For as long as I can remember, I’ve been deeply immersed in crafting, DIY projects, and baking. There’s something magical about diving into a creative mess and hoping that something beautiful emerges from it. When my friend Sarah decided on sparkly shoes for her bridesmaids to wear with her navy dresses, instead of purchasing a ready-made pair, my other friend and I decided to add our own sparkle using Mod Podge and glitter—it turned out to be an incredibly fun experience.
I thrive on hands-on creativity and constantly feel inspired to try new projects. Sometimes, on a random Wednesday, I get the sudden urge to whip up a cheesecake. Seeing a stunning piece of art in a magazine fills me with excitement (and a hint of anxiety), compelling me to recreate it rather than simply shopping for it.
Occasionally, my projects turn out as planned, but more often than not, they don’t. Yet, I refuse to let the imperfections deter me from using my sewing machine or knitting needles. My passion for crafting is not about achieving perfection; it’s an essential part of my identity—one that has remained unchanged even as life has evolved. I loved creating back then, and I still do now.
I have a deep admiration for art in all its forms. Although I wouldn’t label myself a “Pinterest mom,” I definitely enjoy pinning ideas, gathering supplies, and attempting to create what I see. The process of making feeds my spirit in a way that simply purchasing items from a store cannot provide (though I do plenty of that too). For me, crafting is therapeutic; if I feel like making 457 pom-poms, you can bet it’s happening! (And just so you know, those 457 pom-poms can become a fabulous pom-pom rug.)
There are times when my kids join in on the fun, but there are also moments when I need to create alone, so I’ll hand them playdough or turn on a screen. That creative time nourishes my soul.
I understand that mothers who enjoy crafting sometimes face criticism, but contrary to some beliefs, we’re not seeking attention or aiming to compete with other moms. That notion is simply absurd. I’m not trying to “outdo” anyone or showcase superiority through my projects.
When I redecorate a room and share it on social media, I’m reconnecting with the person I was prior to motherhood. I need that connection every so often, which may involve late-night clay bowl-making sessions just for fun.
We don’t craft to fill a void or make others feel inadequate. I have many friends who are passionate about crafting, and we’ve been creating together long before Pinterest existed. They inspire me to experiment with things I never knew I wanted to try, like re-tiling a kitchen, and remind me that I can tackle challenges myself.
Ultimately, those who create do so for their own joy, not to overshadow anyone else. Who even started the rumors that crafting is about competition? Life’s purpose is to enrich our experiences, and for many of us, that includes gathering to paint while enjoying a glass of wine. There’s no shame in feeling accomplished after organizing a closet or cleaning the house.
Is crafting for everyone? Absolutely not. We all have our own pursuits—some moms excel in athletics, others in organizing fundraisers or running businesses. We should all invest our energy into what brings us fulfillment. After all, we work hard and often prioritize others’ needs over our own.
So, if you want to dive into a new backsplash project or craft a thumbtack wreath, go for it! Instead of feeling diminished by others’ talents or hobbies, let’s focus on recognizing our own strengths. And just to note, I can totally knit you a sweater if you help me out at the school fundraiser.
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Summary:
This article emphasizes the joy of crafting as a personal expression rather than a competitive endeavor among mothers. It highlights the therapeutic benefits of creativity, the importance of reconnecting with oneself through crafting, and encourages readers to embrace their individual interests without comparing themselves to others.