My Creative Space

My Place to Create

I have 2 rooms in my house that I can call my own:  my bedroom and my "Creative Room."

My bedroom is nothing more than what you'd expect.  However, my creative room houses my fabrics, paints, sewing machine and supplies, ironing board.  Some of it is organized on shelves...

Shelves to organize my fabrics and sewing books

I have a means for packaging my goods, once they're made...

I am reusing zipper bags that formerly held new draperies and other linens

Organized Chaos!

My sewing machine

Ironing board - as essiantial as the sewing machine for any sewing project!

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Nanna's Nook

Every year in late January, the women of the Work of Christ Community and friends celebrate a Festival of Tables.  Approximately 20 women "Hostesses" each decorate a round table to the theme of her choice.  This year, I chose the theme "Nanna's Nook," pulling items that I have that were owned by my maternal grandmother, mom and myself.  My maternal grandmother went by the title "Nanna" by myself and my siblings.  I have chosen to take on the same title for my grandchildren since my 1st granddaughter was born in 2007.  I currently have 2 granddaughters, ages 5 and 3 1/2, and am looking forward to my 3rd grandchild this December.

My mom and dad, when they were married

This towel was made by my Nanna

This pitcher and 3 cups were my Nanna's.  She also crocheted the green and white doily.  

This picture was taken of me (Nanna) and my 1st grand daughter, Susanna

Susanna with her Nanna (me)

Introduction

I read 2 books last year that changed my perspective and helped me to learn more about me and my own creativity.

First, about 2 years ago, I came across the book The Creative Call - An Artist's Response to the Way of the Spirit by Janice Elsheimer. I bought the book, looked it over and put it on the shelf!!

Last year, I pulled it off the shelf and invited a friend of mine to work through the book together. I live in Michigan, and she in Texas, but we read and worked through each chapter and then had loooooooong conversations at the end of the week (sometimes 2 or 3 weeks).

As promised by the author (having spent time working through), I now have put these into practice:"...- learn to call on the Holy Spirit as your source of inspiration, your muse.- exercise your artistic gift regularly and begin to think of yourself as an artist.- develop the habit of journaling as a way to recognize the things that have kept your blocked.- have a richer deeper prayer life and a more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ."

The second book that had an impact on me last year was Ladies Who Launch by Victoria Colligan, Beth Schoenfeldt, and Amy Swift This book isn't specifically Christian, but encouraged me to look at my life differently.

I pulled out the sewing machine and started creating things. I also have the vision to start a craft business.

Initially, I am making bags to sell. Ultimately, this will expand to include other sewn items and other crafts. I also want to expand to have a brick and mortor building where I can invite others to come hang out while doing and learning crafts.

What's your area of creativity?

Elaine