@dadsocial 12 hours, a couple sheets of plywood, a second hand $25 powerwheel that was missing a wheel, a gallon a paint, some RV accessories, and what do you have? A childhood filled with camping memories. I built this camper for my kids over the course of two days, finishing it just a few hours before leaving on our first camping trip of the season. And yes, both my daughters can fully fit inside. Though they probably will never go camping alone, you should have seen them rolling through the camp ground pulling this little trailer, it was incredible. I’d love to take a minute and say happy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads out there, keep it up, I’m proud of you! I teamed up with two of the coolest dads I know, and we each made our kiddos a mini travel trailer, go check out @DIY Heimwerker Interior and @Trevor trailers, and if you’re feeling up for it, we’d love to see a trailer you build! #traveltrailer #rv #kidsrv #powerwheel #trailer #camper #kidscamper #diydadchallange ♬ original sound – sped up sounds 🙂

Mason Smith, also known as thedadsocial, is a successful influencer who posts heartwarming videos of him doing thoughtful acts for his wife and daughters. With over 3.8 million followers on TikTok and nearly 3.5 million followers on Instagram, Smith has built up quite the dedicated fan base, who find the creator's content to be an inspiring and refreshing example of healthy masculinity and great parenting.

Recently, Smith posted a video of him building his two young daughters—Berkeley and Hadley—an adorable blue camper by repurposing an old Power Wheel car. The idea popped into his head when his children had requested to go camping alone. While he wasn't going to let two young girls go on a solo camping trip, he still did his best to provide them with a sense of independence. Smith decided the best way to do this was to build them their own miniature camper.

After 12 hours of work, “a couple sheets of plywood, a second hand $25 powerwheel that was missing a wheel, a gallon a paint, [and] some RV accessories,” the camper was complete, and just in time for the family to leave for their first camping trip of the season. The end result was a blue camper that was light and small enough to be dragged behind a kid's Power Wheel car, but still large enough to fit both of Smith's daughters.

“This was one of my favorite things I’ve ever built because I know there are going to be so many memories that will be made in this little trailer,” Smith admits,” and I can’t wait for my kids to tell their kids about the time their dad built them their own mini travel trailer.”

This is far from the first example of Smith using his handy skills to make something for his family. He recently built an elaborate play structure in the backyard for his girls, complete with a swing set and elevated deck. He also constructed a set of long picnic tables for his wife's baby shower after consulting her Pinterest.

To keep track of his latest building projects, you can follow Smith on Instagram and TikTok.

Mason Smith is an influencer who is best known for the thoughtful DIY projects that he creates for his family. Recently, he made a child-sized camper for his daughters.

@dadsocial There are very few things cuter than seeing my daughters drive around a campground in their power-wheel with that little travel trailer attached. And don’t worry, my wife and I were also camping in our trailer in the same campsite. And truth be told, there were naps taken, games played, and food eaten in their little trailer, but at the end of the night they ended up sleeping with us in our trailer. This was one of my favorite things I’ve ever built because I know there are going to be so many memories that will be made in this little trailer, and I can’t wait for my kids to tell their kids about the time their dad built them their own mini travel trailer. #kidstrailer #traveltrailer #diy #dad #powerwheel #trailer ♬ original sound – r & m <3 ⸆⸉

Mason Smith: Instagram | TikTok | YouTube
h/t: [Reddit]

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READ: Loving Dad Builds Adorable Child-Sized Camper for His Daughters

@that_crochet_gurl00 I was overwhelmed with compliments!this is the best part of crocheting fr #crochet #fypage #fyp #crochetptomdress #prom #pink #fypviral #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp ♬ original sound – Sarah

Prom is arguably the most anticipated event in many teenagers' young lives. Many of the youthful attendees go all out for the evening and even tend to spend hundreds of dollars on the perfect outfit. For 18-year-old Sarah Akinbuwa, this was not the case, though. The crafty teen managed to steal the show at Somerville High School's prom by relying on her talent and determination instead of her bank account. In three days, albeit sleep-deprived ones, Akinbuwa crocheted a pink gown adorned with crocheted roses that has now gone viral on TikTok and even garnered the attention of Zendaya's stylist Law Roach.

Akinbuwa first started crocheting as a 12-year-old girl while living in Nigeria. In the past five years, she's made two big moves, first from Nigeria to New York and then to Somerville, Massachusetts. Despite all the life transitions, she not only kept up with her hobby, but started creating new crochet pieces with every spare moment she had since she wants to become a fashion designer.

