Additional Resolutions: Make

As I was surrounded by cloth napkins in various stages of creation the other day, my brother-in-law, who has seen me working on probably ten different projects over the last few months, asked me if I always have some kind of project going. I do. I just can't help myself. There are so many projects that would improve our lives, make our home cuter, or be the perfect gift. But, if you haven't felt inspired by Courtney, Whitney and my make resolutions over the last few weeks, here are a few more.

1. Try to make gifts instead of buying them in the new year. Not only could this be an opportunity to try making some projects you haven't before, but you could save money. Now, this can be tricky. Fabric can be expensive, so you can end up spending more than you intend. Make sure that the gift is more practical to make than to buy. Also, try to make something that the recipient would actually want. An embroidered onesie for your friend's new baby could be a sweet gift. (If you don't think you can embroider, go here...you can.) You probably shouldn't make a wedding gift instead of buying off the registry...unless you know the bride and groom exceptionally well.

2. Make something new each month. If you're trying to improve your sewing/crafting skills, giving yourself a monthly deadline could be just the motivation you need. There are so many great resources to inspire you. You could make a garden box in April. You could sew a sundress from a shirt in June. You could make some living room friendly beach balls in February. The possibilities are almost overwhelming. Choose wisely!

3. Commit to using recycled/repurposed materials for your creations. While lugging a bag of unwanted clothes to Goodwill is a noble act, you might be giving away some of your best project resources. When you look at an old t-shirt as a pair of little boy pants, rather than an ill-fitting shirt, your outlook changes. Perhaps that colorful skirt that was always a size too big could be make into a tote. Your boyfriend or husband's stained work shirt could be a set of snack bags. And, if you decide you really can't repurpose that oatmeal container you've been saving, just recycle it.