I haven’t posted much of late, for a variety of reasons – one of which is: I’ve been crafting, rather than upcycling. Crafting means I’ve been making things using new supplies, instead of upcycling and using what I already have, and (my inner editor is speaking here) that’s not what I’m “supposed” to do. For some it’s a fine line, maybe even a ridiculous distinction, but the struggle is real for me and goes well beyond this blog. My self-imposed rule – I should use what I have – isn’t just part of my art ethos, it’s an internalized mantra for myself.

For five decades I’ve preached “make something of it,” filling the cracks in my life with gold and saying “look how beautiful I’ve made this mess!” Be grateful for what you have, Leah, you can always embellish it, recover it, add a new coat of paint . . . all the while thinking this was my greatest strength. But now I wonder how this mindset might have limited me – encouraging me to settle for what I’ve been given, rather than ask for what I want? My last relationship was a fixer-upper from day one, still I clung to it like it’s all I deserved. What else in my life am I just accepting, rather than shop around?

Last month I was given a gift card to a craft store (a thank you gift from some incredibly kind people I helped) and I felt absolutely decadent buying supplies for projects I’ve always wanted to try, like the leaves pictured with this post. I made those using air dry clay and metallic paint. Then, because I am who I am, displayed them in a piece of Lenox china that belonged to my great-great aunt. Part of me will always resonate with Secondhand Rose, but I’m ready start figuring out what I really want, beyond what I already have.

Step one: I’m making plans with a friend to gather a small group of women who want to create and converse once a month. The hope is we’ll take turns choosing/hosting projects, an opportunity (or excuse?) to stretch our artistic muscles a little and deepen friendships. It all feels a little foreign, but I decided to share this so you’ll help hold me accountable. Making Something of It has always had a broader definition than just my upcycling projects. The only limitations are the ones I place on myself and it’s high time I upcycle those into something new!