps me sane! Being able to craft feeds me in ways I don't always understand but I find such joy in it!
ReplyDeleteMCF's Mimi
I have always crafted in one way or another since I was a little girl. Started out making clothes for my Barbie dolls (boy was that a long time ago). I would probably fall off the chair laughing if I could see those clothes now:) I have dabbled in crochet (I'm a leftie and what I made started out neat and ended up looking like a fan)...just couldn't control those stitches:) I also did Macrame' which I loved. Then I had children and needed to preserve the memories for them. When I look back at some of my first scrapbook pages (remember those scissors that cut designs???) I get a good laugh. I hope I have improved over time, but it is all in the eyes of the beholder. I love paper craft because there are so many ways to use them. I love the blogger community and learning from others. Thanks for sharing and Happy Easter!!!
ReplyDeleteYou are right - sometimes the cost of creating can exceed what buying something close would be in the store!! I love to make something with my hands to share with the people i love. It shows them that i care just a little bit more!! I took the time just for them. Crafting for me is therapeutic. I work in a very high stress job and often it is a 24 hr a day situation where i am on call. Paper crafts are easy to "just leave" when my pager goes off. Well, okay - usually they are! Cheaper than therapy! My crafting area is at the side of our living area so when i am crafting i dont fell guilty about ignoring my hubby - he is right there!! Thanks for this discussion!!
ReplyDeleteIt seems like I have always been in the crafting world - whether it's crocheting, tole painting, decoupaging, stamping and card making or scrapbooking - I have always enjoyed the colors, the process, the tools - just everything about it. I used to do all my crafts alone but have now become part of a scrapbooking group and have made some very cherished friends! I think I started scrappin' for my grandsons and my family - I want them to know their heritage (for some reason, when you hit 60 your heritage becomes very important). The only issue I have is I'm so far behind I don't know if I'll ever catch up! LOL!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your son's accomplishments and enjoy the weekend!
jackie
I craft to get away and have some 'me' time. And once I finish a project, I have a sense of accomplishment. I get to sit back and admire what I have made with my own two hands! I make cards for family and friends, and it means so much to me to give them something I have worked so hard on, instead of going to a card shop and picking something out. :-)
ReplyDeleteI started scrapping in 97 when it was just hitting the market. I loved the concept of creating fun, decorative pages with the stories vs. just slapping the photos in an album. This way anyone can pick up the album and see the who, what, where, when and, why. I love the creativity and the results.
ReplyDeleteAnyone can work but not everyone can "create". It's knowing that what you've done has given someone something special, one of a kind, and took time...something more precious than money.
ReplyDeleteI have crafted all my life...from making gum wrapper chains, sequin styrofoam balls, making doll furniture, candle and soap making, painted tee shirts, cake decorating, floral design, painted wood, to scrapbooking and card making (and everything in between). I love to make something out of nothing. I love the design process and then seeing the final result. I think I would really be lost without crafting something.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the discussion...it made me think!
http://iwycd.blogspot.com/
Great question! I have been crafting since I was very young. My mother and grandmothers did all kind of handwork and sewing, so I learned to work with my hands early on! Of all the crafts that I've started, papercrafting, specifically scrapping, has been the most ssensible thing I've done because I am preserving memories as well as making pretty things. I find that scrapping helps to wash the dust off at the end of the day. I love the process and the satisfaction of making something pretty from a piece of paper. I probably cannot justify the money I spend though except that I will have plenty to work with when I retire. If I weren't scrapping, I am sure I would be off in a corner reading a good book.
ReplyDeleteI love making cards and scrapbooking. For me...it's theraputic. It takes me out of my everyday hustle and bustle. I like to think that my scrapbooks will be something that my children will cherish and passed down from generation to generation. That's why I craft and buy all my "toys". That's the story I tell my husband and that's the story I'm going to stick to...hahahahaha
ReplyDeleteI'd say it's a brain thing. I'm just not fulfilled unless I'm creating something. I started early on with sewing, then moved to every craft that came along. I decided that I was spreading myself too thin - you know, jill of all crafts, master of none, so I have narrowed it down to my "Bits and Pieces". I make quilt tops, mosaic picture frames, scrapbooks, and cards, all of which take bits and pieces of colored material to complete. I'm careful about what tools and materials I buy since I have room and budget restrictions but I always have what I need for the next creation.
ReplyDeleteI just typed up a rather long response to today's question, only to have Blogger tell me that there was some type of error, so it was unable to post it. So, I'll have to see if I can re-create what I just said!
