There’s just something about the cold weather, warm hearts, and buttery baked goods that can make you feel so appreciative this time of year. And if you’re anything like me, you’re probably wondering how time could have possibly gone by so fast.

While I would love to sit here and reminiscence on all the amazing things that happened this year, I want to focus on the future. The new year is here, and I’m sure you’ve created some big, audacious goals!

Perhaps you’re looking to stick to a gym regimen that actually lasts through February? Or maybe you’re saving up for a dreamy vacation with your loved ones?

Setting goals are one of the most exciting parts of the new year because we all love a fresh start. Right?

This year, I want to help you add some craft goals to your to-do list. If you’re looking for a fun way to jumpstart your year of crafting, take a look at these goals for the new year.

1. ENLIST A Friend
What’s that classic saying—Ah yes, the more the merrier!

Do you have a friend who is always asking you about your needle felting projects, but they don’t know how to craft themselves? Well, this is your chance to teach them!

This year, make a goal to reach out to all those friends, co-workers, and acquaintances who you think would enjoy crafting. You’ll find a whole new love for crafts once you’ve shared your passion with a friend!

2. REDUCE & REUSE
If you’ve been wondering what on Earth you’re going to do with that bright yellow felt you’ve got stowed in the closet, the new year is the perfect opportunity to take it down from the top shelf.

This year, make a goal to actually use all of your materials! We’re all about sustainability, and what better place to start than in your own home? Whether it’s leftover materials or an unfinished project, reuse it and try and create beauty from scraps!

3. CLEAN OUT THE JUNK DRAWER
As crafters, we’re known to hoard…er, I mean, collect lots of supplies. If you’re guilty of closing the door to the mess in hopes of forgetting it’s there, you’re not alone! But in the new year, you should take a bit of time to organize your craft supplies. The process might not be fun, but the result is always worth it.

4. SHOP LOCAL
Sustainable practices within the crafting community are growing. It takes all of us to stand together to not only ensure that we’re spending our hard earned money on quality materials, but also that we’re helping to preserve our planet in the process.

Next time you’re ready to restock your wool, try and do so with a local farmer or seller!

5. CONSTANTLY CHALLENGE YOURSELF
It’s easy to get stagnant in our projects, especially when we’ve perfected that one animal we truly love. But in the new year, I encourage you to branch out and try new projects.

Because if you don’t challenge yourself, you’ll never grow!

If creating more needle felted crafts is high on your list of goals, I’d love for you to be part of our Needle Felting Academy! Whether you want to take your needle felting skills to new heights or simply want to meet friends along the way, we’d be happy to have you. Click here for more information, and happy new year!