Monday, May 27, 2013

Is what I do a waste of time?

For years, I have been making my own greeting cards.  I have invested scads of $$ in supplies, and etc. to do so.  As I sat at my craft table (my studio in 3'x6' form) recently, I wondered if I was wasting my time.  Who really cares?  I know that I collect the cards I receive for a year, then go back through them for one last look, then either toss them, save the fronts, or donate them to some charity that can use them.  Very seldom do I get a hand-made card.  So, I ask myself, would people to whom I send cards be just as happy with a store-bought card which I could pick out at the dollar store, or Hallmark, if it had to really "special."  I could save myself a lot of time and money by doing so, and it probably would be appreciated just as much.  Thus the quandary that I am in right now.  Also, the creative juices have seemingly dried up, at least temporarily.  Same with the crochet hook, and the gardening.  I have just run out of good ideas and thoughts.  How does one get those creative juices flowing again? 

Any thoughts?

Peace,
JE

5 comments:

Curley said...

I don't know about everyone else but I love the handmade cards that you make for me. I save them all. It makes me feel special. As for the creative juices flowing, I think we all get in a slump once in a while. That is why I have so many projects going all at once, and reading a book at the same time. I just switch back and forth between them all.

Anvilcloud said...

I do most greeting cards too, but not like you, just on the computer and only for birthdays etc. They seem to be appreciated, but I am not sure that I'm glad I started the tradition.

Jimmie Earl said...

Curley: I am glad you enjoy the cards. What a compliment that they make you "feel special." You are!!!

AC: Know what you mean about wondering if your should have started the tradition. When I say I make greeting cards, I do the whole Christmas card thing, too.
Amounts to about 45-50 cards at that busy time of year. I try to a different one for each person. Too much! If I do it next season, I will try a design that I can "mass produce." LOL!

Terry said...

I can't see anything but good that comes from a craft or hobby that brightens someones day and keeps the artists mind busy, healthy and creative. Keep it up, JE!

Terry said...

I hope you maintain your level of production, JE. Sounds as though your talent crowns the holiday season for many. I know it won't be a fair trade but if you make one for me, Denise and I will make one for you.
Terry