I brake for sequins and I worship satin. I can’t go a day without sprinkling glitter, and I’m not afraid to say even though I’ve (accidentally) sewn through my finger once, I consider my sewing machine my third child.
Which is why I’m happy to share that March is National Craft Month! Thirty-one rick-rack-trimmed days dedicated to celebrating all things handmade, as well as the makers themselves. Whether you are an avid scrapbooker or the occasional sculptor, this is the time of year to find inspiration. You’ll find an abundance of tutorials, techniques and project ideas within our own Latina(o) community.
Here is my roundup of some not-to-miss Latina(o) craft websites and blogs for you to visit! So pull out that glue gun and show them some crafty love, and tell them Mamiverse sent you!
BoifromIpanema • Not all DIYers are chicas. Many are guys who aren’t so much into glitter. Jeshua offers art and craft tutorials that are bold, hip, and work for both sexes.
Crafty Chica • So I admit it, this is my site! It’s filled with thousands of tutorials in all kinds of categories! I’m posting a new project every day this month in honor of National Craft Month, and even better—I’m giving away a Singer sewing machine!
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Crafty Gemini • If you are in the mood for sewing, Vanessa provides the goods—projects and patterns, and videos galore. And you’re learning from a true pro; she is highly regarded in the industry, so get ready to press those seams!
Design It Girl • Nicole Torres is the queen of giving new life to furniture. From priming to painting to apply fancy textures, she documents the process on her blog and offers tutorials to help you do the same. This is a great source for learning how to spot secondhand pieces and transforming them to fit your décor.
Mark Montano • You’ve probably seen him hosting shows on the TLC network, or maybe spotted his couture clothing designs on NYC runways. But to me, Mark Montano is the king of crafty goodness. A best-selling craft book author, Mark dedicates his life to coming up with trendy takes on fashion and home décor. I suggest subscribing to his YouTube channel!
Maya in the Moment • Maya doesn’t consider herself a craftaholic like her mom (me), but she does get down in her own style. Do-it-yourself jewelry and clothing, to bejeweled cell phone covers are just part of her crafty blogging history.
Mothership Scrapbook Gal • Cute overload! Cupcakes, diaper cakes, and scrapbooking until the sun comes up, Rina Gonzales shares ideas for every generation. And she doesn’t just limit her love to the web, she also organizes contests and crafty events in her hometown.
Pandora’s Craft Box • Looking for a place to start? Loren has an array of ideas for every season with plenty of photos. These are easy, affordable and oh-so-adorable crafts.
Pear Mama • It’s difficult to find kids’ crafts that aren’t hokey. Denise Cortes Silva gives the genre class and style with what she calls “Modern Art for Kids.” Her repertoire includes a favorite food collage, Frank Stella sculptures and more. In addition, she has plenty for grown-ups too. You’ll learn how to add hearts to your walkway, embellish a tee with yarn, make Frida-inspired ornaments and much more.
Vickie Howell • This Latina ruled the craft airwaves by hosting several craft and knitting shows on the DIY Network. These days she has her own yarn line in craft store chains and has authored numerous award-winning books. But you can visit her site to see new crochet and knitting patterns every week.
Did I miss any? Add your own favorite craft blog in the comments below!
Kathy Cano-Murillo is a craft book author, novelist and the founder of the award-winning site, Crafty Chica.