ReplyDeleteI really had to put on my thinking cap over this questions - I've never really thought before and WHY I craft. The long and the short of it is that it just makes me happy to make things with my hands. I'm not an artistic or creative person, and rally struggle to come up with original ideas, but if there is a pattern for something that I think is pretty, then I can follow directions!
I truly feel that a handmade gift is a "gift from the heart", and if I have the time (and the ability), I'd much rather make something to give, or even for myself.
I am into scrapbooking these days, because it's important to me to document and chronicle the lives and experiences of my family, particularly my sons, before those experiences and memories are forgotten.
By the way, I thought it was interesting that your son is a music major, CS minor, and my son is a CS major, music minor!
I started crafting before I got married as something to do in the evening after work. I have one scrapbook for before I married and my wedding album. Didn't have much time after marriage and kids then I lost my husband and it became my therapy. I often say cheaper then a therapist but these days not to sure :-) I love making cards and sending them to people just because. If I can cheer someone up by sending them a card, then I made my goal for the day.
ReplyDeleteI tend to write too much & I don't want to do that so I'll keep it short and sweet. I've been crafting all my life. I do it because I love to make things, and I because I need to be doing something (not much of a reader.) Now that I'm hitting those empty nest years I have a lot of free time to fill up and crafting does that for me.
ReplyDeleteI just started crafting last year. I do love it. I do it to keep my mind occupied and it makes me feel good when I accomplish something. I also love giving them to my friends and family because I made it with my own hands...especially when I made my grandchildren character shadow boxes...they love them. But I concentrate on cards most of all.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a wonderful question! Why do I craft? Number one reason is because I Love it! Another side to this question is where does your love for crafts come from? My first love of crafts came from my paternal grandmother. When we would stay with her and grandpa, grandma had a special closet of things we could craft. At four I crafted with grandma and loved it! We sewed or stitched around shapes. All her grandchildren had their own scrapbook! This was in the 1960's, so the tools were paste and scissors and photo corners--that was all! But we loved it! Grandma encouraged doing different things with hardly any tools. We got creative. My entire family is artistically gifted. I can't draw like my mom or my brothers but my art comes out in my cards and scrapbook pages. My craft time relieves stress and becomes pure enjoyment. The satisfaction of seeing what you create is a true experience of joy and it makes me happy. More things in life should make you happy when you see what you create. The happiness it brings to others just fulfills that even more! This is why I craft will always craft as long as possible. It is my full intention to enjoy crafting with any future grandchildren! We don't have any yet, and it's a long way off, but that is what I plan to share with them. I know it will create memories we all will treasure!
ReplyDeleteI love crafting sooo much it is worth every penny!! Many hobbies and recreational activities are expensive but they add so much to our lives. Cindy
ReplyDeleteOh and by the way, that photo of the little girl is adorable! Is that you? Cindy
ReplyDeleteI craft because it makes me feel better. I'm a much happier person when I can get some creative work in. Do I feel accomplished.....not really. Just happier.
ReplyDeleteHave fun at the Sr. performance project. My son went to the Crane School of Music....brings back memories.
Hobbies are not cost usually effective, once you can admit that then you can really enjoy your hobby. My husband and I joke that I have a snowmobile in my craft room, and he has his real snowmobile.. I love to craft for the stress relief.
ReplyDeleteI craft because it makes me feel artistic. I'm more of a nerd ... But somehow I also have a knack for crafting. It makes me feel...like I fit in. My art and home ec teachers would flip if they saw what I could do know. Quilt, scrapbook, photo books- :)
ReplyDeletei mostly make cards, but lately have been 'into' making layouts. i find it takes a little more thought and you can watch your palette, if you will, grow into something beautiful. it's relaxing and it's something i love and have a passion for.
ReplyDeleteTherapy! (Although I'm finding that twice-weekly sessions with a professional would have been much cheaper.)
ReplyDeleteBeing creative is part of who I am. I love to make things look attractive. I'm not into the faddy stuff as that's just here "for a season". I like the more classical look. Being on a tight budget helps me think "repurpose"! Make things inexpensively yet pretty. My scrapbooks are simple because I feel that the picture should be the focal point and the embellishments enhance not overpower.
ReplyDeleteJeannette Butler
jjbchef at juno dot com
Love pretty paper,have since I was a child. Love to make cards and my mom still has some of the ones I made as a child. It isn't cost effective by any means, but it sends my soul to a happy place.
ReplyDeleteI do so many things for others that I like to take some time out for me and scrapping allows me to have some of that ME TIME that I think everyone needs to keep it all together. I also like when a project is finished and to see the end results and it turns out just great.
ReplyDeleteLuria
You had me thinking quite alot about with this topic. I guess I craft - scrapbook - for several reasons.
