Don't Lose your Hobby

 


I can’t count the number of times people have said in some form that I need to be selling my work. I had only made one project which wasn’t finish and people would say for me to “start selling.” From the start I didn’t know where this hobby was going to take me. But I knew one thing from the start was to “enjoy the journey and not move to fast or expect too much to soon.”  After doing this for a while I still don’t have interest in selling my work actively. Many people have said I would be making more money, which is probably true. However, I have another point of view, is the amount of work required to get there and to make consistent money. I also “don’t want to lose focus and purpose.” My primary goal is to enjoy being creative and bringing to life priceless treasures. For some people after turning a hobby into a business it loses value and becomes unenjoyable which causes stress. This is because “they have to,” just to make a living.  

            I have learned that coming up with ideas is really difficult, especially when you want to make them unique and one of a kind. In one instance I have found it difficult to even put a price on my work, especially when you’re a young artist just starting out. Research has given me a wide range of how other artists and wood workers price their work. Which as I was researching hurt my brain to process, considering I had to take the information and determine what my work and time could be valued for my current skill and experience level.

            One thing some people don’t understand is “I will not make more than one of the same project.” Yes, I will take elements of projects and use them again. But I will not do multiples of the same project. It takes away from the “one priceless treasure.” I believe this helps my work be more loved and cherished by people who see it.

            Fast forward through time, I have guidelines set to help me not lose focus for the why behind my hobby. I don’t want to lose the function, fun, and creativity. These guidelines also help me determine which category a project falls into. Which is artist or treasure. My definition for artist is “getting commissioned,” and what criteria is set and agreed upon. My treasure category helps make priceless and cherished work for “the average person.” It also helps to have a purpose and meaning behind the work piece.

            Guidelines are. I control my time. I don’t like keeping track of the amount of time a project takes me. I don’t want to feel rushed. I have learned motivation and drive are very hard to control are very unpredictable. I know and have found that if you rush, it can cause your work to not be your best and can cause unexpected outcomes. Controlling my stress. With creating things for people there will be deadlines. There will also be people who want to control every element of the project. I do when appropriate try and give choice like stain color to help make sure it will match the person’s house. I also want to have an outlet from everyday stress, not add more.


            I found with projects some are really difficult to draw the entire project. I found that I have added and eliminated different ideas “in the moment.” For some projects, things have had to be adapted because something happened. Which brings me to my third guild line I follow is “creative freedom.” This lets me listen to my heart and try to create what I am envisioning. I have in the past tried to explain an idea and have gotten the look of “I’m not sure,” or “I’m not following.”  Which is not a bad thing because everyone’s minds works differently. Once a project is finished people usually get it.

            I currently don’t actively sell my work, because I “just don’t want to.” I found a balance with what I call “first dibs.” Where if a person asks and I have no plan for a project, I sell it for the right price.” I also give first dibs to the person who gives me an idea if there is no set plan for it. Commissions work is very dependent on my current life situation and balance, and for the right person.

            I make these choices to maintain a balance and focus and not lose my hobbies I have invested, enjoyed, and learned.





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