on crafting and inspiration // valentine's gifts.

one of the only passions I have kept during these past few years is the love for crafting. crafting is one of the only outlets to release my creativity. indeed, I love to write and play the music, but these are but mere pastimes whereas crafting is something to which I am so very fond of. if I did not have studies to tend to in the day, I would spend all those hours crafting to my heart's content. every stitch whether be sewn, knit, embroidered, or crocheted gives me pleasure and a smile curls from my lips as I think of the beaming delight a dear friend will have whence they handle the project hand-made with love...

hours I spend pouring myself over websites, youtube, and pinterest {thank the good Lord for pinterest!} for craft project ideas. and since a lot of the young ladies I know are within the same circles, rarely do I give out ideas for projects that I keep in mind, but here are a few things that might inspire your creative juices during this Valentine season...

// heart cross stitch {embroidery} // 

// heart shaped paper clips // 

{source :: pinterest} 

cute easy paper clips to add to cards or packages. 

// skinny scalloped scarf // 

very quick and easy crochet project. 

// tea bag gift tags // 

{source :: pinterest} 

cute little gifts to tuck into letters to add a sweet touch. 

// odds and ends garland // 

{source :: pinterest } 

would be fun with hearts and red//pink admission tickets. 

// bunting to gifts // 

glassine bags {purchased on Etsy} add sweet, delicate touches and can be used as envelopes for sweets, cards, vintage postcards, and so much more!  

// pink buntings // 

{source :: pinterest} 

buntings are so easy and the perfect little gifts. 

// posie pockets // 

// drawstring bag // 

embroider it and fill with "craft supplies" from your own collection. 

>>---tips---> 

have the right supplies. purchase good quality paper and embellishments. I know spending a few extra dollars is hard sometimes, but believe me it's well worth it. K Company, Martha Stewart {I don't like her, but love her products ;)}, and DCWV paper and stickers make for lovely cards.  

be inspired.  search a lot of sites for inspiration. pinterest is amazing as well as Etsy {etsy is especially encouraging as real people sell handmade goods that with a little imagination and creativity you can make as well [and even better!]} 

try something new. don't be afraid to fail. believe me, a lot of projects have gone awry.

add personal touches. whenever you can find a place to add a personal touch such as a friend's initial or bible verse, do it! :) 

one more thing :: if it's a gift for a friend, send something you know that they can use/want. if your friend is a knitter, add yarn! if your friend is a writer, include quotes on writing or stationery. etc. etc. make it personal and the gift will be so much more appreciated. 

happy crafting, dear readers! 

the girl who is content crafting in the garden all day.