Practically every day I am seeing questions about Copic markers popping up in Facebook cardmaking and stamping groups, and the same questions come up over and over again. So today I thought I'd share some information about Copic markers, and answer three very commonly asked questions. You can find a full transcript on the blog HERE. In this episode I will cover ... A short history of Copic markers. The different types of Copic marker. What is the difference between a Sketch marker and Ciao marker? What do the marker codes mean? Copic colour wheel. What does the 0 colourless blender do?

http://www.dawnlewis.com.au/Copic

There are a few more questions I want to address, but I think that's enough information overload for today. Episode 16 will be part 2 of this Copic Q&A, but if you have a burning Copic question in the meantime, please feel free to email me or drop me a PM via Facebook or DM via Instagram … happy to help with your Copic conundrum! A reminder that if you are looking for Copic products in Australia, you can head to dawnlewis.com.au/copic and I will be delighted to help you find what you're looking for. I hope you will join me for the next episode as we wrap up this two part series with more answers to frequently asked Copic questions.

Hello … welcome to The Craft Room Podcast, and if this is your first time listening, a special welcome to you. A few weeks ago I attended The Artful Business Conference in Adelaide here in Australia. I love this conference … it is for people with creative businesses, and at any given time you can be sitting next to a writer, a jewellery maker, a yoga instructor, an accountant, a business coach, a graphic designer, a bridal accessory designer, a virtual assistant … it's just amazing! While I was there, surrounded by so many incredibly creative people, I thought I'd ask a few of them three simple questions. I had an idea of how this episode would go, but the answers that these incredible women gave me were not at all what I was expecting. In hindsight, I don't know why I was expecting run-of-the-mill answers … I should know by now that creative people are going to give me creative answers. They did not disappoint … they actually knocked me back on my heels, and this episode is going to be different, and so much deeper than I had intended!

Craft is seen to be this frivolous thing that women do, faffing about with fabric, yarn and thread. But that's far from true. First of all, craft is not exclusively for women, and what crafters do is so much more than making pretty things to pass the time. Absolutely we make tangible things. We can give them as gifts, use them to keep warm, decorate our homes, sell them for some extra cash … and those are all fine reasons to engage in crafting activities. But the real reason we craft goes so much deeper than that.

Today I want to introduce you to five wonderful ladies who were feeling game enough to answer my three quick questions. You'll hear me ask each of them … 1. What's your day job? 2. What is your craft / creative pursuit of choice? 3. What do you get from this? Some of them I have known for a few years, some for a few months, others I just met. Some are older than me, some younger, some about the same. Some enjoy the same crafts as me, others are into things that aren't quite my scene, or that are still on my to-do list. All of them are amazing at what they do professionally, and having seen some of their work in person, it's not surprising that they are great at what they do creatively as well.

There will be a little bit of background noise … it's always buzzing with conversations during break times. I can honestly say that it was worth sacrificing my afternoon cup of tea to chat briefly to these wonderful ladies, and after each mini interview I'll go deeper into my takeaways from these conversations. I would like to introduce you to Miranda. 1. What is your day job? I work in social media and marketing

1. What is your craft / creative pursuit of choice? I do crochet, weaving and mixed media.
2. What do you get from this? I've always been crafty, but especially in last couple of years it helps with my mental health. It's my relaxing time, and it's just fun. But it's a creative way that when people look at you and think you're one thing, and then you show them a quilt you've made or a crochet blanket, and they look at you differently … like OMG! I like putting colours together.

Summary I absolutely loved Miranda's answer. Yes … science is catching up and starting to prove that craft and creativity is excellent for our mental health. We did talk about that in episode 8, which I'll link to in the show notes. Sometimes we can cruise along and just craft to keep our hands busy, to create a quick gift, or try something new. But sometimes our creative pursuits do more than just keep us occupied … they can seriously support our mental health. It may be that we work diligently on a project to pass the time whilst under stress or going through an unpleasant life event. It can help pass time quickly and serve as a great distraction to stop us obsessing over waiting for test results, to stop our mind wandering to dark thoughts or inject something beautiful into our lives when things may otherwise be bleak. I understand what she means about people looking at you differently. I used to work in a very corporate type job, and when my co-workers would catch me cross-stitching on the train, or would compliment me on my outfit and I would tell them that I made it … it absolutely changed the way they looked at me. It helped them get to know me, see there was more to me than a great voice on the phone and fast typing fingers. You think you have a person pegged, you think you know what they're like, then you find out they knit jumpers for penguins … whoah … your mind is blown! You question yourself … do I really know them at all? Have I made assumptions? What else do they do that I don't know about? It sparks conversations and deeper connections with people. And I'm not going to gloss over Miranda's joy of putting colours together. This is one of the most wonderful things about craft … colour. It's not just choosing colours, but considering the mood that they convey, the reactions that people will have to them, how they will suit an individual, and how the light will play off them at different times of day and in different seasons. There's an element of challenge to colour choices, and absolutely it's the colours that make craft fun. Click here to hear the podcast EPISODE 8 If you are looking for Miranda in her day job, you can FIND HER HERE.

I would like to introduce you to Ashleigh.

1. What's your day job? I am a VA and podcast manager

1. What is your craft / creative pursuit of choice? I'm a doodler.
2. What do you get from this? I'm a massive scatterbrain, and it helps me focus on everything and anything. It unleashes some creativity. It fills me up … a little spillage over of the cup.

Summary I think my favourite thing that Ashleigh mentioned was that her favourite creative pastime fills her cup. Wow … that is something we sometimes forget about. We are so busy giving and giving to others, that we forget that we need to fill that cup! I know that self-care is a buzz-phrase, but I don't care … because it's important. There is a saying that you can't pour from an empty cup … in other words, you can't help others when you're running on empty. Sure, sometimes others can fill your cup, but a lot of the time we need to remember to refill that things ourselves, because we know better than anyone what is going to do the job best. When you give and give and give, and don't refill, that leads to burnout, and when you're in burnout, that isn't just an empty cup, you're at risk of getting a crack in it. Trust me … I know … I've experienced that bone dry burnout, and there is a lot more effort required to bounce back from that, because you need to repair the crack before you can refill the cup and be able to give again. Best to find that thing which fills your cup and enjoy it regularly so you don't burn out. I also know quite a few people who draw to help with focus. Doodling is one of those things I'm terrible at, and it does nothing for me … but that's me. I do other things to focus, which is why I say this to you … it's not what you do, but what it does for you that is important. A lot of times we think we have to become an expert at our craft or hobby, so we can make it into a job or a business, but that's not necessarily true. Sometimes we just need to be creative to fill a need, not make a buck. If you are looking for Ashleigh in her day job, you can FIND HER HERE.

I would like to introduce you to Doone. 1. What's your day job? I'm a bookkeeper.

1. What is your craft / creative pursuit of choice? I knit, crochet and sew, but I'm also a printmaker and a book-maker / bookbinder.
2. What do you get from this? Being physically present. I recently realised that I'm ADHD, and sitting, unless I'm really in the flow with bookkeeping, if I'm watching something or taking in new information, it's not enough to keep my brain occupied. So, I need to be doing something physical to stay here, to not be off with the fairies.

Summary I saw one of Doone's gorgeous hand-bound books at Artful BizCon, and it was absolutely gorgeous! I have to admit, it's not something I ever thought I would try, but seeing the gorgeous stitching and the beautiful papers she used, it's now on my list. Again, here we have an instance of creativity and the act of using your hands to create something beautiful and practical that is giving more than that to the maker. It's no coincidence that many crafters are known to work in front of a movie, or whilst chatting with family or friends. For some it's hard to sit still and let your hands be idle, for others it's non-optional, and with ADHD it can absolutely help you focus on the task at hand, even if to the casual observer it looks like you aren't paying attention. I've often said that crochet and cross-stitch are like meditation to me … the rhythm, the repetition. I can totally understand how these qualities assist those with ADD and ADHD to focus and be present. If you are looking for Doone in her day job, you can FIND HER HERE.

I would like to introduce you to Shilpa. 1. What's your day job? I'm a book writing and marketing mentor for coaches, consultants and experts who want to put their message out there.

1. What is your craft / creative pursuit of choice? I really enjoy quilling, and punching (paper crafts). There's a lot of beautiful stonework with acrylic sheets and making beautiful patterns.
2. What do you get from this? I haven't been able to decide, I'm a shiny object kind of person, and I can't just be content with one craft. I have need of a lot of colour in my life, and a lot of variety, so that's how I'm meeting the need … through lots of craft.

Summary As I was talking to Shilpa I could see some beautiful jewellery that she had made, and I cannot go without saying that her chai tea is absolutely amazing! I have been forever spoiled after tasting the real deal. Shilpa and I have a lot in common … a need for colour and variety, and craft is such a wonderful place to meet that need. There is always a new craft to try, and a new challenge to conquer. Sure, some people pick up one craft and stick with it forever or at least for a very long time. I am not one of those people, and I am obviously not alone. Years ago I read a wonderful book by the author Barbara Sher called 'Refuse to Choose', subtitled 'What do I do when I want to do everything?' If you are like myself and Shilpa … craving variety and not sure what to settle on, this book is an excellent read. I knew I wasn't a specialist, and I found myself in this book. I also meet my need for variety and challenge and colour through craft. I will link to the book in the show notes for my fellow crafty bowerbirds.

Looking for 'Refuse to Choose' by Barbara Sher? FIND IT HERE

If you are looking for Shilpa in her day job, you can FIND HER HERE. Lastly, let me introduce you to Kate.

1. What's your day job? I'm a writing entrepreneur. All things to do with writing, selling courses, teaching, etc.

1. What is your craft / creative pursuit of choice? At the moment it's mosaic. I've always liked mosaic and I make them at home. I make little signs and little flower pots and art for the garden.
2. What do you get from this? I'm quite a right brained person, but my old craft of choice was crafting words, but now that's become my day job. I like that my brain has slipped sideways and it's not intellectual, it's purely visual, and I'm doing something with my hands. I find that really relaxing. It destresses me.

Summary Crafting as an escape from your day job, to slip out of your logical, analytical, sensible mind and slip into something more fun as you play with colour and texture … it's yin and yang really. Kate is incredibly creative with words … far more emotive and descriptive than I could ever hope to be … seriously, I would read her shopping list for fun, and her Instagram posts are often a highlight of my day. She raises a valid point here, and I almost blinked and missed it. When your hobby becomes your job … you need to find a new hobby. I've head that said many times, and there's a reason it's repeated … why I'm repeating it now … because it's true! If you write stories or poetry or lark about with words for fun, there's a lot of joy and escape in that. But when it becomes your day job, writing clever words for clients, and to promote your own business, it might still be joyful, but it's also work … and traditionally we do need an escape from work. The saying 'Love what you do and you'll never work a day in your life' … I feel like it's kind of misleading. I absolutely love what I do, but in those moments when you need to meet deadlines, and you find yourself embroidering your 3,487th backstitch in a verigated yarn unicorn head at 4:30am … that very much feels like work, and you do need a break from it. That is why I have reserved quilting just for me, as my hobby … my escape. It's why I enjoy singing in the car … because I work with my hands and talk all day long … sometimes it's nice to escape from that and sing along to the Wicked soundtrack as I drive along the motorway. I absolutely understand the appeal of mosaic … you can make it neat and orderly if that's what you're feeling, or you can take some crockery you found at the op shop, or tiles you found in the bargain bin at the tiling store, by donning some goggles and gloves, and letting out your frustrations with a hammer! You can create order from chaos, a thing of beauty from tiny pieces, and each time you see it, it's a reminder of those peaceful moments of escape and the fun you had in the making process. If you are looking for Kate in her day job, you can FIND HER HERE

So … now it's over to you. I would love to ask you the same three questions. What is your day job? What is your craft of choice? What do you get out of it? If you're up to it, I would love to know your answers. You can comment on the blog at https://www.dawnlewis.com.au/podcast13, or maybe you'd prefer to email me or send me a message via Facebook or Instagram. If not, well, that's ok too … but have a think? What does craft do for you? I love that we can contribute to our craft, but it is also giving so much to us … sometimes it's deep and meaningful, sometimes it's light and fluffy, usually it's exactly what we need.

