Artistry is not merely about skill; it’s about innovation, creativity, and continuous learning. Whether you’re an aspiring artist honing your craft or an art teacher guiding budding talents, there’s always room for improvement and efficiency. If you’ve ever spent time crafting, you’ll want to learn some tricks and crafty Hacks to help manage all of the art materials. Let’s face it, Art supplies aren’t cheap and if you are doing DIY crafts regularly, you’ll want these life crafty hacks. Here are some invaluable crafty hacks plus tips to elevate your artistic journey and teaching endeavors.
My absolute favorite Crafty hacks
- Cornstarch thickens runny paint.
- Using PVA glue to clean a palette.
- Ice cube trays with lids for prepping paint in advance.
- Hot soapy water or Murphys oil to soften brushes.
- Murphy’s oil to clean gelli plates.
- Baby wipes to clean gelli plates.
- Use neon paint to lighten paint. If you use only white paint, it will make it into a pastel color rather than just a lighter version of the same hue.
- When using painters tape, add a thin layer of a clear medium (gel medium, mod podge or clear gesso) over the tape. Then do your painting and you will get a crisp clean tape removal.
- Use a lint roller to clean up glitter
- Use a white colored pencil to blend two colored pencils together
- Use rubbing alcohol to re-invigorate dried out markers
- White-out is great for adding white details to artwork. Since it is oil based, it works on pretty much everything. But doesn’t take forever to dry!
- If you want to make dollar tree paint better, add cornstarch to thicken it.
- Makeup brushes are great for blending.
- If you put Gloves in a Bottle onto your hands before using dyes, your hands will not stain or dry out as easily.
- Acetone removes paint from dirty brushes. Alternatively, you can put gel hand sanitizer onto the paint brush and wrap tightly in plastic wrap for a few hours. Hardened paint will soften and then the brush can be washed.
Tips & Tricks for Mastering DIY Crafty Hacks
- Embrace Technology: In the digital age, technology has become an indispensable tool for artists. Explore digital art software like Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, or Clip Studio Paint for limitless creative possibilities. Additionally, leverage online platforms and social media to showcase your work and connect with a wider audience.
- Practice Regularly: Like any skill, art requires consistent practice to improve. Set aside dedicated time each day for sketching, painting, or experimenting with new techniques. Use a sketchbook to capture ideas and practice sketches on the go.
- Experiment with Different Mediums: Don’t limit yourself to one medium. Experiment with various mediums such as watercolor, acrylics, oils, charcoal, or digital art to discover your strengths and preferences. Each medium offers unique challenges and opportunities for artistic expression.
- Seek Inspiration Everywhere: Inspiration can strike at any moment, so stay curious and observant of the world around you. Explore art galleries, museums, nature, literature, or even everyday objects for inspiration. Keep a visual diary or mood board to collect ideas and reference images.
- Learn from Others: Surround yourself with fellow artists and mentors who inspire and challenge you. Attend workshops, and art classes, or join online communities to learn new techniques and exchange ideas with like-minded individuals. Constructive feedback and collaboration can propel your growth as an artist.
- Master the Basics: A strong foundation in the fundamentals of art is essential for artistic growth. Study anatomy, perspective, color theory, and composition to understand the underlying principles of art. Mastery of these basics will provide a solid framework for your artistic endeavors.
- Stay Organized: Organization is key to productivity and creativity. Keep your art supplies neatly organized and easily accessible. Create a dedicated workspace free from distractions where you can focus on your artistic pursuits. Use digital tools like project management apps or calendars to keep track of deadlines and goals.
- Practice Mindfulness: Art is not just about technical skill; it’s also a form of self-expression and therapy. Practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to quiet the mind and tap into your creativity. Allow yourself to embrace imperfections with some crafty hacks and enjoy the process of creating art.
For Art Teachers
- Create Engaging Lesson Plans: Design interactive and engaging lesson plans that cater to diverse learning styles and skill levels. Incorporate hands-on activities, demonstrations, and group discussions to foster creativity and critical thinking in your students.
- Provide Constructive Feedback: Offer constructive feedback that is specific, actionable, and encouraging. Focus on both strengths and areas for improvement, and guide how students can enhance their skills further.
- Encourage Exploration and Experimentation: Create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable experimenting with new techniques and mediums. Encourage risk-taking and exploration, as it fosters creativity and innovation.
- Lead by Example: Be a role model for your students by demonstrating a passion for art and a commitment to continuous learning. Share your own artistic journey, successes, and challenges to inspire and motivate your students.
- Celebrate Diversity: Recognize and celebrate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and artistic styles of your students. Encourage them to draw inspiration from their own experiences and cultural heritage, fostering a sense of inclusivity and empowerment.
By incorporating these crafty hacks and tips into your artistic practice or teaching approach, you can enhance your skills, foster creativity, and inspire others on their artistic journey. Remember, art is a lifelong pursuit of growth and self-discovery, so embrace the process and enjoy the journey.
