BA50 TalkersCrafting is for everyone, even if you don’t think you have the artistic abilities to pull off a major project. However, with a multitude of kits out there and all types of niches and themes to choose from, you can find a craft that works for you. Here’s how to get started:
Decide what you want to try
The first thing you need to do is decide what type of craft you want to give a go. Are you a get messy with paint and clay kind of person? Or do you prefer the therapeutic process of pulling together a wall hanging from scratch? Here are some ideas for crafts you can try at home:
- Candle making – perfect as a gift or to add to your home, candle making is pretty simple once you have everything you need.
- Card making – paper crafts are safe and accessible for everyone. Plus you can pick up what you need from the local supermarket.
- Sculpting – Air dry clay or Fimo clay are popular with those starting out and can be used to create small ornaments or little plant pots to enjoy.
- Baking – Whipping up batches of cookies and delicious cakes is definitely a craft project, especially when it comes to decorating them.
- Jewellery – Creating jewellery from scratch is a fun craft for those who love unique fashion and creating personalised gifts.
- Knitting and embroidery – Crafting blankets, knitwear and wall hangings from scratch are a fun way to get to grips with needle and thread style crafts.
- Glass and ceramics – painting glass or ceramics is a fun craft to try on a rainy day.
- Upcycling – Taking something old and freshening it up or adapting it for another use is a great craft to try.
- Pyrography – Burning images and words into wood is a new trend in crafting and a fun one to try.
- Painting – A basic craft but one that all ages can enjoy – choose from watercolour, acrylic or oil paints depending on the finish you’re looking for.
Buy a kit
If you’re unsure where to start when it comes to the tools and materials you need to try your chosen craft, start with an arts and crafts kit. This will provide you with the basics and if you discover you enjoyed the chosen project you can purchase better tools and materials later. However, ensure it’s a craft you want to pursue before spending lots of money on all the equipment required.
Find a space
A clear table or a lap tray are good starting points when it comes to crafting. Choose a space in your home to dedicate to crafting or that can be easily cleared for your next project. Ensure there is good light, ventilation if you’re working with paints or sealants and get started.
Don’t be afraid of failing
Let’s be honest, trying a craft and getting it right first time is a challenge so don’t worry if your finished project isn’t quite how you envisioned. Certain types of craft require practice and patience to get right – knitting a macrame wall hanging in one go without error is unlikely, so be prepared to start again or enjoy the unpolished look.
Use tutorials
The internet is full of brilliant craft tutorials and ideas. Pinterest is a good place to start for inspiration but sites such as A Beautiful Mess, Martha Stewart and the Facebook page Nifty are also worth bookmarking. Following a tutorial is a good idea, as it provides you with clear steps and examples to work towards. Once you’ve perfected it, you can have fun with making the craft your own with different materials and colours on future projects.
Create for a reason
Christmas is a great time to try your hand at crafting, with gifting opportunities and decor to add to your home that you can easily make yourself. Look around for seasonal inspiration and make something for the time of year we’re currently enjoying – plus, it means if you’re not particularly happy with what you’ve made you don’t have to keep it out all year.
Ready to try your hand at crafts? Choose the one that appeals to you and give it a go.