Around the World Blog Hop

I’ve been invited by Carina to take part in an Around the World Blog Hop, where crafty folk answer questions about their creative processes then invite others to join in the fun. I’ve read the trail of blog posts leading to me, it’s all so inspiring and interesting! Click here to see Carina’s post. At the end of this post I name three more blogs to hop to...

1. What am I working on? 

Well. That’s a good question, but an easier one would be what am I not working on? The tagline says it all: Life is one big WIP...

I’m a magpie when it comes to craft and creativity. I want to learn everything; I’m all-too-easily persuaded to give something new a try. From crochet to pottery, sewing to singing, drawing to decoupage...I’d probably try to build a log cabin if given a good instruction book. Then I’d yarn bomb it.

At the moment, I have a number of shawls on my crochet hooks. I’ve made two shawls, here and here, and now I’m drawn to different textures and yarns.

I’m currently teaching three separate crochet workshops as well, plus running two monthly crochet clubs, so there are granny squares, flowers and cushions taking shape, too!

I have a deep love of embroidery, but it takes more detailed concentration than crochet, so I find the projects back up more frequently. I have projects in hoops, here and here for example,

Just a small sample of projects on my list...

and I’ve lost count of projects in the queue!

I bought these because they are beautiful. Now I have to think of a purpose for them...

But I will get to them, my intentions will not be thwarted!

I have a few sewing projects, after making my first skirt here, including a Coco top and other clothes,

a panda quilt,

and I’m desperate for some summery cushions for the living room:

Plus I have myriad ideas swirling constantly in my brain, which I jot in a notebook so I don’t forget them forever. I’m creating more items from my own designs, more on that soon...

 2. How does my work differ from others of its genre? 

That’s a tricky question! I’m not even sure I have a genre. Everyone is different. I suppose sometimes I tap into my more eclectic side with certain projects; I don’t always have to be pink and flowery...so maybe the differences within my own work makes me different. I don’t have a set style.

3. Why do I write/create what I do? 

I’ve been reading blogs for a few years, and so many inspired me to try a new craft or create something lovely. A few friends suggested that I should start my own blog to share what I do, from my crochet projects to birthday party ideas to home decor...and I started thinking that maybe I could inspire others as I have been via blogging. And I thought that perhaps having a blog would help spur me on to complete my WIPs. It’s sort of helped, but I also have more WIPs than ever!

I create because I can’t stand an idle mind. I don’t watch a lot of telly, I’m happier spending my free time making something, baking something, or out singing with my chamber choir or chattering away at a craft group! Creativity makes me happy, connects me to others, and in general makes the world a better place. Handmade is the best!

4. How does my writing/creating process work?

Regarding blog writing, I write and post in the same breath. I don’t conjure an idea, mull it over, write it, revise it, etc. – a topic pops into my mind, I take some photos, I sit down and write, then click ‘Publish’. Sometimes I’ll know that a topic is imminent, like a ta-dah moment or an event I’ve attended, but I don’t have an overall plan.

My creating process is even more erratic. Part of me wishes I could focus my days on certain projects, like Tuesdays and Thursdays are sewing, Mondays are crochet, etc. Then I’d probably get more accomplished. But I never want my craft and creativity to be *work*. That would stifle the creative process. I may have an embroidery project waiting, but if I’m not in the mood to focus on tiny stitches, I’m not going to. Don’t force it, or the craft will suffer. So ideas simmer, fabrics and flosses wait, and when it’s time, it all comes together and is fun!

I had a list as long as my arm of blogs I’d like to hop to, but limited to only three, here are my choices:

Laura at Mason Bee – Laura’s embroidery is at once elegant, fun and incredibly inspiring. Her workmanship is absolutely perfect, and her blog is a joy to read. I wish I could sit and drink tea and stitch with her one afternoon!

Sarah at A Little Happy Place – The blog name says it all – I always feel happy when I read Sarah’s blog! Endearing projects, jolly fabrics, and delightful stitching. This gal’s got talent!

Kate at Just Pootling – My kindred spirit when it comes to neutral colours, Kate’s creations are always beautifully crafted. I adore her stony greys, earthy taupes and rich, calm colour palettes. Her blog is always so inviting, like I’ve been hanging out at her lovely home for years.

Hoppity hop! Thanks for reading!

Chrissie x