12.01.2009

GIVE AWAY DAY!!!

Today is GIVE-AWAY-DAY, So......I'm going to ask ONE question, "Why do you craft?"

The answer I like the best, gets......This three bag set. You will get a large 14 inch Knit-along Bag with a handle, a medium Sock-along Bag with handle, and a small 7 inch zip bag.
You have until the 6th to answer, and you'll know the winner by the 12th!

174 comments:

Unknown said...

It is the only way for me to stay sane!

frankncents said...

I craft so that I hold my tongue and keep my job (and friends). Also, to fill the baby hope chest in my basement.

Deb (Two Cheeky Monkeys) said...

I craft because I love it and, as an unexpected housewife and full time stay at home mother, it entertains my kids while keeping me sane! And provides lots of presents for friends and family too, ha ha.

Woven Spun said...

So I don't kill the kidlets :) (just kidding) Truly, in the long run, it's far cheaper then therapy or an extended stay in a padded room. Cause, not only would we have to pay for all that, but we'd have to pay for the teacher to teach the kids, the maid to clean up the house, the cook to cook their meals, the taxi driver to get them places, the seamstress to make their clothing, the nurse to kiss their owies, the therapist to help them through their teen years. Whew....I guess I just deserve to after all that. :)

Kristi said...

I think the fabric makers put something like caffeine into their products to get us unknowing victims addicted. I can't really explain it. I just love making things. I like seeing people's faces when they get something handmade. It's a whole new happiness.

Djaj said...

Why ?
It's just because I'm not a fairy, so it was the only way to make my (and my relatives) life more magical !

Erin said...

Adorable giveaway! I also really like your progress graphs to the left. I'm looking forward to getting to know your blog, and have added you to my RSS feed. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

It's in my blood. My grandmother painted, my mom paints and sews and does calligraphy...I just can't help it. And I love the feeling of satisfaction I get when someone appreciates something I've put so much time and effort into.

Kelly said...

Because I love the finished products!! And I love showing them off!
kellyjo(dot)haines(@)gmail.com

britt said...

i craft because i can't draw! i love to draw but i can't concentrate on it now that i have had the boys. so knitting, sewing and crafting have become my outlet. i also love to see the looks on people's faces when i say that i made something that they think is really cool!

katevet said...

I craft beacause I can't not to!
great giveaway!

Sarah said...

I have just started crafting, especially sewing and knitting, in the past year. And I love it because I didn't know how much I enjoy making things with my hands until I started. It's so fun and rewarding to have an idea in your head of what you want to make, try it, mess up a bunch of times, say an occasionally bad word, but come out with a finished product. I feel like it's making me a bit more daring in what I believe I can do. Plus it's just so cathartic to be creative.

Deanne said...

I love fiber crafts. Working with fiber gives me a tactile pleasure that I love. Creating something from the various fibers allows me to share a bit of my love with those folks that I care about.

Mel O'Drama said...

because i love the satisfaction of seeing the finished product and know that i made that! it's so rewarding to make something from nothing (just like kids)!

melissa at theallgeiers dot com

Sara said...

I only recently started crafting, when my son was about 3 months old. It was my first foray into staying at home & not working. I wanted to do something to help my family but moreso I had the desire to stimulate my mind by learning something new. I've since rediscovered my creative energies & my mind isn't mush :)

merlinthecat said...

I craft because with out crafting I would not be who I am.

Crystal Hendrix said...

That is an awesome question!!

I craft because it calms me down and when I am done I have something that I am proud of!

I have two autistic children and anything that cam relax me, it is a hobby worth keeping!

Thank you for doing this giveaway!

Cathy said...

So that I don't kill people :)
But really, because I can't just watch TV, or listen to the radio, I need to do something else to keep engaged. And I love the finished objects.

isabel f. said...

I craft because I can not spend the nights in front of the TV with my husband zapping the TV remote control and see 5 minutes of each program is super boring!! don't you think?
then since I know myself I always have something to do beside the couch:))
please count me in!!
and go to my blog
http://rosaechocolat.blogspot.com/
I’m hosting this giveaway too )
HUGS from Portugal ))

Anonymous said...

It would be a wonderful way for me to keep my knitting separate instead of carrying it all in one big bag! Yarn Barf.. no good. Lovely Giveaway thanks!

Victoria van der Laan said...

It's totally in my blood (all the women on my Mother's side have been amazing fiber artists) and it's kind of awesome to feel like I'm carrying on a legacy, but really I think I do it because I can't help myself. Creating something new (especially when it's from something old) fills me with enormous satisfaction. Doing for oneself in any regard is empowering and is especially useful at difficult financial times such as these. Crafting helps me keep my family warm, my life organized and my heart full.

