Can You Play?

Crafting as Play: Embracing Creativity Without Perfection

When was the last time you truly played? Not followed a set of instructions or worried about the final result, but simply allowed yourself to explore, experiment, and create freely?

Crafting, at its heart, is a form of play. And yet, many of us get caught up in the idea that we need a step-by-step guide or formal instruction before we can even begin.

Light bulb moment here!

While learning new skills through classes and tutorials can be helpful, it’s equally important to leave space for unstructured creativity.

Nix the Doubt

This comes up just about every time I post a basket that is slightly different than what I teach in Basket Weaving Mastery. Whether it’s a unique pattern, a different stitch, or a fun size and shape, my inbox gets flooded with questions and demands for video tutorials.

So much wonderful interest and enthusiasm!

Unfortunately, I say this with L-O-V-E, I am not going to make a tutorial for everything I create and share, because most of the time I’m just playing, with a desire to inspire.

“Desire to inspire,” ooo that’s good!

The reason you might be needing a tutorial for every craft you see on IG is likely because you are doubting yourself. It IS easier to follow step-by-step instructions. But it’s more FUN when you have learned enough to get you started and then can experiment on your own.

The reason you haven’t experimented yet is because you don’t think you can.

And if this is you, just look to our kids to help overcome it! ….

The Joy of Experimentation

Children approach art with curiosity and playfulness. They don’t stress over whether their painting looks exactly like the reference photo or if their craft project is symmetrical. They enjoy the process itself.

As adults, we can reclaim that joy by shifting our mindset away from perfection and toward exploration. Instead of worrying about making mistakes, embrace the unexpected results—they might lead you to something beautiful and entirely new.

Skills Are Tools, Not Rules

Learning techniques and skills can enhance your crafting, but they shouldn’t become rigid rules that limit your creativity. Think of them as tools in your creative toolbox, ready to be used when needed but never dictating your every move.

Some of the best ideas and innovations come from playing around with materials, testing out different approaches, and seeing what happens.

Letting Go of Perfection

If you find yourself hesitating to start a project because you don’t know exactly how it will turn out, remind yourself that perfection isn’t the goal—expression is.

Give yourself permission to create imperfectly. Let go of the fear that you’re “wasting” supplies or time. Every attempt, whether it turns out as expected or not, is part of the creative journey.

Ways to Incorporate Play into Your Crafting

• Try a new medium without researching every detail—just dive in and see what happens.
• Set a timer and create something in 30 minutes without overthinking it.
• Mix and match techniques from different crafts to create something unique.
• Make art for yourself, not for an audience or approval.
• Let mistakes guide you instead of stopping you. Ask, “What can I do with this?” rather than seeing it as a failure.

Reignite Your Creative Spirit

Crafting should be an enjoyable, freeing experience—not another task with rigid expectations. By embracing play, you open yourself up to new ideas, greater self-expression, and a deeper connection with your creativity.

So go ahead, grab your supplies, and just play. You might be surprised at what you discover.