Creativity in Isolation

Getting Creative: Adding More Beauty into the World Gave Me a Sense of Purpose written by Carina Lee | design by Emily Snisarenko

When quarantine first started, I dreaded being awake. I would crawl into bed at 7 p.m. because I no longer had the will to stay connected with the world. To say that it was hard to find things to do with my time would be an understatement. I realized that so much of my identity revolved around workaholic culture and that I had internalized a really unhealthy definition of ‘productivity.’ So, naturally, the first thought that occurred to me was that I should download Tik Tok.

As I delved into the realm of 15 to 60 second long videos, I discovered that many users were posting videos of their own creative projects. Whether it be making polymer clay earrings, embroidering tote bags, bleach tie-dying an old sweater or making a sundress from a bed sheet, people all over the world were starting to invest their time and skills into perfecting a passion or talent.

I scraped together some money and bought a sewing machine. Learning how to sew pushed me to think in a different way than I was used to. I study history and philosophy, so I primarily entertain abstract, existential ideas. Planning out the construction of a garment is a lot more practical and methodical. Figuring out how to make the seams look clean and hide the raw edges of the fabric requires a different kind of creativity than writing a paper typically does. And, as the cherry on top,

being able to make my own clothes empowered me to swear off fast fashion, while saving me a ton of money.

For the longest time, I had lost touch with the creative aspect of my personality and nearly forgotten how to express myself. Focusing on fashion design helped me to build my self-confidence too. I am able to see my craftsmanship become more refined, and I take note on what I can improve on in the future. After every project, I had something unique, wearable––a tangible thing that I can be proud of. I realized how important it is to be in tune with your emotions so you know what makes you happy; and especially, right now, we should all be trying to focus on the little things every day that bring us a bit of happiness. There are many ongoing issues with the world currently, but dwelling on your anxiety and stress isn’t productive for anyone. I’m not telling you to ignore your problems, but rather to try adopting healthy coping mechanisms. For me, I feel the most inspired and optimistic when designing and sewing my own clothes.

It’s time to rethink the definition of productivity and realign yourself with what makes you happy. Make something that makes you happy. You have the power to create your own happiness.

CREATE YOUR OWN FACEMASK IN 8 STEPS

How to Sew a Facemask

written by Carina Lee | designed by Ting Li While COVID restrictions increase, your environmental impact doesn’t have to! There are now more disposable face masks in the ocean than there are jellyfish, and littered PPE threatens marine life. Instead of wearing disposable surgical masks, opt for a reusable face mask. With that being said, here is a quick tutorial of how to sew your own face mask! First, follow this link to print out your face mask template: https://www.craftpassion.com/face-mask-sewing-pattern/.

MATERIALS: -Sewing machine (hand-sewing option available; just takes longer) -Elastic-Fabric/scrap fabric -Scissors -Measuring tape -Iron (optional) -Seam ripper (optional)

1

Cut out two pieces of fabric following each template. You will end up with two lining pieces and two regular mask pieces.

2

Lay the lining fabric pieces on top of each other, right sides together, and sew along the curve. Repeat this for the regular mask pieces.

3

Cut little snips along the curves so it folds better. Optional: Iron the seams flat.

4

Lay the combined lining fabric pieces and the combined regular mask pieces on top of each other, right sides together, and sew along the top and bottom.

5

Flip it inside out.

6

Fold down the side flaps to create a channel for the elastic and sew.

7

Measure and cut two 7 inches pieces of elastic.

8

Tuck in the elastic, then sew and you’re DONE!

A compilation of songs to listen to while losing your mind and missing loved ones

written by Carina Lee designed by Kenneth Rudolph