Craftonians! In Episode 67 of Joleen's Happy Time Craftcast,  Joleen shares her favorite crafting tools and what makes each one indispensable in her creative process. Broadcasting from her workshop, she also gives fun updates from Big Raven Farm, talks about upcoming retreats (including her collaboration with crochet superstar Tamara Kelly), and kicks off a new segment — Book Nook for Makers — featuring her latest read, The Collage Workbook by Randall Plowman.  With her signature laughter, warmth, and practical tips, Joleen reminds us that sometimes the best inspiration starts with the right tool and a little curiosity.

Guest Bio

No guest this week — just Joleen sharing her creative essentials, book recommendations, and crafty insights with her signature warmth and humor.

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Episode Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00 – 03:59] – Welcome & technical hiccups
[04:00 – 07:29] – Retreat update: Pick Your Projects with Crochet
[07:30 – 09:59] – Retreat sneak peek: 2026 calendar live!
[10:00 – 11:59] – New segment: Book Nook for Makers
[12:00 – 17:59] – Book review: The Collage Workbook by Randall Plowman
[18:00 – 24:59] – Joleen’s craft experiments inspired by collage prompts
[25:00 – 29:59] – Favorite tools: the trusty bone folder
[30:00 – 38:59] – Scissors talk — Tim Holtz vs. the rest
[39:00 – 42:59] – Adhesives Joleen swears by (and which ones to skip!)
[43:00 – 46:59] – Organizing tools in a creative space — her go-to system
[47:00 – 49:59] – Favorite splurge vs. budget-friendly craft tools
[50:00 – 52:59] – A few quirky tools she didn’t love but had to try anyway
[53:00 – 55:59] – Reflections on creativity: it’s not about perfection
[56:00 – 57:59] – Encouragement to try something new this week
[58:00 – End] – Wrapping up & sharing where to find retreat info

Quotes from the Episode

“Sometimes you just need a little push to get yourself going — and the right book or tool can do exactly that.” – Joleen Emery
“Creativity doesn’t always start with a grand idea — sometimes it starts with a pair of scissors.” – Joleen Emery
“When you find a tool that fits your hand just right, it’s like finding a new friend.” – Joleen Emery

Resources and Links

🧶 Big Raven Farm Retreats — 2026 calendar now open!
📘 The Collage Workbook by Randall Plowman — Highly recommended for creatives of all levels.
✂️ Favorite tools mentioned: Bone Folder (plastic and genuine bone options), Tim Holtz 7” Serrated Scissors, Visual Journals & Bookbinding Supplies

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