Hello … welcome to The Craft Room where we are going to be talking about some clever craft storage solutions. In Episode 11 we talked about crafting in a small space, and we did discuss craft storage ideas. There is no denying that in order to work efficiently in a small space, you need to have some clever storage solutions. But there was so much more I wanted to tell you, so this episode is kind of a sequel.

For starters, did you know that I have a craft storage Pinterest Board with over 900 ideas for clever craft storage? Sometimes it's when we see what others are doing in their space, with their supplies, that we find a solution for ourselves. Some ideas are for small things, like sewing threads, and others are for full walls or rooms. I have found a lot of inspiration in there for myself, and I hope you find something on that Pinterest board that sparks an idea for you. https://www.pinterest.com.au/dawnlewis/craft-organisation/

In episode 11 I mentioned that I store my papercrafting embellishments by colour, and I wanted to talk about how my colour storage system came about … but I didn't want that episode to run any longer that it already did. These days I store pretty much all of my craft supplies by colour. I work by colour, and so it makes perfect sense to store my supplies by colour. It makes them easier to find, which saves me time on so many levels. But it wasn't always like this. In my last house, I had the luxury of a long narrow room where I kept my craft supplies. The beauty of it was that I could leave a project half finished, stuff all over my desks (yes, I had the luxury of 2 desks), and just shut the door. However, when we moved to the home where we live currently, there was no hideaway room for me, as this house is very open plan! I had a small folding desk and a couple of kids bookshelves, and all of my papercrafting stuff had to fit on, under and next to the desk out in the open where all sorts of inquisitive little people, kitties and anybody visiting could see it. It was incredibly difficult to keep the space tidy, and I couldn't just close the door on it. Eventually we did put an extension onto our home, which is where my new craft cupboards are located, but while it was still out in the open, I was coming up against the same issue all the time.

My embellishment stash was really a scrapbookers' dream come true. I had little storage containers full of all sorts of fascinating bits & pieces. But when I wanted to create a layout using, let's say, purple and green, I would pull out the ribbon box to find purple and green ribbon, then the button box to find purple and green buttons, the eyelet box, the fibres box, the sticker box … you get the picture! It took up heaps of desk space, and if I put them away after pulling out what I thought I wanted to use (so I had enough space on the desk to work), then I would need to get them all out again to put away the pieces I didn't use. It was a hassle, and it was actually stopping me from crafting. I can't remember exactly what sparked the idea, but one day I'd had enough, and decided I needed a better system. Clearly, I was choosing embellishments based on colour, because I work by colour. I would look at the photos I wanted to use, choose my colour scheme, then create chaos on my desk. So I decided it was time for a change … I was going to switch to storing my embellishments by colour.

I had limited space, and my only option was to go up. I went looking for tubs, and hit the jackpot in The Reject Shop kitchen aisle. I found small 5L rectangular clear tubs with lids that allowed them to stack. They were perfectly sized, inexpensive, and readily available. I put this system into place about 9 years ago, and those tubs are still available today. I bought ten 5L tubs at $2.50 each, and I grabbed a 10L tub for my pink embellishments (because girls + scrapbooking = lots of pink stuff!). I also bought 100 small zip lock bags and a pack of sandwich size zip lock bags. That was all I needed to start. There were some colours that could share. I had very little yellow and orange supplies, so they would share a tub, as would cream & brown, black & grey, and green & teal. Gold, silver and other metal pieces also had their own box.

I laid out all the empty tubs on the floor with the lids under them. I grabbed the little clear caddy that had all my buttons in it, each in their own little section, sorted by colour. I opened a small zip lock bag … and just started bagging buttons by colour. I bagged all the red ones and tossed that bag of buttons in the first tub. The I bagged the orange buttons and threw them in the next tub, along with the baggie of yellow buttons. I kept going like that until the button caddy was empty, and there was a bag of buttons in every box … in colour order … of course. Then I tackled the eyelets box, bagging each by colour and adding them to the appropriate box. When that caddy was empty, I moved on to the brads, the ribbons, the fibres, and all those funny random little bits and pieces I'd been collecting for years. By the time I had a tower of empty caddies on my desk, I was starting to realise that I did NOT want to rummage through baggies, constantly opening and closing them to get what I wanted. As luck would have it, I had the same number of empty caddies as I did colour tubs. It was extra work, and definitely double handling … I seriously wrestled with this decision … but I knew it would save me time in the long run … I emptied each of the baggies of tiny pieces into each of the compartments of the clear sectioned caddy. In most cases I was able to split out large buttons from medium buttons, large eyelets from small eyelets, round brads from shaped brads, and there was plenty of room to keep everything separate, yet see it all at a glance, and never need to rummage for those tiny pieces ever again. I left the ribbon, paper flowers and fibres in their baggies. Flat packaging, like stickers, skeleton leaves, adhesive gems, etc went on the bottom of the tub, keeping them flat. The caddy full of tiny monochromatic goodness went on top, small bulky items like washi tape and coloured glue sticks went around the edges, and the squishy baggies went beside or on top of the caddy. I do have 4 other slimline cardboard boxes that live beside the colour tubs, sorted by theme (school, zoo, Christmas and favourite swap pieces). I kept these separate because when I want Christmas stuff, I don't want to look through every colour box to find it. I can choose the Christmas embellishment, then go looking for colour matches if I need more.

The process took me about a week, and I did it in small bites of time, at times it was a bit boring, until I found lots of cool stuff I forgot I had, but I loved the process and the result. I don't remember how much I must have talked about this new system online, but I know myself … and when I'm excited about something I really do go on about it pretty much non stop. But this system was working so well for me, I was sure it would work well for anybody else who worked by colour. It was so much faster to create that purple and green layout now. I just grabbed the purple box and the green box, chose my embellishments, created the project, put the unused items back in the boxes, put the lids on and put them back on the stack. Everything was at arms length, and I was just venturing into the world of Copic markers, back to making cards as well as scrapbooking. I was so pleased with my new system, and happy in my tiny creative space, which was much faster to pack up and easier to keep tidy.

But while I was feeling very happy with my new found storage solution, my friend Linda was struggling with hers. The day she mentioned that she had just walked into her little craft room, despaired at the mess, and just walked right back out … that made me very sad. She was an amazing crafter. It truly was her happy place, especially while she was going through some pretty serious stuff. I couldn't push it out of my mind, and I really started to wonder whether my new storage system could be replicated in her workspace. So, in the name of craft science, I drove 5 hours out to Cowra with 13 tubs, colour labels and all those zip lock bags from my own embellishment makeover. I spent the weekend with my friend, drinking tea, catching up, and sorting through her craft room. We not only sorted things into colour tubs, but I put her through a full declultter as we went along. There was no way I was leaving until the job was done, and even though she ran out of steam before I did, I was still able to hold things up and have her make some decisions. Boy did we find some interesting things! Linda had some clever storage solutions of her own that we were able to tweak just a little to get them humming again. For her 12x12 cardstock and papers, she had hit up the local pizza shop for some new pizza boxes (at a very low cost). She stacked them, secured the lids, but cut out the front section … thereby turning them into clever lightweight inexpensive paper storage. She also had a unit full of tiny little drawers that she used to store her chipboard letters and numbers. I've never really used them very much, but she used them all the time. It was a clever system, and it came from the hardware store! Remember in Episode 11 I suggested looking outside the craft box for storage solutions? She had done that with great success, and I remember using a similar mini drawer unit many many years ago. So don't forget to check out the storage solutions at your local hardware or auto store … you may be pleasantly surprised.

When we were done, Linda was delighted, and I was thrilled that I was able to help her reclaim her happy place. Linda used that storage system, even after she moved house twice, right up until her health deteriorated to the point where she could no longer craft. I am absolutely humbled that I was able to do that for her. It cost very little, but it was worth SO much. As far as craft science experiments go, I call this one a success.

So … having done this makeover on my own, and with a friend, I have to say that it is MUCH faster and more fun with a friend. If this is a storage system you think would work for you, find your favourite series on Netflix and get stuck into it! Even better, if you have a crafty friend, and you both love this idea, take turns helping each other … crank up some tunes, put the kettle on, and have some fun sorting out those fab stashes.

Now … I haven't forgotten the fabric peeps! I use the same tubs and storage system for my fabric. As I mentioned in episode 11, I store my fabric in one of two ways. Fabric purchased to make a specific quilt project is bagged together in a large tub under my sewing desk. All other fabric is sorted in colour tubs … in fact the exact same tubs that I use for my papercraft embellishment storage. I admit that I have purchased way more fabric than will fit into those tubs, and the entire cupboard is in desperate need of a cull and tidy up, but the system works. There are some exceptions to the rule, though. I do have tubs for specific types of fabric, and that's because when I had my doll-making business, I needed to keep them separate. I have tubs for tulle (for dolly tutus), flannelette (for dolly pyjamas), yarn (for dolly hair), as well as trims and notions. When I do my fabric cupboard makeover, though, I will be sorting tulle and flannelette into the appropriate coloured boxes, the yarn will be added to my acrylic yarn storage in the hall IKEA cube unit … but trims and notions will keep their own boxes.

I store my paint in colour wheel order, each different brand has its own storage unit. I keep my Jo Sonja tubes of paint and mediums in a basket. It's just the right size so that they stay standing up, and I can see the colours at a glance from the top. I keep my Semco acrylic paints in drawer units I bought at Kmart (kitchen department for the win again!), as they fit perfectly, and I can stack 2 units on the shelf to save space. It's like a high rise apartment for my paints … which live in colour order so I can find what I need quickly and easily.

But … when it comes to my embroidery threads, I actually don't store them in colour order! You may be wondering why this is so … and I will tell you. When working through a cross-stitch pattern thread key, they are listed by number. So all of my DMC threads are wound onto cardboard bobbins, and placed lovingly into proper embroidery thread caddies in numeric order. I tried keeping them in their natural state, but I got to a point where I had so many that it was impossible to keep them organised, and the tangled mess took a very long time to sort out! Winding them onto bobbins took time, so I did that in front of the TV at night. I must admit, that while it's an investment of time, it really does make it easier to find the threads I am looking for. When I start a new pattern, I pull the cards out of the caddy, and I store them in a zip pouch with small scissors, my pattern, aida fabric and tapestry needle. I try really hard to only work on one cross-stitch pattern at a time, and when I'm done, all of the thread bobbins go back into the caddies. The advantage to this method of storage is that there are blocks of colours that work perfectly together in numeric order. I recently found this to be very handy when working on a new class design that I'll be teaching at the shop, which features ombre painting on fabric, as well as simple hand-quilting as one of the finishing options). I'll pop a link to the class in the show notes for those who are local and curious to check it out. Also, when I'm doing some free-hand embroidery, I like to open the caddies and just see which colours take my fancy at the time.

It's the same with my Copic markers. I keep those in order by code. Sure … that does follow the colour wheel, which makes me happy, but if I kept all the light blue together, then mid blues then dark blues, it would take me forever to find the marker I was looking for. I work entirely by codes when it comes to Copic colour choices. I use the Sandy Allnock hex chart to keep track of my colours, and to help me choose colour combinations. I'll link to the chart in the show notes … it's an excellent resource for serious Copic colourists. https://sandyallnock.com/product/hex-chart/ Finding the ideal storage solution for you may take time, and it may change over time, especially if you change the way that you approach your craft of choice. But when you get it right, it can save you so much time and mental bandwidth, that it's worth the time and effort taken to get it set up. I encourage you to ask yourself … is my current craft storage working for me? If not, why not? What would make this whole process easier? And if your current system does work for you, that is so awesome, and I hope you will get in there this week and make something just for fun.

