(I posted this a couple of years ago. A friend reminded me that this is a good idea
so I thought I would post it again.
Happy Holiday Gift Giving.)
Looking for a gift for someone? Having a hard time finding the right
thing? How about giving them an activity
instead? What if you introduced them to
a new craft or art form?
Giving crafts as gifts is the best way to create a lifelong
memory. My little spool knitting doll
was given to me as a gift when I was a child.
I enjoyed it then and still do.
The first crewel embroidery I ever did was an embroidery kit. The instructions, the yarn, the needle,
printed fabric were all included in the kit.
Kits where everything is included (even any tools like
needles) is the best way to start someone on a new creative adventure. My love of needle felting came with a kit
that included step by step picture instructions, the roving and the
needle. I don’t think I would have tried
it if I had to find all the supplies separately. Now I have gone crazy for needle felting.
If a kit isn’t available, why not sign them up for a
class. Many fabric and craft stores
provide classes as well as libraries, community centers or non-profit
organizations (YMCA, for example). If
there is something you can teach your gift recipient, buy them all the supplies
they need to start lessons with you. This way they have their own tools and
supplies.
Or give a gift card to a craft or hobby store, so they can
choose their own craft. And to add to
your fun, go with them when they spend their gift. It is another way you can share the
experience.
Remember to start off small.
If they want to learn to quilt, start out with a pillow or small wall
hanging. You don’t want to buy all the
supplies for a big quilt, only to find out that quilting wasn’t as enjoyable to
your gift recipient and they get bored with it.
Not only is giving something crafty a great gift, it can
lead to a lifetime of enjoyment. As the saying goes, it is a gift that will
keep on giving.
PS: there is also
nothing wrong with a brand new box of crayons for crafters of all ages.
©2016, 2019 – Cheryl Fillion
No comments:
Post a Comment