So we are extending our all about Plaid week, and will be continuing this blog series for about a month. Every week we will highlight for you a brand that is under the Plaid umbrella. This week meet, Apple Barrel. Apple Barrel make family crafting fun. Apple Barrel® Colors are crafters’ choice for projects large and small. Made from the purest ingredients, Apple Barrel Colors provide premium performance on wood, Styrofoam, paper mache, tin, terra cotta, plaster and any porous surface. It comes in a rainbow of clean colors in traditional matte finish and gloss that’s great for outdoor projects, too. Moms love it for kids’ projects, thanks to its non-toxic, waterbase formula–soap and water clean-up is a breeze. To see projects, and view the entire Apple Barrel inventory click here. Also to see more kid friendly project using Apple Barrel paints, check out our sister blog Plaid Kid’s Crafts.
Top 5 Reasons To Craft
In this new year many people have made several resolutions. These resolutions usually include the regular ones, lose weight, and save more money. Also many people look to pick up or perfect a hobby. Well we here at Plaid would like to turn you into a crafter, in case you aren’t already one. We wanted to try and entice you to begin crafting, or to find time to craft more by sharing with you the top 5 reasons to craft.
1. Crafting reduces stress
Stress. A little word that can pack a huge punch to everyone regardless of age, gender, or race. Crafting allows you to become calm, and focus your mind on something creative, and expressive. Quite the noise from the stressful day by taking some time by yourself, and crafting a project. Take this time to focus on yourself, and if only for 30 minutes forget about all the stressful events that you might have encountered.
2. Allows you to make new friends and meet new people
When it comes to crafting you can do this hobby by yourself, or with other people. There are several crafting groups that you can find in your local paper, or online. One place to help find other crafters in your area is Meetup.com. Also feel free to start your own crafting group with friends, co-workers, and family members. Get crafty while being social.
3. Unleash your creative side
Many people often wish that they were able to be more creative. Crafting is a great way to unleash your inner creativity. There are so many projects and materials to use, to create whatever you can imagine. Perhaps your full-time job does not give you the creativity you desire, no problem. Use crafting as a way to fill that void.
4. You can earn extra money
Believe it or not you can turn your crafting hobby into an extra source of income. Many crafters have turned their hobby into a business. You can sell your work at local craft shows, and community fairs. Or you can sell your items online, via Etsy. People love buying homemade items, because they tend to be more unique, and interesting.
5. Because it’s FUN!
Crafting allows you to just let your hair down, and have a good time. Never have I heard a crafter say that they hate to craft. It’s always the opposite. For most people who craft, their only complaint is that they wish they could spend more time doing it. So what are you waiting for? Break out the paint, glitter, and glue. Get ready to have some fun and start crafting today!


