When her friend invited her to his prom, Akinbuwa got to work on a project she knew would make her standout from all the other students. Inspired by the Valentino gown Zendaya wore to the 2023 SAG Awards, the determined designer picked up $60 of pink yarn at the craft store Michael's. Starting with the roses, the young designer crocheted over 100 in two days before diving into the bodice and silhouette of the gown itself. Along with a rose-covered coat she had already crocheted for Valentine's Day, Akinbuwa made quite the entrance and stunned other prom-goers. “You made this! It's beautiful!” and “You should win a prize for this!” were among the compliments she received by strangers as she was attempting to take a video of her creation on prom night.

It's not just folks in Somerville who are impressed though. One of her TikTok videos spotlighting her handmade dress has over 26 million views. Law Roach, acclaimed Hollywood stylist even commented on her video. “He said it was so cute,” says Akinbuwa, a big admirer of his work. “No one can bring me down anymore.”

While Akinbuwa has had to turn down folks requesting they buy her dress off her, she does have a small crochet clothing brand called Oyinda’s (her Nigerian first name). Additionally, she will be attending Framingham State University to get her degree in fashion design. Clearly she has the patience and persistence to create a promising career in fashion.

To keep up to date with this budding fashion designer, you can follow Akinbuwa on TikTok and Oyinda's on Instagram.

18-year-old Sarah Akinbuwa magically turned $60 of yarn into the most stunning and unique prom dress in just 3 days.

@that_crochet_gurl00 Just going for my outfit #fypage #prom #fypシ゚viral #promdress #crochetpromdress #promo #crochet #crochetblackgirls #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp ♬ Saturn (Sped Up) – SZA

@that_crochet_gurl00 I just needed a reason to crochet a prom dressmy prom was last year #fyp #promdress #crochet #crochetpromdress #blackgirlcrochet #crochetersoftiktok #prom2024 #fypシ゚viral #royalty #prom ♬ spread thin – kay

Her dress is bringing her worldwide attention with over 26 million views on TikTok.

@that_crochet_gurl00 Try me‍ #fypage #pink #crochetdress #crochetpromdress #blackgirlcrochet #prom #fyp #fypシ゚viral ♬ original sound – findgodye

Akinbuwa even made a matching purse to complete her outfit.

@that_crochet_gurl00 Posting this crochet bag because it’s not talked about enough!im obsessed #fypage #crochet #crochetfashion #crochetbag #fypagee #fyp ♬ bejeweled transition – theo (taylor’s version)

And this prom outfit isn't the end or even the beginning of her crocheting journey.

@that_crochet_gurl00 Learning how to crochet is one of the best thing that has ever happened to me #fypage #blackgirlcrochet #crochet #crochetfashion #crochettok #crochetersoftiktok #fypシ゚viral ♬ original sound – stxlen_

@that_crochet_gurl00 I just keep outdoing myself everytime #crochet #fyp #fypシ゚viral #crochetersoftiktok #blackgirlmagic #blackhistorymonth ♬ original sound – aqyila

Sarah Akinbuwa: Instagram | TikTok
h/t: [The Boston Globe]

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Photo: Pirotehnik/Depositphotos

Being a new parent is hard, but being a parent to triplet infants is a feat. One triplets dad seems to be juggling his multiple bundles of joy with ease though. Thanks to his ingenuity, super dad Jordan Flom has found a way maneuver three separate strollers into Target by himself.

How did he pull it off? Flom assembled his three musketeers into a V formation with the help of a homemade wooden frame attached to the strollers' handles. The determined dad even made sure to articulate the frame, allowing him to steer the lead stroller separately from the two that are carabiner-ed together. This way he can navigate tight corners without taking up the entire aisle. Best of all, he has full views of each rosy-cheeked face and they can all see dad to assuage any anxiety.

The expert tri-stroller maneuvering is captured in a YouTube video. Though it’s shot as if a woman just happened to spot Flom while sitting in her parked car, it turns out that the woman is actually mom Rachel Flom. Like her partner, she also posts content about their triplet sons and toddler daughter to social media. While her awe may have been pre-meditated, another passerby is also impressed.

Flom seems to draw onlookers any time he goes shopping with his sons. In another video, he demonstrates how to turn a Home Depot lumber cart into a giant stroller/baby swing for his boys.

