Crafts and Clutter


The definition of a hobby is simply a pursuit or interest engaged in for relaxation. Whether it's collecting coins, knitting or watching television, you're supposed to enjoy the time spent on a hobby. I enjoy crafting something new out of something old. I like taking objects I have around my home and creating something completely original with a glue gun. Sometimes my efforts fail me and the end product becomes an object I definitely want to throw in the trash. Sometimes my resourcefulness creates an item that eases my life. Other times I create pieces as gifts to share with loved ones. My dilemma now since trying to declutter my craft room has been deciding what to keep. I know I could use everything eventually. Those thoughts got me into this trouble in the first place! I need to open the room and my mind for new possibilities.

When I think of all the items that I should have thrown out years ago or recycled, and see them in boxes, left waiting for a breath of fresh air from a creative flow, I find the voice of reason fighting to say that I don't spend enough time enjoying my hobby. The clutter stands in the way of me starting anything. I look into the room and feelings of avoidance steer me in another direction. If I can stand the mess long enough, then I ponder my choices. Sure, once I find the room to spread out and create I feel good, but I have to spend so much time finding things, and I never have the room I need. It's easier to pursue another activity. One that doesn't involve being in a room full of clutter.

I want to try and look at this with a different point of view. I want to look with an open mind. Trying to declutter a room can be a new craft project for me to pursue. I can create a new space from an old one. I can create a space to relax in, not avoid. The basis of my enjoyment in crafting is looking at an item and seeing it's possibilities. Now I need to look beyond each item and see the room as a whole. The possibilities of a space without the clutter bring me the motivation I need. I know what I should keep. The pursuit of my hobby.

The copyright of the article Crafts and Clutter in Household Organization is owned by Janet Kitto. Permission to republish Crafts and Clutter in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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