Creativity is the fuel that drives the crafter. It is an expression of ideas that brew about in our heads. Sometimes the creativity well runs dry though, and a little help is necessary. Other times it is fun to see what other people have created and expand our own ideas. “The Creative Life,” is a television show, with a corresponding Web site, that features everything from traditional crafting to the new recycled art so popular today.  

‘The Creative Life’ is your new one-stop show for step-by-step how-to segments and tips and techniques for creating unique items for the home. From decorative painting to building, gardening to cooking, sewing to home decor and everything in between, Cheryl does it all, and takes you on location as she explores every nook and cranny of ‘The Creative Life.’
The Creative Life Web Site

“The Creative Life” presents not only ideas but free patterns on the Web site.  If you have been unaware of this show, you can also find the PBS scheduling so you can watch the production in your local area.  You can also see different clips from the show.  For the crafter, “The Creative Life” is a “creative” approach to crafting that will be become a useful resource.

The Creative Life 

Did the soap making business I talked about the other day interest you?  If so, your first question might have been, “How do I make soap?” 

Developing your own unique style, scents and shapes will be something that evolves over time, with practice and a little trial and error.  But starting is something you can do right now.  Each time you create a new soap, you will learn something, and if you hope to turn your soap making into a business, this is a great place to start.

Make Modern Soap With Herbs, Beeswax And Vegetable Oils

The Truth About Soap 

Summer has just begun and it is time, actually past time, to turn toward the garden and find the expression of color and joy that flowers and plants bring.  Most of the crafting work here is already done for you because, as they say, “Only God can make a tree.”  But while He made the tree, He wouldn’t mind at all if you did some decorative things around it!  Get your family together and turn a Saturday into a garden crafting day.

There are two crafts that I especially like at the link below.  They are all cute, but two really caught my eye.  One is the Dove Windchimes (that was predictible since I collect windchimes) and the other is the Keepsake Stepping Stone.  I love that all of the instructions are provided and the crafts are inexpensive. And if your children are young, you will be so glad you did these stepping stones.  I wish I had some of my kids from years ago.

Take a look.  There are some cute things that will add some personality to your yard and garden and it will be a wonderful way for your family to spend some great time together. 

Garden Crafts

Free Nature and Gardening Crafts - Those painted pots would be great on a deck!

I know a lot of people who would give anything to make their hobby into their job.  Is it possible?  Sure!  It is like any other business.  You have to have the skill, the drive, and the self-discipline to make it work.  Sometimes with a hobby, that is a double-edged sword; you are turning your leisure time activity into your work so working on it is part of what you have to do.  That can be good, but it can also turn something you love into a chore.  Only you can decide if that will work for you.

For Kelly Mason, in Maine, it works great.  She had a hobby making soap.  She turned that hobby into a business and is building a good reputation with a product that she has a passion for.  Read her story as reported in the “Bangor Daily News.”  You too could take your hobby to the next level - the main ingredient is dedication.

In A Lather