Despite the silly fun they’re having, the Floms have likely helped out some future parents of multiples. The rate of multiple births has been steadily increasing since the 1980s due to older mothers and increased fertility treatments. If only Flom could come up with a DIY to guarantee all three babies sleep through the night.

Jordan Flom makes shopping with triplets a breeze thanks to his own handiwork.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jordan Flom (@jordanflom)

Jordan Flom: Instagram | YouTube
h/t: [Neatorama]

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Nowadays, there are a wide range of speakers available in different shapes, colors, and materials to suit every style. But despite all the models available in stores, a clever crafter has come up with something truly unique that you won’t find in stores. Content creator Mohsen Shirmohammadi, best known for his YouTube channel Penguin DIY, created a bluetooth speaker…inside a walnut!

Shirmohammadi, a mechatronic enthusiast, creates quirky gadgets from unexpected items. To show how he makes it all work, he captures his process in detailed videos. For example, in the walnut bluetooth speaker video, we see him go from polishing the inside walls of the walnut, to installing a rearranging tiny 5 V power bank module to make it fit inside the shell.

In one half of the walnut shell, the crafter stacks and fits a MH-MH18 Bluetooth audio module and an HXJ8002 mini audio amplifier module, managing to extend the LEDs and wire them up despite the lack of room. On the other side of the compact space, he fits a 4Ω 2 W mini speaker. For the sound to come out, the content creator drills a series of little holes in the shell. As finishing touches, he installs three tiny switches for play/pause, previous and next track, and volume control.

“From the choice of the perfect walnut shell to the installation of modules, amplifiers speakers, and a rechargeable battery, this project is a fusion of nature and technology,” writes the imaginative inventor. “Join us on this unique journey of creativity and innovation. Don't miss out on this extraordinary walnut shell speaker project—a must-watch for DIY enthusiasts and music aficionados!”

To stay up to date with Shirmohammadi's latest creations, you can subscribe to Penguin DIY's YouTube channel.

Penguin DIY: YouTube

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Photo: Nynne Schrøder
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

If there’s one thing for certain, it’s that winter is coming and you’re going to need a scarf. And not only that, but a cap, a sweater, and cozy socks, too. While buying these items is always an option, it’s a lot more fun to make your own. The knitting community has exploded in popularity over the past two decades, and with social media, people are sharing their fiber creations as well as the patterns they used to make them. This presents the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in this craft to learn on their own.

Knitting patterns are the best way to hone your skills. Depending on what you create, they utilize techniques that range from basic stitches to the more complicated intarsia to the ultimate test—constructing socks. The conventional knitting wisdom is that if you can produce a toe and heel, you can conquer any design that comes your way.

Although they offer plenty of inspiration, sifting through paid and free knitting patterns can take forever (so many choices!), so we’ve done the perusing for you and selected some of our favorites. These patterns are made by fellow knitters and range in skills and applications. While some are suitable for beginners, others are meant for crafters who are more familiar with techniques. Whatever your skill level is, you're sure to find something that piques your interest.

Scroll down to see all of the patterns and choose your next project today.

Whether you’re a beginner knitter or put hundreds of hours into the craft, you’re sure to find something you love with our selection of knitting patterns below.

Clothing

Bubble Sleeve Cardigan

Bummbul | $7.35

Chunky Sweater Vest

DaisyAndPeace | $5.50

Knitted Beanie 

Miskunn | $4.75

3-in-1 Button Boots

Bekah Knits | $6.99

SUIR Fingerless Gloves

Whistle And Wool | $3.75

Fox Scarf

Nina Führer | $6.47

Knit Turban Headband ⨯ The Roseaux

DeBrosse | $5

V Back Knit Sweater Pattern

Make It Yourself and Get the Glory | $6

Beginner Wrap Pattern

The Easy Design | $3.28

Off Grid Sweater

ROWSknitwear | $7.96

Wolf or Fox Ears Hooded Bonnet

Patterny | $3.50

Passerine Hat

Erica Heusser Designs | $6

Urban Snood

We Are Knitters | Free

Hooded Jacket

PDFKnittingCrochet | $2.35

Heart Sleeve Sweater

TauroKnits | $8

Stylish Bralette

SaraKnitsCo | $6.16

Converse-Inspired Slippers

Reaverse | $8.78

Twirling Top

Paintbox Yarns | Free

Straight Leg Pants

kinokoknits | $4.39

Reynard Socks

Kirsten Kapur | $6

Forest Berry Jacket

FabelVintage | $7.63

Zweig Sweater

Zweig | $8.40

Home Goods & Accessories

Teddy Bear

Knitateddy | $2.54

Mermaid Blanket

Wool Affair | $4.62

Teeny Tiny Bunny

DotpebblesKnits | $1.27

Oodles Basket

Knit & Crochet Ever After | $3.99

Tote bag ⨯ Black and White ⨯ The Maniche Tote

DeBrosse | $5

Kiko the Knitted Monster

Paintbox Yarns | Free

Mallard Duck

knitforvictory | $3.74

Throw Blanket

Miskunn | $4.95

This article has been edited and updated.

