I have seen the light and embraced crafting and eco-friendly crafts in particular.  So how did I come to this craft epiphany? Well, it began innocently enough. I saw a craft segment on Martha Stewart’s show. This segment featured glitter, and I was enthralled as there was an abundance of glitter that Martha sells which includes multiple shades, tones, shapes and textures.

So, I thought that maybe I would stop by Michaels – The Arts & Crafts Store to have a look at the glitter. While I was there something happened.  I was taken in by glue, glitter, craft tools and every other sparkly odd and end imaginable.  Before you call me out on purchasing and not reusing, I understand that to need the tools to reuse. Moving on, I found myself in the check out line with a cart full of supplies, when it hit me that I have no clue what I am making. For all the stuff I had collected, they did not come together to make one cohesive project.  After my stark realization I left empty handed vowing to return only when I had a purpose for these crafty goods.

Later I turned on my Sirius satellite radio, and Martha, the fairy godmother of crafters everywhere, was hosting a live call in show Ask Martha, on her own channel, of course. Before I knew it, I was on the phone with Martha sharing my earlier dilemma/epiphany and asking if she had any words of wisdom for a novice crafter. Martha advised that I buy Martha Stewarts Encyclopedia Of Crafts: An A-to-z Guide With Detailed Instructions And Endless Inspiration. Following that she recommended I purchase a set of her craft tools, lay them out and look them over. I thought that Martha would welcome and encourage new crafters bur alas it was all about pushing her brand.

Although it was exhilarating to speak to the grand dame of crafts, I came away slightly disappointed. Now although her book might not focus on eco friendly crafts, I am sure one could adapt them by reusing what you have already rather than buying new.  Something else I learned in my craft odyssey is that Michael’s offers free workshops, where you can go and learn a craft.  This might be fun depending on the workshop and I thought you, dear blog readers, might enjoy this little tip.  All the information is on their website. Alas, I shall continue my quest for eco-friendly crafts, that do not require a carriage full of product, but you might have to buy a few.

Tags: Ask Martha, crafters, Eco Friendly, eco friendly crafts, martha stewart, Martha Stewart show, recycle, reuse, Sirius satellite radio, sustainable crafts, Sustainable Living