Thanks so much for the giveaway, and your inspiring blog!

Jami said...

I figure it's better for me to be frustrated with some rediculously complicated pattern (or, in my case, something rediculously easy)than to actually inflict pain on those who truly make me want to punch them in the face. Plus, it keeps my hands busy when watching TV. This way I don't fidget too much and end up breaking something important.

Corvus said...

Lovely! Thank you for the chance.

corvus.melloriATgmailDOTcom

Firesong said...

Crafting is a way for me to release my creativity and relax. I have a job that is pretty stressful and not all that creative. Crafting helps me get those creative juices flowing and some of my best times are coming up with a new crafting adventure and gathering supplies. The anticipation keeps me going.

SDGvegan said...

I am a creative person. Being a crafter is just, being me.

Tawny said...

I craft because I enjoy the feel of burning myself with a hotglue gun. Or poking myself with pins. Or dropping a million tiny beads all over the floor and having to clean them up. I craft because I'm hazard prone, and crafting gives me an excuse other than pure clumsiness to explain all my calloused fingers and pulled out hair hehe

RyanSarahN said...

Because I can't help it! I just get so excited when I see new ideas and fun fabrics or materials I just have to make something! (Or at least plan to make something and have it sit in my pile for months.)

Sara said...

It's the only time I manage to steal for myself, no kids. Everyone needs a little sanity. It's also my creative outlet.

Anonymous said...

i graduated college in may, and then became a first-time, stay-at-home mommy to a wonderful little boy in june. i taught myself to knit the week he was born. :)

it may have been boredom, but crafting just clicked. i've always been artsy, and now i have an outlet for the tension that having an infant creates, and a wonderful opportunity to create items of beauty for the people i love.

Katie said...

I like creating things. I feel such a rush of accomplishment whenever I look at the things I've made. I just started crafting (first knitting, now sewing) two years ago, and I'm always so proud of myself when I finish something, knowing that I made it.

Sara said...

I like making something tangible and lasting.

Also--you are the first giveaway I went to: Me and my sisters are from Lawton (though we are on either coast right now)!!!!

Lena said...

I craft for fun. I love express my self this way.

girlfromipanema said...

I used to craft because I liked it. Right now I craft because I have to. I lost my little girl 4 months ago and crafting has become a healing thing for me. It keeps my mind and hands occupied and challenged. Along the way I am reminded of many things. I make things to remember her and I am reminded of how fortunate I was to have her, even if it was for too short a time. I make things for family and friends and I am reminded of all the loved ones I am fortunate to still have. I make things for myself and I am reminded that I need and do deserve to be taken care of. I make things for others who have lost someone and I am reminded of all the support and caring I have received. And there is the reminder that I don't like. When I make things for other babies, I am reminded that life really and truly does go on even if I don't want it to. But it's the truth and I have to accept it.
I guess when I craft, I can deal with these things on my terms and in my time frame. I can craft with friends or alone as I need to. And if some days the needles are too heavy or the patterns too complicated, my crafting waits for me. There are no timelines for when I have be done. Right now I feel that if I stopped, I would completely fall apart.
That's why I craft.

MissLindsay said...

I craft because I have to! : ) It's compulsive! That, and I have to do something with this growing fabric obsession...I mean, collection! Thanks for the chance to win!

baukje said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
sommerkind said...

For my mental health. It's my way to calm down and finally be able to see what I did at the end of the day.

Natasha said...

To channel creative energy and create gifts for the people I love. Sewing gives me time to meditate and reflect on my relationships with the people I'm making the gift for. There is something so humbling about imagining my mother learning to sew from her mother, and my grandmother and beyond sewing late into the night for their families.

baukje said...

I love to create..
My giveaway is a handmade clutch, here:
http://busybeefree.blogspot.com/2009/12/giveaway-day.html

Life is Sew Crazy! said...

I've been crafting my entire life, it's what I know. Lately I craft because it is my escape. A fresh break from life. It helps that I have two adorable girls to sew and knit for too :).

Little Miss S. said...

I have to craft - otherwise steam would come out of my ears (more often than it does). And then I love the idea of making my own wardrobe, just mine not like anybody else has.

Kaye Prince said...

Funnily enough I wrote a big blog post about this back in September! I'll include the link here (http://miss-print.blogspot.com/2009/09/why-i-craftinspirationmy-workspace.html) but I'll also give you an abbreviated version!