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As summer changes into fall, there’s more time to spend indoors working on crafts. Flower pressing is a wonderful way to work with your hands and create wall art or cards with items from nature, allowing you to have a bit of the great outdoors while inside. Of course, spring and summer instantly conjure up images of freshly cut flowers, but there are still plenty of blossoms to work with through the autumn season.

We’ve compiled a list of five flowers that work particularly well for flower pressing. From clematis to dahlias and daisies, these flowers will brighten up your art project and leave you inspired.

And once you’ve picked out your flowers, you’ll be ready to start pressing. If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry. At My Modern Met Academy, we turned to flower-pressing artist Anna Zakirova to demonstrate how fresh blooms can become art in her class Beyond Bouquets: Turning Pressed Flowers Into One-of-a-Kind Art.

In this hour-long online class, she’ll teach all the necessary skills to press fresh flowers and get you inspired to make your own creations. And, as it’s available on demand, you can watch as many times as you’d like, whenever you want.

So let’s see which flowers are particularly suited to this craft and then get started.

Here are 5 fall flowers that are perfect for flower pressing this autumn.

Photo: svetik-81-81@mail.ru/Depositphotos

Clematis

There is a wide variety of this climbing plant, which is divided into three groups. When they flower depends on which group they fall into, with group three blooming in both summer and fall. Clematis come in many bright, vibrant colors, and with a single layer of petals, they are perfect for pressing.

Photo: EBFoto/Depositphotos

Dahlia

Since most dahlias bloom until the fall frost begins, they make a great option for flower pressing throughout September and October. Available in a rainbow of colors, you’ll find dahlias as an endless source of inspiration.

Photo: pritsadee/Depositphotos

Cosmos

Cosmos will flower until temperatures drop. In fact, the cosmos is actually October’s birth flower. These delicate blooms make a great addition to any composition.

Photo: elenathewise/Depositphotos

Pansies

Pansies are a hardy, versatile plant that can brighten up your garden into the winter, making them a great option for flower pressing in cooler months. Not only that, they’ll keep their shape nicely and are available in many colors.

Photo: a.onufriiciuc@gmail.com/Depositphotos

Gerbera Daisy

With their vivid colors and low-maintenance care, Gerbera daisies are a wonderful option for pressing. It’s easy to find these flowers in autumn colors, so you can even create a composition with rich reds, oranges, and yellows.

Want to learn how to press flowers but aren't sure where to start? Check out My Modern Met Academy's online class, Beyond Bouquets: Turning Pressed Flowers Into One-of-a-Kind Art.

My Modern Met Academy: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | TikTok

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Photo: Stock Photos from GOFFKEIN.PRO/Shutterstock
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Cozy knits and steaming cups of tea are the perfect fall accessories. Whether you are an experienced crafter or just beginning, knitting your own cold-weather clothes is both possible and fun. Knowing where to start is crucial; but once you have a few basic stitches mastered, you can produce your own scarves, blankets, holiday decorations, and more.

To help you start your knitting or crocheting journey, we've put together a list of knitting and crochet patterns inspired by the fall season.

A festive fall of crafting awaits you! Scroll down for our list of knitting and crochet patterns for all abilities.

Photo: Stock Photos from ARTHUR LINNIK/Shutterstock

Learning the Basics of Knitting and Crochet

If you are new to knitting and crocheting, there are plenty of educational resources on the internet.

Crochet projects are done with a single crochet hook and can be quicker than knitting. Knitting, by contrast, uses two needles. While not hard to learn, knitting is generally the more complicated of the two crafts. You'll want to learn the basic knit stitch as well as casting on. This helpful video explains the knitting basics—even for absolute beginners. The purl stitch, which is another basic knitting technique, can also be learned through video tutorials.

Knitting needles and crochet hooks come in different sizes. This impacts the size of the stitches and how tight (or loose) the weave of your work will be. Bigger needles create a looser knit. Be careful to follow the pattern's requirements.

