Things have been hectic over the last few months but I thought it was time to resurrect the Twinkle Twit blog and tell you what's been happening.
Up till the end of 2012 my main craft love was all things papercraft - card making in particular with a little scrapbooking thrown in for good measure, however 2013 has seen me take on a whole array of new craft projects.
It all started earlier in the year when I was put on anti-depressants by the doctor. Yes, I'm not afraid to admit it. I was suffering terribly with anxiety and panic and got to a point where I couldn't socialise or even visit friends. When I began the new meds they really knocked me for six. The side effects were horrendous and these went on for many weeks. During this time it was difficult to commit to anything but on the odd occasions when I felt better I wanted to do things that would occupy my mind. My first project was to be an Easter tree. I took a slow walk with Mom to the local playing fields and chopped off a few willow branches to start work on my project.
After this I began experimenting with wooden plaques. My bro is an expert in the carpentry department so he cut me some various blanks and I spent time playing around with them to find the best materials and supplies to use. The plaques became popular and many of my friends were asking if they were for sale so I decided to open up my Etsy shop www.etsy.com/shop/twinkletwitcrafts and also list items on my Facebook and Instagram feeds.
I've also been learning to crochet and I have to admit, I think I now have an addiction!! I never really got into knitting although both Mom and Nan were avid knitters, but I love the fact that with crochet it's not all about cardi's and scarves! You can start a little project such as a brooch or hanging item and have it finished in a few hours. I'm by no means a expert and not very quick but I love the things I've made so far using lots of fabulous resources on the internet. We're really lucky to have a fabulous wool shop in Halesowen called Withit Witch I popped in this morning as I've decided to make a little something for Mom to hang in her hallway.
I saw a sign recently that said creativity is not a hobby, it's a way of life, I really think that's true. My mind is constantly in craft mode, if I see an idea or project then I have to give it a go, or spend time thinking about how I could do it differently. The crafter's mind never stops! I have to say, I have trouble getting to sleep some nights (oh dear, now I really do sound like I have problems).
I'm so pleased that I decided to stray from papercraft, as although I still love it and try to make cards for all my friends and relations, I've found this whole new world of crafting that means things never get stale or boring.
I have a couple of crochet projects on the go at the moment so piccies coming soon!!