As the title says above, people ask me about crafting and why do I do it? Well it’s a very good question.
This is often followed by them saying “I’m not creative” or “I couldn’t make that.”
Being a former teacher, I feel I need to add one small word: YET.
You don’t need to arrive at one of my crafting sessions knowing what to do. Helping you get started is part of my job!
Where it Started
Crafting has been part of my life since childhood in Silsden. I remember making things with my aunts around Grandma’s kitchen table for the British Legion Christmas fairs. There was jam and jelly making too. Making things was something we did together, and those are happy memories. My Grandma was a fantastic baker too!
Over the years I’ve tried all sorts, including sewing and cake decorating. Eventually, paper crafting and card making became the things I most enjoyed sharing with other people.
My teaching background comes in handy. I enjoy working out how to explain something, breaking it into manageable steps and helping someone have a go. I have been known to set homework😊
I love that moment when someone looks at what they’ve made and says, “I did that!”- especially if it’s something they made at home.
What it Looks Like Now
These days, Been Busy Crafting involves quite a lot of cutting paper, preparing projects, packing boxes and checking that I’ve remembered everything. Neil gets roped in too! He’s a great support and the man behind the Been Busy Crafting website.I even taught him how to stamp and make a card😊
All that preparation means that when people arrive, they can settle down and enjoy making something.
That might be at Coffee & Card at Coffee & Crumbs in Kildwick, at Colour Club or craft classes at my home in Silsden, or aboard Tom the canal boat in Skipton. Different settings, but the same idea. Time to sit together, have a chat and do something creative.
Some people come because they already enjoy crafting. Others want to try something new or simply have a reason to get out and spend time with people. There’s room for all of them.
You can ask questions, need another demonstration or take a little longer. That’s what I’m there for.
Why Stampin’ Up!®?
Two things stand out for me: the colour coordination and the people. Having ink, card, paper and embellishments that work together makes creating so much easier, whether I’m making something myself or planning a class. Through Stampin’ Up! I’ve also made friends and connections all over the country, brought together by our shared enjoyment of crafting.
I like that it can mean different things to different people. There’s a business opportunity for those who want one, or simply beautiful craft products bought through a demonstrator who can offer ideas, encouragement and support along the way. For me, it brings together the things I enjoy: making, teaching and connecting with people.
Why I Keep Doing It
I enjoy making cards, but I particularly enjoy sharing the process. Seeing someone grow in confidence, try their own ideas or come back ready for another project makes the preparation worthwhile.
I want people to enjoy using their craft supplies too. It’s easy to collect lovely paper and then save it because it’s “too nice” to cut. I’m very much in favour of opening the packet and making something with it. I always say that my mum taught me to share my toys!
Alongside the crafting, there’s the conversation. People get to know each other. There’s laughter, ideas are shared and friendships develop.
That’s why Gather – Create – Connect feels right for Been Busy Crafting. It describes what I want my sessions to offer.
If you go home pleased with something you’ve made, having enjoyed the company and feeling ready to have another go, I’m happy.
If you’re still thinking, “I can’t do that”, remember its’s “I can’t do that” YET.
