>> Tina Barseghian is editor-in-chief of CRAFT magazine.
tina@craftzine.com
Lately I’ve been receiving calls from newspaper reporters asking about the resurgence of the do-it-yourself movement during this tumultuous economic climate. Has crafting become more relevant now that people are less inclined to spend money?
I’ve also been hearing news reports about how people are repairing and modifying their clothes, shoes, furniture, and other possessions rather than chucking them for new ones. I’ve read articles about people opting to throw parties at home instead of at bars and restaurants as a money-saving measure, and stories about making gifts instead of buying them.
To all those just joining us — welcome to the joys of crafting! Not only does it save you money and exposure to creditors, it’s extremely fun and gratifying. I say this only partly with irony, as I realize that the economy is in a spiral and the ramifications may be grave.
Still, we will always have reasons to celebrate, so in this issue we celebrate the act of celebration. As long as people fall in love and have weddings, commemorate birthdays, usher in new presidents, honor anniversaries, observe holidays, or just look for an excuse to be with friends, there will be cause for celebration.
For you crafty revelers, we’ve got a slew of party ideas. These projects can be used for any occasion, but if you happen to be planning a DIY wedding, all of the projects apply.
Dazzle your guests with snappy invitations that look as though you hired a graphic designer (pages 49 and 134). Rile up your party guests with the perfect mixtape — no DJs necessary (page 55). Sew and string up beautiful, all-occasion party flags that you can use year after year (page 52). Crochet a fetching bow tie for that important Big Night (page 67).
Stitch a showstopping hat that would make the
As long as people fall
in love and have wed-
dings, commemorate
birthdays, usher in new
presidents, or just look
for an excuse to be with
friends, there will be
cause for celebration.
British royals drool (page 64). Cast a warm glow on your outdoor party using glass jam jars as candlelit lanterns (page 70). Slice fruit into sushi shapes for an inventive party platter (page 58). Transfer your favorite image onto plates and coasters for the ultimate customized party accessory (page 123). And if you still can’t find a reason to celebrate, check out our ideas for crafting party themes (page 48).
Who better to kick off our celebration issue than funny lady Amy Sedaris, the ultimate party hostess and crafter? Sedaris whips up her own party wherever she goes (take it from those of us who witnessed the cover photo shoot: the woman knows how to have fun), and for you she whips up the Perfect Party Cake (page 42).
At CRAFT magazine headquarters, we have a wonderful reason to celebrate: the arrival of our senior editor Natalie Zee Drieu’s baby girl, Chloe (pictured above). There’s nothing like an innocent little being to help put things in perspective.
So what’s your reason to celebrate? Let’s get this party started!
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