Although they use different tools, the same yarn considerations must be made for both knitting and crocheting. Yarn comes in strands of different widths. The thickness of the yarn may seem like a little detail, but it can greatly impact stitch count and the size of your final product. When reading a knitting or crocheting pattern, make sure to note the gauge of the yarn needed.

18 Knitting and Crochet Patterns for All Skill Levels

A Festive Pumpkin

Photo: Stock Photos from ANASTASIIA HOLUBIEVA/Shutterstock

Decorate your mantlepiece with adorable knit pumpkins. Choose some orange yarn or the color of your favorite fall gourd. A free knitting pattern is available on Ravelry. And if you are looking for crochet pumpkins, there's a very affordable PDF pattern that will help get you into the Halloween spirit.

Comfy Slippers You Crafted Yourself

Mamachee | $5.50

Slippers are a must for chilly fall days, so make sure you're prepared with this DIY pair. Designed by Mamachee, the intermediate-level pattern calls for an H hook and bulky yarn to bring out the cable design across the top of the foot.

Crocheted Socks

Stitchery & Co. | $6.50

If slippers aren't your thing, try crocheting this pair of socks. The beginner-friendly pattern by The Stitchery & Co. uses basic stitches with the option for color changes so you can customize your look.

A Cute Knit Scarf

Photo: Stock Photos from XUANHUONGHO/Shutterstock

A scarf is a classic beginner knitting project for good reason. Easy, wearable, and cute, there are so many scarf patterns for all abilities. Beginners can try this free pattern of a chunky-knit from Berroco. Another free color-blocked pattern from O Wool is perfect for minimalists.

Charming Acorn Basket

MiniCrochetZoo | $3.58

Add a bit of seasonal charm to your home decor with this crochet acorn basket. Or try your hand at a cute acorn pillow.

A Quick Knit Headband

Photo: Stock Photos from MARXSTUDIO/Shutterstock

No matter your experience level, a knit headband is a quick project. Try out this ribbed design from Ravelry for starters. Or if you are feeling ready to try cable knit, this free pattern is a perfect introduction.

Knitted Mock-Neck With a Cropped Fit

Well Loved Knits | $7.11

Mock-neck shirts and a cropped fit are in. Keep up with the latest trends when you knit this sweater. As a beginner-friendly pattern, it uses the stockinette and rib stitch with some eventual knitting in the round. Once you're done, you'll have something to carry you through the fall and winter and even into next spring.

Colorful Autumn Leaves

goolgool | $5.50

This crochet leaf pattern gives you instructions on how to make four types of autumn leaves. Once you're done, they make a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table

A Cozy Shawl

HandyLittleMe | $7.82

For walks in the autumn woods, knit an elegant shawl. This cool Outlander-inspired pattern is affordable and approachable. To crochet a shawl, check out this “casual cool” wrap.

The Cutest Hat for Kids

Thevelvetacorn | $5.50

As the holiday season approaches, knit some adorable hats for the kids in your life. This Failynn Fox Cowl might be the cutest pattern on the internet. Beginner crochet enthusiasts can try these easy and colorful pom-pom hats from Yarnspirations.

An Ingenious Shoulder “Cozy”

Churchmouse | $6

Sometimes a little extra warmth goes a long way. This clever shoulder cozy pattern can also be worn as a cowl. Another cable-knit pattern gives a more Irish impression. There's also a cute crochet version for kids.

A Chunky-Knit Blanket

Photo: Stock Photos from ALBINA GLISIC/Shutterstock

These chunky knit blankets are not only trendy but quick to craft, thanks to the size of the yarn and needles. Try knitting the blanket using your arms instead of needles for a project you truly cannot put down. Want more instruction? Laura Birek offers an affordable pattern.

A Useful Coffee Cozy

Photo: Stock Photos from PAVELKANT/Shutterstock

Accessorize your hot beverages with these cute cozies. Nestle that Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte into this perfectly-sized pumpkin cozy. For fans of Oktoberfest, crochet these adorable colorful cozies with this easy pattern. (Just remember that knit cozies will not fully protect your fingers from heat.)

Stylish Layering Cardigan 

Make and Do Crew | $5.99

If the thought of crocheting a sweater intimidates you, this Mezzo cardigan pattern has a different way of looking at it. “You’ll begin by crocheting two relaxing hexagons,” the designer writes, “which will magically transform into the sleeves, a back, and sweater fronts.” Curious about how that works? You'll just have to crochet it to find out!