ReplyDelete1. The most important is perserving my children's lives. The typically corny answer; however, I have no pictures of me from when I was little except one. I promised I would have a history for my children. I often wonder what I looked like and now my children will know what their childhood was like.
2. It is my escape from real life. I go to crops and no children. I can relax and create.
3. I love playing with paper and emblishments.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to think about my crafting.
This is a very loaded question! Okay, I always remember loving to craft. I loved to create things, loved to try to hand crocet with my Nana, loved to just have fun in that creative moment. But, I sucked at art, so I was never going to be an "artist." I have always taken photos to capture memories and have made albums since I was a young girl. I am a child of addicted parents so I know that I have an addictive personality, however, I've made a choice to be addicted to crafting instead of alcohol or drugs! :) When my husband gives my that "you spent how much" look, I remind him that it's better than smoking and drinking! :) Now, as a mom of three boys and a high school teacher, crafting has become my "me" time, my "girl" time, my therapy, and my retreat! The boys love when I go to scrapbook, as they enjoy Movie, Game, Pizza night with Dad and get to stay up late, late, late! This has kept me bonded to a group of ladies that I have been scrapping with for over 8 years! It simply fills my soul with joy! Thank you for starting this conversation. I've always wanted to do a scrapbook about me...maybe I'll work on a page like this!
ReplyDeleteI have always liked to color, cut things out, put things together even from the time I was little. As I got older, I liked to make traditional items: cross-stitch, crochet, knitting and sewing. Making things is fun to do and then I have great gifts or items for myself. I do try very hard to only buy items I need for that project with intent that I can use them in the future as well.
ReplyDeleteThanks for asking
Art is a big part of my family. My father is a musician, my mother was a painter, crocheter, sewer & avid scrapbooker and my brothers are tatoo artists. Crafting is my artistic outlet - photography, scrapbooking, cross stitching, jewelry making, card making & baking. It's also a big part of my social interaction with friends. We get together each week to scrapbook or make jewelry. When I share my projects either by giving them away or just showing them to others, it gives me a warm feeling to hear their compliments and their gratitude. I think that justifies the time it takes and a lot of the money I spend.
ReplyDeleteGreat question! Thanks for starting the discussion. - Cil
anticil at comcast dot net
I'm an artist, always have been. Even my job as a hairstylist was because I'm an artist and hair is just a different medium. I enjoy making things and using the techniques and skills I've learned.
ReplyDeleteI started scrapbooking when I was pregnant with my son. I wanted to beautifully capture the joy I felt and have somewhere to record our family history for future generations. We have lots of old family pictures but no story to go with them. Just a name written in fading pencil and maybe a date. History and I go way back so it was important to me to tell our stories.
I love mixed media pieces where my traditional art training and my papercrafting can come together. I find that the gifts I make for others are things that if bought in the store would be quite pricey.
I try not to buy any tools that I won't use regularly. Unless it's on sale and then only if it would be worth the investment for occasional use. 40%off coupons are great but I usually stock up on papers and adhesives.
I do mostly scrapbooking, but have recently done some cardmaking. Both relax me and gets me away from the everyday stress. I love looking at my finished products that I made. I work at a scrapbook store, so I get to see all the new products and play with them. Scrapbooking is the only craft/hobby that I have thourghly enjoyed and stuck with. It is my chance to get away from the real world. My daughter introduced me to scrapbooking and I thank her everyday letting me see what a relaxing and rewarding this crat can be.
ReplyDeleteI've always loved being creative. I took cake decorating lessons for three years and then taught it for 8 years. When I discovered the Cricut and the blogs three years ago I got hooked on papercrafting and seeing what all the talented people like you can do with paper. Now I finally figured out how to make a blog, so I can show off my pretty cards and grow some more. With the kids and grandkids grown and gone this hobby keeps my brain working and hopefully will delay it's aging. I love all the toys and tools and have most everything I need except for the new Cricut machines. That's okay because I really love my Expression and Cuttlebug. You are the greatest Diane. I love how your mind craetes new projects. Congratulations to your son.
ReplyDeleteMizMaryAnn
I craft because it makes me feel good. I am a member of Cricut Card Faries and I make cards and send them to people to help them get thru a rough time or wish a happy birthday/anneversary. I also make cards for my co workers and family. I am making a scrapbook for each year of my only grandchilds life. I enjoy looking at the world thru his eyes as I am always taking pictures when he is with us. At his 5th birthday party everyone was waiting for the scrapbook and they were crowded around to look at it. This is why I craft. To give others pleasure, which gives me pleasure. I used to do needpoint but my eyes took that away. I grew up in a craft house and to me it is just natural to make something.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was pregnant with my first I learned how to cross stich. When times got tough I would make plastic canvas furniture for my daughters barbies, or pins for pin day at school. I really got creative when my children were young and I'd help with projects for school or fun. I have never stopped crafting I love to be creative!
