"If someone gives you a handmade present they are not being cheap. Consider the time they spent finding the materials and making you a unique and special gift. They did it because they love you."
In November my great niece posted this on Facebook and proceeded to tell me that she loves the cupcake blanket I made her many years ago. I told her to imagine me giving her a hug each time she used it. She then told me that she loved me. I wish I had a picture of that quilt to show you.
In church last weekend I ran into someone I hadn't seen in 25 years. One of the first things she said to me was that she still has her placemats and puts them out every Christmas. AFter all these years this handmade gift I gave so long ago still warms her heart.
In church last weekend I ran into someone I hadn't seen in 25 years. One of the first things she said to me was that she still has her placemats and puts them out every Christmas. AFter all these years this handmade gift I gave so long ago still warms her heart.
I cannot put into words how much that post and these exchanges mean to me. I have always been one to give handmade gifts. My reasons have been varied for doing this but each gift that was made and given was given out of love. As I selected the materials and created the gift I thought about how special this person was to me and how much I hoped they would appreciate the gift that was made and given from the heart.
It seems that people are not as appreciative of handmade gifts these days. They also seem to be of the attitude that if a gift is handmade it didn't cost much money. Have they priced fabric, yarn, beads, wood, and other items used to handcraft a gift? In many instances it would be less expensive to purchase the item at a store rather than make it. And that price for materials doesn't include the hours of time it takes to make the item.
So, what it my point? Simply to appreciate handmade gifts and realize that the giver has put his or her heart and soul into making that gift especially for you. And if you do not have the talent to make special gifts for your loved ones, consider purchasing them from an artist. In doing so you will be purchasing a unique gift and supporting an artist who puts his or her heart and soul into each item made.
Resolution Update
In my last post I mentioned that my new years resolution is to help make this world a better place by helping others. One of the ways I am doing that is by using up all the fabric, and yarn I have collected to create items that are going to be donated to those in need. Since January 1, 2016 I have constructed 5 children's quilts, 4 scarves, and 12 hats. Several others are in various stages of completion. Yes, I've been a busy girl which is why I haven't updated my blog for a while. My reason for making all of these so quickly is that this is the time of year when these items are needed most so this is the best time of year to donate them. I'm sure things will slow down as the weather warms up.
Each quilt is like a puzzle. I take the fabrics that I think will work well together then piece them until I find a design that works with the colors and number of squares I have. Some come out better than others, but I hope that everyone who receives a quilt, hat, or scarf will feel the love that went into making it.
If you have decided to take up this resolution for 2016, I would love to hear what you have been able to do so far.
Free Shipping
You have 2 more weeks to take advantage of our free shipping offer for all domestic addresses. There are no minimums and this offer expires January 31, 2016. So purchase your scarves, necklets, eyeglass holders, bracelets, and birthstone jewelry and save! www.cruisincreations.etsy.com
Special Orders
We love special orders! While I love the challenge of coming up with new designs, it's those ideas I receive from customers that I truly enjoy making. Recently, Cindy asked me if I would make some items for her out of a variegated yarn. After much discussion we solidified our ideas on color, beads, and styles. Her items are in the mail; she should receive them early this week. I'm very happy with the way they came out and hope she will be too!
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| Here's a picture of the yarn and beads! Watch for finished photos in our next blog. I don't want the world to see the finished photos before Cindy receives them in the mail. |
Upcoming Events
We are working on events for the coming year. Right now our first event is in Niskayuna on May 21!
Until Next Time...
Diane
