Are you a crafty witch?
By crafts, I mean stuff like crocheting, quilting, stamping, scrap-booking…all that kind of stuff.
I’ve never made any secret of my sad lack of talent in the craft arts. And frankly, I’m the impatient sort–if I want something, I go to the store and buy it. Or even better, Wizard goes to the store and buys it for me. The only thing close to crafts I’ve ever done was cake decorating. I took one class and had a blast.
However, BLB wanted to go into Michael’s store to look at some craft wood. I don’t even know what that is, or what he planned do with it. But I was game. So we walked (well, he hobbled on his crutches) into the store and I was immediately sidetracked.
Did you all know that you could make jewelry? I knew this on a vague level. But then I saw the rows of all the pretty jewelry I was in instant lust! Pendants and charms, and chains and …WOW! It was so much fun to just to look. I started making all these grand plans about taking a class, and learning how to make jewelry. Naturally I was thinking about making book thongs too (a kind of bookmark). How cool would that be?
Sadly, by the time I got home, I remembered my lack of time, and my lack of will. I have a serious lack of follow through on anything craft-like. Bummer. Weird because I have a decent follow through with going to the gym.
Anyway, I’ll probably just stick to writing books. But tell me, do you all do crafts? What do you enjoy doing?
March 6th, 2012 at 3:47 am · Link
You do have a lot on your plate right now so it’s smart that you decided not to add crafting to your list.
When I have time I’m a knitter and crocheter. I make crib/ 1st bed size baby blankets for all the babies in the family. I have to get the one I’m working on now done. The baby is due soon. I used to crank them out in a week but then I learned the word “computer” and spend time there instead ;).
March 6th, 2012 at 7:40 am · Link
I have dabbled in a lot of different crafts (beading, scrap-booking, painting) but my big three are knitting, crocheting and cross-stitch. The cross-stitch usually goes to a family member (we are talking huge pieces that get framed as artwork for walls). The crocheting and knitting usually goes to friends (lacy scarfs and hats) or need centers. I make way too many things (scarfs, hats, mittens, full size blankets, lap blankets) to keep. It keeps my hands busy when I am watching TV. Although, my book pile can quickly derail any crafty plans I may be trying to keep.
March 6th, 2012 at 8:01 am · Link
I always mean to be more crafty, but then I get distracted. I do crochet when the mood strikes me. I don’t do anything fancy – single-chain stitch only in long strips until I have enough of them to make a blanket. They aren’t pretty but they’re so warm. And the back and forth, back and forth rhythm seems perfect for thinking about writing. =o)
March 6th, 2012 at 8:42 am · Link
Yes, I’m a serial crafter. I’ve probably tried it all. I’ve cross-stitched, crocheted, quilted, sewn, macramed, made jewelry, scrapbooked, etc. My problem is that I don’t have a lot of patience for long term projects. I easily grow bored, I admit it. I really enjoyed the cross-stich, quilting, and jewelry making while I did it. I still have the supplies thinking I’ll do it again.
I’ve gone to the single project crafty thing. It keeps my attention and I get to try new things. I still sew some and make killer Halloween costumes! Luckily, I have 2 troops of Girl Scouts to play with. Did you know that you can make really cool dyed paper designs with shaving cream, card stock and food coloring? Quick, easy and fun!
I envy all of you the ability to create worlds and tell stories. I always thought I would grow up to be a writer, but have found I’m simply awful at dialog and creating characters. So, in reality you’re the greatest crafters. What’s more, you create enjoyment for others. How cool is that!
March 6th, 2012 at 11:10 am · Link
Hi Jen,
I am crafty. At times.
I can knit, crochet, sew, scrapbook… but don’t ask me to paint or draw unless you want stick figures I am wicked good at them…
But like you I don’t have much time any more. The only time I get crafty any more is if we sit down to watch a movie I might knit a wash cloth.
Stupid lack of time
March 6th, 2012 at 11:44 am · Link
Viki, LOLOL on learning the word “computer!” Isn’t that the truth! And you’re way more talented than I am. I tried to learn crochet and knitting, and never got past those first rows.
I still have an afghan my sister crocheted me. I love it!
March 6th, 2012 at 11:46 am · Link
Labrat11, I bet your cross stitching is beautiful. I have a framed one my Mother IN Law did in my living room that I love. I can appreciate other people’s work, just can’t do it myself, evidently. Plus my hands don’t cooperate much anymore. Especially after all day on the computer.
That’s a great idea to give your work to need centers.
March 6th, 2012 at 11:48 am · Link
B.E., I could see how that rhythm would work for plotting.
Even if yours aren’t fancy, you’re still way ahead of me. And those crocheted blankets are warm! I use mine for watching TV when I’m cold. Bailey loves burrowing under it
March 6th, 2012 at 11:52 am · Link
Julie, aw thank you! That was sweet to say. But it really is about different talents. Look at all the crafts you do that I wouldn’t even attempt!
I hope the girl scout troops know how lucky they are to have you!
That’s probably why I ended up with boys, I can’t really sew either. I’ve done some Halloween costumes, but they are nothing to brag about. I’m sure yours are awesome!
March 6th, 2012 at 11:53 am · Link
Kelly, you are multi-talented! However, I can totally compete with you in the stick figure department
One of my kids can draw and I have no earthly idea where he got that ability.
With you’re insane schedule and grueling workout routine, I don’t know how you do it all!
March 6th, 2012 at 12:55 pm · Link
My grandmother taught me how to crochet. I knew how to do all the different stitches but I never actually made anything with it. I did do cross-stitch at one time. I used to make ornaments and such for christmas presents. I started a baby blanket for a friend a long time ago and never finished it. It’s still sitting in a closet waiting for me to get back to it. I just never make the time to do it anymore. It’d take too much time away from reading
March 6th, 2012 at 1:23 pm · Link
I can cook….does that count?
I can bake up a storm and can “create” lots of yummy concoctions but as for knitting or crocheting, nope. Kudos to all those that can!
March 6th, 2012 at 4:32 pm · Link
I used to needlepoint and hook rugs. I’ve knitted. And I’ve painted teeshirt, tee dresses, and denim skirts/jackets/jeans. But not in years. These days, all my creativity is channeled into my writing. I’ve made door wreaths, too. I should find time to do some arty stuffs. Like between 2 and 4 a.m.
March 6th, 2012 at 6:21 pm · Link
Dawn, good point on too much time away from reading!
Ornaments for Christmas gifts is a nice idea–if I got organized soon enough in the season. And oh yeah, had any talent for it
March 6th, 2012 at 6:21 pm · Link
Shiloh, you and I are alike it that! Although you probably do more, and are better than me, at cooking and baking!
March 6th, 2012 at 6:22 pm · Link
Silver, at least you have the talent to do it if you ever found the time! But man, writing sucks time like a hoover.