We are back with another amazing Crafters’ Spotlight! In this monthly blog feature we shine the spotlight on you (yes you!) and take a look at your recent crafting makes and hear your stories. Last month we chatted to Alison Markham, but don’t worry if you missed it, you can check it out here!
Now, let’s find out who our star in the spotlight is this month…
Introducing… Karen Gleave!
Hi, I’m Karen and I live in Bedfordshire with my husband James. Not only am I very passionate about art and crafts, but I also love animals, especially my two dogs (Jasper and Belle) and two budgies (Ray and Sky). There is never a dull or quiet moment in my house with this lot. I share my passion for art and craft with kids through after school and holiday clubs that I run through my business, Art Adventurers. This year I was lucky enough to join Studio Light’s design team and I have enjoyed exploring new products and techniques.
What got you into crafting?
I have always enjoying drawing and colouring from an early age and I have continued this into my career when working with children. I now run my own small business where I design art and craft activities for children. In my spare time, I explore my passion of mixed media art journal pages, I really enjoy the freedom to use a range of materials and resources to create different effects and explore different techniques.
What is your favourite thing you have made and why?
I haven’t got a favourite thing, because I am always exploring and trying new things. I enjoy the process, rather than the thing that I create, and I apply what I have learned to other crafts.
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Yes, our second bedroom has been turned into my craft room. It is filled with every type of item you can think of, from pom-pom, buttons to pipe cleaners and lollipop sticks. I would like to say that it is organised and tidy, but that would not be true. It is a creative, organised, mess, but I somehow know where everything is.
Have you picked up any new crafts this year?
I haven’t specifically started a new craft this year, but I am always trying out new ideas and techniques. I am inspired by lots of things but especially Lou Withers and Leonie. I do like to try all the new products that come out and find out how they work and create different effects.
What are you currently working on or plan to try next?
This year I have been creating lots of blue pieces, everything has been blue. So I’m going to try to explore more colours but probably the ones that work best with blue! I am currently working on some samples for Studio Light and the new collections coming soon.
Thanks for joining us in the Crafters’ Spotlight this month! We hope everyone is feeling inspired to do some crafting – remember, there’s only one place to get your craft inspiration and top crafting brands with Hochanda!