Recommendations

I want to share some tips and tricks for those of you who want to sew, paint, cook or do any other artsy tasks.

1. It takes 3 P's: Patience, Practice & Performance.

Patience can go a long way when you're doing something but you feel like it's never going to end. Have a break, have a Kit Kat. Then go back to doing what you do. If all else fails, change your approach. Maybe you don't know it, but you have hundreds of strategies up your sleeve.

On second hand, you can't expect something to come out flawless if it's the first time you're doing it. BRAVO if you manage to do so; otherwise, it takes trial and error. Keep in mind that some things will take several tries before getting it right, so don't fret!

Finally, sometimes it's more about the performance than about the outcome itself. Sure, maybe we just desperately crave for a spectacular result. However, if you don't enjoy the whole process, or at least learn something from your performance, maybe it isn't worth it at all.

2. Plan ahead.

Maybe it's really natural for me, as I am a somewhat compulsive and extremely organized person, but keeping lists and ordering your thoughts before embarking on a project can help you identify priorities and make better use of your time. Think about what you need to do or get beforehand, how will you do it and what to expect from it. A good plan should always come with a great execution.

3. ALWAYS document everything you do.

I can't think of a worse feeling than trying to remember something, but finding no proof of what or how it was. The truth is that artistic projects aren't usually made to last forever. That is why you should ALWAYS document all your shenanigans. Take pictures or make digital copies of your productions, even if they end up in the farthest and most inconspicuous folder in your hard drive. After all, you never know when they might come in handy.

4. Protect yourself, your clothes and your work area.

Your project came out splendid. What a work of art! You couldn't have possibly done a better job, let alone expected a better outcome... until you realize that you spray painted all over your favorite pair of jeans, your grandma's tablecloth and the parquet floor! People: This is why it's really important to protect your clothes and your work area before getting hands on deck.

I recommend covering the space with old tablecloths, newspapers, magazines, cardboard planks, etc. Also remember to protect yourself from possible hazards. Make sure you wear rubber gloves, safety goggles, aprons, face masks or any other equipment before starting any perilous craft.

Sometimes we underestimate the "Safety first" drill... but it's better to be safe than sorry!

5. Keep a stash of recycled materials at home.

No, I don't mean "become a trash hoarder". What I mean is to open up a drawer, a shelf or any kind of space to put used materials that might be useful for future projects. Glass jars, wooden planks and sticks, bottles and caps, paper flowers, strings, corks, broken toys, worn-out clothes and other old home appliances can become your best tools when working on a crafting undertaking.

I hope these five tips are useful for you!