You, too, can be Crafty!

I know I posted about New Year’s resolutions a couple years ago, but today’s post has a slightly different slant. This year, my resolution is to be craftier. Austin has got to be one of the craftiest towns I’ve ever had the honor of living in and I am so happy for it. I must say, I’m handy with a sewing machine, needle and thread, but have no clue how to knit or crochet. I’m a pretty good embroiderer, but I have no idea how to start a mosaics project. I like to think I know how to scrapbook, but no way am I anywhere near a sculptor! There are a lot of things I’d like to learn and this is the year I’m going to do it. If you feel the same way, check out the links below for help in fulfilling that craft dream. Good luck and let me know what crafty endeavors you’re up to!

Craft books can be found anywhere in the 740s…best thing to do if you’re open to anything is to scan those shelves in any of our Libraries. Otherwise, check these specific titles out for some help:

Subversive Cross Stitch one of my favorites! Not something your Grandma would ever have imagined.

Ultimate A to Z companion to 1,001 needlecraft terms for when you have no idea what aida cloth is or how to understitch, this is the book for you.

Amigurumi! : super happy crochet cute I must learn how to crochet and this is my goal to learn, how to make super cute creatures!

Here are just a few of the hundreds of cool Austin craft websites, take a look at them for hands on help and help in getting started with materials:

Future Craft Collective: a site dedicated to bringing kids into the crafty world and getting them excited about it! Lists classes, events and workshops.

Average Jane Crafter: a blog that lays it out there for you, even you – an everyday average person – can craft! Lots of great links, free patterns and other fun blogs.

Austin Craft-o-Rama: a brick and mortar store right here in Central Austin. Yards and yards of fabulous fabric and classes for everyone. A must visit for any crafter.

Finally, check out this research guide I wrote, it’s a primer for anyone looking to get started in fabric crafts or just needs a fresh idea! (Feel free to let us know if you have an organization or association that meets, we’ll add you to the guide.)