Top 5 Design Tools to Use for Handmade Items
There are so many elements required when it comes to designing handmade garments and accessories. For them to come out just the way I want them to, these tools have to be utilized in just the right way. Different projects require particular methods and while it can be challenging, it's effective in the long run. The whole point is for the finished results to be as complete as possible, and using these tools skillfully helps make that possible.
Here are my top 5 design tools to use for handmade items!
MEASURING TAPE
Measuring tape is crucial in determining the size of my garments. For certain items like accessories, I can eyeball it, but when I want to get the sizing exact, a measuring tape comes in handy. Learning to use it effectively isn't really that hard either. Once I learned where to measure & how to measure, the rest fell into place & ensures I don't use too much yarn or not enough.
JOURNAL
I recently wrote about the joys of journaling in a previous blog post & I stand by my thoughts! Compiling useful information in the moment is extremely beneficial in the long term. Once an idea comes to mind I very quickly jot it down to make sure it's preserved, & later I build off of it to create something I love.
SKETCHBOOK
Before I create my handmade items I sketch them out first, especially if they're brand-new ideas. It helps to visualize what I'm making even before I get to the crocheting part & it acts as a guide in case I ever get lost. There's usually room for experimentation, but it's essential in formulating the conceptual process.
YARN NEEDLE
When it comes to attaching panels, I live by yarn needles to get the job done. Before I ever crocheted I would sew, & it feels nice combining two of my passions together. I enjoy making granny square clothes & accessories and so I've come accustomed to using just the right yarn needles to make it all look cohesive. It's a must-have.
HOT GLUE GUN
The ends & leftover yarn, of crocheted pieces sometimes have loose ends & look like an eye sore. I use a trusty hot glue to seal the ends after fastening them off to secure the hold of the yarn strands, and it gives it a more polished look overall. It's these little things that add up & makes the garments feel complete.