join ’em! I’m not really fond of that saying, but it’s appropriate for how I’m feeling. Let me explain.
For the longest time, usuallly in the warm summer months, I’ve longed for a quilt studio that was apart from our home; some place that was my very own creative and cozy little nook. I’ve searched pinterest and magazines for backyard studios, checking every picturesque nook and cranny and then dreaming about how to build it in my backyard. I even had a recurring dream about a sun-drenched, backyard quilt studio that was like a little vintage cabin, complete with gauzy curtains blowing in the breeze. At the snap of a finger, I can recreate every tiny detail of that dream – it was so very real. It looked a bit like this little gem.
or like this (if it were new)
Speaking of real, winter set in. Living in Calgary, Canada and not on the California coast was the truth I had to deal with. In my neck of the woods, given the inclement and unpredictable weather, creating a warm and spacious backyard studio would be challenge number one. More importantly, however, came the realization that we are not moving from this house anytime soon, so why not work with what I’ve got? What I did have was a basement workspace – lots of room, lots of storage but not a lot of light. The basement felt like a dungeon some days…making me dread “going to work”. But, I must admit the basement has some strong points…..it is warm, it is spacious and it can be improved.
So, in keeping with the motto of “if ya can’t beat ’em, join ’em” we are in the process of having our basement renovated, which is surprisingly thrilling! I can hardly wait until it’s finished. The ceilings have been scraped of the popcorn, the walls have been patched and taped and sanded and the old carpeting has been removed. There are now ten brand new pot lights adorning the unpainted ceiling and three new junction boxes for wall sconces. New casing and new baseboard have already done a ton to make the space feel better. Painter is coming on Friday and then carpeting will be laid the week after. As soon as I set up my new workspace, I will send you all a photo.
A new workspace, a new direction and a new attitude. Believe it or not, I already “feel” much better about my revamped basement. I am going to be changing my webpage and working toward a different goal in 2015. I am in limbo and can hardly wait till I can get back to work. Take care everyone.
Till later…
Kim
It will be so nice to have your new quilting space finished! I also work in my basement, and am so hoping one day to fix up my sewing room. I have two plug ins in the room and no natural light, but you make do with what you have! I love my time I spend sewing!