I craft because I love it! Working with fabric, and thread, and buttons and all other materials makes me look at the details and see the everyday beauty in life. Creating something with my own hands brings me such joy, and being able to bring other people joy with my skills gives me a "glowing" feeling like no other. I craft because I have to and because I wouldn't be the person I am today if I didn't, and I kinda like myself just the way I am :)

Anonymous said...

I find it very relaxing.

Kristen said...

i craft because i have OCD

Unknown said...

Wow, didn't really realize what a deep question this was until I tried to answer it. I craft... well I craft because I must, it's like breathing- without it I'm nothing.

Gill said...

hi
i love the buzz of creating something special - especially when its a gift for someone!
gill x

Anonymous said...

I started crafting because I was too poor to buy cushions for my new (well, $25 on craigslist new-to-me new) couch. Then I realized I was actually doing something with purpose (other than changing diapers, which also has its purpose). It seems like I am connecting myself to hundreds of thousands of years of communal history and at the same time fulfilling my natural purpose.

Tong said...

I craft because it makes me happy! It's a new hobby I just picked up in August this year and I'm loving it! Also it's super fun to browse other's blogs for inspirations, and buying pretty fabrics!

Thanks for the giveaway!

ladmquilter said...

I love to quilt for the creativity and the quite time. It gives me an escape from my busy life. I love fabric... all of it. I love planning my quilts and buying and picking out the fabric. I love the finished products and I love the look on the recipents face when they receive one of the finished quilts. I love everything about quilting. I just need more time.

Anonymous said...

To relieve stress so I don't go to jail for killing my husband.

amy said...

What a great giveaway, thanks! I craft so I don't strangle my hubby LOL. Some days, I think it's the only thing keeping me sane. We don't always need a new grocery bag/quilt/baby outfit/etc, but it's always nice to use something you've made yourself.

con Ka said...

Like cooking or gardening, crafting is for me the way to see something grow. I love it.
Great giveaway!

Hurrayic said...

It's something to do besides eating? No seriously, it's a necessary way to express your creativity; something I need to do.

Mamma Pie said...

I craft because it is the best way for me to show people I love them. When I make something for others and give it to them, it is a chance for me to spread that love.
patrick(dot)marybeth(at)gmail(dot)com

michelou said...

I work from home and the days used to all blend together because it was just the same stuff over and over again. It often felt like I didn't leave the house for weeks and I had to always ask people on the phone.. what day is it again?

I craft so I have some separation between work and home life. When 5'oclock hits (or 6, or 11 on really busy days) and I get to pull out the quilt I've been working on or finish up the pj's for my niece my life feels a lot better! It helps because I can actually SEE what I accomplish and watch the progression of my homemade items. It's nice to see especially when working in an industry where it is sometimes difficult to see your impact.


Michelle
michelou[at]gmail[dot]com

by Daisy said...

i've always thought of myself as not so good with all things crafty, so i just admired other people's crafts and sighed "oh i wish i had gifted hands like yours".
and then one day i found the sewer and quilter in me! and suddendly i realised i too could have gifted hands for something. and then i realised that it had been buried deep down in me all along, because my mother sews, her mother sewed (i'm sure that if my grandmother hadn't died when i was just 12 i would have learned a lot from her and discovered my crafty side much sooner)

so, what started as a self-discovery aha moment, is now a big reason for my sanity. sewing helps me be more patient, more creative, more sure of myself.

and also, i just love to give handmade stuff to other people!!! i never sew for myself...
and now i get to hear a lot "oh i wish i had gifted hands like yours".

hehehe

Anja said...

I love crafting. i would die without it. I love making stuff, clothes for my girls, gifts for my friends, ... It's a way of living.

Breanna S. said...

Well how much time do you have? I craft because I love my children " I hear what you are saying just wait i'm not done yet let me clarify" I craft because I love my children so much that I want to be a happy, loving, PATIENT, caring, giving, kind, clever,and delightful mother every day "there are a few more words I could have thrown in but you get the idea". In otherwords crafting (knitting, sewing, sculpy clay, spinning) is the way that I unwind, destress, and stay sane. I have found that I am more PATIENT when I have my hands on a large pile of fiber, knitting needles, or my fabic for sewing. My husband only has to hide the scissors when things get really crazy LOL! Why do you craft?

Unknown said...

I craft for a creative outlet, for a hobby, for accomplishment, for meaningful gifts, for frugality, so I don't drive my husband crazy... and because I'm addicted.

shannon.mangerchine@gmail.com

adriane said...