I thought today we could tackle the subject matter that is also the name of this podcast … the craft room. More specifically … small crafting spaces. Because, let's be honest, as much as would all probably love one of those Pinterest worth, fully decked out and coordinated craft rooms, the reality for most of us is that we have a relatively small space to dedicate to craft. Unless you have a spare bedroom, home office or rumpus room going unused, chances are that you craft at a desk tucked into a corner, the dining table, a tray table, on the lounge or in a cupboard like me. Working in a small space … let's face it … is limiting. We may have to share our space with others. We might have to pack up after every single crafting session (when we'd much rather leave everything out until the project is done). Maybe inquisitive mini people get into your supplies and use all of your stickers, unravel your yarn or create a "masterpiece" on the layout, card or canvas you've been working on all day. We are limited in how much we can keep on hand by the space we have available, and if you're renting, even more limitations are in place. You can put up shelves or place hanging solutions on walls. So what can we do about this? I say, we do what we do best … think creatively!

Today I want to share my top 10 tips for maximising your crafting space and small space efficiency.

ONE – Stack It

Baskets are very pretty, so if you're going for a Pinterest vibe, then baskets are great. But they don't stack, and when you're short on space, that's a problem. This is why I prefer tubs with lids that allow me to stack them, making the most of the space available. I know that baskets look pretty filled with yarn, but every time I've tried this as a storage option it has been a disaster. Non-yarn things find their way into baskets. Some interesting things I've found in my yarn basket include a dead cockroach, a half eaten apple, a sticky lollypop, and most devastating of all … the cat! None of these have been good for my yarn! I was lucky and had a couple of lovely lined baskets, but if you are storing yarn in a basket, chances are it may not be lined, and your lovely yarn can catch on the wicker or texture, which also doesn't keep it in good condition. The other thing is … I'm a sporadic crocheter, so dust actually became a problem (it's quite difficult to dust yarn!). Lastly … I accumulated way too much yarn for baskets to be a viable storage solution … they were taking up way too much floor space, and the yarn was unprotected. I had to find a solution that wasn't going to take up any extra floor space in my home. I now store my Milford cotton yarn in an old suitcase under my bed (which was empty … now it serves a purpose). I like it because I can slide it partially out, unzip it, retrieve the yarn I want, then slide it back in. Too easy! I store my other yarn in tub drawers that fit snugly in cube units. I used empty space that was already available, and easy to access, and made one inexpensive purchase.

I store my fabric in tubs, not because I'm against storing it on shelves, but because the shelves I use for my fabric are so deep that when I tried having it all folded nicely on display. I couldn't reach what was at the back, and it was total chaos, and made it difficult to find what I needed quickly. The fabric became wrinkled and I spent a lot more time ironing than I wanted to. Tubs were the solution.

I am also fond of small stacking tubs for my papercrafting supplies. Scrapbooking and cardmaking has a LOT of tiny pieces, so I find tubs best to corall them by colour, and help me find things quickly. I am definitely overdue for a craft cupboard cleaning session, and look forward to taking some time to restore order to the cupboards, so I waste less time looking for things behind other things.

Tubs don't have to be boring and functional. I have some very nice tubs with lids that help them stack, with a nice basket weave texture on the outside. They're available in all sorts of shapes, sizes and styles, so you should be able to find something that suits your supplies as well as your space.

TWO – Maximise your real estate

Stacking tubs with lids will absolutely do this for you, but there are other ways to take a small footprint, and go up. For example, let's go back to my yarn storage. After I outgrew the baskets, I switched to 50L tubs while I was working on a large number of projects for DMC. I needed to store a lot of yarn in a small space, and the tubs were a great solution. It only took up the floor space of one tub, but I was able to stack them 5 high in that space. The problem I faced here, though, was that I was constantly unstacking and opening tubs to find particular colours for specific projects, and it was becoming bothersome. I needed a better solution that would fit in the same floor space. I desperately wanted an IKEA kallax unit, but it didn't fit my budget or the space. I measured up, and went hunting, and hit the jackpot in Kmart straight away. I found a great little 2x4 cube unit that fit the same floor space as the tubs I was using, and it didn't break the bank. It had 8 cube spaces and I was able to buy simple lightweight inexpensive storage cubes with handles on the front. I knew that the yarn would fit (I don't know how I know these things … I think it's my very mild superpower), and while it may not be a spectacular piece of furniture, it's neat and functional. I could store yarn by colour, with a simple label on the handle, and when I needed something I could go straight to the drawer to retrieve it then pack it away later. The only time a cube unit will backfire on you is if you stack junk in front of it (naturally I learned that the hard way). The other benefit was that I could still place a couple of tubs on top, which was great for holding the finished pieces, patterns, works in progress, UFO's or lesser used supplies. If you've ever watched one of my Facebook or Instagram live unboxing videos, you'll see it in the background in my office, with my Copic stand on top.

Another way you can build upwards is with a little shelf on your desk. If you're a card maker you could keep essentials in small caddies, baskets or buckets both below the mini shelf and above. Take a really good look at your work space. Is there a way you can take that small desk or corner of the room, and build up?

THREE – Declutter

Yes … I know … we discussed it at length in Episode 7 (which I'll link to in the show notes for anyone who missed it). And yes, I know I harp on about this a lot, but it really is helpful. By selling or donating unwanted supplies, it's going to free up space for the things you actually use and love. Also, going through your supplies regularly helps remind you of what you have, so you're more likely to use it. I know we like to have a stash, but the point of having those items is for them to be used. I do understand the agony of loving something so much that we just want to keep it … I really do. If that's you, then it's time to use that gorgeous fabric, yarn, embellishment or whatever it is, on something that you can keep and enjoy.

If you're a scrapbooker, create a layout with that special paper or embellishment. That way it is in an album that will be looked at and loved, rather than in a box where it goes unseen and could even get damaged. If it's a special fabric, create something gorgeous from it that you can use and love. If you are buying fabric to create something that you plan on selling or giving as a gift, why not purchase an extra 15 or 20cm and make yourself a zipper pouch. If you want to keep it in good shape, be sure to scotchguard it … simple! I actually have a lot of gorgeous fabrics that I keep because they remind me of my doll making business. My plan is to create a quilt … with my logo in the middle panel, surrounded by all the pretty fabrics I used to make dolly clothes. It will be a practical keepsake, and make it so much easier to let those fabrics go, either donated or used up for other projects.

FOUR – Think outside the craft storage box

When you look at specialty craft storage, it is usually quite pricey, and due to its bulky nature, expensive to ship. Most of the best stuff seems to be in the USA, and international shipping puts most of these gorgeous storage solutions out of our grasp. So it's time to look outside of the craft storage arena. Try looking at kitchen storage options. I store my stamps in a clear fridge bin that I found in the kitchen department at Kmart. I store my papercrafting embellishmetns and fabric in 5L and 10L tubs meant for kitchen storage that I found in The Reject Shop. Kitchen storage offers so much these days, so check out those tubs and shelves and containers next time you're wandering through the kitchen department. Start thinking about ways you can use them to store your craft supplies … bonus points if they stack!

Another department worth investigating is bathroom storage solutions. Clear makeup caddies can be great for tiny pieces or tools you use a lot and need to keep close to hand. They're usually transparent so you can find what you want quickly and easily. Nearby you will likely find laundry storage. This can be a great place to source a portable caddy with a handle, which is great for couch crafting. It's easy to keep everything together for a single project, and if you need to put it away between crafting sessions, you can quickly move the entire caddy.

Lastly, let's not forget about office storage. I use A4 paper drawer units to store slimline things like ink pads, wood block stamps, cutting tools, cardstock and other bits and pieces. They fit nicely under my desk, are surprisingly sturdy and hold a pretty decent amount of stuff. I will link to a video tour of my papercrafting cupboard in the show notes so you can see how I use non-craft specific storage. If you are looking for todays show notes, you can find them on your app, or on the blog at dawnlewis.com.au/podcast11.

FIVE – Hang It

There are some very clever ways that you can use vertical wall or door space without adding shelves or tubs, that keep your desk space free as well. One clever product I've seen is a below-shelf basket. You just slide these prongs onto the shelf and instantly there is a basket suspended below. These are great for those really tall shelves, where the very top is just wasted space, though they are best used for lightweight contents. The downside to them is that the prongs that sit on the top of the shelf above can make tubs a little uneven, but if you're storing fabric or yarn up there, that's not even an issue.

The next option is something I saw in the kitchen department of IKEA – a rail that you can secure to the wall. There are a few different styles, but they all have cool add-ons like baskets, hooks, shelves, even paper towel and cook book holders that just hook onto the rail. So you have your tools and most often used items hanging on the wall instead of taking space on your desk.

A very popular hanging system is making its way out of the garage and into craft areas … and that is pegboard. You do need to have it sitting out from the wall so that there's space for the hooks to be hung in the little holes without damaging your wall. You can hang your tools in front of you instead of having caddies on your desk taking up precious real estate. Hang scissors, rolls of adhesive, stamp sets … anything with a hole or a loop is fair game. And if you don't like the look of boring white pegboard, why not paint it. Turn it into an accent by painting it a bright colour, or make it blend in by painting it the same colour as the wall. I have seen a unique style of pegboard at IKEA, which has long narrow gaps rather than small holes, which looks really cool.

If you are a papercrafter who loves their dies, then why not use some magnetic sheets to store them on the wall or the back of a door. I've seen adhesive backed magnetic sheets applied directly to a door, but if you are renting, and need a less permanent or damaging solution, I've seen people take a large frame (often from an op shop), remove the glass, and add magnetic sheets to the backing board. You can just hang the frame like a normal picture, or prop it up against the wall or on a shelf, and you have pretty vertical die storage space.

Don't forget some of the amazing over-the-door hanging solutions that are available now. If you are going to hang something inside a door, be it a room or a cupboard, choose something slim-line so that the doors still close properly and the items inside it don't get damaged from being squished up. Seriously … insides of doors are golden space!

Now it's time to shift gear a little and talk about the practicalities of crafting in a small space, and a few ways to be efficient whilst working out your ideal set up.

SIX – Be budget conscious

As much as I would love to have that perfect Pinterest storage, it's just not budget friendly. I would love everything to match, but it doesn't. What it does do is … do it's job. I bought most of my storage pieces on sale, on clearance, and a bit at a time. If I had a space to fill, I made do with what I could find around the house (like the suitcase under the bed) before going shopping. There are some things that didn't work the way I wanted, or I outgrew them. I'm really glad I didn't spend too much, because I've changed my storage a lot over the years, and it would have been really hard to get rid of expensive pieces, just because they cost so much. I recommend measuring the space you have to work with, keep those measurements on your phone or in a notebook, and keep a tape measure in your bag or car ass well. Know what is going to go in the storage unit, and take your time buying the right piece to do the job.

SEVEN – Keep an eye on your accumulation Habits

If you are buying supplies faster than you can use them, you're going to fill what little space you have very quickly. There is a popular meme that I see someone posting in a craft group at least once a week. "I believe that buying craft supplies and using craft supplies are two different hobbies". Don't let that be you. Use that gorgeous alpaca yarn, add those embellishments to a layout, make something from that stunning fabric. Just as toys are made to be played with, craft supplies are made to be used. So use them!

EIGHT - Shop with purpose

There is nothing wrong with having a stash. It lets us craft late at night when stores are closed and we're on a roll. The point of a stash is that the items be used. If you're buying more than you can physically use, then I recommend shopping from your stash for your next project. Here's the thing … when you shop with a particular project in mind, you won't need to find a place to store those items, because you already know what you're going to do with it. You probably also have a deadline for that project to be done. I have my next few quilt projects already figured out, and I've bought everything I need for them. While I haven't gotten to them straight away, I have kept everything together for that project, so when I am ready to start it, I can just grab the bag or the tub and go for it. I have been working on a very large quilt project … a pixel Mario quilt … for about 5 years, on and off (mostly off). I am really excited to finish it at the sewing retreat I'm attending later this year. For this project, I figured out exactly what I needed, bought only that, and keep the fabric, binding, pattern and finished sections all in one tub, and there will be nothing left over for my craft stash when it's done.

