Friday, September 19, 2008

Lets get going on Fall Projects!

Now fall is fast approaching and its time to think about getting ready for that winter craft projects.

I like to sit down and make a list of what I am going to get ready for Christmas. Starting early is the key. For most of us its getting our Christmas cards done, Family Calendars, altered containers for all our cookies and perhaps a small recipe album or two. So many projects so little time.

One thing I have found out to be true is that if I wait to long then I by the end of November I may as well hang it up for the season. I can tell you I have a few projects that I never finished, some that I finished the next year all because I tried to do this a couple weeks before the Christmas. Take it from me it doesn't work!

I start about now. I make my list of what I am going to make for who and then I get going at them. This year I worked on my Christmas cards during the summer, little by little, so that is one I can cross off as a done project.

I am working on our family calendar this weekend. I do have to say I am taking a 2 stage class to get it done, but its a great way to accomplish this one. I will have all my Calendars done and put together by the middle of October and all I have to do is go to the class and create.
Don't be afraid to take your projects to your crops. After all getting it done in peace and quiet without interruptions is what they are all about.

Now for the rest, I am making a couple altered paint cans to put cookies in and along with them a tag recipe book. These take time, but I plan on having the tins done by the beginning of November and of course the cookie baking will have to wait just a bit, but the really time consuming part is done!

I guess what we are trying to say is organizing your projects for big events is a must. It keeps thing in line and the time lines get them done. I don't know about most families but mine is big and they love all the home made things. I can't say enough about how personal a gift that you make yourself is for your family.

Its simple to organize this, just sit down with the time that it needs to be done. I like to write the recipients name and what project I am making for them and then after I have my gift list done I start organizing them according to getting them done, doing the most time consuming ones first. I just find getting them done first is major for me. If I get caught in that busy holiday shopping and season I tend to just let them all go! Then you will find me the week before Christmas scurring to finish my list off and eventually just going to the store and getting something. Its a long ways from a home made personal gift just because I didn't get my list going on time.

Remember to start early.
Make your list out
Get the projects done and cross them off your list
Start your harder more complicated projects first
Get your projects done then just sit back and smile through the holiday hustle and bustle!
Enjoy your holiday time

Article By
Debbie Ruggles