I knit and sew to feel productive! When I am home all day with my little one it's nice to get something accomplished other than dishes and laundry!
Thanks for the giveaway!

Katie B said...

Yea! Great giveaway!

For me crafting is a STRESS BUSTER! Plus, it gives me a great sense of pride and accomplishment.

mmperdue said...

I craft because it's a way for me to take a mental break from the craziness of my life as a teacher. It's fun to craft with the kids, too!

Bec Clarke said...

I love those bags. I just love to sew, it makes me feel better than going to a facial or massage cause I have something to show for it at the end.

Jenni said...

I craft because I need something to keep me busy while I'm watching TV!

Unknown said...

To be with my self for a while -

Holly said...

Because everyone needs a creative expression, and this is mine. Besides that, I have young children. Crafting is therapeutic. :-)

MichelleM said...

I craft to get away from the boyfriend.

Desiree said...

I craft to stay sane, to get out my creative juices, and simply because I love it. Thank you for the chance to win. I hope you have a wonderful Chirstmas. -dez
simply.simon.sisters(at)gmail(dot)com

Grace Wong said...

Hmm...I actually don't really know. It's like asking me Why do you breathe? One day I just fell in love with it and I've never stopped since. I was born to someday craft for my friends and simply for the joy of it. It was destined to happen. :)

Kimberly said...

I craft because it feels so amazing to create something orderly out of bits of chaos!

attemptingcreativity at gmail dot com

Jessica said...

I craft because I love to see the joy on people's faces when they get a homemade gift.

curry.jessica@gmail.com

Jeni Baker said...

I craft because I love to be able to escape into creative projects. I also craft to keep the tradition alive, it's too easy for practices to get lost.

Sarahby said...

I don't know why...I just do. My Grandma and Aunt are huge crafters I think it is a genetic compulsion. Fresh cuts of fabric or a brand new ball of sock yarn are just like happiness in my mail box...Plus I don't have cable :) Great give away!

Kangaroo said...

because i can.

Digital Misfit said...

Crafting is like therapy to me. I am agoraphobic, so I don't get out much. Sewing and painting, embroidery and sculpting all help soothe me and express my passion in a safe and creative manner.
I also love the supportive and inspiring online crafting community. They help keep me motivated to create even when my energy is low.

hugs,
Heidi
heidig@gmail.com

kristieR said...

I like to be creative and express my individuality. Because I can't dye my hair a wacky color or get a nose ring (my boss wouldn't like that), I craft. I like to scrapbook, and knit and occassionally I sew. I can also knit a work and talk with the people I like to swap stories with, which is alway fun.

Amanda said...

I like that you're picking your favorite comment rather than a random one - good work! Why do I craft? Because I love the sense of accomplishment I get when something's finished. It's just the best boost of self-esteem.

Amy said...

I spent 4 years studying Fine Art in university, and the way that everything is theorized, argued, analyzed and regurgitated just gets old after a while. I was drawn to crafting because its so rewarding and I don't have to explain it:
I made this bag because I like it! No, it doesn't express my inner rage or give you an ominous feeling when you look at it from the left side. It just rocks...and also, matches my shoes!

Max. H said...

I craft because it helps me to de-stress! I love being able to just put on some music and knit or sew to my heart's content! I love being able to create something from simple materials - it's magical!!

sewfunky said...

I craft for sanity - or is it insanity?!

Valerie said...

I guess I just can't NOT craft. I scrapbook, I make cards, I sew, I cross stitch, I do beadwork, I'd like to learn pottery throwing, I even dabble in painting. What on earth would I do with myself if I couldn't craft? It's as essential as breathing for me!

Jessica Jo said...

There is a void if I am not crafting. A bad void. I was so busy getting the kids ready for our week long trip to TX, that I forgot to pack something for me to do while there/on the 8 hour car ride... Never again! I was incomplete.

lisa said...

I don't know why I started, but about two years ago Irealised I had to pick one of my crafts to deviote myself to. I can pick up the other two and learn more later but between being a mom and workign full time, I chose quilting.

Now I quilt because it gives me pleasure. To see my "me" time bringing joy to myself and better yet to those who I share my quilts with.

Raheli said...

I love knowing the origin of my food -- so once i discovered the crafting world it made some much sense that I should be equally as interested in where my clothing/housewares/gifts come from! It makes my house so much more personal to me & my tastes, instead of just looking like a Pottery Barn catalog.

SGordon said...

For me, crafting is truly cathartic. I feel that crafting whether it be quilting, knitting, anything, is my therapy. It helps me to relieve stress and I don't think there is anything better than giving someone something handmade! Thanks for participating in the giveaways!!

acmcs said...