ReplyDeleteJanet Cooney
I have always been a "crafty" person, be it cross stitching, knitting, or crocheting and didn't get into papercrafting until I retired. I have to be doing something with my hands while watching TV. I do all of these things for all of the reasons you gave and I think most of us do.
ReplyDeleteI really like the idea that McB Designs had -- to capture the answers to your weekly questions to create something persona about ourselves. I, like so many others that have posted, create to find time for myself, create joy for others and preserve the history of my small family. I enjoy the community of crafters and the time away at retreat, but also creating very personal items in the comfort of my own space -- with all my fun tools!
ReplyDeleteI craft for me. It allows me some "me" time and it is like therapy! I can just zone out and not worry about anything (except if I have the right paper, supplies etc.) And I like to make pretty things for my kids and grandkids!!
ReplyDeleteCrafting is my therapy! I love to knit while watching TV or while we are traveling. I scrapbook to create memories for my kids. I craft for fun and pleasure or maybe because I have a special project to do or someone has asked me to make something for them. There are many reasons why I craft!
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness that picture reminds me of me at Easter when I was little. The hat and pocketbook oh you are missing the gloves. I must be older. LOL
ReplyDeleteI craft because it fills my soul. It takes me back to a simple time like the picture when I would sit with my great aunts and create wonderful things. Thanks for asking and reminding me.
At this time in my life I love making cards and I am working on 2 scapbooks for my nieces. I am a care taker for my Mom and this is my relaxation. My friend DI started me about 3 yeara ago on making cards and I can't believe how far we have come. We both have to much supplies but since we buy everything with coupons or Di has good luck at yard sales. It is unbelievable the deals she gets, so we keep buying more stuff.
ReplyDeleteI used to counted cross stitch but haven't done a project in years.
Kathy
There are several reason's I craft. First it relaxes me after a stressful day of working in health care. It is time spent for me time. It is time spent on others (friends and family) as I make cards, treat bags for grnadchildren's school parties, or articles for gifts. It is scrapbooking photos from today's events as well as past events or life that are more than just slapping a photo in a photo album. It is the feeling of accomplishement that I feel as I look or the items I have created or present them to the intended recepient. When I am not papercrafting then my time, energy and money goes into gardening tasks as I am in my 14th year as a master gardener. In fact lots of my scrapping is about my garden as well as trips my group goes on visiting other gardens or garden related activities. I tend to find whatever we do, scrapping, needlework, gardening, painting or whatever, they do tend to work into the other. If I am not actually doing one of the many activities I enjoy I am reading about said activities.
ReplyDeleteI craft because it is "me" time. I have always taken care of my kids till they were grown and gone. Then I worked and threw myself into my work. Now that I'm retired (and tired all over again)lol; and taking care of my 90-year old mom; I find I need to take of me too. So, I make holiday cards and birthday cards. Hopefully, sometime I will be able to scrap some family photos, again. (One year for Christmas, I made each of my 3 kids an album containing pics of their great, great, great grandparents to the present. It was a real joy to see them open the books and ewww and awe!) Thanks for asking the question.
ReplyDeleteCrafting is a part of who I am, if I can't craft I am not complete. PERIOD!
ReplyDeleteI love to do things for others but enjoy just the creative play that I do. I learn more by play than most any other way. I like to do the "what if I..." and see what develops. When someone says, "You can't put that with that" I like to say, "Why not" and try it anyway. I never know how things will come out, that's the fun part for me!
If I can't create something at least once a week I feel deprived then depressed so it's time to start creating!!! Remember: She who dies with the most tools wins!!! (....and I just might NEED that one tool I don't have! LOL!!)
Memories... I craft memories that I can enjoy now with my husband. I also hope that I can pass some memories on to my children. As for the tools? That's MY candy... I love using them and crafting something worth keeping. And literally, being my candy keeps me away from the more sugary kind, LOL.
ReplyDeleteI love to scrapbook! I was only going to make a small one when my daughter had our first Grandchild! Well I was hooked! My husband bought me a Cricut and DS and there was no turnig back. I also love to garden and decorate my house which in their own are a form of crafting. I love to
ReplyDeleteCraft with my Granddaughters ( 5 & 8 ) They both have amazing talents! I used to teach ceramic classes when it was so popular years ago. With any of my crafting I always seem to find my peace ( or us it piece;~) of mind.
