5 Instagram Accounts Every Crafter Should Follow

As a creative, there are times when our creativity seems to be stuck in a rut. Sometimes we can ride the wave and wait until inspiration finds her way back to us. Other times, it seems like she took a long bus ride across the country and she may not be returning. Thankfully, with the help of social media, inspiration is just a few clicks away. Here are 5 Instagram accounts we love that are sure to help you get your creative ideas flowing, regardless of your craft.

@Crafttherainbow – Here you can get inspired by craft projects that represent all colors of the rainbow. photo from houselarsbuilt

2. @Houselarsbuilt – Here you get creative inspiration for living – (home, decor, events, crafts, etc).

photo from @houselarsbuilt

3.@damasklove – The page will give you all kinds of fun inspiration and easy DIY projects that will get you back to creating.

photo from @damasklove

4. @Pantone – This page will keep you inspired by the most recent color trends. Anyone who loves color can’t help but enjoy this page.

photo from pantone.com

5. @Kailochic This Instagram account will inspire you to be creative in your everyday life. She covers everything from DIY to home to event decor to crafts.]

photo from @kailochic

What other social media accounts do you draw inspiration from? Let us know so we can grab some inspiration too!

Don’t forget to RSVP here to attend our next market (Holiday Market) on Saturday, November 16, 2019.

Six Craft Tools Every Crafter Needs

If there’s one thing I really know, it is my favorite crafting tools. When you are doing various quick DIY projects, you quickly start to learn your go to equipment and must have tools for your crafting. Since I am here to encourage you to do more creative DIYs in your own creative space, I thought to share some of my favorite craft tools.

1.Sewing Machine- I own one and use it to make my tote bags, clutch, head bands, and so much more. It’s worth having for a quick DIY projects. It is my go to baby for simple projects.

2.Jewelry pliers and cutter- These are small, but essential for jewelry making. It also can be used for a lot of other projects.

3.Mod Podge- I used it to attach trim to my fabrics,attach a quick hem in place without sewing, and attach embellishments like jewels to my wooden or fabric earrings. I love it because it dries up clearly. If you haven’t used it, please try it. It can be use on all surfaces, and it’s non-toxic.

4.Paint brushes– (I purchase them in multiple sizes and shapes). Having a set always comes in so handy! Whenever I need to paint an earring, I always have the right one for the job. It is beneficial to have multiple sizes on hand for a intricate design. The best part of it is after a quick wash, they can be reused.

5.Fabric Scissors- I use it for cutting fabric, felt, leather, and vinyl. Make sure to have a pair of sharp scissors in your stash because it will make your cutting job easy. Pro Tip: To keep your fabric scissors sharp, do not use your fabric scissors for cutting paper. Get a different pair of scissors and dedicate it to only paper.

6.Rotary Cutter– is basically an x-acto knife. I use it to cut fabric (especially heavier weight fabrics) and leather materials.When you need a long or straight cut, this is tool is the one for you. (You will need to use a cutting board when using the rotary cutter).

Most of these are smaller items and they are cost effective with the exception of the sewing machine. Buying the sewing machine was a bigger investment and it is so useful to my crafting. It won’t hurt to add a few tools at a time to your DIY stash. Don’t wait, find your favorite tools and start creating.

By Mina J. Mantor

3 Things I Wish I knew when I started Crafting

By: Jandi Harris
Sewing / crafting has been a part of my life for some time now. But whether you just started your crafting, or you’ve been doing it for a while, there are some things I wish I knew when I started.

1.Sewing or any craft for that matter takes a great deal of patience.

What you wish to create isn’t always what comes out when you get to work. Be gentle with yourself. It’s easy to encounter a problem with your machine, a pattern or a project and get frustrated. And we all know that once we start getting flustered, quitting seems like the best option. Often times, when I encounter a difficulty, it is a sign that I may need to take a break. Sometimes the break may be a few hours, but often times, I need to come back to the project the next day and see it with fresh eyes. Whatever your craft is, be patient with yourself and keep going.

2. In order to grow, I have to be willing to always be a student.
I really thought that when I took my sewing class years ago that I was a pro. But that was just the beginning of my learning experience. There is so much to learn, so much room to improve and grow in any craft. Always be open and willing to learn more. Get some books, watch some you tube tutorials, or take a class. As you grow in skill, your confidence will also begin to grow.

3.Inspiration is necessary.
In any creative endeavor, it is absolutely necessary to have inspiration and sometimes accountability. If you have a friend who enjoys your craft, share your projects with this person from time to time. Just even have them check up on you and ask how you are doing with your projects will help keep you going. Instagram is a perfect way to stay motivated. Find others who are engaged in the similar crafts and cheer them on and be inspired by their work. Visiting a craft show, craft market, or taking classes are a great way to keep you inspired and motivated.