I make things because I like to keep my hands busy, my wallet full, and I like to give beautiful AND practical gifts. Thank you for the giveaway op!
toilandtrouble [at] spambog [dot] com

Maevy said...

I craft because this is how I have been brought up and I could not imagine it otherwise. My parents have always made by hand everything they could, and not only out of necessity, but because they believed that humans should value this capacity they have been given. I am lucky to have met a man who shares the same value, and together we are making a handmade home.

Barb in Mi said...

I craft to express my creativity that seems to get lost in my work life, and it just plain and simple makes me happy! Thank you for your giveaway - and BTW: why do you craft?

Michael and Rachelle said...

I craft because I am a mom of 5 children under the age of 7, with one on the way. Everything I do has to be redone, usually multiple times a day. It is easy to feel like I am not accomplishing anything. A close friend told me that I needed a hobby with a finished product to help me stay sane. I feel great when I can look at something I have made and say "yes" I made that. I know that my children are my greatest "project" it just helps to have a little concrete encouragement along the way. OH and I love it.

goodkarma said...

I craft (mostly knitting these days) because it's a way for me to get some "me" time at the end of a long work day when my daughter is finally asleep. It calms me down and makes me feel good to produce something beautiful for myself or a loved one!

Dr. Bec said...

I craft for various reasons--knitting is a stress reliever. Sewing because I can make beautiful things that are better constructed than what I could ever buy.
But my real secret reason for crafting--I like to show off sometimes!

Tulle and Torts said...

I craft because I love going into stores and seeing things and saying, "I can make that." Plus it makes me happy :)

Diahan said...

I am just a beginner, so I craft for the sheer surprise of it! I am surprised every time I take plain flat fabric and make something I had no idea I could make. It is magical.

squareby said...

I craft because otherwise I would be rolled up on my couch in my pajamas and a bowl of ice cream in hand ... all day. In all seriousness, crafting keeps me adding to my list of things to do and motivates me to be productive, in school, work, and life.

The Sewing Dork said...

I craft so I my hands are too busy to stuff my face.
cynsaw2@hotmail.com

Rachael Adele said...

Every day, I go to work to feel smart, to the gym to feel strong, and to my sewing room to feel creative. To have all three makes me happiest.

Simply Sarah said...

I craft because nobody makes what I want. When I'm looking for curtains, I can't find what I really want so I make them. When I need a dress for an upcoming wedding, I can't find exactly what I've pictured in my head so I make it. My daughter has caught on to this pattern too and is now dream designing projects for herself.:)

Quiltsmiles said...

It keeps me centered and I love the creativity. Now sharing it with grandchildren. Another happy feeling while doing it. Jane

Enjoy your Holidays.

nrnoodle said...

I craft because it is something I can do. I tried sports and academics in school but when I went to the home ec class I had found my place. I love to create multiple fiber arts and cook the day away.

Gaile said...

I craft because I need to keep my mind and hands busy, otherwise they just get into mischief.

StephanieS said...

I craft because I'm inspired by beautiful handmade items. I'm frugal and would rather make something myself than buy it. And I love to give things away because everyone loves receiving a handmade gift.

Jen said...

I craft as a creative outlet & stress reducer. I love the feeling of finishing something, and how my husband likes to show off my projects proudly - so sweet! I also have a new baby which makes me want to craft more to make stuff for him, and much less time to do it!

Susanne said...

Oh that's easy... I craft because I get cranky if I go too long without making something. I think it's genetic. I only hope I've passed the trait on to my two babies, just as my parents have given it to me... :-)

Trisha said...

I started as a way for my oldest daughter to have homemade things. I lost my mom 2 months before I found out I was pregnant. Since starting I have found a wonderful since of peace while crafting. I feel connected to my mom and am creating a little crafter in the process. My oldest in now 3 and today she sat down with my scraps and created a quilt (like hers) for her Hello Kitty doll. So I guess a shorter answer would be my family:)

momtokx2@gmail.com

Julie S said...

My craft is quilting; it is so relaxing for me.

Ashley and Jason Faucett said...

I love crafting because it gives you the chance to be creative! I also love supporting other crafters because it helps show it off; you're saying I didn't spend hundreds of dollars on a name brand; I made this or bought it from someone who did! Oh, and it's a little bit fun! ;) (also if it helps I'm in OK!!)

Bridget said...

Because it gives me joy and I don't think there is any way I could stop.

Peach Rainbow said...

