Time Flies!

Has it REALLY been that long since I posted here? I don't know where the time goes. I'm hoping to be more disciplined and post here more often.

I've started a new chapter since I was here last. I've been working at Michaels Arts & Crafts for almost three weeks. I needed to get back to something crafty to find inspiration again.

I'm currently working as a "replenishment associate" which means I unpack boxes and restock shelves. It's actually fun. I'm working in the sewing/needlecraft/yarn section. Wow! There are some AMAZING yarns out. It's motivating me to FINALLY learn how to crochet and/or knit. I know how to do the chain stitch in crochet and I've even made some jewelry with this technique but now I want to learn more.

The people I work with are really nice. On the whole, the customers have been nice too. Yesterday was a bit of a zoo. Some people were doing last minute back-to-school shopping and were a bit miffed that an arts and crafts store didn't carry binders, notebook paper, backpacks and lunch boxes.

OK. Don't want to over-post today. I have to get back down to the studio to work on some more jewelry. Our second craft show of the year is next weekend. More details on that to come...

Julie :-)

Inspiration

First off, I have to tell you that I'm an avid reader. One of my FAVORITE places is my local library. The ladies that work at the check out desk all know me as "the bead lady". A few weeks ago I checked out a book titled "Inside the Creative Studio - Inspiration and Ideas for Your Art and Craft Space" by Cate Coulacos Prato. Wow! I was hooked after I read the first sentence "Do you dream of having a studio of your own, a place where you can think, create, make a mess, and even teach?" Yes, yes, yes, yes, and YES!

I have to confess that I really haven't gotten a chance to read much of the book but I have looked, and drooled, over the photos of various artist's studios. This book inspired me to REALLY work on Studio 5-Oh! I used to refer to my craft space as "The Craft Cave". That title didn't really do it justice though because I don't just craft there. I read, listen to music, watch TV and yes, craft too! Before I can get others to take my work seriously, I have to take my work seriously. The first step is to make a space where I can create.

I have to head to the library to return this wonderful book. I was hoping I could renew it and get a chance to read more but someone else is on the waiting list. I hope the next person who reads this book is as inspired as I am.

Welcome!

As far back as I can remember I've been creative. When I was young I used to sew my own Barbie clothes and make furniture and things for them from my Dad's wood scraps. For birthdays and special occasions I always made things for my family - cards, pictures, desk accessories, etc. I "upcycled" long before it was the new crafty buzz word.

Over the years, I have amassed WAY too many interests, in WAY too many areas. For the past few years my focus has been on beads and jewelry making and my other interests have sort of been pushed to the side. I'd love to get back to some of them.

This blog will follow my crafty adventures in Studio 5-Oh! I don't know how often I'll get to post but hopefully at least once a week. Sometimes it will be more and sometimes it will be less.

Thanks for reading!