SEW: I'd like to learn how to sew with a machine. I'm pretty good with a needle and thread and can figure out how to attach a button and a simple blanket stitch, but I'd really like to be able to sew with my machine. Yes, I own one, I just know how to thread it, thanks to Home Ec in grade 8 but I really don't know how to use it to create anything! Simple things, not anything like a quilt, but re-purposing things in the house, creating home decor, altering clothing, that kind of thing. I really hate waste and I think this would help me feel like I'm using everything to it's fullest potential.
WELD: We collect a ton of metal artwork. In every room in our house you will find something made of metal either hanging on the walls, holding flower arrangements, decorating corners. I'd love to learn how to weld and create things for myself.
ETCH: I love the look of frosted windows and etched plates and home decor. I'd really like to alter some of the plain glassware we have in the house and etch some special pieces for special people.
FLOWER ARRANGING: We have some gorgeous plants that bloom all summer long. I'd love to bring some inside, but I really don't arrange flowers well. I know the basic "rules" but they just don't seem to work.
BOOK BINDING: I have a fascination with all things bookish and would love to learn how to bind them, properly. What are the right tools, what is the right weight, how does it all work?
FURNITURE REFINISHING: Along the lines of re-purposing and updating, I'd like to freshen up the look of some of my furniture by learning how to re-finish and/or re-upholster. Again, what are the right tools? Techniques?
KNIT/CROCHET: There was a girl at university who could knit gorgeous Lopi sweaters with all kinds of gorgeous colours on round needles - without looking, she could sit down in the evening and watch television or enjoy a chat in the common room and leave with a finished sweater. I always admired her talent. I'm not looking to be that creative, but an afghan or throw would be nice. Maybe a scarf. I'll start small, a scarf.
MULTI-MEDIA CANVASES: These are so beautiful but I wouldn't even know where to begin. Do you paint first? Use glue? What glue? What materials work with other materials? It seems like such a costly endeavour, I'd need to know these things before I get started! I can see creations in my head, but have no way of getting them out. Frustrating!
Are there things you'd like to learn how to do? Do you have any suggestions of where I could start learning anything on my list? Blogs? Books? Experts?
