Handmade Conversations: Daily Crafting with Sarah Goldshadt

Do you craft daily? What does your normal routine look like?

In a perfect world I would tackle a craft project every day and make the projects that are constantly swimming in my head. But I typically spend my days as a freelancer designer working for various magazines. Thankfully, I'm a big morning person, so I spend the first few hours of my day catching up on emails and blog posts and squeeze in a project or two if there is time. Otherwise, I'll make things over the weekend. I enjoy crafting in the sunlight the most.

Other than time, what are some common reasons people don't craft daily or even regularly? Any way to overcome these obstacles?

I think my non-crafty friends get overwhelmed with projects as they don't really know where to start or buy supplies. I think the answer is going to a local craft shop and buying supplies like colored card stock, scissors, felt, glue and maybe a sewing needle and sewing thread. Once you have a few supplies on hand it's easier to make a project here and there. Or instead of tackling one small project at a time, make a few to keep on hand or host a mini crafting party.

What are the benefits of fitting crafts into daily life?

I think the happiness factor. You feel proud once you finished a project, and to be able to display or gift the project to a friend or family member is priceless.

Many of your projects are charming but simple, and simple is often rare in the crafting world. What are the benefits of simple crafts?

You don't have to invest a lot of money or time with simple projects. And they are projects that kids and adults can enjoy.