Starting any new craft can be scary as heck!! As crafty as I am, it takes me awhile to gear up to something new. It took me about 4 years to warm up to my sewing machine so I completely understand the fear. This is where my DIY Sewing Kits come in to save the day. Having a kit that's prepped and ready to go makes it a lot easier to squash the fears and get started.
Everything Comes Ready to Go!
One of the biggest perks of using a sewing kit is that all the materials are included and prepped for you. It's fun to head to a fabric shop and touch all of the bolts (we do this right?) however, these kits eliminate the need to hunt for fabric or worry about whether you’ve got enough thread—everything is right in the box.
This means you can skip the measuring and cutting and jump straight to the fun part: assembly. Pre-cut pieces not only save a lot of time but they are great for those who don't have access to a fabric store or, the room or tools to cut fabric.
Clear, Easy to Follow Instructions
Every sewing kit includes detailed instructions to guide you through the process. I designed each pattern to ensure they are easy to follow and includes photos to help visualize each step.
To take this one step further, most kits include a private link to a step by step video tutorial! I am a visual learner and I appreciate having a video to watch, especially if I'm learning something new so I'm here to guide you through each step.
Perfect for Beginners
My sewing kits are designed for the beginner in mind however, if you know your way around a sewing machine, these kits are great if you need to whip up a quick gift or two. You may not even fall in love with sewing so kits are a great option to try it out without having to buy all the sewing things.
An Excuse to Escape Life
Life can be hectic - I get it! I have kids and other life things that pull me away from the fun stuff. Like, can a chef just come to my house and cook dinner for us everyday? When I do find those precious hours of free time, I love being able to dive into a kit with everything prepped and ready to be assembled.
Ready to Start?
If you’ve been hesitant to pick up sewing because it feels too complicated, a kit might just be the answer. With pre-cut materials, clear instructions, and beginner-friendly projects, sewing kits make it simple to create with your own hands. Check out the DIY Sewing Kit collection to learn more!
Collection Link: https://thecraftshoppecanada.com/collections/sewing-patterns-kits
Happy Stitching Xx
Ho-ho-hold on to your yarn and card stock because the season of giving is getting closer! If you’re on the hunt for the perfect handmade present for that crafty friend or family member, I’ve got you covered. From DIY craft kits to spark any creative soul to handmade items that are ready for under the tree, this is your Christmas gift guide for 2024.
DIY Kits: Gifts for the Creative Souls
When it comes to thoughtful presents, a DIY kit is like giving two gifts in one: the fun of making it and the joy of using it! And the best part? These kits are designed for every skill level, so anyone can dive in.
Sometimes, you just want to make and give something that’s handmade. However, best laid plans may not work out in the end - especially if you don't have time to learn a new craft in time for Christmas. Holidays are hectic and I understand that so this section was created to save the day.
I hope this gift guide helps you this year! Christmas is the best time to share a little handmade magic, and these gifts will do just that! Whether it’s a DIY craft kit, or a cozy self-care gift, every item on this list is packed with love, creativity, and some festive magic.
Christmas card kits have been flying out the door over the last couple of months which means, people are getting their Christmas cards ready for December. I’m a planner/organizer so if I can check things off of the festive “to-do” list, then I’m all over it.
Now, my favourite part about designing card kits is staring at my card stock pile and watching the ideas in my head come to life. Sometimes I start off with a definitive idea but once I start cutting and putting different elements together, that idea tends to fly out the window.
Having said all of that, grab a coffee and let's chat about handmade card kits in more detail!
Materials
~ The one thing that I stand by with all of my kits are the quality of materials that I use. Each card is designed using thick 80lb card stock for a sturdy, heavy card that you can't find in a store.
~ Sentiments are designed and printed in house which I love because then I can mix and match unique sentiments. In the past, I have had custom sentiment requests to make it a more personalized card kit which I'm more than happy to accommodate.
