Steal These Crafts

I mentioned in a recent post that I've started selling craft kits, an endeavor I am very passionate about.  Today I wanted to elaborate on that and the way my creative focus has been shifting.  I know there are some nasty things going on in the craft world- copying, accusations, knock-offs, and fierce competition among makers.  It's enough to burn anyone out.  We've all heard of someone who put their heart and soul into their work, just to set it up at a craft show and hear someone say "I could go home and make that".  Well here's the thing: I WANT you to.  Why?  Because creating is magical.  It unlocks something I honestly believe to be divine. When you're busy making something, regardless of whether it's art, music, or a meal for your loved ones, using your talents to create things is a sacred act that I want to encourage everyone to take part in.

Sure there are some people who do not enjoy making things themselves. They would rather pay for the finished product, and I understand that. But I'm also noticing a growing group of people who genuinely enjoy living a D.I.Y. lifestyle. They want to become familiar with various craft techniques, and they enjoy the process of putting new skills together. Sometimes these crafty folks join forces to create in a social setting.  This is yet another aspect of a crafty lifestyle I view as borderline holy (social crafting is something I often get sentimental about).  Sharing conversations and creative energy with others always makes me feel the kind of deep-down satisfaction that saturates my soul.

Sometimes the easiest way to enjoy time spent creating with friends is to have the project all set up for you. This is why I've become so excited about incorporating craft kits into my product line. I've done all the cutting, measuring, and instructions so all you have to do is the fun part!

I am currently selling Dream Catcher Kits and Card Wallet Kits in my Etsy shop and at Made: The Indie Emporium Shop, but I've got more fun ideas in the works.  One new kit I'll be releasing in the near future is the miniature fairy garden kit pictured below.  I'm still in the experimental phase of this one, but it's coming together pretty magically if I do say so myself.

Is there a craft you've been wanting to try but need a little assistance with putting together projects and supplies?  Paper crafts, gardening, polymer clay, sewing, and pet goodies are all potential kit ideas I've had floating around in my crowded little mind, but I am always open for feedback and ideas.

Lastly, if you love social crafting as much as I do, here's an opportunity for creative people in Tulsa to come together tonight!  

I'll be heading to the Schusterman-Benson Library with a few fellow Make:Tulsa members to demonstrate some of our favorite crafts, listen to music, and enjoy each other's company.  Bring a work-in-progress and a friend, or just bring your lovely selves because we'll even have a free project set up for anyone who wants to try it.  The event page for this get-together can be found here.

I hope your week is off to a spectacular start!