We’ve all gotten crafty.
Whether it be stringing plastic beads onto friendship bracelets, gluing noodles to construction paper or messily finger painting, we’ve experienced the joys of what it’s like to use our hands to create.
For some students, this desire to make has gone beyond the elementary classroom. Whether it be turning discarded garments into upcycled pieces, manipulating wood into functional objects or painting memorable projects, these hobbies give each student a unique outlet of expression.
Veronica Ranger (11) knits, sews, crochets, and beads jewelry. Mostly self-taught, she began exploring different mediums of art as a child. Later, as a freshman, Ranger started taking sewing lessons to expand her skills.
Ranger mostly sews by machine in her home. She sources her fabrics from old clothes or decor.
Crafting gives Ranger the ability to create almost anything she wants, and she particularly enjoys being able to pass these pieces along.
“That’s my favorite part, gifting what I’ve made,” Ranger said.
Vivian Vinton (10) comes from a creative family. Her father’s background in woodwork was the start of her own interest in the craft. Her father began through a more traditional route of building shelving units, and the easy access to materials helped pass down the skill to Vinton.
Rarely using store-bought lumber, Vinton sources all her wood by hand while camping in the woods. Over time, Vinton adapted woodworking to her own interests. She does small detail work, mainly to decorate her space or tiny projects for fun.
Bemenet Woldu (12) grew up watching art tutorials and crafting with cousins, giving her an early interest in art. Her art skills developed when she joined art classes during her sophomore year, giving her opportunities to practice with different mediums and styles. Now, as a senior, Woldu is engaging in art outside of school, inspired by this being her last year in high school. Working in her house with friends, she creates pieces to encompass her experiences during this closing chapter.
“I wanted stuff to look back on and remember,” Woldu said.
