Sharing Enthusiasm

Last week I wrote a longer than I expected post about the process of creative work. This week, after thinking about it some more, I have come to the conclusion that the process of being creative can be helped along in no small measure when you share your enthusiasm. Whether you drool over the newest quilt book or magazine with a friend, get together with a group or guild for support, take a workshop, show your work to those at your job, or even stitch in the waiting room and strike up a conversation with a stranger, sharing your enthusiasm helps keep it strong. The more open and sharing you are of what you are working on, the more you label yourself as creative, and so do others. This lends an air of importance, to your activity and helps to give you a gentle push to continue working. Building an audience of admirers this way is great for the ego and maybe even the pocketbook if they are willing to buy your work. I'm not saying that you should push yourself and work on anyone and everyone, but that you should not be afraid to work in public when the media allows, and miss the chance to explain your technique, color choices, and more to someone who shows interest. Your work is part of who you are, don't be shy about it. Keeping a project with you to work on in spare moments wherever you are is good time management too.

Many of techniques we use as quilters can be portable. During the summer months I can think of nothing more pleasant than sitting on the beach or poolside with a cold drink, some good music and a great project to stitch. The lighting is awesome!! Popular take along projects we can get you set up for include English paper piecing, Red work, embroidery, Applique, and yes even knitting or crocheting with fabric. The final adjustments are in on times for the Knitted Purse. The course will be 2 meetings, June 13, 10-1 & June 27, 10-12. There are a few spots still available so call to register. The supply list is on the workshops page of this blog.

There is room also in the Kool Kaleidoscope workshop beginning Thursday the 9th. If you are planning on attending Hand Stitchers this Tuesday, Bring your Bug making things for our houseplant protectors. Based on the butterfly and dragonfly in Countryside Softies, ours perch atop wires so they appear to fly around your houseplants or flower arrangement. I have body and wing patterns, wire, and even some wool if you want. Of course if you would rather not Bug Out with us you can bring whatever other handwork project you want. See you then.