Hello 2021 - Year Of Making
Happy New Year! I know we’re about two weeks in, but I feel like it's acceptable to wish happy new year until the end of January. Because let’s be honest, most of us are still dating our checks with 2020 (am I the only one still using these), or we still havn’t taken down our Christmas trees (still just me?). Either way, well done everyone. We made it through a historical year!
I’ve been reflecting quite a bit as I start visualizing my aspirations for this year. The events of 2020 were very unexpected. They touched each of us in different ways, some of which we are still processing. I was presented with my own set of challenges and learnings. A big takeaway was gaining a better understanding of who I am, what I’m capable of, and what I want out of life. Too often last year, I found myself fighting to survive the week–– “just make it to Friday” was my mantra. For 2021, my focus has shifted to “thrive not survive”. I know it’s not going to be easy, but that’s why I’ll be putting on my full armor everyday.
There were many positives that came out of last year. I have just a few listed below:
Working remotely most of last year gave me two wins. Not only did I realize I’m capable of working productively from my desk or couch, I also had the opportunity to spend more time with My pup Lucy. During the spring and summer months, I was able to spend my lunches with her on the patio. We were also running together thorughout the week, which we both loved.
I reduced my student loan debt footprint. This is a big one for me. Since we were at home so much due to the pandemic, I didn’t really buy clothes, makeup or spend money on eating so. I used on the extra money I usually spend to make extra payments. They added up to so much more than I imagined.
I stepped deeper in my faith, which in turn prompted me to start this blog over the summer. Creating content for this blog brought me so much joy. It reminded me how much I enjoy taking the time to be creative and actually use my hands to create in a non digital way. My creative skillset is my God given gift that I want to use to show others how they can become makers too.
Goals for 2021
Several projects were made for close friends and family. Gift projects, like my sister’s baby yoda pillow or my niece’s first doll, excited me the most because they forced me to push my creative limits. I’ve already started brainstorming some items that I know will be well loved!
Honestly, I haven’t always had this mindset, but I’m learning it’s much better to give than to receive. With that in mind, my goal for the year is to make even more items than I made last year, with a majority of the projects geared toward a gifting mindset. Of course I’ll also try to be intentional with what I’m making as well because no one needs more stuff just to have it.
2020 Project Recap
Check out the gallery below to see what I was up to in 2020. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to capture everything I made last year on the blog. So I’ve selected a couple projects that were gifted toward the tail end of last year to be featured this year.
Eight
Nine
Ten
1 Digitally Printed Pillow / 2 Furry iPad Sleeve / 3 Denim Jacket Up-cyle Applique / 4 Unicorn Headboard / 5 Face Mask / 6 Reusable Silverware Wrap / 7 Paper Envelopes
Coming Soon / 8 Mini Tote Gift Bag / 9 DIY Doll / 10 Denim Apron
What’s Next?
You may have noticed, my projects are primarily sewing based. Initially I started this blog wanted to give tutorials on the whole gamut of craft materials. However, I realized, many of my projects incorporated sewing in one way or another. The shift feels natural because I’ve been machine sewing since I was twelve. Before that, my mom taught me hand sewing. It’s a great hobby with many applications. My intentions are to have projects for the novice and experienced sewist alike.
What are your sewing goals for the year? I know many of us are still avoiding the stores if possible. Is there anything you want to make? Tell me about it, and send me a message if you need help getting started. I’d love to help!