~ When you purchase a card kit, it's a full and complete kit! Everything you need to put your cards together comes ready to be assembled. Another fun fact is that you can stick to what I have designed or you can take all of the card pieces, dump them in a pile, and change things up.
Individual Card Kits
~ I have a variety of card kits available from birthday, to anniversary and of course, Christmas cards. My goal is to try and cover off all of the major events that happen throughout the year so that you can build up your greeting card stash.
~ Each card kit has bundled options so you can stock up and save a little $$ at the same time. Perfect for grabbing a few kits and inviting your friends over to put them together as a group. That's my ideal night in right there!
Advent Calendar
~ Every year, I put out an Advent Calendar that comes with 24 individually wrapped card kits. You can make one card per day or, spend a day or weekend putting them all together at once. There are no rules!
~ Now, all of the Advent Calendars for 2024 are now sold out but I will be putting together another set for next year. I’m thinking of a mixed sentiment box so we'll see what comes to life - stay tuned!
Subscription Box
~ This is a new program that I started at the beginning of the year and it has become quite popular. Every month your kit will include everything you need to put 3 custom cards together. The cards designed for this program are exclusive to this program...kind of like a secret (and cool) card kit club!
~ There are different subscription options to choose from including 3, 6, 9, or 12 months. The price for each subscription option is a one time fee for the entire subscription period (not per month).
At the end of the day, who the heck wants junk mail and bills when you can open up your mailbox and find a card kit to put together instead?! To find all available Handmade Card Kit options click here: Handmade Card Kit Link
The world seems to be a bit of a mess these days and it's seen everywhere. On the news, social media and even running into the curmudgeon types at the grocery store. Then, add in all of the day to day things that life throws at us such as laundry, kids and figuring out what's on the menu for dinner. It's hard to find a moment to sit and just be. However, when we do find those 5 minutes, we often feel guilty for taking a breather because there's always (always) something that needs to be done (I mean, do we even need clean clothes?)
Insert the wonderful world of crafting!
Think of it as a brief escape from life and to just give yourself that time to drown everything out and put yourself back together. Studies show that your chosen craft is a positive outlet for mental health. By focusing on a sewing pattern, crocheting a repetitive stitch sequence or designing a scrapbook layout, your mind is focused on that very task and it creates a calming state of mind as it's just you and the rhythm of your project.
Once you are finished said project, the sense of accomplishment is wild especially if you are new to your chosen craft kit or project. If you are crocheting for the first time and your stitches work out - that's a huge deal!! Also, crafting doesn't have to be a solo mission! Gather up some friends, lay out some card kits, brew your favourite tea blend and get creative together. It's a perfect "girl's night in" by connecting with your best people and getting in some much needed laughs along the way.
So, grab your favourite kits, throw on some tunes and disappear from the world. Even if it's just for a short time!
I have said time and time again - there is nothing better than creating something with your own two hands. In a world where life is moving at super sonic speed, where we want instant gratification, where we live with our phones attached to our hands (hi, me!), the act of sitting down with a crochet project or a card making kit forces us to put all of that nonsense into a time-out.
For me, the crafty spark hit when I was in Gr.8. I remember sitting at a sewing machine and making a small tote bag for one of our class projects. I had never used a sewing machine before so when it all came together and looked like an actual tote bag (lol), I felt something light up inside. I felt pride that I actually made something with my own two hands.
Fast forward to about 7 years ago, I was introduced to a pile of card stock to make handmade greeting cards and that sparked the idea of starting a handmade business. I wanted to create a community where everyone from the beginners to the seasoned crafters were given a reason to step away from the noise of the outside world. I wanted to give people an opportunity to try something new, learn how to crochet, fall in love with fabric and to feel "that feeling" of giving someone a gift that you made.
My goal is to take over the world with one kit, one card and one ball of yarn at a time. Life is infinitely better that way! Xx
(PS: Head back to my homepage and click "DIY Craft Kits" at the top to get started on your very own crafty project)
As someone who grew up in the 80's, it was very common to see a granny square blanket on someone's bed or hanging over the back of a couch. Mothers and Grandmothers spent hours stitching up blankets that contained these multi coloured squares.
