Painting has been something I’ve wanted to learn for some time, but it’s always taken a back seat to other creative endeavors.
In high school, I was more of a ceramics nerd (and I probably still would be if the hobby wasn’t so expensive). In college, I was an academics nerd and didn’t take any fun classes (boo). Since then, sewing, crafting, and crocheting has been my passion. There are just too many fun things to do, amiright!?
But, I also felt intimidated by painting. I kind of felt like it was too late to invest time into learning something really different from my current creative niche. I needed a push.
Michaels was that push. This month, they asked their Michaels Makers to take a class…try a kit…try something new!
You know what? I’m really glad I did.
I admit. When the instructor of the basic floral painting class said we’d be painting this picture of daisies in a single 2 hour class, I was neeeervous and skeptical. But we did…and I did!
It felt awesome.
I even came home and tried the same basic technique and painted this potted succulent from my kitchen. I turned on Netflix, and painted late into the night. I lost track of time and found it to be a totally relaxing exercise.
As you can see, I don’t yet feel comfortable straying from the colors and the basic structure the class taught, and I still can’t get those darn leaves just right…but I’m learning and I love it!
I’ve always wanted to try painting, but I didn’t expect to legit fall in love it. It makes me wonder what else I would love, if I would just try it.
If painting isn’t your gig, there are a bunch of classes and kits to choose from. I just bought a block printing kit that I am chomping at the bit to give a go.
I also think, it would be a really great thing to give for Mother’s Day. Maybe give your mom the gift of a class, or take one with her! There are free classes, kids classes, cake classes and everything in between. Check out what new things other Michaels Makers tried this month:
Disclaimer: This post was created in partnership with Michaels. All opinions and content are my own.
I am impressed! I’ve tried to paint in the past and everything ends up rather flat and lifeless… your paintings have fantastic dimension! Isn’t it fun to learn new things? =)
Thanks Charity! I still feel insecure about it because it’s really new to me and I guess it feels more personal (??) for some reason I can’t explain. I’m weird…but, I say all that because your encouragement means a lot! Your consistent encouragement means a lot to me actually. Thank you friend. <3 As for dimension though... This class totally helped me with that. The teacher taught us to add colors and shading in ways I never would have intuitively thought of. It was great!
That is what I went to college for, and you did a great job!! Good for you!
I always say that any thing is possible, with the desire to do it.
I didn’t know that Michelle. What a fun major that must have been and great prep for your blog! And what a great motto…. One that I believe, and yet don’t implement as much as I really should!
Aw it looks awesome! Trying new creative projects is a funny thing – you get used to a certain level of skill and it feels awkward to start at the beginning with something else. But heck, why not try?? My grandma took up oil painting in her 60s! Never too late. :)
Yes! Exactly my feelings. You described it perfectly. There is something about painting in particular that makes me feel especially vulnerable. Probably because drawing doesn’t come as easily to me, so painting seems even more frightening. I know I have limited time too… so why spend it on something I could potentially not be very good at? But then again, if it makes me feel brave, then why not?! Deep thoughts. ha! Either way, I’m glad I tried it anyway, because I learned that being a bad sketcher doesn’t automatically = bad at painting.