1.because it helps me concentrate on something that i love and makes me happy
2.i can make someone else happy by giving them as gifts
3.i can use my time on something worthwhile

Tara said...

I craft to create. That is the coolest thing to me, to feel that connection to women (and men) past that did their creating out of necessity. And what I make is better than what I buy--so that rocks too!

Thanks for the chance to win!

carmel said...

i craft becues i have a need or a sixth sence of creatifty.
its one of the only things that i can do for my self and by that to rest from rbry day that i do and give to my kids and buisy life.
besides that i belive that craft is a very healthy thing that people need in order to expand them selfs from the inside
thanks!

Brooke Petersen said...

I think I craft to keep myself from mindlessly consuming cheetos. Of course, there have been a night or two when I have had to wipe the orange powder off a project....

Carla said...

I love to create with my hands. It does something for my soul. Like a fresh start almost. It also helps relieve the stress from the day.

Tammy said...

It is a great stress releaver and the satisfaction of accomplishment AND to see peoples faces when I have made something for them!

Jerri said...

I craft because I like to think that my hobby produces some tangible contribution to the world- or just my overflowing closet of completed crafts.

The Shumate Family said...

I love to create things and work with my mind and hands. Also, I craft to keep myself busy. I love being really busy and I love making wonderful things for other people. It is so rewarding to create beautiful things that bring happiness into someones life!

Holly said...

I craft because feeling competent and capable makes me happy. I also craft because I want to live a less ordinary life. I will probably never land on the moon or run for President, so I feel like surrounding myself and the ones I love with one of a kind personal things helps me get a bit of the not-so-ordinary.

Unknown said...

I craft for two reasons. The first is that it is in my blood. My mom crafts and taught me the basics of what I know. The other reason is that I don't like looking like everyone else. So I make as much as I can and hope to pass the joy on to my three kids. :)

SheSpinsSheKnitsSheSews said...

I craft because I need to be creative every day! If a day goes by that I wasn't able to be creative in some way, I feel kinda down. Also, I just love the satisfaction of seeing an item I created finished! I love to knit and sew for my boys and myself and as gifts.

free indeed said...

How do you choose from so many???? I craft to fulfill that inner desire to create. I've always had this from the time I used lacing cards to the present time where I craft in nearly all genres but am master of none :) Quilting is my favorite, but it is discouraging not to pump 'em out like smaller quick items. I love the peace and tranquility of the time spent in planning, designing, and the actual making of the item....

Dresden Quilter said...

It fulfills my soul and keeps my brain busy.

Kassia said...

I love getting my creative juices flowing...having an idea in my head and getting the knitted fabric to do it! I'm always so proud of the things I make, especially those that I knit without a pattern! It's icing on the cake to give those projects to my family and see them worn. :)

rockgranny said...

I had some dark moments in my life (depression)and crafting helps me to fell better.
Thanks for giveaway,
Kind regards,
Simona

Heather said...

I craft because it takes me away from the day to day. For some reason I don't hear the "mommy, Gracie pulled my hair" or "mommy I wet my pants on the carpet" or "honey, what's for dinner???" I CAN ACTUALLY TUNE IT OUT!!
It's my escape, there may be a mess to clean up and a burnt dinner in the oven, but for the past hour I was in heaven... :-)
Happy Holidays!
h_freund@Hotmail.com

SaintsIllustrator said...

I love to craft to break the monotony of my routine - farm work!
Jesusthrumary at gmail dot com

MM4ver said...

I craft as my creative outlet!
meganlfuchs at gmail dot com

adelantegirl said...

I need a creative outlet but even more....I love that I'll be leaving a piece of myself behind to be remembered with love. That's how I feel about handmade items I have from my grandma. None of my aunts crafts and I think....how sad. I want to continue the tradition

roadside said...

Yeah...love it!
roadside@cybernet1.com

Katie said...

I craft so I can watch TV and not feel guilty, since I'm still being "productive."
:-)

Kathleen said...

It helps me keep balanced on that fine line between total sanity (boring!) and completely crazed (a bit too far)!

Rhiannon said...

I don't really know. I can't help myself. It's kind of like a drug. I'm always chasing that high of concentrated, satisfied calm. Just that tiny bit of stress that is still somehow relaxing.

Mama Lusco said...

I craft for sanity. Staying home with a 2 year old is frazzling at times - many times!- and sewing keeps my creative juices flowing! Thanks for the giveaway. alusco(at)centurytel(dot)net

redzshadow said...

I craft because I feel the need to create. I like to have my hands and my mind working together. I enjoy the pure satisfaction of completion of a project. I enjoy even more giving the things I make to others.