NINE – Stash Busting

Look for clever ways to use your stash, especially older supplies. I am a shameless collector of paper pads, and have enough pattern paper to last several lifetimes, and make more cards than a girl could ever use! When the urge strikes to purchase more paper, I challenge myself to make a dent in that stash before I'm allowed to add to it. A few things happen when I do this. I will usually go back to my One Sheet Wonder template, which allow me to make 10 cards from a single sheet of 12x12 pattern paper, plus a few other bits and bobs. I get a lot of cards made, I boost my ready-to-post card stash, I have fun crafting. One weekend I made 100 cards using this method … and that's when I usually realise … I have made 100 cards, which took me 2 days … and I only removed 10 sheets of pattern paper from my stash. If I buy another paper pad with 100 sheets in it … where will I put it, and will I really, really have the time to use it? If the paper pad that is calling my name at the store is seriously beautiful (or seriously on sale), sometimes I will cave and buy it. But more often than not, I realise that I already have tons of gorgeous paper, and I really don't need anymore.

So if that sounds like any of you cardmakers out there, I'll link to my One Sheet Wonder template in the show notes, and as a special bonus for podcast listeners, if you use the code 'podcast' at checkout, you will receive a discount on your downloadable One Sheet Wonder PDF in the store.

TEN – Batching

When you have a small work space, and can't have everything out for a project at once, consider batching. For this big pixel quilt I'm working on, there was no way I would have been able to cut, then sew one block at a time. The cutting process took my entire dining table, and it was tedious. I would have given up, and ended up with 3 cushions instead of a 12 panel quilt! So … I batched it. I used a free pattern graph I found online (I'll link to it in the show notes for those who want to see the insanity I dived headfirst into), and calculated exactly how many colours I needed, and how many squares of each colour I would need. I figured out how many squares I could get from a strip, and then purchased the exact amount of fabric I would need and bought enough for the whole quilt. I'm really glad I did, because I'm pretty confident that the dye lots and popular colours would have changed over the years, and there's no way I could get the exact same colours now. So did the math, I bought the fabric, and then I cut all the strips, as well as the sashing, in one marathon cutting session. I took a break, then came back to each fabric strip stack, and cut them down into squares. Thousands and thousands of squares. I packed them into baggies as I went, and put them in the tub. My brain was happy, even if my hands and back were not. Most importantly, I was able to pack away my cutting gear, which freed up the dining table AND was very happy that the hard cutting part was 100% complete.

I batch when I'm using my One Sheet Wonder templates as well … I prep the card bases, then I cut all the pattern paper and put the pieces inside the relevant card base, cut all the cardstock and place those pieces inside the card base … and then I can go on and assemble the card. I do this with the stamping & colouring as well. I'll stamp out all the sentiments and mat them, stamp all the images, then colour them (in front of the tv, or in a waiting room), and it's so much easier to put together 10 cards without doing every step every time.

Batching saves time, and it saves space, so I love to batch.

For most crafts, it doesn't matter if your space is small. What matters is that you have fun with it and make that space work for you. The size of your craft space will change a lot over the years. I've crafted in some crazy spaces … a closed-in long narrow verandah, a computer desk in a corner, a tray table in front of the tv, commuting to work on the train, on the couch and in a cupboard. By being flexible, thinking smart, and watching my accumulation habits, I've been able to craft in all sorts of spaces. If you craft in an unusual space, head over to the blog and let me know … what is your space like, and what craft do you do there? I love hearing about how other people make their space work for them, and I hope that some of my tips today help you get even more from your crafting space, no matter it's size. LINKS Episode 7 - Should you Kondo your Craft? My papercrafting cupboard tour video One Sheet Wonder Template (use the code 'Podcast' for a discount) The Mario pixel quilt

Today I've been thinking about one of the most common questions I see in Facebook cardmaking groups … "I'm new to cardmaking, what should I buy?". The answers always intrigue me. Everyone is so passionate about what they think is the best tool or most useful thing to have, and I really love seeing everyone being so helpful to those who are new to the craft. However, while the answers come from a place of pure enthusiasm, they're not always going to be what the person who has asked the question actually needs. I think, when we've been cardmaking or scrapbooking for a long time, we forget how we started, and so the recommendations are often items that aren't quite appropriate for a beginner. Also, we are all really different, with different budgets, different size spaces and storage capacity, different tastes and different needs. One person's essentials may be another person's waste of money.

In one cardmaking group I belong to, there is a running thread in an album that is an excellent resource for members. When I considered the question, and thought about what I would recommend, I realised that I started with the basics. Over the years I have levelled up as I discovered new products and techniques, my needs and space and tastes changed and I figured out what I liked. My contribution to that thread was pretty comprehensive, so I thought I would share it here on the podcast (in a LOT more detail), as it might come in handy for those of you who are just starting in the fun world of papercraft. For those of you who aren't papercrafters, feel free to stick around, as I'll be discussing some of the reasons when, how and why we level up, which is appropriate to a bunch of other crafts. I started where everyone starts … Level 1 – Absolute Beginner

Back in Episode 2, I talked about the top 6 things you need to begin cardmaking, and in Episode 3, I talked about the top 5 things you need to begin stamping. Here's a link ... LINK – The Craft Room Podcast Episode 2 – https://www.dawnlewis.com.au/podcast2 LINK – The Craft Room Podcast Episode 3 – https://www.dawnlewis.com.au/podcast3

And … for the quilters … Marni Franks from Frankensteins Fabrics joined me in Episode 5 to discuss her top 10 must-have items to begin making a quilt top. Here's that link ... LINK – The Craft Room Podcast Episode 5 – https://dawnlewis.com.au/podcast5 When you're starting out, there's really not very much you NEED to start making cards, scrapbooking, art journals, quilts, or whatever it is that you're into. I don't know anybody who starts with ALL the tools, because, honestly, the cost is prohibitive, and who has space for all that stuff when you don't even know what you're doing yet?

So here's me .. back when I started, about 30 years ago, at level one as a cardmaker. I sourced most of my supplies at the big Stitches & Craft Show, which I would attend religiously twice a year after saving my craft pennies for six months. I was into stamps pretty much straight away, and I was super careful about what I spent my money on. In my cardmaking box (yes, everything fit into one box … incredible!) I had … Cardstock – white, black, coloured Speciality papers Cutting Tools – craft knife, ruler, self healing cutting mat Stamps Ink pads – black and coloured Adhesive Scissors Punches We are talking very late 80's / early 90's, and there was nowhere near the range available then as there is now. No clear stamps, so no need for an acrylic block. This is actually quite close to the list that I recommend for now, so I wasn't far off the ideal set-up. I rarely use punches now, but back then I used them all the time. It was the trend of the time, punches were readily available, and nobody had die-cutting machines … I'm not even sure if they were on the scene at all yet. I was able to create cute cards, quickly and easily. I chose items that I felt I would get a lot of use out of, and I was happy creating cards in my spare time. Until the inevitable happened. I started getting bored with my supplies. I was so sick of using the same few punches and stamps over and over … and then new products started being shown at the craft shows. That's when I got the itch and took the leap into … Level 2 – Heat Embossing I already had stamps and ink pads, so heat embossing was a natural next step for me. Do you remember the first time you saw heat embossing in action? I do! It was like magic, and my brain was full of ideas, entranced by the possibilities that this magical powder presented! I started with a basic kit … it had a clear embossing ink pad, and a few embossing powders (I think I started with clear, gold, silver and copper). The problem was that heat guns were really expensive, and a bit hard to find back then. I was determined to find a solution that wasn't going to take half a weeks pay, and can tell you that even though a hairdryer might seem like a good solution … it is not!

What I ended up using was the toaster! It worked really well, and I made do with a toaster for a very long time … seriously … over a decade! If you are on a tight budget, and a heat gun isn't in your future, then I recommend giving the toaster heat embossing method a try. I did learn some important tips that you need to know before you start, and I will endeavour to make a video showing how this works very soon (and when I do, I'll come back here and add the link to the show notes). If you are going to use a toaster, there are some things you should know. First you need to empty all the crumbs out of the toaster. You don't want to set off the smoke alarm or make your house smell like burnt toast. Second, take note of where the toast level setting is before you start. Mark it with tape or photograph it. It took a long time to decide on that perfect level of toastiness, and if you don't put it back, someone is going to be cross. Thirdly, you're going to need long tweezers or secure tongs to hold your piece of cardstock, because it is going to get really hot really fast, and you do not want your fingers that close to that much heat. Bonus points if the tongs or tweezers have some silicone, because metal will get super hot as well, and you'll still possibly burn your fingers. Stamp your image with clear embossing ink, sprinkle over the powder, tap off the excess onto a piece of paper (so you can pour it back into the jar), and brush off any loose powder that's sticking where it shouldn't be. We will talk about that I a minute. Put your stamped & powdered piece of cardstock to the side, pour the excess powder back into the jar and put the lid on! We don't want to accidentally knock the whole thing over when the toaster pops up and gives us a fright! You've prepped your piece, you've prepped your toaster. Turn the toaster heat setting up to full, and press the lever down … obviously without any bread in your toaster. Hold the cardstock over the toaster, at least 5cm above, with the stamped & powdered side up. Constantly move it around so that you don't set your cardstock on fire or scorch it. It will take a little while, but soon you will see the embossing powder begin to melt. When you're done, if the toaster hasn't already timed out, pop the lever back up. And when you're completely finished, put the setting back to the way it was, lest you incur the wrath of someone who is unhappy with burnt toast! I mentioned before about embossing powder being where it shouldn't be, and this is where I will add 2 items to this level list. An anti-static powder tool is an excellent thing to have, as it stops powder sticking where it shouldn't. You can purchase one or make your own. The last item would be a fine paintbrush. I have one that I keep in my papercraft tool caddy, which I only use for embossing powder. Now, of course the next question is … what colour embossing powders should I buy? It depends very much on what you like. If you really don't like silver, then don't get silver. If you don't like gold, then don't get gold. Get the colours you like! However, here's a handy tip … if you already have coloured ink pads (especially if they are pigment ink pads), then you don't need to buy a bunch of coloured embossing powder. One of my favourite things to do in those early days was to stamp with coloured pigment ink, sprinkle over clear embossing powder, and heat set that. I had the colour, I had the dimension and the gloss, but I didn't have to spend my limited craft funds on lots of bottles of embossing powder. To this day, I mostly use silver, gold, copper, clear and clear with sparkles. I was well and truly hooked, and started Scrapbooking, which lead to … Level 3 – Embellishments Ooooooh my goodness. This is where it is tempting to go absolutely crazy. These days I rarely use embellishments on my cards, but I used to use them a lot when I was scrapbooking, so I have a very generous collection in my stash. I started small, with brass split-pins which my dad smuggled home from work for me once. Some embellishments you might be tempted by are … Coloured & metallic brads / splitpins Eyelets Buttons Twine Ribbon Paper doilies Paper and silk flowers Fancy mesh ribbons Adhesive gems Adhesive pearls Sequins Beads Shaped paper clips Mini tags Coloured hot glue sticks … and I'm sure there are a lot more that I haven't covered.

It's when you're on this level that you are 100% sure that this is a craft you want to do for a long time … you're all in! You're also likely in a phase where you're crafting late at night, and if you're making a big project, you want to be able to finish it without doing any online shopping (and the waiting that goes along with that), or stall because your local craft store is closed. This is when you really start stash-building.

