I have been into crafts for as long as I can remember. There is still a memory of me standing in front of the mirror, unweaving the knitted dress I was wearing, trying to figure out how it was made. I was four at the time, and this didn’t go well. It ended up with a spank and a ruined dress.
I have been into crafts for as long as I can remember. There is still a memory of me standing in front of the mirror, unweaving the knitted dress I was wearing, trying to figure out how it was made. I was four at the time, and this didn’t go well. It ended up with a spank and a ruined dress.
Growing up in a time before the Internet, I tried to learn how to make things from anyone available—my grandma, mum, aunts, and neighbors. I would spend hours improvising, trying to bring my ideas to life. I used to pile bags with any shreds of fabric and threads underneath my bed, take them out after school, and try to make things for my dolls and me. The crafting mess had started early.
These were also times of hardship for the family. There was a real need to make myself things we couldn’t afford, using whatever materials I could get my hands on. That made me miserable at the time, but now I know it formed the core of my crafting philosophy—use what you have to create the best you can.
Crafting has always been my sidekick, even though I earn a living in an entirely different profession. Over the years, I’ve participated in craft fairs, collaborated with shops to sell finished items, and even taught classes while organizing workshops. My project instructions have found their way onto anything I can write on—even paper napkins. From linens and home decorations to accessories and clothes, I create many of the items in my house—I even made my wedding dress. My friends often smile at the items I make or fix for them, and I’m known for taking my knitting everywhere. Finishing a project often keeps me up all night, but I wouldn’t have it any other way—I just love being that kind of weirdo!
A side effect of this passion is constantly having a house in a mess. Those who love me understand, and they’ve learned to embrace the chaos. After all, it’s just part of the creative process.
Pinterest has made me crave more: it made me want to teach and learn more; it made me want to expand. Mostly, it made me want to share and connect with people who share the same infatuation, regardless of where they live. I am Greek, and I currently live in Athens, Greece. Maybe you, reading this, are in another country or even another continent. And we may get to connect because we have the same passion for crafts—how great is that?
I sincerely hope A Crafting Mess will help you with your crafting ideas. I look forward to any comments, ideas, or thoughts you may have. Thank you for joining me on this creative journey! Let’s embrace the mess and create something beautiful together!
