Join A Needlework Group Near You

Knitting soothes the soul. Not only is it great for your mind, but you can use your talents to help others in need. Organizations such as the Needlework Guild of Canada, have been knitting handmade new clothes for the needy for the past 116 years. The Toronto Guild has 400 members and is always looking for knitters to join their organzation.

But if you don't live in Toronto and don't feel like joining a group you can always do something on your own. Donate your knitted goods to homeless shelters. Call your local school and see if there is a need for hats and mittens. Your generousity will go far in these times of need. And by knitting, you'll be helping yourself as well.

Making Things ~~ The Benefits of a Creative Mind ~~ Crafting Keeps You Healthy

My passion for making things began early. I was inspired by my Great-Grandmother whose home was filled with beautiful things that she had made herself. From table linens, to her own clothes, Great-Grandmother found a way to re-use fabrics in beautiful and unique ways. I started making doll clothes when I was 7. Later on, I graduated to designer duds, buying Vogue patterns and creating my own Paris Originals. I made my first quilt when I was 16 using up material from my old dresses. I devote a portion of my day to creating something, whether it be working on an on-going project (French needlework), creating my own clothing, or re-patching that old quilt. Quite simply, I've discovered that a creative life is a healthier one. Here are some tips to make your life a craftier one:

1. Crafts help you concentrate on the here and now. Enjoy the process! So find something that you really love to do.
2. Rhythmic crafts such as sewing, knitting, woodworking, crocheting, improve the mind-body benefit
3. Think of crafting as a medical necessity. Making something allows you to tune into your emotions and creativity and help release frustration. Practice it daily.
4. Get into the flow! Be completely absorbed by your activity and lose all track of time. Push yourself a little harder to improve your skills so that you won't get bored.
5. There are no mistakes in creating! Some of the best inventions were the results of so-called mistakes. The process of trial and error opens your mind to extraordinary things.