Festive Christmas Tree Ornaments

ResilientKnitter | $5

If the grocery store starts playing carols, it is time to think about trimming your tree. Get a head start by crafting these gorgeous tree ornaments for friends and family. A cute bedazzled tree pattern can also add extra pizzazz to your decorations.

Snuggly Boat-Neck Sweaters

MMadisonMarie | $5

Knitting a sweater is a noble goal and may seem intimidating. However, after mastering some basics, this pattern by Madison Marie provides an easy path to your first sweater; the chunky-knit boat neck design is perfect for layering all fall long. For crocheting, this easy pattern for a textured turtleneck is comfy enough to spend all day in.

Darling Deer Scarf

Nina Führer | $6.60

Originally created for kids but adjusted for adults, this design by Nina Führer might appear impossible. But with the help of her eight-page pattern, you'll be able to craft this charming deer scarf. Prior to tackling this project, you should have some prior knitting experience.

Bubblegum Sweater

AlizaKnits | $6.48

If you find it hard to dress cute in colder weather, then you haven't seen the adorable bubblegum sweater by AlizaKnits. By completing this knitting pattern, you can make your own chunky top with a fun textured finish.

Crochet Indoor Plants

KeeleysCrochet | $3.37

Even if you have trouble with indoor plants, you can still create your own everlasting garden. This crochet pattern by KeeleysCrochet will instruct crafters how to make their own hanging vines from start to finish.

Tulip Sweater Vest

NastjaCrochets | $10.02

Sweater vests are a fall staple. Instead of picking one up at the store, you can learn how to make your own with this pattern by NastjaCrochets. It features a beautiful tulip print.

Online Classes

Crochet Crash Course: Fiesta Fringe Bag at My Modern Met Academy: Have some crafty fun when you fashion this fringy bag. New to crochet? No problem! You'll learn how to create the bag from start to finish.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 20 Fall-Inspired Knitting and Crochet Patterns That Will Keep You Cozy All Season Long

Photo: R.Natalia/Depositphotos

We all have that one place in our home that could use decluttering. It could be a table that’s a landing pad for everything once you walk in the door, or it could be that one chair that absorbs all of the clothes that somehow never make it to your closet. Regardless of whether you have a little or a lot of clutter, you don’t have to let it bring you down. Let these decluttering tips help make it easy to tidy up.

There are different levels of clutter. Some are the everyday messes that you can remove in seemingly no time. But then there is systemic clutter—you have too much of something, for instance. In that case, you’ll want to take a different approach and consider whether or not you need it in your home.

Scroll down for decluttering tips to help motivate you and offer strategies for putting things away.

Learn about the common types of clutter and tips for decluttering your home.

Photo: R.Natallia/Depositphotos

Types of Home Clutter

You might look at clutter and see it as all the same mess, but there is nuance within each pile of stuff. Figuring out where your clutter fits in these categories can help you decide what to do about it. Here are some common types of clutter that might be hanging around your place.

• Clutter without a home. These are objects that don’t have a permanent space in your home, so they always look out of place. There’s often a reason for this—you bought it and don’t need it yet, or it’s something that you don’t intend to keep for very long.
• Abundance clutter. If you like to buy items in bulk, then you’re likely familiar with this type of clutter. Abundance clutter is when you have multiples of one thing. This could be beauty products, food, or anything else you use regularly and intend to use more of.
• Aspirational clutter. Have you ever bought a book thinking that you’ll read… someday? Or the supplies for a craft project you eventually want to make? This is known as aspirational clutter. The problem with it is that, often, our aspirations remain unfulfilled and the items collect dust.
• Sentimental clutter. This is some of the most challenging clutter to get rid of. It’s photos, special knickknacks, and any other item that has sentimental or nostalgic value. Disposing of it can make you feel guilty, so it's easier to hang on to it.

Photo: dalivl@yandex.ru/Depositphotos

Tips for How to Declutter Your Home

The following tips won't apply to every type of clutter that’s in your home but will give you a place to start. Regardless of the type of clutter, it's important to remember that decluttering is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and celebrate the small victories along the way. You’ll enjoy the benefits of a more organized home before you know it.

Photo: SeventyFour/Depositphotos

Start with a small area.

Begin your decluttering by homing in on a space. It could be a specific room, a closet, or even a small corner of your house. By breaking down decluttering into smaller tasks, it’ll be more manageable and give you the momentum for future progress.