I am a card maker and scrapbooker (paper and now learning digital). I started late in life so I am on a buying frenzy to see if I can get as much stuff as everyone else (lol). I like the enjoyment people get from my cards and books. I have also made journals for trips and they have been a fun thing to read years later. I hope to craft with my granddaughter (almost 2) when we are together. Having the cricut and DS has been a real joy.
ReplyDeleteBefore I started making cards I did a little scrapbooking but my great thing was counted cross stitch. I love to do it and am going to try to set aside so many hours a week to do this. I love the blog and the neat things you are doing with it. I know you love doing things with your family. My Mom is in the hospital and today I found out she has Mersa. I dont know how bad but reading this blog is so great and makes me take my mind off this. Thanks again and I read the blog daily.
ReplyDeleteBlog: http://lovethatexpressions.blogspot.com/
I think whatever I create just simply makes me feel very productive and if it is something that I give away it shows that I care about that person. I, too, have sewed, cross stitched, done macrame', and knitted. Discovering the Cricut turned me on to paper crafting. I don't feel guilty about buying supplies (although I am thrifty) because my husband is addicted to hunting and has mega bucks invested in his hobby. Therefore he doesn't complain about mine. I actually think he is glad!
ReplyDeleteI have always done crafts since I was a kid. I find it relaxing and really like that people appreciate a handmade card or project. I like to make both cards and photobooks, and have been known to knit from time to time :) If I didn't craft I'm sure I would have another hobby to spend money on. I have such an analytical job that I really like to be creative in other parts of my life.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fantastic first discussion question. I have never really thought about "why" I craft. I have always done some form of crafting from knitting to sewing, from needlepoint to crosstitch and lately, card making and trying to get back into scrap-booking. I think the main reason is that I enjoy producing something that looks great and is useful. Also, it is my time and I've used it for socializing. There are just so many reasons! I would love to be able to just spend my days creating, but unfortunately, I still have other things that must get done. Maybe when I retire?
ReplyDeleteYour questions have been a real "examination of conscience" for me. I don't remember a time in my life that I haven't crafted in one way or the other-- the pot holder looms (the metal ones), the octopus from yarn and a styrofoam ball; "crafting" furniture from books, scarves and old jewelry for my Toni Doll; pin and sequin Christmas ornaments; sewing (the first item I EVER made was a pleated skirt and in later years realized that wasn't really a beginner project); crocheting rugs with my mom; knitting; tole painting; ceramics; counted cross stitch; had craft booth and started out making Old World Santas plus wooden craft items that I cut out, sanded, painted, dressed and sold; quilting; making paper; working with clay; hand embroidery and machine embroidery; and now into card making, scrapbooking and gardening, etc.
ReplyDeleteI have tools, supplies and more tools and more supplies - my philosophy is you can't have too much or too many of anything. I have a tendency to buy anything I might need for a particular project -may never use it but I have it - might not be able to find it because I've reorganized my craft/sewing room AGAIN and can't find it just yet.
I think I just honestly love my "stuff" - there is a real sense of pride when someone compliments you by saying "you made that?"
I would like to understand more how the blogs, web sites, You Tube, Facebook, give aways, etc. work. After I retired, it was fun to say to myself, okay self, which of your hobbies do you want to play with today? It's fun, creative and I have a hard time understanding when I meet someone who doesn't do any of these things - I think everyone should have hobbies they enjoy.
Thoroughly enjoy your projects and all your help - you're very talented.
I am sure you enjoyed your son's Senior Project and that he did a great job. Good choice for a minor.
ReplyDeleteWhy do I craft? Why not. I don't think I know how to not craft. It is a way to bond with my daughter and grand children as I bonded with my parents. It enriches my life and I feel a great sense of accomplishment when I make something with my own hands. My ancestors worked the ground, raised lifestock, grew their own veggies, sewed their own clothes, some even grew their own wool and spinned it. We don't need to do those things to survive today so we craft and maybe cook and bake.
I asked myself why do I craft? and my immediately answer is because it makes me happy. I grew up being "crafty" in a "crafty" household. As a shy and somewhat insecure adolescent, crafting was my way of escaping; having some me-time; having something that I could control and in the end have something nice to show for my efforts. I started taking quilting classes in college and this is when crafting helped me come out of my shell. I loved the comarderi and the sense of accomplishment when I completed quilts (and they were so appreciated by their recipients). Learning and exploring new crafts has helped me to become more assertive and proud of my own abilities. Depending on what is going on in my life seems to determine what medium I work with at that time. Currently with a new baby, I'm accumulating tons of pictures and I want to preserve the stories behind the pictures before I forget them all. I find that making cards is a way to explore new techniques and I always love giving something handmade instead of store bought. Crafting may not be the most economical (although you can do a lot on a tight budget) but the pleasure I get directly and am able to give to others far outweighs any expense. And I agree, Crafting is not rational...it's creative!
