Perhaps you've noticed a revival of the classic home arts like knitting, crocheting and quilting that has taken place over the past ten or twenty years. Many people are looking to reconnect with their past and enjoy the satisfaction and stress reducing benefits of handicraft, but aren't sure where to start.
In days gone by, needlecraft skills were passed down from grandmother, to mother to daughter, but today, most of us must look outside of our homes for instruction.
Craft Shops
Quilting, knitting, craft and fabric stores are picking up the slack, offering in-expensive classes in all types of crafting. Experienced teachers give hands on training as students complete projects under their helpful supervision.
Search the term 'quilting store' 'craft classes' or 'fabric shop' in one of the online search engines to find locations in your area. Most shops will have an online presence where they list the various classes they offer and when they are taught.
Even if you don't take a class, feel free to drop in to your nearest store and ask for help getting started. The staff at most crafting shops can demonstrate everything from threading a sewing machine to how to a cluster stitch in crochet, and they are happy to do it.
Online Tutorials
If you want to learn how to do just about anything these days, you can probably learn it on the internet. Tutorials both free and at a minimal cost abound for almost any craft you can think of. Search 'how to...' and you'll be amazed at the many options available. Are you a visual learner? Then search Google under the heading of 'video', and watch a skilled artisan demonstrate anything from making a rag rug to how to knit a sweater.
Clubs and Socials
Church groups and specialty clubs routinely hold meetings to sew, quilt or stitch together. Some of these are sponsored by private individuals, and others are associated with fabric or yarn stores. Generally they are free and open to the public.
Many churches still hold quilting bee's that donate their finished quilts to new moms who are part of the congregation or local charities. Joining is a great way to learn from seasoned experts, help out a worthy cause and enjoy some fun conversation at the same time.
If you have an interest in learning the domestic arts practiced by your great-great grandmother, don't delay. There are so many ways to get started, and who knows, you may be the one to pass these skills down to your own children and grandchildren.
Deanne Blackhurst is a freelance writer for Creative U Studios. We are a unique creative arts studio and craft shop, featuring dozens of designer yarns and the widest variety of classes in the Santa Clarita, California area. Come browse our yarn selection at http://www.creativeu.net/
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