Behind the Scenes: DIY Photo Backdrop

Hello Makers!

We’re pulling back the curtains behind something that has become near and dear to our heart – our Craft Wall. So, we launched our first craft wall at the second Craft Savvy Market. As makers it was really important to us to include a handmade piece that reflected our love for artistry and provided our attendees an opportunity to capture their time at the market.

Fast forward to our last market. The very first thing we did was search for inspiration pieces. The founders, Charlene, Mina, Jandi and I texted each other possible considerations and cast our vote on our favorite designs. The inspiration piece below from a Pinterest search was the hands down winner. Next we ordered the supplies and mapped out how we would create the wall.

It took at least six hours from start to finish to complete the project. We first spent a lot of time mapping out the look. We then divided the work and completed the wall. We kept in mind that the piece needs to not just look beautiful but also hold up for the entire market. The last thing we needed was to have leaves or our logo signage falling on someone’s head.

We were so proud of the final project. Our Craft Wall was an integral piece of our market that reflected our love for handmade artistry and it gave our attendees an opportunity to capture the market experience.

Hope you will consider adding a handmade craft wall or handmade craft element to your next Maker’s event. If you do and share on social media, please tag us. We would love to see your creation.

by Ciatta-Mae Stubblefield

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 DIY Craft Trends to Try this Summer

By: Charlene Dunbar

Move over burlap and mason jars! These three DIY craft trends feel fresh and seem to be popping up everywhere. I love their versatility and how they can be shaped to fit your personal style and needs.

#1 Macrame – Macrame was all the rage in the ‘70s and is having quite a revival thanks to millennials and Instagram. It makes for gorgeous wall art, but can also be used to create a textured door curtain or a pretty plant hanger. Grab some dowel rods, S-hooks and cotton or nylon rope to start experimenting with this trend. Side note: the word macramé comes from the 13^th-century Arabic weavers word migramah meaning “fringe”.

#2 Boutique Balloons – This trend takes the humble latex balloon and elevates it with glitter, tulle and impressive formations like garlands. I was first wowed by one at the Create & Cultivate conference, where the outdoor stage was framed with a plush, larger than life garland. Boutique balloons are fairly inexpensive to make and reading a tutorial or two beforehand will be helpful. I made a balloon garland for a friend’s baby shower on the fly, figuring it couldn’t be all that hard and let’s just say a tutorial would have helped!

#3 Indoor Forts – Forts can transform the vibe of a room from ho-hum to magical-faraway-land. Use your DIY fort skills to wow guests at your kid’s next party or set the mood for a romantic date night. To get a fort party started, grab some pretty bedsheets, cool string lights and rope and/or lumber for the frame. I am definitely feeling this one for a date night!

Which DIY craft trends have you already tried out? Which ones do you want to play with for your next project? Here’s to more crafting, creativity and fun!