ReplyDeleteThanks for this great discussion, I have enjoyed reading all the comments and knowing that there are so many others with similar views.
I craft mainly because I enjoy seeing something transform from nothing to something that comes to life. I love giving someone something that is home-made and seeing how much they appreciate it, especially when I've personalized the item. :) I truly believe crafting (and the gift of giving) is good for the soul.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your day and good luck with the Core'dinations DT team calling. You have my vote!
i really have to think about this. I mean so many reasons.. I started out scrapbooking when my daughter (yeeears ago) turned 16 and her (remember those old magnetic scrapbooks) it was falling apart. and whalaa it all started then! I did it for the memories that I don't have of me as a child so they would all know who I was and their family.. i since have become a grandmother and well.. it continues. I became interested in stamping and card making flew from there to include my current cricut obsession! I do it to be socialize with other lady friends, it keeps my mind going (I swear... I'm gonna get alzheimers ;0) I feel good about myself to be able to create something.. especially when others like it. i have expanded as well as my confidence. I started recently a cricut swarm here in Ks and have met other fab women with an obsession like me. :) BTW.. I love your blog and your questions!! Doris
ReplyDeleteparkernana5@cox.net
http://mybugandmecreate.blogspot.com
Crafts have been a part of my life for many years. There are so many reasons crafting means so much to me. As a working Mom, it helped relieve stress, gave me a feeling of accomplishment and the joy of starting a new project. Now that I'm retired, I love to shop for supplies. I certainly have too many now, but you never know when you might need something. My daugther is a great crafter and we scrapbook and work on paper crafts together. My granddaugther's also love crafting. That's so important to me and probably the reason why I love to craft above all others.
ReplyDeleteI "craft" in lots of different ways. My mother taught me to knit more years ago than I'd admit, and that remains one of the things I always do when I need busy hands. Busy hands keep me calm in many situations. I love paper! The texture and feel and look of various kinds. I actually learned bookbinding before I started scrapbooking and card making. One paper craft just leads to another!
ReplyDeleteI love reading all these comments and I love this question. First of all I have always crafted. SOmething about creating something new from "raw materials" has always apealed to me from way back when I had one simple craft book for "rainy days" I think I made each thing at least once!
ReplyDeleteNow I love the joy it brings to others when they know I made something especially with them in mind. I love the light it puts in someones eyes!
Lastly I like to scrapbook and record my memories mostly because I have very little form my own family. I never knew my immigrant grandparents who wanted to forget their past and subsequently left nothing to hand down to us through my own Mother. I want my own daughters to cherish their history and childhoods.
Why do I craft? I've crafted for as long as I can remember. I've done everything from sewing clothes for myself, my children and their dolls, crocheting, decoupaging, counted cross stitch, bread dough jewelry, needlepoint, and most recently scrapbooking and card making. I love to feel creative and find it a great escape from some of the pressures and problems I face in other areas of my life.
ReplyDeleteAs I read the posts from the other readers, I feel as if we may all be related! I too have been crafting in many ways for many years. Did some sewing in 4H as a young girl. My mother taught me to sew and I used to make lots of the clothes I wore. I tried to knit, but me and the knitting needles just don’t get along. Today I crochet, sew, do some counted cross stitch, and I love to make cards and create with paper and embellies as one of you called them.
ReplyDeleteI craft for the same reasons you do, love to feel the sense of accomplishment, the pleasure of giving my creations as gifts, and I just love the colors, textures and possibilities in working with paper, paints and textiles. I love tools and markers, pens and ribbon. I even love glue, especially glue dots!
Crafting also brings me together with friends and family. We have recently started to get together and have a craft day-sisters, daughters and auntie. It is great to be together and it’s fun to see everyone’s take on the same project.
I am new to the blog and posting. I have really enjoyed reading the comments and Diane, I like that picture too. Look forward to “hearing” from you again.
Marilyn
I need to craft for a creative outlet. When my girls were young I sewed their dresses. Now I make cards and scrapbook pages. Everybody has a creative urge of some type. This is how we express ourselves and create our won works of art.
ReplyDeleteRational crafting...what a concept. Perhaps compulsive?
ReplyDeleteI think I have been crafting in some fashion since I was quite young. All those "camp type" things. Then I learned to sew and crochet. Now it is card making, scrapbooking and some watercolor and beading. Mostly cards.
