Crafting and Creativity: Taking up a New Skill

The closest I’ve ever come to “crafting” I guess would be back when my Mom taught me to crochet. I’ve always loved the idea of getting a sewing machine and really learning to sew, but, admittedly, I am truly impaired when it comes to most things that are considered crafts. In fact, I’m kind of the chick that throws anything tedious across the room lol. But, still, as I grow older I can see myself picking up crocheting again someday, I would love to have at least one blanket of my own that I made to hang beside those my Grandma and Mom made! 

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)

Hobbies are important for people of all ages, but can be particularly valuable as we get older. Once we’re done with education and enter the world of work we can fall into a rut, we’re so busy with our commitments that we don’t prioritize time for fun and enjoyment.

When you reach later life and retire, you can end up with loads of time on your hands and not know what to do with it. If you’ve ended up in this situation, why not consider crafting?

It enables you to use your creativity and there are loads of directions you could go in with it, from jewelry making to art and design, soap making, knitting, sewing and more. Here are some of the ways you can go about starting up a new craft.

Utilize technology

Technology moves at an incredible pace, and it’s difficult to keep up in so many ways!

But when it comes to your crafting, it’s well worth being in the know. There’s software you can get to make life easier, from fabric transfer and scanning software to 3d printing there are so many directions you can go in with it.

Not to mention all of the tutorials, blog posts and fellow crafters you can meet online to give you ideas. You can even find inspiration on apps- create an Apple ID to get started and then have a browse. From Craftsy to Tappainter to WikiHow, you can get inspiration right on your smartphone.

Join a local group

There’s plenty that you can teach yourself by searching online, but if you’re a total beginner and want or need guidance then it’s worth looking for a local craft group.

Here the tutor can walk you through the first steps and give you some foundation knowledge that you can build upon. They will be able to advise you about the right kinds of equipment you need- this can be a total minefield when you’re just starting out with something new!

Take painting for example, as well as the techniques you need to know what kind of paper is best, which brushes, which brands of paint and so much more. Not to mention it’s a great place to meet people, you all have a common interest right from the get go!

Practice!
As we all know, practice makes perfect. Don’t be afraid to just give it a go, don’t expect miracles while you’re learning.

You won’t just pick up a paintbrush and paint the Mona Lisa, you won’t be able to knit something compex at first. Start with the basics and work your way up, have fun with it and don’t be afraid to create some bad pieces!

Each time you make something you learn skills and can improve on it the next time around. Get feedback from others and use your experience as you get better to create higher quality designs.

Which crafts do you enjoy?

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)