Tam said...

It is my escape

Mamma Bears Fault said...

There are two reasons why I craft.

The first reason is because of my mother. While growing up, my mom was always sewing something - I had absolutely NO INTEREST in it. As I got older, I decided I needed to make my God-Children homemade teddy-bears, so mom helped guide me through it. Then that following Christmas, I opened a box and rejoiced in thinking that my mom had made me a quilt!! Oh no, my mother had bought me the fabric so that I could learn to make my own...and had signed me up for a "block of the month" program at the local quilt shop!! Well, the crafting madness ensued!

Because of mom, crafting has also become my therapy!

I am a PreK-8th grade music teacher with over 300 students, including parents and administration to deal with.

So my sewing/crafting gives me something that only I have complete control over!! And for the most part, what I am working on is just for me - a gift to myself! And, some days, it is quite therapeutic to stick sharp objects into things! :)

So, that is why I craft.

Thank you for the opportunity to win your fabulous gifties!- Elizabeth

Mama24Monkeys said...

I have always been a crafty person, always doing some kind of project. Since I started having children I started to loose my identity. With each additional baby (I now have four boys under 6) I lost more and more of myself. About year ago I met a wonderful crafty lady who encouraged me to get back into sewing. I have to say it has been one of the best things for me. It has givin me something else to think about and do that is not centered around my children. I feel more like the old me when I spend time creating something. I may gift everything I make but I truely craft for myself.

Lynnette said...

I craft to keep from pulling my hair out while taking care of a two year old and 10 month old with little sleep.

knittingnettsie@gmail.com

Nanbon44 said...

I JUST DON'T KNOW WHY I CRAFT. I have crafted since I was a child, my Grand Mother quilted and knitted, My Mother quilted, knitted and crocheted she always had two or more projects in the works. And ME I make Ceramics, Stained Glass, warm glass, I Paint, Make Cards,Bake and decorate cakes, Cross stitch and I have 7 sewing and or embroidery machines, and 2 sergers I inherited a lot of them and I can't let them go. I have a knitting machine and I crochet. I make fancy dresses for grandkids and I took over my Mother's quilting, now I make quilts for nursing homes and seriously ill children for my charity group. Guess it is just in my blood. ladycolmn@aol.com

carrie turner said...

My mother was an artist, and she inspired me very early on to create things all the time. When she was battling cancer nearly 5 years ago, we picked up knitting together. She had knitted earlier in her life but had forgotten how, so we learned together. I still wear the first knitted item I ever made - a gray wool scarf I knit for and with my mom. My mother is gone, but I stay connected to her by keeping her sense of creativity alive in me. Now, I hope to pass on that creative spirit to my own daughter, now 2. I believe that the art of creation ties us all together, and gives me a sense of connectedness to those who are no longer living.

I wrote an entire blog on the subject, which I would be honored if you would read:

http://iwantnina.blogspot.com/2009/10/knit-and-purl.html

Thank you for this thought-provoking question!

Best wishes!

Leigh said...

I craft to calm myself...

tabitha said...

I see things that I know I can make, I see fabrics and notions that I fall in love with, and handcrafting really personalizes a home and gifts.

Libby said...

because I love making something no one else has, I love the feeling of fabric and the thrill of finding a new piece of fabric....

Unknown said...

I craft and sew for my mental health!!!!!!!!! Thanks for the giveaway.

Sarah or Semmy said...

I like to craft to satisfy my longing to use the talents that I have been blessed with and it just plain makes me happy.

Denise said...

Artistic ability is in my blood. Creativity is what keeps it pumping! (Yes, you can quote me) LOL ;) Thanks for such a cute AND useful giveaway!! Merry CHRISTmas

Beca said...

To get that feeling of accomplishment...no matter how small the craft.

Erin said...

Stress relief! I love some good music and the freedom!

Kelly said...

Why do I craft...one its a great achievement to finish a project that you've been working on, it keeps my mind and hands busy, it clothes my family and keeps us warm under comfy quilts and make our house feel like a home.
thanks for the giveaway

~kelly

Tina said...

I craft because I would not feel complete if I didn't. :-)

Tricia said...

I craft because my husband plays video games...every night. Yep, welcome to my life! I switch from sewing to quilting to cross stitch and even scrapbooking.

rheawhite said...

I craft because I can't not craft :) It is a compulsion that I always give in to!

Anonymous said...

I craft because I love to work with my hands, like all of my family does. It gives me a way to pass on the skills of my family, even though I am studying to be a primary/elementary teacher. :)

Angela O. said...

