Dear Eric, I am a craft enthusiast. I like to embroider, paint by numbers, make paper models, etc. My joy is really in the process of creating them, but I find that our walls and shelves overflow with the finished products. I guess I’m proud of it, but I’m starting to avoid doing these hobbies because we’re running out of space to show them off. I don’t think it’s appropriate to give a painting or rudimentary model of a rabbit to a friend or family member, but I’d hate to throw them away. What should I do with these projects?
– Help for hobbies
Dear Hobby Helper: For some of the flatter crafts (embroidery, painting), you might consider some of the art storage options available at a craft or art supply store. Even a filing cabinet can work for some of the smaller items. You can rotate the displayed and stored ones if you want. A gallerist!
This way, your decorations stay fresh and you don’t have to throw anything away, at least until the storage solution is full.
You might also be surprised which of your friends and family would be happy to have your, as you say, rudimentary paintings or model of a rabbit. Try posting photos of your creations online or showing off your art at home in this stylish new gallery. You can set a low price or make everything free for recipients. Even if it doesn’t clear all the shelves, it’s a great way to include the ones you love in a hobby that makes you happy.
(Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com or PO Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.)
©2024 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.