For me, this was the phase when I was also on a really tight budget, and so I discovered that I could get some basics at the dollar shops that were popping up everywhere. Some things I bought were great prices, and great value for those prices. This was the level when I learned (the hard way) the difference between cheap and cheerful, and cheap and nasty. There's nothing wrong with grabbing a bargain, but if it's something you never use, it's not a bargain at all … it's a waste of money. So be discerning when you purchase dollar store items. When you have a reaction like "How is this a whole $2? Ewwwww"… that's cheap and nasty. When your reaction is more like "How is this only $2? It's so gorgeous! Maybe it's a mistake and they received a box from Lincraft by accident" … then that is cheap and cheerful. I have a whole video that showcases 10 cards I created, which I've linked below ... LINK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqyqcVcd_Ao My last pro tip would be … don't go overboard buying embellishments. Trends change, your tastes change, there will always be something new. If you buy a bag of 52 printed die-cuts, but only use one or two, the rest are just going to sit in your stash, which is a waste of space and money. If you really must have that 52 die-cut pack, plan to use all or most of them straight away, and finish that project before you go and buy more. This leads us very nicely into Level 4 – Die-cutting & raised embossing I had been papercrafting for a VERY long time before I was finally convinced that it would be good value to buy my own die-cutting machine. I had moved into scrapbooking, and specialty scrapbooking stores were opening up all over the place. I had started teaching at my local scrapbooking store (this would be about 16 years ago), and met one of my most awesome friends. Through her I was introduced to the wonderful world of papercrafting swaps. Oh boy! I became a hard-core serial swapper, which gave me so many wonderful excuses to pop into the scrapbooking store and make oh so many purchases. Another friend had invited me along to a weekend crop, and it was tons of fun. Around this time, Sizzix came out with a home diecutting machine. There was a big commercial one at the local store that anyone could pay to spend time on, which was great. Why would I need my own at home when I could use the one at the store AND use their dies for such a tiny price? But it was at one of those weekend crops that someone had their Sizzix machine with them … and when they let me have a go, I realised that I could actually get a lot of use out of one of these. It still took over a year for me to take the plunge and invest in such an extravagant purchase, but I'm very glad that I did. I was at a stage where I preferred to make my own embellishments from scratch, and was starting to see that if I invested in tools with multiple uses, I could get better value than purchasing ready-made items that were single use.

It was a pretty exciting day when I bought my first Sizzix machine. It was the old school pull-down handle one, which took thick dies and Sizzlets, the thinner dies that preceded the wafer thin metal dies that are most common today. The bonus was that I could use embossing folders in the machine, so it really pulled double duty, and helped me really get my moneys worth from it.

There is something, though, that you kind of don't realise when you purchase your first die-cutting machine … you have to feed it! As with everything, you get bored with using the same old alphabet die over and over again … you want variety! So you are constantly adding new dies to your collection. I figured out I could create handmade embellishments to sell on ebay in the early days of the internet. It was great, because I was getting maximum use out of my tools, and was able to boost my Paypal account, and use my earnings to fund my next round of die purchases.

I did upgrade to a Sizzix Big Shot about 6 years ago, just because all of my new dies were wafer thin metal dies, and my old Sizzix just wasn't up to the job, even with the converters … it was just too hard to make it work.

So … what do I recommend someone entering Level 4 now should buy in the die-cutting / raised embossing arena? Well … that depends very much on the individual, and I have some tips to help you decide … * Take your budget into consideration, as there are a lot of choices to fit most budgets. * How much space do you have for a die-cutting machine? They can take up a lot of space, so if your workspace is small, look for one that folds up. * What exactly do you want to die-cut? Do you really need dies for every stamp set? Because that can be very expensive. If you like to fussy cut your stamps without the hassle of scissors, perhaps a Brother Scan N Cut would be a better option. Sure, it's a bigger outlay, but if you add up the cost of coordinating dies over the years, it may be better value. * Perhaps start with some basic, yet versatile dies, like rectangles, circles or ovals. Do you prefer the look of a plain cut circle, or one with faux stitching or tiny pierced holes? * Do you prefer to stamp your sentiments, or would you get use from some commonly used word dies, like Happy Birthday, Get Well or Congratulations. * Which embossing folders should you get? How about starting with one that's simple, like tiny dots or stripes, seeing if you enjoy using it, and going from there. Whatever you choose, make sure it's something you will use over and over again. There are lots of ways to use your dies. Naturally you can cut them out, but if you add an embossing mat, you can just make an impression with them, which opens up a whole new world of techniques! LINK – embossing mat https://dawnlewis.com.au/product/universal-embossing-mat-couture-creations/

All too soon I hit Level 5 – MUST HAVE MORE STAMPS It all started with a Stampin' Up demonstration at a friends house. As we all sat round admiring our gorgeous work and these incredible products, I remember saying … "One of us needs to sign up". And one of us did (and no, it wasn't me). This was when I started collecting stamps with much more ferver. I mean … I was supporting my friend in her new business, my kids were older, so I had more time to craft, and not only were the designs getting better and better, but I was finding that stamps were becoming more and more affordable. Acrylic stamps were hitting the shops, and while I'm not a big fan of acrylic because of the work you need to put in to get a decent impression from them, I was a fan of the price point!

I did give a lot of stamping advice back in episode 3, but I feel some of it bears repeating. These days, when you add stamping to your repertoire in a big way, there are some things to keep in mind. * Really think about the occasions that you make cards for, and buy sets that you can use for those. * When you look at a stamp set, can you immediately think of at least 3 different ways you could use it? * Versatility is everything. Go for stamps you can use for a variety of ages and occasions as well as with a variety of techniques. * Are you falling in love with Christmas stamps and buying them all, only to realise that you don't actually make Christmas cards? You have two options here … stop buying Christmas stamps or start making and sending Christmas cards! * Consider quality. If you are going to be stamping a lot, go for quality. I always steer clear of acrylic and silicone these days because the quality just isn't there, and they are entering into the realm of cheap and nasty. A lot of cheap silicone stamps are counterfeit as well, which is devastating the many amazing stamp companies. I have torn many an acrylic stamp trying to remove it from the acetate, and had silicone stamps deteriorate so badly after a year or two that they just don't stamp a good image. What a waste of money! Give me polymer or rubber stamps any day! * Look at smaller sets. They're a great price point, and you can often get a lot of use out of them. I have some video series on YouTube where I show you different techniques you can use with one stamps set. I've linked a few below. This was also the point where I purchased my first stamp positioner … the Stamp-A-Ma-Jig. I still use it for my rubber stamps, and it did the trick for over a decade, helping me improve my stamp placement, and even double stamp if I needed to. LINK Love You A Latte - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLyQrXIkZ7CYgAEUYTJ6XJq0J1Oc1xmTf Bork - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLyQrXIkZ7CYuuQ_AuSQZ4StR5uul3pE3 Painted Rose - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLyQrXIkZ7Cae0Sbx_l0upi7xGrHbRP7a

It was for work that I delightedly moved up to Level 6 – Electronic die cutting machine

About 10 years ago, when I was working with Brandcorp, there was an Australian papercraft trade show called SIA. I was invited to contribute to the Brandcorp display, run a workshop, demonstrate and create a LOT of worked models for the company. It was TONS of fun, and I spent 2 days sitting in a stand across from Heidi Swapp, and was introduced to Copic markers for the first time … but we will get that that in an upcoming level (sufficed to say, there was NOT a lot of time between this level and the next).

To prepare all the kits for the workshop, I used part of my budget to purchase a Cricut machine. I had been playing with the original little Cricut at the store where I was teaching, and I was really impressed with it. By now I was savvy enough to know I would need to purchase more cartridges, but given the impressive variety and volume of designs I could cut from one cartridge, I realised I would really get a lot of use out of it. And I did! I used it to cut out all the pieces needed for the workshop, which was a paper flower topiary showcasing a new paper range and embellishments. I was allowed to keep the Cricut as part of my payment package, and I still have it today. I rarely use it now, just because, sadly, I don't have a space where I can have it set up ready to use when the mood strikes. I know there are much more up to date versions, but I really love my pink 12x12 Cricut machine.

If you are considering an electronic die-cutting machine, there are a few different kinds, and it seems like there are always more coming out. I honestly can't keep up! What I do know is that they fall into a few different categories. * Electronic versions of a hand-crank machine, like the Big Shot or Vagabond. * Cartridge-based machines. * Computer-based machines. * Scan N Cut … which literally scans a page full of stamped images, then cuts them out. I confess … if I was going to invest in a new one, it would be the Brother Scan N Cut, just because it does the fussy cutting really quickly by literally scanning your stamped images, then cutting them out super fast! And right now, that's pretty much all I want.

As I mentioned, I moved onto Level 7 very quickly – I must colour ALL THE THINGS After being introduced to Copic markers 10 years ago, I very quickly realised that I wanted stamps I could colour in! For me, Copic markers are like painting with a marker, where I could achieve shadow and highlight, but with much less mess and faster drying times. I was instantly hooked, and was very fortunate to be introduced to Copics by an amazing Aussie colourist as well as Copic royalty, Marianne Walker and Lori Craig.

I had already been doing some watercolour with my Stampin' Up ink pads, but this took it to a whole new level. Before long I did the certification course to become a Copic Certified Instructor, and convinced the owner of the store I was working in to add Copic markers to the shop. I was teaching classes within a couple of months, and Copics became a serious obsession.

There was a lot to love about them … they were refillable, the nibs were replaceable … the fact that they were designed to last me a lifetime really appealed to me. Plus they blend like a dream. I can colour embellishments to coordinate with my images … Maybe I need to do a Copic episode one day! Yes … let's do that, or I'll be stuck in a Copic loop for hours!

There are other mediums I like to use to colour my stamped images and figuring out how to colour with one led me to experiment and colour with others. * Distress Inks (regular and oxide) * Zig Clean Color Real Brush Markers * Prismacolor Pencils * I've been known to use Acrylic paint for some digital stamps that I've transferred onto canvases … but I always come back to Copics.

By the time I was presenting segments on Scrap It TV, I was firmly into Level 8 – Stamping is my life now! Stamping is not only fun, relaxing and creative, I also consider it to be an incredibly practical craft. I love making cards, I love sending cards, I love the communities around stamping and cardmaking, and I love the sense of accomplishment that comes from taking cardstock and ink and markers, and turning them into a mini piece of art that can help turn someone's day around.

I love making videos to help people get the most from their stamps, and learn how to use all those fun supplies that jumped into their shopping basket and came home with them.

With stamping very firmly in my life, I have allowed myself to make some tool upgrades.

*Misti stamping tool. This is an expensive piece of kit, but given I was now working in the stamping industry, making lots of videos, making lots of cards, I needed to be more efficient, and the Misti did that for me. I was sick of throwing away cardstock because I'd mis-stamped it, and I wanted to be able to batch stamp. There are lots of different stamping platforms on the market now, so choose the one that fits your needs and your budget. I love that these tools make it possible for people with hand mobility issues to be able to stamp, whereas an acrylic block may have been difficult, frustrating or even impossible to use. * Trimmers. I cycle between 3 different types of trimmers. I have an old Martha Stewart sliding blade trimmer, which I use when I need to cut a section out of a piece of card or paper, and it also doubles as a scoring tool. I use a Fiskars rotary blade trimmer for when I need to cut lots of paper or cardstock … it's a really solid workhorse. And I use the Tonic Tim Holtz 8.5" Guillotine for trimming small bits and pieces. * I recently upgraded my work surface to a Tonic Tim Holtz Glass Media Mat … and I love it! I can ink, and glue, and heat, and paint and cut on that surface and it takes all the punishment I can throw at it. It had become a bit of a pain swapping out my work surface constantly, switching out self healing mats, chopping boards and non-stick sheets.