What I didn't know was that the granny square pattern dates back to the late 1800's where the pattern was published in a needlework publication (Weldon's Practical Needlework). No wonder we grew up surrounded by granny square blankets - they have been around for quite some time. What I love most is that this pattern is still going strong to this day.
Crochet designers worldwide have put their own spin on this classic pattern and have expanded beyond making the standard blanket. You can make purses, phone holders, table runners and clothing. All featuring the classic granny square design.
When my husband was little, he spent a lot of time at his Baba's house. She was an avid crocheter so she was always stitching up a project of two. Eventually he asked her to make him a blanket so she gathered up her yarn scraps and got to work. We still have her blanket and I just love looking at her stitch work. Never, EVER underestimate the love that is passed down through a handmade gift.
If you want to learn how to start making granny squares and you're not sure where to start, then follow the link to my YouTube video to get started. It's a great pattern to get started with as it utilizes just 2 stitches. Have fun and please send photos of your creations - I would love to see them!
If the crochet bug has taken over, then have a look through my Crochet Pattern | Kit collection to keep going!
Yes, I know it's August. However, we're almost into September which means Christmas will arrive in about 7 minutes. I don't why this happens but it just does so I thought I would highlight some festive things that are available, to help you plan and get ready.
Christmas Card Kits
I have 3 handmade card kits available and I just added bundle options to each listing so that you can stock up if you have to send off a lot of cards. The best part is that you can start working on your cards now to have them ready for December which is one thing you can cross off from the festive "to-do" list. If you need a lot of cards, then the Advent calendar is something to take a look at. It comes with 24 individually wrapped Christmas card kits.
Sewing Kits
If you are heading down the handmade path for Christmas gifts this year, I have festive fabric options for the quilted coaster and teapot cozy kits. These projects were designed to be easy enough to whip up a few gifts in no time. Everyone needs a little festive, handmade touch to their decor for the season.
Crochet Kits
Psst: check out the chunky wool scarf pattern and/or kit. It's easy to make and perfect to battle the colder weather during the fall/winter months.
Ready to Ship!
Now, if you don't have the time or the patience to put anything together then browse through the gift section below. Everything is made and ready to be shipped. I can even ship it directly to someone if they live in a different city/town than you!
During the Covid years, crafting kits became a lifeline. They gave people a chance to learn a new craft or to have a project to work on as a distraction from the news. From there, traditions were started and still continue to this day
*A mother/daughter duo will now order Christmas Card Kits every year and then plan an evening to put them together. Christmas Card Kit
*In November of 2020, I received a bulk order for Christmas Card Kits. The lovely woman who ordered them normally makes her own Christmas cards every year. However, that year she just didn't have the time as her son had just been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. With the kits that she ordered, she was able to bring them with her and put them together during her son's weekly treatments, and was still able to keep up with her tradition of sending handmade Christmas cards. Festive Card Kit
When I hear stories like this, it's just something else. It's part of my mission to not only help where I can but for people to discover their inner crafting spirit.
*Last year, two best friends who live in separate towns from each other ordered their own Handmade Card - Advent Calendar. Once they received them, they got on a zoom call and were able to catch up on life while putting their cards together. Advent Calendar
*A crochet kit was recently ordered by a mother who left instructions to have it sent to her daughter at summer camp. She wanted to send a little love from home and for her daughter to have a project to work on during her down time. Crochet Kit
*A Subscription Box was recently ordered by a lovely woman who lives in a rural area. She loves ordering kits online given she doesn't have a local craft store in her area. Subscription Box
These are just a few examples of the stories I hear when Craft Kit orders come in and I just LOVE IT! So grab your tape runner or a crochet hook and let's go!
~ Cindy Xx
One of the things I love most about being a small business owner are the shifts and changes that take place over time.
It's testing new products, trying new techniques, and falling in love with the process of putting a new product line together and hoping the world falls in love with it as I have.