It feels very rational when purchasing something you need now, or might need in the future. It is very comforting when I am in the throws of creating to have everything I need at hand. Especially since it is an hour and half or two hour drive (in the winter) to get supplies.
I enjoy creating and crafting something from blank papers. It is relaxing, gives me a sense of joy and accomplishment. For me the process is as important as the finished product, especially when it is for someone who will appreciate whatever it is, and most do.
If I didn't craft, I might be taking piano lessons or who knows, maybe reading too many books???
Thanks Diane, for your willingness to share your time, creativity and expertise with us.
I craft for many reasons...to have some quiet alone time...to make something with my own hands to give and hopefully bring a bit of joy to someone...to create scrapbooks for my children...to feel a sense of accomplishment when I finish a project. As a SAHM of 4, I try not to spend too much money, but papercrafting isn't inexpensive. If I wasn't crafting, I'd be reading more.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the time with your son!
~Sharon C.
I have always crafted, or baked or have done needle work since I was six...seeing something come together gets me excited!!! waking up with a idea in my head for a layout or card cracks me up, so I figure I must love what i am doing!! lol my kids got involved and my grandkids are my fun now!!! they come up with some pretty neat ideas on their own and feel gratified when it comes out KEWL !!! LOL As I am disabled now, it gives me gratification that I can still make something beautiful but in a differnet way now..the Cricut brought my imagination back to life !!!!
ReplyDeleteI craft for pain control..but I love it too!!
ReplyDeleteMy crafting started when I was a little girl and my Mother taught me how to embroider and we would embroider pillowcases and sheet tops. For Christmas each year my Mom would buy me a different type of craft kit. Everything from paint by numbers, beading, making flowers from a plastic resin. I even made resin paperweights...you name it, I tried it and loved it all. As time went on I did everything from crochet to sewing and even made terrariums and flower arrangements for a while. Then I got into scrapbooking and loved it. Papers, pens, crayons, colored pencils and any office supply has always fascinated me. When I learned how to rubber stamp, I knew I found my niche! Ive always loved to color and it is my true passion. Now I make cards and am still learning each and every day.
Now my reason for crafting has changed drastically. Where I did it for fun when I had time, it has now helped me deal with a medical condition that I have called diabetic neuropathy. At my stage of diabetic neuropathy - it is destroying the nerves in my legs and is worse than any toothache you ever had because it is constant and never stops..night and day, day after day. I wouldnt wish it on my worst enemy. It has now impacted my ability to walk which is very frustrating.
I stamp and color to control the excruciating pain in my legs from the disease. I literally have over 100 colored images just from my method of pain therapy. It helps me relax and it is so difficult to ignore the nerve pain so I force myself to relax by coloring images. I use Copics, Prismacolor colored pencils, watercolors, whatever helps distract me enough to concentrate on the coloring more than the pain.
Dont get me wrong, I LOVE to color and putting together my cards give me such satisfaction. I love all of the papers, colors, markers, embellishments and ribbons just like everyone else, but my best friends are my Copics and Prismacolor colored pencils. Without them I would have pulled my hair out long long ago.
If there are others out there that use coloring as what I call my "pain therapy", I would love to hear from you. You can reach me at ajgood (at)comcast(dot)net. Perhaps we can share a story or just know that someone else is out there who shares the same crafting style.
*Hugs*
~Andreea
there is nothing I don't like about it.Satisfaction is one of them!!!!I just LOVE it!
ReplyDeleteGod is the greatest creator & he gave all of us some of that creativity. I think satisfaction from making something with my own hands is what I enjoy most. It calms the body & soothes the mind! Do I need all of the tools I buy? Probably not!!
ReplyDeleteI honestly craft for my sanity. I love my kids and my husband, but if I didn't have an outlet I would go postal. So I make stuff and give it away. I probably should try to sell it at craft fairs or charge for doing 80 prom invites, but why? I think I do this because my mother knitted and did other needle crafts. I remember when she taught us all to drive, she would sit in the passenger seat with her knitting and almost never look up. When the grandkids lived with us, she sat at the breakfast bar knitting. She did it to keep from going crazy. Knitting needles are not allowed in the sanitarium.
ReplyDeleteI get a rush from buying craft items, yes!! But I try to only buy the things I will use now. Or big ticket items like the Cricut that I can get lots of use out of. I also get a rush when I give the items away. Or when I know that the solders will get 100 Christmas cards because I helped to organize the 3rd graders in writing in the ones I helped to make. It feels good. So in the daily hustle and bustle I craft so I can stay off Prozac!! (And they don't let you take scissors to the looney bin.)
