If you caught the post where I shared my goals earlier this week, you already know that I’ve made a commitment to return to my artistic roots. I do creative things every day, but they are all in front of a screen. This year, I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get my hands into some REAL art projects, like drawing, painting, and crafting. Every month, I’ll be tackling a different medium and documenting my results.
If you feel like you’ve been spending too much time in front of the computer and want to get in touch with your creative side, I would love it if you joined me on this journey! There is no cost to participate (other than any materials you choose to purchase), and no need to commit. I want this to be super-low pressure and fun, so you can feel free to join in on the projects that you want to— whether that be one of them, or all 12.
Here’s how you can get involved:
1. Join the official Creative Challenge Facebook Group
Ask questions about technique, share your struggles and show off your progress
2. Collaborate in the Creative Challenge Pinterest Board
Share your favorite projects, tips and tutorials. Please request to contribute to this board by following the board, following me, and leaving a comment on one of the board’s pins asking to be added. All are welcome!
3. Use the hashtag #EECreativeChallenge
Snap photos of your work and share on Instagram
4. Write your own blog posts chronicling your creative journey
I’m happy to promote, pin and share!
Again, feel free to partake in any or none of the above. I know that the more people get involved, the more fun this process will be. Sort of like a virtual art class!
Here is what I have planned for the year:
{ January 9th – February 13th }
Knitting, crocheting, sewing, weaving, embroidery or quilting
{ February 13th – March 13th }
Watercolor
{ March 13th – April 10th }
Paper Flowers
{ April 10th – May 8th }
Pencil and charcoal drawing
{ May 8th – June 12th }
Gardening and Floral Arrangement (yes, I am trying to reform my plant-killing ways)
{ June 12th – July 10th }
Calligraphy
{ July 10th – August 14th }
Acrylic or Oil Painting
{ August 14th – September 11th }
Pottery and sculpture
{ September 11th – October 9th }
Mixed media and collage
{ October 9th – November 13th }
Photography
{ November 13th – December 11th }
Jewelry Making
{ December 11th – January 8th }
Dessert Decorating (doesn’t really line up with my goal to be healthier this year, but we’ll figure it out…)
Every month, I’ll share some suggestions to get the creative juices flowing, but I encourage you to think outside the box and create art that is meaningful to you. I will post a recap of the previous month on the second Friday of each month and would love to include some of your photos if you would like to share them.
Let’s get started with the first project!
{ January 9th – February 13th }
Knitting, crocheting, sewing, weaving, embroidery or quilting
I should be clear that I’m not going to attempt ALL of these! I learned how to knit and sew as a kid, but I’ve never gotten the opportunity to try crocheting, so I have decided to go with that. I’ve been inspired by one of my oldest and dearest friends, Francesca, who is a master crocheter (check out some of her adorable items). She’s already been warned that I plan on bothering her for tips. I have also chosen crocheting in honor my cousin Donna, who passed away last spring. She was an avid crocheter and brought so much joy to all the people that she shared her creations with.
If you plan to hop on board this month, here are some projects you may want to try:
1. Knit or Crochet a hat or scarf
We are experiencing quite the cold front right now (even in Florida). Whip yourself up something fashionable and cozy to keep warm, or maybe a gift for a loved one!
2. Create your own throw pillow covers or curtains
Try your hand at sewing, by hand or using a sewing machine, and do a little redecorating at the same time.
3. Embroider your own clothing, blankets or maybe hand towels
Take and old fashioned embroidery hoop and create something with a modern flair.
4. Start a quilt
I say “start” because I know nothing about quilt-making, but it’s seems like a complex project. If you are up for creating a whole quilt in one month, you are amazing, and I hope you will share your secrets with us.
5. Create a handmade doll or toy
My mom sewed us the cutest handmade dolls when my sisters and I were little. I know that since then, the amount of doll and toy patterns have grown tremendously!
If you’re already feeling overwhelmed, here are some resources to get you started:
– Pinterest Tutorials
– Craftsy Tutorials
– Classes at your local craft store like Jo-Ann Fabrics, Michaels, or AC Moore
Need to stock up on materials? Here are a few places to check out:
– Amazon’s Arts, Crafts & Sewing Department
– Etsy Marketplace
– Your local craft store
Tight on cash? Ask a family member or friend if they might have some leftover yarn and maybe some needles you can borrow.
Have any questions? Leave a comment and I’d be happy to answer for you. I look forward to connecting with you, fellow creatives!
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