The world of crafting is massive. There are so many paths that you can go down in an effort to tap into your creative side. For the last couple of years, I have been experimenting with a lot of areas and having a blast doing so. I love watching a project come to life but, in my quest to try all of the things, I was starting to move away from creating with my own two hands and instead, getting swept up in what was popular. So I decided to change that...
...and I think I have finally landed on something.
Over the next 6 months, I'll be transitioning into a DIY Craft Kit focus for my business. I have a lot of Card Making Kit fans and people are snapping up my Sewing Kits as well. So I'm taking what is currently working and introducing new yarn things by creating Crochet Patterns and DIY Crochet Kits and bringing them into the crafty fam jam!
My need to convince the world that crochet and sewing is COOL, and that handmade cards carry a certain magic, is why this decision was an easy one to make.
I'm currently in the process of building up the Crochet side of things and it's all starting to come together with more to come. This new path means that everything that isn't related to Craft Kits will slowly dwindle down. As things like mugs and teapot cozies sell out, then that's it. So grab things while you can!
If you are curious, follow the links below to each DIY section.
Card Making Kits: Click Here
Sewing Kits: Click Here
Crochet Patterns | Kits: Click Here
I'm very excited to see where this new path leads!!
It all starts with an idea, or scrolling through social media and seeing all of the adorable project ideas to create.
You buy the pattern, secure the materials and you feel the excitement of putting your new item together. Then, you look at the other 5,789 projects that are sitting there staring at you begging to be completed but you ignore them for the shiny new project instead.
Life gets in the way, or you have a busy week and pretty soon, your new shiny project becomes the 5,790th project that gets added to the pile.
Raise your hand if this sounds familiar? Please tell me I'm not the only one that does this. Please!? Now, the question is, why do we do this? I recently did a studio purge/organize and created a yarn shelf. I knew my yarn collection was intense however, because I kept shoving it into bins it was a case of "out of sight, out of mind".
Now that it's all out and visible, all of those ignored projects are now in front of my face. I even found a pile of yarn that I purchased in December of 2022 because we were expecting a doozy of a snowstorm so, in addition to stockpiling food and wine for the impending storm, I needed 8 balls of yarn to play with. The storm did indeed arrive however, those 8 balls of yarn still have the wrap around them. Totally ignored!
Maybe I should form a support group of sorts so we can all go around and show each other the lost forgotten projects that we had the best intentions for but have never been made. There would absolutely be no judgement as we're all in the same craft supply hoarding boat.
I get quite a few questions throughout the week with respect to product listings and shipping information so I thought I would compile a list of the most commonly asked questions and put them all into one spot. (Psst: I'm just a message away if you have any questions that aren't listed here.)
Question: How long have you been in business for and what made you decide to start this? Answer: I started The Craft Shoppe Canada in 2017 after getting a Cricut and a Sissix Big Shot for Christmas. I wanted to earn a little extra income while being at home with the kids. It started off as making handmade greeting cards and it sort of grew from there.
Question: Where are you located? Answer: I'm located in the Southwestern region of Ontario, Canada.
Question: I just ordered a recipe tea towel. Where do I send the recipe details? Answer: Please send your recipe information in an email to info@thecraftshoppecanada.com
Question: Are you able to do a custom order. I can't find what I'm looking for? Answer: I can definitely try and help depending on what you are looking to have done. Please send a message via "Contact us" at the top of my homepage and we'll chat from there.
Question: You make this look so easy - how hard is it to run an online, product based business? Answer: It is definitely a lot of fun. I mean, I get to play with crafty things everyday however, it's a lot of work. People don't realize just how much goes on behind the scenes to make it all happen.
Question: What are your processing/shipping times like and do you offer express shipping if I need my order STAT? Answer: Most of my products are made to order and while most orders can be dispatched within 1-2 days, there are some items take a little longer to make. I do offer upgraded shipping options if you need your order sooner than later.
