I find that most years, when it comes to New Year’s resolutions, no one really knows what to put down. Most of them are overdone and make you feel like you’re doing everything wrong. In my opinion, learning a new craft is one of the best resolutions you can make! People can mistake crafting for being something done only by bored housewives or old ladies but craft is most definitely getting younger by the day. The feeling of making something with your hands and being able to see it and touch it – compared to making something on your computer or your iPhone (cupcake baking app, I’m talking about you) – is a joy that most people have forgotten. So to get you started on your 2012 craft exploration, here are a few suggestions of things you could take up…
Knitting. Okay, well, I couldn’t really start this post without mentioning knitting but seriously, if you can’t knit yet, then what are you doing with your life? I think there can be a general confusion with knitting where everyone thinks it’s super hard, but knitting a scarf is one of the easiest things in world. I actually learnt how to knit from YouTube. So if you haven’t joined the knitting club yet, then make 2012 the year you learn!
Nail Art. Although some may not necessarily call this a ‘craft’, those people are most definitely wrong. Nail Art takes a lot of skill! While doing nail art, make sure to watch out for the well known ‘one hand syndrome’, as in, you only do one hand and then get bored and leave the other hand a chipped, grubby, half blue half red mess. If you need nail art inspiration, check out Hello Giggles’ Winter Nails gallery.
Quilt Making. If you’re looking for a craft project to last you all year (and some of the next year), then quilt making is perfect. I made my first quilt this year for my parents for Christmas and although it was hard work, it was also a lot of fun. I found this great Quilt Making Tutorial, which takes you through all the steps with lots of photos.
Cake Pop Making. Making cake pops could be considered baking instead of craft but it takes so much artistic detail that I’m pretty sure it counts. I got a Cake Pops book for Christmas and am intending to get started right away. And once I have mastered this skill, Hello Kitty Cake Pops are top of my list.
Sewing with Felt. For anyone attempting sewing for the first time make sure to start your exploration with felt. Felt is brilliant because it doesn’t fray so you don’t need to hem any of your work. If none of that makes sense to you, don’t worry, because as soon as you look into sewing, it will! You can make pretty much anything with felt. My favorite things to make are these awesome Polaroid decoration; you can find out how to make them here.
Cross Stitch. Cross Stitch is basically the craft version of color by numbers. You are told exactly what to do, what colors to use and where to sew your crosses and then all you have to do is fill it in. It’s fun, small, easy and looks really cool once you’re done. And if you’re still not convinced, check out this Ryan Gosling Cross Stitch Kit.
Friendship Bracelet Making. In case all these sound like much too hard work and you are positive you would never be able to achieve them in a million years, friendship bracelet making is always a good back up. All you have to do is be able to plait (which I’m pretty sure most girls can do) a few pieces of yarn or thread together with a knot tied at both ends. I’d recommend keeping a few friendship bracelets on you wherever you go just in case you are called into a friendship emergency.
Images via Envy Cake, Etsy, my camera and Hello Giggles
I´ve made some wonderful cross-stitches for friends. They´re always a hit. I bought the Subversive Cross Stitch book which is hilarious and gives simple designs for inspiration.
I´ve made some wonderful cross-stitches for friends. They´re always a hit. I bought the Subversive Cross Stitch book which is hilarious and gives simple designs for inspiration.
I love the Ryan Gosling Cross Stitch pattern, it is so funny but uber cool!!
Cake pops. Heads on a stick. Anyone else freaked out by this?
I like making throw blankets and quilts out of old t shirts
I love sewing and making things but I am really really bad at knitting! Just started my annual attempt to learn how to knit again.
I’m currently making my first dress as its fun and I get new clothes
Just wanna say, that cross stitch pattern made me crack up.
Ah, cross-stitching–my favorite childhood past-time when I was too square to do anything else! Except I actually loved it, and this post just reminded me of how cool it really is and I am just more inspired to stitch some cheeky designs. Thanks!!
Crocheting!!!
Because Crafty is Cool!! 
I learned how to knit last January – it was my unemployment hobby. Seriously the most rewarding thing I have ever done. The majority of my friends and family received a hand knit item for Christmas this year and it was so awesome to see them enjoy something I made. It’s a great way to relieve stress too!
This year I’ve started latch-hooking crocheting. I’m want to make pillow, rugs, stuffed animals, wall art, etc. EVERYTHING! I’ve already framed one piece and started working on the 2nd.