As someone who is pretty crafty, I've learned a lot over my years of creating everything from total masterpieces (in my mind) to total failures. With that being said, this means that I have come to understand what is easy, what is difficult, and what is downright impossible (maybe not but still). Crafting is a great way to relieve some stress, especially when you've had a rough week and need something to do other than study and do homework. And don't worry, even those out there who consider themselves artistically challenged can still create some great crafts! Here's some hacks to help...
1. Mod Podge makes prints easy.
If you love intricate prints like Lilly Pulitzer, you don't have to sacrifice then when crafting. Can't paint them yourself? Find something you like, print it out, trace it to the correct shape, cut it out, and use mod podge to apply it to your surface. You can use mod podge on wooden letters, canvases, and so many other surfaces. And don't forget to wait for it to dry, then apply a top coat over the entire surface to seal it.
2. Tape keeps lines straight.
Even if you can't draw a straight line, you can still have straight lines on your crafts! Use tape to block off the areas you don't want decorated and once you're done, you will have perfectly straight lines and a lot less stress.
3. Glitter always looks good.
Not very good at intricate designs? Glitter is a simple and easy way to craft. It is always pretty and requires minimal skill to apply it to a surface. Just apply some glue, then sprinkle on the glitter for a beautiful, sparkly craft.
4. Hot glue is your friend.
If you can't hand paint those flowers you love so much onto that canvas, then buy some to hot glue onto it. It's super simple and looks great! (Just try not to burn yourself)
5. Stencils are for more than just letters.
When people think of stencils, their most common correlation is lettering. While these can be handy, stencils come in much more than just letters. Many stencils range from simple symbols to designs like mandalas, which can be of great help to those who can't create them on their own.
6. Paint pens do wonders.
Even if you don't love freehanding all of your writing with a brush like I do, you don't have to forsake that super great quote that's your favorite. If your handwriting is fairly nice, paint pens can be your saving grace. These write well, look nice, and can be much easier than repeatedly having to dip a brush and controlling the direction of the bristles.
Some people are blessed with more artistic abilities than others, but that doesn't mean everyone can't create something beautiful themselves. They key to success is all in the hacks. Happy crafting!