Question: How can I reach you if I have questions/concerns about my order? Answer: Customer service is very very important to me. If you find your order hasn't arrived in a suitable timeframe, or you have any other concerns related to your order, then please send a message via "Contact Us" on my homepage, or you can send an email to info@thecraftshoppecanada.com
Question: I live in the U.S., how long will it take for my order to ship from Canada? Answer: For orders shipped within Canada, it usually takes anywhere between 3-7 business days. For orders shipping to the U.S., it usually takes anywhere between 7-10 business days. **During holidays such as Christmas, delivery times can and usually are busier so add on extra time during the months of November/December.
Question: I have noticed that you only ship within North America, are you looking to add more countries to that list? Answer: I am looking at opening things up to ship to different countries within Europe but each country has different rules and regulations surrounding shipping etc so I'm doing my research on that as we speak.
Question: Are you able to handle a larger, bulk order if necessary? Answer: Absolutely! I have completed a number of larger custom orders in the past. All I ask is for time to pull the order together - especially if it's a custom order request.
I am a creature of habit - there I've said it. I find comfort in routine and being able to set my clock to those daily tasks. I love planning ahead, and I feel comfort when everything is in its spot.
To jump outside of that comfort zone? What?? Why would someone choose to take part in this crazy trend?
We are raised to go to school, find a job/career, get married, buy a house and keep working to maintain whatever lifestyle you have set for yourself. So, I carved out a career in IT recruiting, met the boy, got married, bought the house and started raising kids. Did I love my career? Yes and no. It was fun and I felt like I was making a difference for those who craved a new career for themselves. However, it wasn't a job where I leapt out of bed every morning with determination nor did I feel 100% fulfilled. Having said all of that, life was good, there was routine and we were shuffling through life raising little kids and doing "the norm".
Fast forward to the year before I turned 40. My hubby and I started tossing around the idea of having me stay at home full time with the kids. His career had him travelling quite a bit so it made sense for me to manage our life full time. At first, I balked at the idea. I loved having a career and I loved being able to contribute financially to our household income. However, that was also the same year where I started to forget things like picture day or crazy hair day. My eldest had also joined the volleyball team at school but I could never catch any of his games because they happened while I was at work.
Once the ball dropped on NYE, on the year I turned 40, my perspective on life changed in an instant. Here I was given a chance to spend more time with my kids and get involved with their lives, school and sports. Why was I struggling with this decision? Oh right, it meant an upheaval to the routine that I felt I needed and life was comfortable and predictable.
In the end, I dove into the world of my kids and LOVED IT! I flipped pancakes at their school, organized fundraisers and blared the latest tunes while carting the kids and their friends to baseball and soccer tournaments.
While I loved being a full time Mum, the kids were in school full time so I was getting a little bored during the day. So, I took another step outside of that comfort zone and opened up the Shoppe. Did I know anything about running a small handmade business? Nope, but I have learned (and continue to learn) the ins and outs along the way and I fell in love with what I do. It's exciting to watch something that began as a crazy idea, begin to take root and grow.
Now that I'm becoming famous for shaking up my routine and comfort zone, I decided to fly over to Scotland with my best friends of 30 years and take on the West Highland Way. The "Way" is a 155km hiking trek that we did over 8 days. I mean, let's be real here, I'm the least outdoorsy person on earth. I don't camp unless it's in a cottage with a dishwasher, I have never hiked to the degree where I needed a pack or trail shoes and I love A/C. However, this was a chance to get my feet on my ancestral roots and do something completely out of the norm.
This experience really pushed us to our limits. The terrain was rough and it rained every single day (every.single.day), but the laughter and tears we shed on this journey far outweighed the pain. It was an unbelievable experience - one that I still can't quite put into words.
What I'm trying to say, is that this so called comfort zone that we nestle into is a great place to be - especially for those who crave routine. However, wonderful things happen when you push yourself outside that zone. The great thing about all of this is, is that if you step out and it doesn't work out, you can go back and try again. The important part is that you keep trying.
