Making crafts is one of the things I have enjoyed most since being a child, and still adore it just as much now - well, maybe even more.

I have always been a creative being, and any excuse to get my hands messy making anything that resembles any form of art is something I have always thrived on. Textiles and art were always my favourite subjects throughout school, and any chance I could do these as extra curriculum activities, or by volunteering to help or teach a younger set of kids, I would be the first to raise my hand. Even at home, I would be stitching, sewing, knitting while watching tv, and attempting (not my strongest skill) papercraft when it came to making homemade cards and gift-wraps.

You would have seen me post throughout the year, especially at blogmas, crafting projects which are aimed at more of the beginner levels, but are easily adaptable for those who have more confidence with other materials. When it comes to trying something completely new, or out of your comfort zone, it can be pretty daunting. You never know if you're doing it right, or you're afraid you'll end up wasting your money or time doing something and getting nothing out of it. I really see crafts and creative projects dominating my year (for reasons I'm yet to share but will be very soon), so I wanted to give those who are slighting on the fence about crafts or looking for a fun new project, maybe even a new years resolution, a first hand guide to help motivate and inspire you to finally start that project you've been wanting to do.

PICK A SMALL AREA OF CRAFTS TO START OFF WITH

The crafting world has an enormous amount of avenues you can pick from which can be slightly overwhelming if you decide you want to try them all to start off with. I'd recommend choosing one specific area, whether that's working with fabric such as stitching, knitting, sewing, or cross-stitching, or maybe you much prefer papercrafts such as printing, scrapbooking or cardmaking, or you may like to build with clay. Once you start feeling more confident, you'll be able to branch out a little more and either start it as a whole new project or incorporate it into your newly learnt skill.

START OFF WITH EASY/BEGINNER TUTORIALS

There is nothing wrong with looking and feeling inspired by advanced tutorials, but if you're a complete newbie, starting with difficult tutorials won't be very helpful. Learning the basics to your skill is a fundamental part of feeling confident and a lot of that won't be covered in advanced learning. You could end up doing the same stitch 20 times, or making the same thing 10 times but once your hands get used to completing that task, it will become hard to forget. Read guides, and watch videos, and practise until you feel like you know. It can be frustrating at first as you want to make beautiful things but this is something every crafter has to face. Even I still have to go back to the beginning when I'm learning brand new things.

PINTEREST YOUR INSPIRATION

We always hear the terms "I saw it on Pinterest" because it's true, a lot of inspiration, tutorials, and guides are shared there, which makes it a hub for all your crafting needs. Create boards on a whole range of projects; different skills levels, ones you've tried, different materials, themes, and of course, create a board sharing images of your creations. I have a Pinterest board which I'll be expanding soon, but check it out for what is inspiring me lately.

BUILD UP YOUR SUPPLIES... SLOWLY

Building your craft supplies takes time, but it's definitely the most satisfying part and any crafter will say, most addictive. Saying that, it doesn't mean you need to buy a lot of expensive things to make the best crafts. It takes a lot of time to know what materials or tools works best for you, or even if they work at all. I would recommend using eBay and Amazon to start off buying your very basic tools and materials. For example, I have some very cheap wool which I use when testing and practising knits. Once I'm feeling confident and happy with what I'm doing, I'll purchase materials ready to create my final piece.

GATHER YOUR INSPIRATION FROM EVERYWHERE

Be open to finding inspiration for your crafts absolutely everywhere. It's a skill I've been practising for what seems like my entire life, but when you see things around you that interest you, take a photo or make a note. Whether that's a colour palette, textures, shapes, typography. Gathering and using your own inspiration when making your crafts can take something that's been seen a hundred times before, to something original and unique.

THERE ARE NO CRAFTING RULES SO DON'T BE AFRAID TO EXPERIMENT

What I love about most types of crafts is there is no science behind it, there are no official rules to follow, so you're able to experiment. I recommend this more than anything. Add extra bits of fabric or paper, or mix colours, or do a different stitch, or what if I cut it this way instead of that way, or what if I make it super big or teeny tiny. Don't feel any idea is too big or ridiculous to attempt.

CREATE YOUR OWN STYLE

This is a point combined from the two above, but I think it's something that is so important and can get a little lost when you're taking the next step in crafts. Whether it's the materials you use, the colour palette you've chosen, how you like to finish your hoop art, or the over excessive use of glitter (yes, this is aimed at yours truly), your crafts should be recognisable to you, even if it's the smallest thing. The terms, "I haven't seen anyone do it before," or "it's not how I know it should be done," should be seen as positives. Being your own creative is such an impressive skill to have, so use that to your advantage.

CHECK OUT LOCAL CLASSES & ONLINE COMMUNITIES

If you prefer working in groups and learning face-to-face, look out for local crafting lesson. This is a great place to meet new as well as more experienced crafters. You can ask all the questions you want and feel inspired by some fantastic artists while learning your brand new skills. You may prefer working in the comfort of your home, so check online for crafting groups who can share tips and advice too. A favourite of mine is Handmade Crafts Club which I have recently joined, but have been so welcoming and kind.

PRACTISE GETS YOU CLOSE ENOUGH TO PERFECT

This is sadly a normality which occurs in any creative field, but we will always notice our own mistakes. Even if it's the smallest things, it's the only thing we will let our own eyes see, despite the numerous praise from others that they couldn't even notice it. This is such a huge thing in crafting as you will look at other artists work and think it's the most perfect piece of work you've ever seen, but I'm sure that they will be able to tell you things they don't like and wish they could change. I used to be afraid to share my creative work because of scrutiny, when the only place that was coming from was me. You'll get close enough to perfect as you think you can, but don't let that keep you behind and put you off from creating your own versions of wonderful.

SHARE YOUR CREATIONS

Yes, I agree this is terrifying, but I think it's so important to share what you're up to - I'm talking the very first thing you do. Not only does it show a natural progression, but a lot of crafters both at the start and those more experienced can relate. It will help build up your confidence and you'll be able to share tips and advice and maybe inspire someone new to start a craft too. You never know, you may even start to get people asking to purchase what you've made. Everyone has to start from somewhere so you might as well start from the very top.

Oh, how many times I've had to stop myself from doing a bit of craft instead of writing this post is a very shockingly high number. Let me know in the comments if you craft and what you like to do. If you're a new crafter and have any more questions, don't be afraid to ask them below.