Regards, Jeanine
http://papercraftingorprozac.blogspot.com/
There is a joy that comes with creating something beautiful and knowing it will bless a friend or family member. Scrapbooking is my favorite,however, cardmaking is such fun. My husband supports me fully in this hobby and with having teenage grandchildren I find it is my place of escape and having someone like you helping me along this path brings joy to my life.
ReplyDeleteI've been crafting for many years now. I started out crafting with fabric--sewing home decor, clothing, embellishing articles. Then I tried crocheting, and counted cross-stitch.
ReplyDeleteSewing with fabric is where my talent really lies, but I bought my Cricut a year and a half ago and began doing paper crafting. Photography is a love of mine, but I'm so far behind with my scrapbooking that I mostly make cards -- which I love to do. I have a Gypsy, so your imagination can run wild.
I'm not sure I can justify the amount of money I spend on my supplies, but crafting is my creative escape and I love to make things for others. I joke with DH about how much money I'm "saving" by making this card instead of "buying" it! We just laugh about it.
I love watching tutorials and learning new techniques. I'm amazed how people in the crafting community are so willing to share their time and talents with others. I for one am very grateful.
My crafting brings joy to me and hopefully to others.
Kathryn
I like to share the items I make with friends and family. Crafting is also a source of enjoyment and form of relaxation for me
ReplyDeleteTo put it simply... I craft for peace of heart and mind! Creating is therapeutic and calming to me.
ReplyDeleteKris in Alaska
funamom at yahoo dot com
I love to craft because I create scrapbooks for my grandchildren and I love the idea that they will have memories...created by their loving grandma...forever. I like to make mini albums for gifts to create memories of friends and families' special occasions too. I love to see the look of gratitude on their faces when they look at them. You just know they really appreciate the love and thought that goes into them.
ReplyDeleteHi.
ReplyDeleteI have been crafting since I was little as well. My grandmother taught me to sew, knit, crochet, hand embroider etc. Made all my own doll clothes , lots of my clothes, then my daughters clothes when she was little. . Girl Scouts brought all sort of new craft ideas etc.. Years later pick up floral designing then scrapbooking and card making. Sometimes it is a stress reliver sometimes stressfull when working on project for others with deadlines. I love seeing the look on others faces when they see what i have created.
LOL When I was around 5 or 6 my mom would make us kids take a nap or "rest" in our rooms for awhile after lunch. ( I now know it was to get a little rest and catch up a little on house work.) Lol! At that time there were 4 kids. Infant to 7 yrs old. During "rest time" I would make clothes for my Barbie out of Kleenex. My German Oma crafted with cross stitch and embroidery and my American grand mother dabbled in crafts like the dish soap bottle dolls and beaded soaps etc. Through the years I dabbled in a little bit of everything like crochet, macramé, needle work or making simple curtains for my home and doll clothes for my niece. When my son was in elementary school I was a room mother and made little party favors for the school parties.
ReplyDeleteSo I guess it started with making Kleenex Barbie clothes and I’m still learning and playing. I like to craft because it relaxes me. It seems now my hobby has turned to collector…. of scrapbook paper. LOL
For me papercrafting is my creative outlet, I had tried many other crafty things, but I never really got the hang of them. I love making things for others, and the process that I go through when planning out a layout, card or what ever I am working on. Its a relaxing thing for me - I can do it on my own, or I can do it as a social event with friends and family.
ReplyDeleteCrafting of any sort is another creative outlet. I'm a writer, so it seems to follow. If I don't get to play with my toys I feel very let down, even angsty about not being able to sit down and create.
ReplyDeleteHugs
Leslie Ann
Crafting and creating is a joy that can't be duplicated!!! So much fun!!!
ReplyDeleteI too have crafted most of my life. I thought a lot about "why" I craft and I have all the standard answers. Stress relief, love the final results etc...
ReplyDeleteToo me it's just as much a part of who I am as the color of my hair. So I craft because tha's who I am. The craft may change but there will always be one (or ten)
I enjoyed reading the comments.
ReplyDeleteI never thought about "why" I craft. But I can't help myself.
And like other addicts, I find myself "pushing" my habits.
I am just an addict. I have dabbled in every craft there is out there. Paper crafting is by far my favorite. I have been an addict since 1963 when I had to do a project for school as a business venture. I had to create it, advertise, market and sell the item. I came up with Macoroni's glued on coffee cans in various designs and spray painted. I never dreamed that project would lead to an addiction. When my kids finally went to school I joined any group that did crafting,such as the Homemakers clubs... I became a Girl Scout Leader, volunteered in the schools and finally went to work in a craft store (a real craft store where we made the crafts so we could sell the supplies to make them) Now I work for one of the chain craft stores and just recently became certified to teach scrapbooking, I am in my glory.
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