7 Ways to Learn New Craft Skills ...

Getting someone to teach you on an individual basis can be expensive, but it's an excellent way to learn new craft skills. It ensures that you will have the undivided attention of an experienced tutor. Alternatively, if funds are tight, look out for ‘skills exchanges’ in your area. In this way, you can find someone to teach you for free, and give your knowledge of a different subject in return.

Ah, the good old evening class! Local colleges offer all sorts of craft subjects, from painting to sewing, so there’s bound to be something that interests you. More unusual craft classes may also be available in specialist centres.

Look in the craft section of Amazon, and there are thousands of books available on every craft you could imagine. Local libraries also carry a range of craft books, obviously on limited subjects but it’s worth a look. I taught myself to crochet from a book – it might take a few attempts to understand, but you soon get the hang of it.

If you like to be shown how to do things, but don’t have anyone to teach you in person, then online tutorials are a great way to learn new craft skills. The beauty of them is that you can stop and play back anything you miss or don’t understand. Check out Youtube and craft sites and you’ll find hundreds of videos.

Need a craft teacher? If you’re lucky, you need look no further than your own family. Mums, grannies and aunts have traditionally passed on skills such as knitting, sewing and crochet to the younger generation. If yours have this kind of knowledge, and haven’t yet taught you, ask them to give you some lessons.

How often are we put off trying something new because we are afraid of getting it wrong? With many crafts, you can always undo anything that goes wrong, or paint over it, so don’t worry about making mistakes. It’s actually a pretty good way to learn new craft skills, and gradually you’ll work out where you went wrong and how to put it right.

Craft stores sometimes offer workshops, where experts show you new techniques. These are good taster sessions, where you can try out a craft and see how you like it. Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, see what’s on offer and book your place – it’s sure to be a lot of fun!

Taking up crafts is a great hobby, plus you have the satisfaction of ending up with something completely unique. There are so many options that there is always something to suit your budget and time, and plenty of ways to learn new craft skills no matter what your choice. Would you like to learn new crafts, or are you already into making things?

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