As you can tell, I was all in … then I discovered a new level … Level 9 – Design Team member

I found blog challenges to be a great way to stretch myself, see what others were creating, and to discover new techniques. In my travels around the many blog challenges that were on offer, I came across a Design Team call-out. I had no idea there was such a thing! I applied to a few, with no luck, but one day a little shop in Canada took a chance on me, accepting me onto their Design Team. I have always enjoyed the challenge of working with limited supplies and within a theme or colour scheme boundary, so I took to Design Team work pretty quickly. It was a short term, and when I was done with that team, I was hooked! I went looking for other DT calls, and before long I was was a member of the KennyK Krafty Krew, a digital stamp company with a difference. I LOVED being on that team, and I ended up doing 2 DT stints for them. I have also been on Design Teams for Tiddly Inks and Little Miss Muffett Stamps, also digital stamp companies. Earlier this year I was on the Kindred Stamps Video Design Team, which is a brand I stock in my store. They make incredible fandom stamps … I'll link to them in the shownotes because they are really cool! I met some wonderful people in my time on design teams, I was able to promote brands I truly loved, and try things I might never have tried before. It is a lot of work to be on a DT … there are deadlines to meet and guidelines to follow, so you need to be very organised and able to follow instructions.

I know a lot of people aspire to be on a Design Team, and I have a few tips if that's something you'd like to do. * Be sure to read the DT requirements thoroughly. If you don't think you can meet the deadlines, best apply later when you have more time. * Don't be too disappointed if you aren't accepted onto a DT first time around. They get hundreds of applications and usually only have a small number of places. * Make a lot of stuff! If you post photos of your creations all the time to Instagram, then you're building a great online gallery for stamp brands to view and get an idea of your style. * Take great photos. Invest some time into learning how to take great photographs of your cards, as that can make a world of difference when applying to a DT. * You don't always have to have a blog, but it helps. You can start a blog for free, and there are loads of tutorials on YouTube to help you do that. * If you aspire to be on the DT of one particular stamp company, use their products often, and tag them in every photo you post on Instagram. It makes your name familiar when DT application time rolls around. LINK – Kindred Stamps in Australia https://dawnlewis.com.au/product-category/kindred-stamps/

It was during the final season of Scrap It TV that I moved, kind of accidentally into Level 10 – Stamp shop owner!

Honestly, this wasn't something I had really ever thought about before, but I was such a hard-core stamper by now that I was looking at obscure brands in the USA that we just couldn't get here in Australia. I asked a question, expecting a no … but got a yes, and before I knew it, I was a stockist for Sweet Stamp Shop. I had a background in selling handmade, and figured I'd just sell these stamps for a little while and see if anyone else was interested in them. Um … well … that was a few years ago, and I am still selling stamps today!

This is a pretty extreme level, and definitely not for the faint of heart, but it's where I ended up, and I have to say … I'm really happy here. So … what can we learn from all of this? Let's go back to where I started, in the cardmaking Facebook group, where I see the same things come up over and over again. * Wanting to be an instant expert. Sure … some people pick things up quickly, but for the grand majority, it takes time to build your skills. It's just not possible to have all the supplies, and all the tools and know all the techniques straight away. Everyone wants to be an instant expert, but we all need to start at level 1, and just like in a video game, as you travel through each level, you become more dexterous, learn new skills, become better at them, and then you level up. It's what I did. It's what everybody does. It's going to take time, and if you want to hear my thoughts on that whole journey from beginner to expert, then check out last weeks Podcast, episode 9, which I will also link to in the show notes. LINK https://dawnlewis.com.au/podcast9

* Comparisonitis. If you start comparing yourself to other people, I would gently recommend that you stop doing that. You could be comparing the cards you're making only 6 months into this new hobby to the cards someone else is making who has been doing this for 5 or 10 years (or more). It's like comparing apples to oranges … it just can't be done … there are way too many variables. What it boils down to is this … it's craft, and it's meant to be fun. You will figure out your favourite techniques, your preferred style and tools that help you get the job done as you go along and level up. Maybe you will level up in a different order to me, maybe you will level up faster or slower than those around you, maybe you will hit a level you're happy with and stay there forever … you do you, and make sure you're having fun in the process!

LINK – my craft cupboard tour https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIqGC5jF6c8

As you may have guessed by the title, today we're going to chat about those frustrating early days of crafting. Whenever we pick up a new craft, or pursue any new creative endeavour, there is inevitably frustration because you have a firm idea in your head about what you want your finished piece to look like, but it's just not up to your ideal standard straight away. I honestly don't know a single creative person who hasn't been through this exact scenario … and I'll start with a little story.

A few years ago, a friend asked me for some advice. She'd started creating gorgeous handmade things for the first time in her life, and wanted to know how she could go about turning her new-found hobby into a little business. Handmade and business are two things I could talk about all day long … and we did just that! We talked about pricing, and materials, and batching, social media, how to choose the right market and so much more. But something was bothering her … she kept bringing up the same issue over and over again. She had a really clear picture in her head of the thing she wanted to make, but the things she was actually making were falling short of her ideal vision. She was frustrated by it, and I understood (because I had experienced the exact same thing), but I couldn't quite explain properly what it would take to get from where she was now, to where she wanted to be with her handmade items. Some years later I came across this quote by Ira Glass (best known for his radio show 'This American Life'), and it said everything I wish I'd been able to say to her on that day.

It's usually referred to as 'The Gap', and I've seen it worked into beautiful memes, printables and videos by creative people who must also agree … this is what we wish every creative person knew from day 1! You can find links below to the video and print versions, as well as the original audio recording of Ira Glass speaking these life-changing words.

"Nobody tells people who are beginners — and I really wish somebody had told this to me — is that all of us who do creative work … we get into it because we have good taste. But it's like there's a gap, that for the first couple years that you're making stuff, what you're making isn't so good, OK? It's not that great. It's really not that great. It's trying to be good, it has ambition to be good, but it's not quite that good. But your taste — the thing that got you into the game — your taste is still killer, and your taste is good enough that you can tell that what you're making is kind of a disappointment to you, you know what I mean?

A lot of people never get past that phase. A lot of people at that point, they quit. And the thing I would just like say to you with all my heart is that most everybody I know who does interesting creative work, they went through a phase of years where they had really good taste and they could tell what they were making wasn't as good as they wanted it to be — they knew it fell short, it didn't have the special thing that we wanted it to have.

And the thing I would say to you is everybody goes through that. And for you to go through it, if you're going through it right now, if you're just getting out of that phase — you gotta know it's totally normal.

And the most important possible thing you can do is do a lot of work — do a huge volume of work. Put yourself on a deadline so that every week, or every month, you know you're going to finish one story. Because it's only by actually going through a volume of work that you are actually going to catch up and close that gap. And the work you're making will be as good as your ambitions. It takes a while, it's gonna take you a while — it's normal to take a while. And you just have to fight your way through that, okay?"

OK … so, while I feel like he's talking mostly about writers here, and lots of people would apply this to artists as well, I believe this is 100% applicable to us as crafters. We are creative people, doing creative things. I have experienced this every time I have picked up a new craft, starting from scratch. I always have a vision for how I want the process to be effortless, the result to be stunning, the workmanship to be flawless … but at the beginning I make paint blobs, and create uneven stitches, use my seam ripper a thousand times and mutter swear words under my breath at my tools (ok, sometimes there's shouting and tears). There is honestly only one way to bring your current skills up to the level that will create the ultimate finished piece … and that is practice. I'm not going to say that practice makes perfect … mostly because I am a recovering perfectionist, and perfection really is incredibly difficult, if not impossible, to achieve. What I will say is that practice makes better. Here is another story that I feel illustrates this point best of all. It is from a book called Art & Fear by David Bayles & Ted Orland … I will link to my source below.

The ceramics teacher announced on opening day that he was dividing the class into two groups. All those on the left side of the studio, he said, would be graded solely on the quantity of work they produced, all those on the right solely on its quality.

His procedure was simple: on the final day of class he would bring in his bathroom scales and weigh the work of the "quantity" group: fifty pound of pots rated an "A", forty pounds a "B", and so on. Those being graded on "quality", however, needed to produce only one pot – albeit a perfect one – to get an "A".

Well, came grading time and a curious fact emerged: the works of highest quality were all produced by the group being graded for quantity. It seems that while the "quantity" group was busily churning out piles of work – and learning from their mistakes – the "quality" group had sat theorizing about perfection, and in the end had little more to show for their efforts than grandiose theories and a pile of dead clay.

In all my years of crafting, I have found this to be true. If I am designing a crochet pattern, and I really, really want to get it right, I don't just make it once, then send it off to the magazine. No. Like any good science experiment I will try to recreate the results by using my original notes to replicate the finished piece. Every single time, without fail, I will find mistakes and flaws in my original design, and the more I work it and make adjustments to the pattern, the better the piece becomes. There is a crochet owl pattern I made in my very early pattern writing days, and I know I made it at least a dozen times before I was happy with the end result. Even when I was learning to crochet, it took a really long time to get it right. I had no idea how little I knew about crochet, and just when I thought I knew it all, along would come some new stitch, or the bombshell that there are THREE different ways to describe one stitch, and they were all different and therefore confusing. I couldn't turn out the incredible pieces I wanted to make, because I was still learning. I had to learn how different plys of yarn worked, how different hook sizes effected the yarn, how to splice in a new colour seamlessly, and even just become comfortable with the yarn and hook in my hand. It took a long time!

So, if you're wondering why your cards aren't as good as you want them to be, or why the corners aren't lining up on your quilt tops, why your embroidery stitches are uneven or your knitted hat is entirely the wrong size … there is only one thing for it. You just need to make a LOT of things, because it is in the hands-on making experience that you learn. It is by making mistakes that you really learn, and by repetition that you really really learn your personal preferences, how to tweak a pattern, how to create on the fly, how to get the best results from your materials.

It might take a long time, it might not … but hands down, the best way to bring your skills up to meet your vision is to get hands-on.

Now, it's all very well and good for me to tell you to just make lots and lots of things, but that leaves you with a little problem that I'd also like to address. What do you do with all those things you're making while you're building your skills? I promise not to leave you up to your elbows in dolls or quilt tops or cards or knitted jumpers without suggesting some things you can do with the pieces that you are making in the pursuit of excellence

1 Donate them

There are so many amazing charities that you can craft for. Do a Google search, and don't forget to add your country, for your craft. For example … crochet for charity in Australia. A whole bunch of websites will come up, and you can surely find a charity that needs something that you can make at your current skill level. Often there is a pattern provided, and guidelines, and these days you'll also likely find a Facebook group full of people who are making the same thing for the same organisation, and they will have lots of hints and tips to help you out. Perhaps you can crochet octopuses for NICU units, booties & bonnets for an angel gowns association, pouches for orphaned wildlife or vests for penguins who need help after an oil spill. So, go search for your particular craft and see if you can create pieces to donate. It's great skill building, it makes you feel good, it can fill in empty time, and the best bonus is that you aren't filling your house with whatever it is you're working on, and wondering where on earth you're going to put another crocheted blanket! You can also look at donating locally, perhaps to a charity looking for prizes to raffle off for their fundraiser, the school mothers day stall, the local nursing home to give to residents, Ronald McDonald House, hospitals, hospice units … so many places that would be delighted to receive your handmade donation.

2 Gift them

Giving handmade items as gifts is a wonderful thing to do. A lot of loves goes into a handmade gift, but this is where I offer a word of warning. Not everybody appreciates a handmade gift, so test the waters with something small, and see how it is received. It's not a personal slight on you, it's just that not everybody understands, appreciates or even likes handmade items. It is heart breaking when you've put hours and hours of effort, not to mention a very large amount of money, into a handmade gift, only to have the recipient turn their nose up at it, not use it, bin it or give it away. I have been there, and it's soul crushing! So test it out with a handmade card first. Some people love them, but some people think you're being cheap … those are the people for whom I recommend purchasing a gift rather than making one. Save yourself the distress, and the inner rage as well as your time and effort and money … and save your beautiful handmade creations for somebody who will truly appreciate them.

