The holiday is right around the corner. Everyone is busy preparing meals, parties, and most importantly, GIFTS. And you know what they say about gifts. A handmade one speaks a thousand words. A practical, unique, AND handmade one speaks a million. Alright, we just made that up but there’s definitely some truth in that. Just recall receiving a gift that you still use today. Chances are, it’s a handmade, unique item.
Today, save yourself a trip to a chaotic mall, and step into the world of gift making with our host, Sarah, while listening to her story of crafting, family bonding, and what it means to pursue her passion.
Hi Sarah, can you introduce yourself and tell us about the classes that you offer through Verlocal?
I am currently offering a herbal holiday gift making class. Participants will make dream pillows, pomander balls, and several bars of soap. We also will make tags and cards with an assortment of decorative paper, bark, ribbon, and other inspiring materials.
When did you first become interested/passionate in arts and crafts?
I grew up in a home that was very creative. My father is a writer and teacher and my mom is a quilter. She was always in her studio sewing, and she provided my brother, sister, and me with lots of art materials and free reign to experiment. We sewed, made paper crafts, tie dyed, made macramé, and dipped candles.
Where does your inspiration come from? What made you want to pursue your passion and become a host?
I enjoy socializing with adults and hosting parties at my house. I had some friends over to make Ukrainian Easter eggs in the spring and realized that I could teach workshops in my home, if the group is small. We also just acquired a rental home in Miller Beach, Indiana and that house has a larger kitchen and dining room, so it is also perfect for hosting and teaching.
How would you describe the link between your classes and the community around you?
In Miller Beach, we are just blocks from a gorgeous trail that starts out in a black oak savanna and winds up in the dunes. It is a very gorgeous and inspiring place. Lots of my crafting employs natural materials and I enjoy using the woods as a gathering place for pinecones, rocks, bark, and moss.
How long have you been living in Chicago? What would you recommend to someone who just moved to this city?
I grew up in the Chicago suburbs and have lived in the city for 25 years. There is a really great store near me called The Wasteshed that recycles and repurposes used art materials to keep them out of the landfills. You can find everything there from yarn to paint to retro art kits, all priced really really low.
Tell us about your favorite moment/ biggest achievement since you start doing natural crafting.
I am a community blogger for Mother Earth News and have covered topics like soap making, Easter crafts, salt scrubs, and other nature-themed topics.
What is your favorite craft project & story behind it?
My friend Corinne and I have a crafting blog called Smallworldland. It features all sorts of adorable miniature projects.
My favorite craft project is located in my backyard. I have been creating a tiled mosaic patio back there for many years. It is taking me a long time but it is really beautiful. Lots of friends and family have assisted so it is a special place, even if it might never actually be completed.
What are your goals for the future?
For the future, I really like the idea of teaching classes in my homes and meeting creative people and sharing skills. I have lots of ideas for future classes like patchwork, dollhouse furniture and herbal spa.
What does Verlocal mean to you?
My experience with Verlocal has been very positive. It is a good looking platform and the customer service has been outstanding.
This year, your loved ones deserve something unique. Check out Sarah’s class, where you will leave with 16 unique festive gifts including dream pillows, natural soap, and pomander ball for your family and loved ones!
What is your most memorable holiday gift?
Comment under this post and share with us between 11/23-30, and one lucky commenter will receive a FREE holiday gift making class hosted by Sarah!
If you are a host on Verlocal and would love to feature on host spotlight, send us an email at [email protected] with a short paragraph about why you want to be featured!
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