Wow, what a tough question. Really makes you look deep inside!! :-) I think I enjoy crafting because my regular life is surrounded by technical thought (I'm an engineer) and organization (daily routines, chores, bills), so crafting allows me to use the other side of my brain and not worry about staying inside the lines. When I've finished a craft project, I feel so satisfied and accomplished, but in a completely different way than when I've completed a task at work or finished washing laundry. It's more personal. I also love giving my creations to others and seeing the joy when they receive it. Plus, it's a good excuse to get together with my girlfriends "time for craft night!"

Thanks for the great giveaway question!

Leah said...

I like crafting because I can make functional yet beautiful things for my family, friends, and charity. Giving someone something that they can not only look at but actually use if very fulfilling to me. :)

Leah ~ terrytribe AT gmail DOT com

Rebecca said...

It's fulfilling.

sarah in the woods said...

It helps me escape temporarily. And it's fun.

Thistle Cove Farm said...

Beautiful fabric. I spin and knit because I have to use the wool from all my sheep somehow!

hcotten said...

I believe that because we are made in God's image and because He is a Creator, we all have a need inside of us to Create. I always thought I was not "creative" or artistic because I can't draw or paint or write poetry, but since I began sewing (and now knitting), I feel like I am satisfying that desire to create.

sandyandcosmo said...

I craft because I can't sit still!

sandandstarfish said...

i craft because God gave us imagination that makes us free to create whatever we want. It would be such a waste of a God given talent not to craft! He gives to us what we can give back to everyone around us.

happy holidays :)
thanks for the chance to win such a great giveaway! i really appreciate it!
yawkar618 at yahoo dot com

CMEH said...

I craft so that I have something to do with my hands and my brain... I craft to express my creativity and individuality .... and I craft to get out my frustrations by tearing something to threads in a creative way and for a good cause! I craft because it is who I am!

Amanda said...

Because I enjoy it SO and love the results! :)

Jan H said...

I cannot stop. I was born to craft. Ask my Mom! I've been making things my whole life ( longer than I care to confess!)

Besides, we were created in the image of God, and the First story of the bible is about Creating!!!!! Hooray!

Brad, Brooke, Abigayle, Rebekah and Indy said...

It's my outlet...plain & simple. The more I do it, the more I love it! And the less sleep I get!!! :)

beccy said...

So generous! Thanks for such a great giveaway, those bags are lovely :)

Andrea said...

I craft because it brings me joy.

Melissa @Lilac Lane said...

Crafting (sewing) is the passion of my life. It's not a choice, it's a must. I don't do it to make money, although I do have a store. I just hope to break even so I can buy more fabric and do it some more. And, seriously, I'm enthralled with fabric.

Betsy said...

I craft because it's fun and challenging - learning new things, making treasures for myself and others, practicing old techniques. I also think it's good for my soul, to slow down and do something by hand.

Sarah said...

I craft because I have to. It gives me a creative outlook when I work in a job that is less than inspiring. It keeps me creative and less inclined to fully commit to the corporate world.

Becky said...

I craft because I always have, and it reminds me of time spent with my grandma and mom, and hopefully soon my son will feel the same way :)

woolybooger said...

I craft as a way to show people I love them, and when I get fabric, or any kind of fiber in my hands, I feel like there isn't anything I can't do. It makes my heart sing, and hands sing. :)

Misty.Creek said...

I craft to maintain my sanity, release my inner demons and practice/express my artistic side. I create to explore my depths and see who is really there, inside this mortal shell.

Susie said...

Crafting is my "escape." I work full time, go to school full time and take care of my family (My guy, his 16yr old, my 8yr old and our 2yr old twins...all girls.)

I use crafting, mostly knitting, to calm down, relax, zone out, and escape the chaos.

Tiffany said...

I craft because I love it. it relaxes me and it makes me proud to accomplish a project.

fyreflye said...

there are a few reasons i craft. i am ADD or so my dear hubby says. My daughter is so i wouldnt be surprised if i am too. anyway, because I dont focus on anything for too long, crafting gives me the opportunity to do a million different things and not lose interest. of course there is the perk of having all the fun things i make to either keep or give away. I an learning that my daughter does her crafts and drawing much like i do, something different each day. They say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, i guess its true with us!

thanks for the opportunity.
Bobbi

Kristin said...

If I'm totally honest with myself, I think I sew because I like doing stuff that gets DONE...most other things you do as a mommy you just over again the next day! I love being a mama, but it's nice to feel like I've made something that I can keep!
seemommysew @ gmailDOTcom