3 Sell them

We've all had that moment, just like my friend, when we think to ourselves "Hey, maybe I could sell this". Or perhaps a friend or work-mate sees what you're making and suggests that you could sell them. This is why I had a handmade doll business for several years. I was absolutely obsessed with a new raggedy ann style pattern I had bought on Etsy, and I'd never made dolls like that before. At first they weren't coming out quite like I wanted them to (mostly because I suck at satin stitch embroidery) … so I made a lot! And then when I was happy with my workmanship, I just kept having ideas for different ways I could dress them and embellish the clothing. I could start adding in other crafts, like painting and smocking and even more embroidery stitches to create really unique dolls. Before I knew it, I had dozens of dolls in the house. I couldn't find anywhere to donate them because of their yarn hair, and my kids had enough dolls, and I had no nieces or nephews back then … so I opened an Etsy shop! And then when I found myself bored with the Raggedy Ann dolls, plus I wanted to make a more practical doll that could be machine washed, I found another pattern, worked up a dozen or so to perfect it, and then started selling those. That one doll style kept me busy for about 4 years, and were loved by many little girls and boys all over the country.

4 Reuse them

This one depends a little on what it is you're making, and what your materials are. If you are learning how to sculpt with clay, make something, photograph it, then smash it down and reuse the clay. This gives you experience without being left with dozens and dozens of sculptures that you don't know what to do with. Yarn is another good one for this. When I was learning to crochet, I would sit with a YouTube video and create the piece, then unpull the whole thing, restart the video and do it again. Sure, the yarn eventually became too matted to use, but I was able to learn the method and stitches without being left with a pile of finished pieces. Part of a ball of yarn was a sacrifice I was willing to make to hone my skills without filling my home. You can paint over a used canvas, so if you're a painter, that's a great option down the track. For some crafts you will be able to repurpose the materials form your early attempts. It saves money as well as space.

Lastly … a great way to build your skills a little faster is to take a class or do a course. When you are working with a teacher who is experienced in the craft you are learning, they already know all the tips and tricks, shortcuts and ways to get great results. It's kind of like paying for a shortcut. Sure, you still need to put in the work, but instead of sitting at home, muddling it out for yourself, you will have a guide. Your teacher will be able to correct your brush stroke, help you fix the thing that's making your seams bunch up and explain it to you at the same time, show you the difference between US and UK crochet terminology … and that is something that happens instantly on the spot, because they've already been through that process, and can help you find the answers quickly so that you can get on with the making. Craft teachers are a great resource, and I have to say, whenever a student goes past my skill level it is one of the proudest days of my life. I am delighted to pass them on to a specialist teacher and watch them blossom in their chosen medium. So, if you are in that phase of frustration, remember … it's just a gap, and you can bridge it at your own pace. Make the beautiful things, practice, seek help and enjoy the journey. LINKS The Gap – Ira Glass Video - https://vimeo.com/85040589 Audio - https://jamesclear.com/ira-glass-failure Written - http://lamiki.com/2011/11/nobody-tells-this-to-beginners/

Art & Fear by David Bayles & Ted Orland https://excellentjourney.net/2015/03/04/art-fear-the-ceramics-class-and-quantity-before-quality/

Today let's talk about how craft can be good for your health. I mean ... it offers us so much … physically, emotionally, socially and phsychologically. I put out a call to my Facebook page for some stories about how crafting is helpful, and was not disappointed by the response. Some stories are my own, some are other people's but it's heartening to see how many people use craft for both physical and mental health benefits.

Links

https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/health-and-wellness/how-craft-is-good-for-our-health-20180727-p4ztyh.html

https://www.mnn.com/health/fitness-well-being/blogs/why-crafting-is-good-for-mental-health

One of these articles listed some of the health benefits of crafting, and I agree wholeheartedly with this list. I've added a few of my own observations, and some stories

1. Relaxation

One of the recommended activities for dealing with stress is meditation, but personally I find I can't shut my brain off and just sit motionless to mediate. I can, however, achieve the desired result via crochet or cross stitch. There's something about the gentle reptition, the sound of a ball of yarn unravelling or thread being drawn through cloth that is incredibly soothing. It allows me to completely tune out and stop thinking about all the things piling up on my 'to do' list or the situation that is causing the stress. It may be a different craft for you, but it's worth finding that thing that soothes your mind.

1. Stress Relief

I don't know anybody who doesn't have periods of stress in their lives. Danielle sent me this story ... Crafting, and in particular stamping and colouring in seems to melt away the bad days I sometimes have in a stressful trade role. By day, (and let's face it, by nights too because it's never ending) I'm an electrician who manages domestic and commercial clients for a contracting firm while also having to complete work on the tools. It's nice to have a wind down activity at the end of the day that still occupies my hands, as I like being busy. My days can be extra challenging in my male dominated field, and are compounded by the symptoms of Endometriosis on top of my demanding days.

1. Increased Happiness

This is another one I can related to personally. I am happiest when I am up to my neck in craft. It might be a wander through my local fabric shop, a day out with my Mum or some friends at a big craft show, or just being in the middle of a craft project at home. It makes me so happy to be making something beautiful (bonus points if it's also practical). I distinctly remember spending 10 hours straight in front of Netflix last year, binge watching Brooklyn Nine Nine as I painted a 1m square quilt panel for a magazine project. Mixing colours and getting right into the flow … it was a glorious day.

1. Reduced Anxiety

This one may require tissues ... fair warning! Amy shared her story with me, and it's incredible! On Feb 2012 my 8 yo daughter - my only child - was diagnosed with cancer after experiencing frequent headaches over a short while originally thought to be migraines as migraines run in my family. She has had surgery, radiotherapy & high level chemotherapy and is thankfully in remission but lost most of her hearing & has some balance problems - weakness on her LHS ie: cannot use stairs nor run nor ride a bike etc. - and had (and still has) physiotherapy so she could learn to walk again. She spent most of 2012 in hospital & I lived there with her & only went home briefly on occasion. When I went home, I used to stamp images to colour whilst I was in hospital and also took in diecut decoupage (paper tole) specifically made for cards & put the pieces together with foam squares. I also took in my knitting after not having knitted for many years and knitted a blanket and a scarf for my daughter. I would knit at all odd hours & it helped calm me & helped me go to sleep. Sometimes I would take in some paper pads, a few stamps and a drawing pad & pencil and sketch out card designs & try and design multiple cards using the same products. It was so soothing for my battered soul to have pretty things to look at & to touch & to think creatively in amongst all the stress and fear and anxiety. It was like a healing balm. You never don't think about cancer when you have gone through something like this & you always fear that the cancer may return - but I can always turn to my crafting to give my brain a much needed break & it brings me alot of joy. Even though we continue to spend time at hospital seeing Specialists, I can always bring some craft along to make the time pass more quickly. And the great thing is that my daughter (who is now in Year10) also brings along knitting & other craft to appointments as well. She even takes her knitting to school because she finds that it calms her. It is hard for her at school to be "different" to other kids & to have disabilities & has an Aide to help her - and crafting for her is a means to escape the anxiety. She even started making cards which she puts in a box at school for teachers/staff to buy to raise money for the Royal Children's Hospital - so I am really proud of her to look to her crafting to give back to the hospital who saved her life many times over due to infections when her immune system was severely compromised.

1. Enhanced confidence

Many years ago I taught folk art classes in a little church hall to a small group of ladies. One of the girls in my class didn't have a whole lot of confidence, and there were days when I wondered if I would be able to teach her the techniques she wanted to learn. But working together I was able to show her how to get gorgeous results, and she absolutely ran with it! It was incredible to watch her confidence grow, and before long she was painting pieces of furniture for a lady who sold them in a party plan setting. Gaining confidence in one area of your life … it's kind of contagious, and I watched as she took on situations and challenges with new confidence. It made me realise that one little confidence boost can change your life.

1. Connection to tradition

Sometimes life moves so fast, and there's always so much to do, that I think we get swept up in the current of modern day life, and perhaps start feeling a little lost. It may be a cultural or family tradition … and old tradition or starting a new one. One of my favourite moments was when I was able to sit with my mother and my grandmother, all of us crocheting together. That connection was very special, and was another tradition that we could share together.

1. A sense of accomplishment

I remember many years ago, when I was teaching craft classes in that little church hall, we had a sewing night. I planned to teach how to install a zipper, and only one lady turned up to class that night. It turned out most people didn't come because they thought it was too hard, or, incredibly, because they didn't know how to put in a zipper (which was the whole point of the class!). That one lady who did come was pretty nervous and adamant that she wouldn't be able to do it … she almost packed up and left. I told her we'd do some practice exercises to make the process easier … a little trickery on my part. Within 20 minutes I had walked her through the entire process, and she had successfully installed a zipper into a seam. I will never forget how excited and proud of herself she was feeling at the end of the night. She had done something she thought impossible, and that sense of accomplishment led to her sewing some incredible pieces.

1. Cognitive benefits (memory, concentration, problem solving)

About 10 years ago, a friends daughter was struggling at school. Her short term memory was poor, she couldn't concentrate for long, and she had trouble with spacial awareness. One day she saw me working on an embroidery hoop and asked if she could try. I saw an opportunity to engage her with some craft, and wondered if it would be helpful at all. The next time I saw her, I had traced a favourite cartoon character of hers onto some fabric, put it in a hoop, and I showed her how to do a basic back-stitch. Oh my goodness. She sat and worked on that embroidery hoop for over an hour … not bad for a kid who struggled to concentrate. By repeating just the one embroidery stitch over and over for that time, it was able to latch into her long term memory, and she still remembers how to do it now. After about 20 minutes of embroidering, she got a knot, and so we discussed how she might solve that problem … which she did. As I looked at her project I noticed that the further she went along, her stitches became more uniform in length … hello spacial awareness. I swear … embroidery hoops should be in every occupational therapists office! She still enjoys embroidery, which makes me very happy indeed.

1. Making friends

As a kid, it's pretty easy to make friends. You just walk up to someone and ask if they want to play. As an adult, it can be a little more difficult. What do you say? Who has the time? For crafty folk, getting out to a craft show, or a local class, or community group … even joining an online community based around your craft of choice, is a great way to meet new people and make friends. You're all there because you have something in common, and I find that just in general chatting people bond, then arrange to meet up outside of the group … and friendships are made.

1. Physical benefits

I was reading an interesting article regarding craft during World War 1. Knitting not only picked up a shortfall in government uniforms issued to soldiers, it also helped those at home feel useful. It provided the soldiers serving overseas with some comforts from home (hence the phrase 'comforts' referring to home-knitted socks, mittens and balaclavas).

Another excellent example of how people have used craft and creativity during hardships is known as Trench Art. This falls into 3 main categories.

1. Items made by soldiers to pass the time, remind them of home, stave off boredom and especially as part of their recuperation after injury (diversional therapy and skill development). 2. Items made by POWs using limited resources were a source of trade for food, money or privileges. 3. Items made by civilians, not only around the conflict zone, but also sent from loved ones at home.

LINKS

https://theconversation.com/current-crafts-craze-echoes-world-war-i-knitting-projects-24860

Trench Art

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trench_art

So … if you turn to craft in times of stress, to make connections, to challenge yourself … or for any reason at all, then you are practicing self care, and crafting your way toward good physical and /or mental health. If you're experiencing positive benefits from your crafting pursuits, keep at it, because you're absolutely worth it.

Welcome to The Craft Room. Today let's talk about the thing that everyeone seems to be talking about ... decluttering. it really does feel like everybody is talking about declulttering at the moment (minimalism would be a close second), so let's go there today, specifically in relation to craft stuff.