Set a timer.

Does the thought of an all-day decluttering fill you with dread? Building on the idea of starting small, allocate a specific amount of time for decluttering. Having a time limit helps you stay focused and prevents burnout. You’ll be amazed at how much you can get done in 10 or 20 minutes.

Adhere to the one-in, one-out rule.

This is helpful for places like your closet. Commit to removing an existing item in your home before you can get something new. (Donating a jacket before you buy a new one, for instance.) This will help ensure that clutter doesn't accumulate over time.

Photo: dalivl@yandex.ru/Depositphotos

Create donation and discard piles.

Assign separate areas or bins for the things you want to donate and the items you intend to throw away. Doing this will encourage action. But, keep in mind that it’s always better to limit what goes in the landfill, so try to keep that pile small.

Clear off the flat surfaces.

Get an easy win when you clear countertops, tables, and desks from clutter. These areas are often clutter magnets, and just a few minutes a day can leave them looking tidy.

Practice the “one-minute rule.”

How long did it take you to clear that counter? A good rule of thumb is that if you can complete a task in a minute or less—such as folding a blanket or putting a dish in the dishwasher—do it immediately. This prevents small tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming.

Photo: AndreyPopov/Depositphotos

Sort things into categories.

When tackling a larger area like a closet or a room, sort items into categories such as clothes, books, electronics, or kitchenware. This method makes decision-making easier and allows you to see how much you have of each type. From there, you can consider what/how you intend to organize them.

Storage solutions are your friend.

Invest in storage containers, baskets, or organizers to help keep items in order. They will not only keep things tidy, but they are another opportunity to decorate your space and imbue it with your personality.

Photo: littleny/Depositphotos

Digitize when possible.

Reduce paper clutter by opting for e-delivery for bank statements and other recurring documents. For the documents that you already have, scan them and store them on a digital device or the cloud. This will reduce your physical storage needs while keeping important information easily accessible.

Celebrate wins.

Everyone loves a before and after. Document your progress before and after you declutter. This will provide a visual representation of your accomplishments.

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READ: 10 Decluttering Tips That Will Help You Tidy Your Home Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Photo: Carissa Weiser

Cultivating a specific artistic style is as unique to you as the way you speak. When building a body of work that people recognize as your own, employing a similar color palette is one way to do it. Doing so will help create a cohesive body of work. If you want to take some of the guesswork out of your hues—and you work with analog media such as paints or colored pencils—try making a color mixing chart.

A color chart is created using all of the hues in your palette. Each color is mixed with one another and that is then recorded in a quadrant alongside all of the other hues. When complete, you’ll have a customized reference tool that will show every mixing combination possible.

Scroll down for a tutorial on how to make your color chart.

How to Make a Color Chart

If you've got an extra sheet of paper, a straight edge, and your palette of choice, you can make a color chart. Here's how.

Step 1: Grab your pigments.

Photo: Sara Barnes / My Modern Met

These can be paints, colored pencils, blendable markers—any medium in which you’d like to create a color chart.

Step 2: Create a quadrant using a pencil and a ruler.

Photo: Sara Barnes / My Modern Met

Here’s where you’ll create the chart that you’ll color. Begin by getting a sheet of paper that's appropriate for your hues. (If you're mixing watercolor, for instance, grab a sheet of watercolor paper.)

Using a straight edge and a pencil, draw the chart on the paper keeping the number of rows and columns the same. You can make it as large as you like, but to not overwhelm yourself, think about starting small. If you begin, for instance, with four colors, you’ll create four rows and four columns for a total of 16 squares. But, if you have more hues and want to go larger, you can do that too; it’s just more squares.

Once you’ve got all of your squares drawn, label each color on its own box on every row and column.

Step 3: Start coloring.

Photo: Sara Barnes / My Modern Met

Here’s where the fun begins; you’ll start recording all of your hues! Fill in each color combination where they meet on the chart. Assume that you’re adding a one-to-one hue ratio. If it’s any different, be sure to note that on your chart.

When complete, the chart will reveal each color combination and is a reference for your future works.

Why Make a Color Chart?

If the idea of making a color chart doesn’t appeal to you, you should know that there are good reasons to do this exercise. Doing it allows you to mix all of your colors, and it will give you vital information on what you’re mixing and how it looks. It will take some of the guesswork out of your hues, which can save you valuable time in the future and even prevent you from mixing the wrong color.

