Earlier this summer I was asked to write and article for Craft Industry Today (a magazine published by the Craft and Hobby Association) on the benefits of crafting. As a former music therapist, I am well versed in the benefits of creative endeavors, so I happily accepted the task.
I did a day’s worth of research, cranked out a 1700+ word article, and submitted it. Later that day, I was having a Periscope chat and the topic came up.
What followed surprised even ME.
First I had a mini rant… and by the 8 minute mark I was in tears.
I won’t spoil it for you… see for yourself.
Thank you all for being here and being a part of my TRIBE!!! And if you like, join me on the other social networks:

CraftTestDummies snapcode
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CraftTestDummies/
Periscope: https://www.periscope.tv/CraftTestDummy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crafttestdummy/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/crafttestdummy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CraftTestDummy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwEnJsQA0BqCKYeIOcfbApg
- Spooky Spider Halloween Bookmark Craft - October 24, 2018
- Review and Demo of LDRS Hybrid Ink Pads - October 15, 2018
- Review and Demo of Nuvo Hybrid Inks - October 1, 2018
- Craft Studio Tour and Organization Ideas - September 20, 2018
- Wax Paper Resist Background Technique - March 20, 2018
- Comparison of Liquid Watercolor Markers/Pens - March 16, 2018
- SAI Japanese Traditional Watercolor Brush Markers- Review & Demo - February 23, 2018
- Rinea Metallic Foil Paper & Ghost Ink Review - February 21, 2018
- Jane Davenport debuts at Creativation 2018 & Watercolor Card - February 13, 2018
- Creativation 2018: New Product Showcase - January 20, 2018
Jenny, What an excellent video! A friend and I were kayaking the other day and since we both teach our art, we were talking about teaching and she has been disappointed how parents of the kids in her classes want something that they can take home. They don’t understand just making art. I’m always asked – what are you going to do with all of that fabric. I don’t know. I love the process and indeed it sets me free. Again, thanks for this video. Too bad I wasn’t there live. I’m off to share this with my friend and on Facebook with my other artsy friends.
Finally… I have a ‘reason’ to create! Thank you sooooo much for who you are, for all of your hard work, and how you touch many many hearts ? I, too have run into the, “What are you going to do with _______?” I am very grateful for this post which in a strange way gives me permission to NOT have to “do” something with it! Love and huge blessings to you ? xoxoxo
Thank you for sharing this. I’m always so concerned that what I create isn’t good enough or that I should be spending my time doing something more useful. You remind me that it’s the process of creating that is important.
Great rant, Jenniy! I got a little lint in my eye too. I like to call it my ZenZone, and that will give your brain a chance to rest and come back a little healthier. Art saved my life.
I also make art just because I love it. I’m fine with it just being for me.
This really hit home for me – before I stumbled upon the tag challenge I was dealing with an overload of personal issues and feeling like it was just dragging me down so that I couldn’t breathe – and then I sat and listened to this tag challenge ‘thing’ and it just turned a light on for me…I created tags, doodles, sat and looked at the different colors and well…began to breathe again
So thank you for showing me that I can be a part of your tribe
Excellent rant to weep video. I like the tribe idea, my non-crafty friends, which includes most of my real life friends don’t understand my drive to create. I make cards and buy “too many” stamps according to some. A couple of these friends took me to an LSS to get me a birthday gift. They both commented on how I lit up and my excitement at just seeing the tools of my craft.
Sorry I missed your Periscope live. Have to catch most on replay but enjoy them. You are my favourite Periscoper. Love being part of a tribe. I found a small group of women (6) in my area that are like minded. We’ve started having Saturday “play dates” every month just to try out new ideas and chat. Enjoy them a lot. Another Tribe.
Like your idea of making for myself instead of always making with a purpose. Love your rants. Keep on ranting!!
Jenny thank you for this periscope thing. I suffer from extreme chronic pain and fatigue. I was in bed for over a year. When I discovered art I was able to build up to about an hour of art a day. The art gives me purpose and peace. Very few people understand the importance of art in my life.
Thank you for being someone who understands and could put it into words. I’m glad I’m part of yor tribe it’s an honor.
Billie
Hippie Chick Creative Arts