Now if you haven't heard of Marie Kondo, she is a Japanese professional organiser. Her book, 'The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering & Organising', is a New York Times best seller. She even has a series on Netflix! She has brought decluttering into mainstream conversation, but she is one of thousands of professional organisers world wide. The rise of organising as a profession can really only mean one thing ... too many people have too much stuff, and need help to get it sorted.

LINKS FlyLady - http://www.flylady.net/ Organize 365 - https://organize365.com/ Marie Kondo - https://konmari.com/ My blog post for this episode - https://dawnlewis.com.au/podcast-episode-7-should-you-kondo-your-craft/

In episode 6 I talked about tidying up / decluttering as a way to get your crafting mojo back. Regardless of whether prefer to work in a neat environment or one with all your supplies on display, a good tidy up to get your supplies organised has serious benefits. 1. Time - We waste an enormous amount of time looking for things. Being able to find what you need straight away means more time crafting and less wasted time looking. 2. Space - At some point we all hit capacity when it comes to craft supply storage. If we continue to accumulate supplies faster than we can use them, then we're going to end up with a bit of craft chaos. Removing old, unwanted, unloved and damaged supplies creates space for new goodies we can't wait to use. 3. Treasure - I always say that organising your craft supplies is like a treasure hunt. You find things you thought were lost, that you forgot you had, or a stockpile of staples that will save you a trip to the store later. It can spark ideas for new projects, and unearth old projects you can't wait to finish. 4. Trash - The flip side to the 'treasure' coin is trash. Chances are that there are dried up paint tubes, brushes with solid bristles, empty packages, moth-eaten yarn or damaged supplies in your stash. Moving out the trash means more room for the treasure. Identifying how craft supplies came into your house can be helpful in the decluttering decision making process. I can think of 8 ways that craft stuff comes into my home. 1. Consumables - I bought this because it's something I always use. 2. Project - I bought this with a particular project in mind. 3. Stash building - I bought this because I like to work late at night and would like a variety of supplies to choose from. 4. You love it - I bought this because I loved it so much I couldn't bear to leave it behind. 5. It was on sale - I bought this because it was marked way down in the bargain bin, and too good a price to pass up. 6. Gifts - I was given this as a gift. 7. Swaps - I received this when I partcipated in a swap. 8. Freebies - I got this for free (on the cover of a magazine, in a goodie bag at the craft show, when I was on a design team). Identifying how an item came to be in your stash can help you make decisions about whether it needs to stay or go. The Kondo method has you hold each item and ask yourself if it sparks joy. Honestly, if I were to do that with my craft supplies it would take years. So ... I have some other questions you can ask yourself that may help you decide if something stays or goes. 1. Does it spark joy? 2. Am I really going to use this? 3. Can I think of a use for this? 4. Is this still my style? 5. Is this in good enough condition to use? 6. Can I keep part and donate the rest? 7. Did I put this in the 'donate' pile, then feel sad? (kind of the flip side question to #1). 8. Is there a reason I haven't used this already? 9. If my house burned down, would I miss this? Would I replace it? And while we're at it, let's dispel a couple of myths about decluttering and minimalism. 1. The point is not to get rid of everything ... just the items that you no longer need, love or use. 2. A professional organiser will not force you to get rid of things that you love. 3. Everybody is different, therefore there is no one single solution or rule that will work for everyone.

Welcome to The Craft Room. Today we're going to explore, not only my top 10 ways to find your lost mojo, but also some reasons why it might have gone MIA in the first place. Understanding why your creativity has taken a dip will help you figure out which of these tips might help you find it again. 1. Walk away - Sometimes you need to take a break, distract your brain, by walking away from your project to make a cuppa, sleep on it or take a couple of days off. Coming back to it with fresh eyes can help. 2. Tidy up your workspace - If a clean space is irresistible, then a good tidy up can help. A deeper clean is like a treasure hunt and you can find some forgotten supplies that may spark ideas. 3. Visit a craft show or specialty craft store - You may find inspiration, new supplies but best of all, be able to chat to other crafters. 4. Pinterest or YouTube - Do a search for the product that has you stumped, and see how others are using it as a starting point. 5. Join a Challenge - Lots of companies, design teams, bloggers, vloggers and Instagrammers run fun challenges that can help you try something new. 6. Hang with a Crafty Friend - Whether you craft or not, hanging with another creative person can be really helpful. 7. Take A Class - It doesn't matter if it's online, in store or at a friends house, a class can get you making without the creative strain of coming up with the project. 8. Library - Your local library will have books and magazines that you might never have seen before, which is a great combo of #1 AND it's free! 9. Try a Kit - Again, this is the joy of making without the burden of coming up with a design from scratch. 10. Just Start - Taking action, just getting hands on and working with your materials, even if you're not sure where this is going, can spark ideas or reignite you passion for your craft. Action = movement = building momentum. There are different reasons why your mojo may be MIA, and understanding what has dulled your creative spark can be helpful in figuring out how to get it back. Being overwhelmed isn't quite specific enough ... what's the reason for the overwhelm? * Excited overwhelm * Too much stuff overwhelm * Too many options overwhelm * Decision fatigue * Life stuff * Mental health And then we have to ask ourselves, what even qualifies as lost mojo? * Lack of motivation? * Overwhelm? * Fatigue? * Difficulty making decisions? * Lost passion? Links I mentioned in todays podcast Matt Lin (Instagram) Crystal Lee Arts (Instagram) Fangirl Stitches Pixel Power Design Clouds Factory

Welcome to The Craft Room! Today I am joined by Marni Franks, of Frankensteins Fabrics, who is sharing with us the top 10 supplies & tools you will need to create a quilt top. Sure, there are lots of wonderful toys you can buy to make quilts, but we're talking bare basic necessities. We've each thrown in an honourable mention each, so stay tuned till the end for those.

1. Pattern 2. Sewing Machine 3. Rotary Cutter 4. Ruler 5. Self-healing Cutting Mat 6. 1/4" Sewing Machine Foot 7. Fabric 8. Thread 9. Pins 10. Iron & Ironing Board Honourable Mentions Dawn - Quick Unpick / Seam Ripper Marni - Thread Snips

Marni also has some great hints and tips along the way, especially if you've never made a quilt before, and you can read more information below. Here are the places you can view Marni's work and contact her with your burning quilt-related questions ... Website - http://www.frankensteinsfabrics.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/frankiesfabrics

Instagram - https://www.facebook.com/frankiesfabrics

Email - [email protected]

Patterns

Buy patterns from reliable sources to ensure that you are not supporting infringement of the pattern designers copyright/intellectual property. Buy direct from designers where you can. Give feedback to designers where you can. Do not photocopy and share purchased patterns as this is a breach of copyright/intellectual property and theft. Support designers by telling people where you bought a pattern from.

Sewing Machines

Sewing machine is personal preference. My best advice is grab a notebook, write down questions you have about what you want to sew, the functions and accessories and price. Take samples of the fabrics you'll be using and go and visit every machine dealer you can to test drive machines. Buy the best machine your budget will allow. That way the machine will last you longer as you learn and you won't out skill your machine too quickly. Buy from a dealer so you get the after sale care you need as well as warranties and help when needed. Keep your machine cleaned and oiled and serviced regularly and it will last you a long time. Rotary cutter

The 2 brands I prefer are OLFA and Fiskars. Both companies are super reliable. They both do similar sizes but I love my 45mm ergonomic handled OLFA and my 28mm curvy handled Fiskars. I use them for cutting different things as its easier to do smaller controlled cutting with smaller rotary blades. When I'm cutting large pieces like strips, borders and background squares I always go a bigger blade to make it faster and more efficient.

If you end up doing lots of strip cutting I also recommend purchasing a ruler with a rotary cutter built into it. This is a faster way to cut and protects your fingers from the blade.

Rulers

Patchwork rulers come in all shapes and sizes. My most recommended sizes for when you are starting out are a 6in x 24in ruler and if you are doing lots of big squares a 12.5in square ruler. I also found quite handy when I started out a small square ruler and there are two sizes which are good depending on your hands – a 4.5in and a 6.5in square. I tend not to be brand specific when it comes to rulers as not every company makes every style of ruler. I do recommend Matilda's Own, Australian Rulers and Templates, Hobbycraft and Sew Easy.

Self-healing craft mat

Best recommended brand OLFA. Sizes are small 12in x 18in, medium 18in x 24in and large 24in x 36in. OLFA is by far the best in my opinion as I've still got my original mat from 16 years ago and it's in excellent cutting condition.

1/4in sewing machine foot

This foot is a must for accuracy. Most of these feet will come with a small tongue guide that sticks out of the right hand side of the foot and helps you guide your fabric under the foot while stitching. The guide prevents the fabric from moving further to the right and creating seams that are bigger than 1/4in. There are a few out there that don't have a guide, so if you feel you want to start your quilting with a little bit of extra help don't buy one of these. Your machine feet are purchased from the dealer who sells your machine model. I can help with Bernina and some selected snap on feet (Brother, Janome, Bernette).

Fabrics

When you are first starting out its okay to use cheaper fabrics, however you do run the risk of having issues if the quality is poor. Keep to 100% cotton patchwork fabrics as they are more stable and easier to piece than many other fabrics. Once you've gained confidence you can play with other fabric types and compositions.

Marni's favourite sewing thread

Honestly thread is totally personal preference and selected on the basis of what I want the project to look like. So I tend to piece with Rasant (core spun polyester/cotton blend) and quilt with whatever takes my fancy. Rasant is by far the most economical way to piece quilt tops – there is 1000m on a spool and costs vary from store to store but its around $6-9. It takes me approx. 3 months to use an entire spool when just piecing. If I'm quilting with it however 1 spool will do approx. an entire quilt top and bobbin thread. My other favourite threads for quilting are Kingstar (machine embroidery thread that's shiny) and Aurifil. They are more expensive but definitely worth it for special projects. I used to use a lot of Gutermann threads but the cost became prohibitive so I stopped using them. There is nothing wrong with them, they are fabulous threads and very good quality but when I was making lots of quilts (30 a year at one stage) it just became too expensive.

Pins

There are lots of different pins out there but Flower head pins are highly recommended because they sit flat. They are longer than most standard pins and generally are considered sharper as well. I like two brands when it comes to these pins – Clover and Hemline. Clover are the better quality in my opinion but they don't contain very many pins in a packet so if you do buy them be prepared to be moving pins around your work more often. Hemline brand are cheap and cheerful. Lots in a packet, brightly coloured and pretty good quality.

Ironing and Ironing Board

Personal preference again – but basically an ironing board with a decent cover and foam, set at a comfortable height. An iron that you can use with or without steam, a good long cord and if possible one that turns itself off.

Special mentions:

Quick unpick/Seam Ripper

Make sure your seam ripper is comfortable in your hand and has a nice sharp blade. If it has a lid, please use it. Always better to be safe than sorry.

Thread Snips

There are a few types of thread snips that I recommend. Cheap and cheerful ones are fine but generally I've found that they don't stay sharp for very long. I do suggest buying a pair that cost a bit more so that you get good use out of them. Spring loaded snips (as well as scissors) are great if you have issues with your hands like arthritis as the spring mechanism takes the pressure off your hands. I have a small spring loaded pair on my long-arm to snip threads as I quilt but when I'm at my sewing machine I prefer a pair of duck-billed scissors. These are mainly used for machine embroidery to get better access for trimming jump stitches.

TIP:

Proper seam pressing

Part of the key to gaining accuracy in your finished patchwork item is in the ironing. It takes practice to not put too much pressure on your fabrics and press them into oblivion. The trick is to lift and press, not to push. Pushing will warp the fabric and make your straight seams bow out of alignment. Check both right and wrong sides of your pieces to ensure that the seam hasn't "rolled" over onto the joining piece and that all seams are pressed open/or to opposite sides for joining junctions. Steam can be both your enemy and your best friend but use it sparingly until you are comfortable with ironing in this manner. Check Marni's blog post for more.

Marni's class list, if you're ever on the NSW Central Coast - CLICK HERE