For most of my life, I lived for others—my husband, my son, my job, my parents, and sometimes even my siblings. Like many women of my generation, I was taught to put my needs last. My mother’s views on life shaped much of my early choices. She encouraged me to go to college—not to build a career, but because she believed I’d meet my future husband there. (Spoiler alert: I didn’t—but thankfully, times have changed!)
Through it all, one thing stayed constant: my love for crafting and creating with my hands. Crafting became my refuge, the one place where I could truly be me.
I knitted turtleneck dickies, sewed my own clothes, and learned to weave scarves and wall hangings. I cross-stitched Christmas cards, made leaf-print stationery, and baked thousands of homemade meals. I quilted wall hangings, macramé plant holders, necklaces, and bracelets. No matter where life took me, crafting was always there—a quiet rebellion against the expectations placed on me and a celebration of my creativity.
Now that I’m retired, I finally have the time to fully embrace handmade living. Recently, I read about the resurgence of “granny crafts,” and it made me laugh. I’m not a grandmother, but I am old enough to be one—and I absolutely adore these so-called granny crafts! For me, they’re not just hobbies; they’re traditions, a connection to a slower, more intentional way of life.
In a world that moves too fast, crafting offers a chance to pause, breathe, and create something beautiful with your own hands. It’s about honoring the skills and traditions passed down through generations—and making them your own.
So, whether you’re a seasoned maker or just curious about trying something new, I’d love for you to join me on this journey. Together, we’ll explore the art of homemade living, from quilting and gardening to baking bread and creating heartfelt gifts.
Let’s step back in time and rediscover the joy of crafting a life filled with beauty and purpose. Let’s walk the Thimble & Tansy path—and celebrate the creativity that brings us together.