Learning New Craft Skills During Quarantine

Quarantine has forced many of us to find new ways to pass the time. For me, it has been a great opportunity to explore various crafts. In this article, I will share my experiences with paper quilling and latch hooking. Both of these crafts have proven to be surprisingly easy and enjoyable, perfect for keeping me occupied during these challenging times.

Discovering Paper Quilling

One of the crafts I took on is paper quilling, a delightful art form that involves rolling thin strips of paper to create intricate designs. The process is simple and requires minimal materials. My first project was a small, personal keepsake that quickly became a favorite hobby.

How It Works

Paper quilling begins with rolling thin strips of paper using a slotted needle tool. Once these rolls are made, they can be folded and shaped into a variety of designs, from simple spirals to complex floral patterns. The craft is both relaxing and artistic, making it a perfect fit for my need for mindfulness and creativity during quarantine.

A Quick and Easy Hobby

I purchased a paper quilling kit for less than $20 on Amazon and got started. The simplicity of the hobby is one of its greatest perks. It doesn’t require extensive skills and can be done in short spurts, making it ideal for busy days. I found that it has helped me curb boredom and provided a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Revisiting Latch Hooking

Though I consider myself uncrafty, I decided to revisit a childhood craft: latch hooking. This time, however, the project is a bit different. I am creating a little Eeyore, a beloved Winnie the Pooh character, and it brings me immense joy. Eeyore, the melancholic and misunderstood bear, is a favorite of mine, and I decided to celebrate this character with a craft project.

Process of Latch Hooking

Latch hooking involves folding yarn in half, placing it over a hook, pulling it up, and closing the latch to pull the yarn through a canvas or backing. It’s a straightforward technique, but one that can be challenging to remember after years away from it. I had to look up a tutorial on YouTube to reset my memory. As someone with a bachelor’s degree, failing to execute simple crafts can be a bit embarrassing, but it also adds a layer of challenge and determination to the learning process.

Mastering the Basics

The latch hooking process might seem straightforward, but the first few attempts are often plagued with frustration as the latch refuses to close properly or the yarn doesn’t meet the canvas. However, with patience and practice, the technique gets easier. It’s not just about the final product, but also about enjoying the journey of learning and creating.

Conclusion: Finding Solace in Quarantine Crafts

Both paper quilling and latch hooking have provided me with a much-needed break from the monotony of lockdown. They are activities that require minimal space, tools, and time investment, making them perfect for those with busy schedules or small living spaces.

Exploring new crafts during quarantine has been a rejuvenating experience. It has given me a sense of control and a way to express my creativity. Whether you are crafty or not, I encourage you to try something new. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy the process and the sense of accomplishment it brings.

So, if you too are looking for ways to pass the time during quarantine, pick up a paper quilling kit or a latch hooking project. You might just discover a new hobby that brings you as much joy as it did me.