A new year is a new beginning and a chance to reflect and ponder all things creative. As I remembered my work and accomplishments in this past year, I realized there was not much thought or priorities put into my efforts. I kind of rambled here and there, leaving lots of good intentions strewed along my path. This year, I am setting some new year’s resolution goals, with the idea that I will finally do some of the things I have been wanting to do for a long time. Even so, I am going to be realistic (I really want to accomplish these), kind and flexible — AND reward myself for resolution accomplishments. Here are my three resolutions for 2013:
1. Finish what I start
I have a million ideas of things I want to do (especially in my sewing room), and I have started a very large number of those — many of which remain unfinished. This stack of unfinished projects in the picture is real. These projects are unfinished for a variety of reasons — maybe I ran into some trouble and had to rip out some mistakes, maybe I’m missing some fabric, maybe the work was too difficult or tedious or I was distracted by other ideas, chores or obligations. Whatever the excuses (and I’m sure some are VERY good ones), it is time to finish these projects.
I am a firm believer that when you let go of some of your past, you open yourself to the exciting possibilities of the future. So whether I finish these projects or make a decision to let them go, I am picking a list of top 10 projects to complete. Ten completed projects is an average of one project a month (with a few months buffer). Why don’t you join me in creating and finishing your top ten craft projects, too?
We all seem to have something undone, whether it is scrapbooking those baby pictures or sewing up a pattern with that beautiful stack of fabric you have stashed, or finishing that exquisite sweater you started three winters ago. Make your own top 10 list and use this handy template to keep track of your progress.
2. Learn something new
What makes crafting fun is discovering something new to try. Whether that means learning a new crafting method, relearning a new way to do something or trying something you never thought possible, this resolution says go for it. Studies say that learning new skills keeps your mind fresh and strong.
I plan to take at least one sewing or quilting class in a physical classroom in addition to learning on the computer — I recently bought a Craftsy class on machine quilting (I took this one, but there are some other great ones there, too). There are a lot of free online classes that you can sign up for as well. Why not consider the power of Pinterest for finding inspiration on new trends, patterns, and tutorials on just about any topic and craft you can think of. Swap skills with your friends! All that matters is to keep learning.
3. Do something for others
Since I am a quilter and sewer, I want to use my talents to create items for charity or for friends and family who may be in need of some comfort. I often get caught up in my own life and projects and problems. But I do know the joy I feel when I make something special and give it away freely. This is an opportunity to focus on someone else and to create something to share with others. Why not slow down a little and plan to give back this year? Maybe you have some orphan quilt blocks that need a home or some leftover yarn or fabric. There are plenty of needs out there, so this resolution will be to figure out what to do and then create and share it with someone in need.
Feel free to use my ideas or create your own. What crafty resolutions do you have planned for the new year?
(The post Lori’s 2013 crafty resolutions first appeared on The Good Weekly.)