A color chart is not media-specific. You can make one using paints, colored pencils, or blendable markers—whatever medium you use can likely be a color chart. And you don’t have to start with a massive collection of colors. As we’ve shown you, just a few colors can make an illuminating chart.

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Creative Passport
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You might have heard that keeping a journal is a great way to record your thoughts and understand your emotions. Typical journaling involves only writing—but for those who are more visually inclined, an art journal is a great alternative. And because there are so many ways to express yourself in an art journal, it's a wonderful creative outlet for both beginners and more experienced creatives.

What is an art journal?

An art journal is a visual diary; it combines elements of writing, drawing, painting, collage, and even printmaking to express yourself. This includes your everyday life, as well as your bigger hopes, dreams, and fears. A single page will often fuse words and illustrations to offer a look at what's going on inside your head.

 

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The focus on self-expression is where an art journal differs from a sketchbook. A sketchbook can have elements of art journaling, particularly when it comes to drawing or painting. But a sketchbook doesn't have to include imagery that corresponds to your inner thoughts.

Why keep an art journal?

If you are someone who journals, you already understand the benefits of getting your thoughts on paper. Doing so offers a way to de-stress and to sort through complicated emotions. As a result, you gain self-awareness and feel empowered.

Above all, art journaling is a way to practice self-care. It encourages you to take a little time for yourself—even if it’s just for 15 minutes a day. When you look back at what you’ve written, drawn, or stamped, you can gain valuable insight into the challenges in your life.

The point of creating a visual journal is not to make every page a masterpiece. You’re simply supposed to enjoy the act of creating something without worrying about who is going to see it—or if it even looks good. Remember, it’s just for you!

How to Start an Art Journal

Art journaling is completely customizable depending on your skills and interests. Many people choose to use mixed media and adorn their pages with drawing and painting materials, creating different textures on the page. Others prefer sticking with a single medium that they're comfortable with. The most important thing when beginning your art journal, however, is selecting the right book.

 

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There are many considerations when it comes to picking your journal. Size is one. If you enjoy making large drawings, for instance, then a bigger book might be best. Art journals look great when you fill the page, so whatever size you choose, make sure it complements the way you like to work. Another characteristic to think about is the type of pages that are in the book. Since it’s a good chance you’ll be using mixed media, select a journal whose paper can handle both drawing and painting—and lots of it.

Supplies for Art Journaling

• Watercolor paints or watercolor pencils
• Acrylic paint
• Gouache paint
• Colored pencils
• A variety of pens, from fine-tipped to thick brushes
• White ink
• Glue sticks (for collage)
• Stickers
• Rubber stamps
• Old magazines, newspapers, or other interesting papers
• Dried flowers, leaves, or other natural materials
• Postcards, plane tickets, and other ephemera

Art Journal Ideas

Creating an art journal is all about you, but sometimes you need some help to get started.

• Introduce yourself! Draw or paint a self-portrait.
• Draw some of the items you bought recently.
• Create a map of your favorite place, real or imagined.
• Draw a favorite childhood memory.
• Go for a nature walk and collect flowers or leaves. Write about your walk and why you gathered these items.
• Paste old photos and doodle on top of them using marker.
• Fill a page with geometric shapes.
• Illustrate what’s in your bag.
• Illustrate your daily routine.
• Draw your favorite pet.
• Create a self-portrait.
• Fill a page with doodles.
• Create a collage about your favorite travel experience.
• Use mixed media to illustrate your favorite foods or a recipe.
• Hand letter an inspiring quote or personal mantra.

Looking for more? Pinterest is also full of great art journal prompts.

Online Classes for Art Journaling

Take your art journal techniques further with online art classes.

Introduction to Art Journaling, CreativeLive: If you’re looking for a crash course in art journaling, Andrea Chebeleu will educate you on the basics on composition and design elements.

Art Journal Part 1: Unlock Your Creative Intuition, Skillshare: Bookbinder and mixed media artist Christen McGee will teach you the techniques to start an art journaling practice.

Art Journal Inspiration

Check out the beautiful pages that others have produced through art journaling.

 

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A post shared by Sharon Tan • 美莲 (@ronnycakes)

 

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A post shared by Скетчинг Дневники Обзоры (@cattalema)

 

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A post shared by iHanna (@ihannas)

 

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A post shared by Marie (@craic_and_create)

 

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A post shared by Putri U. Suseno (@myreminderjournal)

 

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This article has been edited and updated.

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