“Revelry is waiting for you everywhere, you only have to create it.”
Dover author and artist Victoria Hudgins shares her philosophy and her favorites.
Dover Books: Tell me about pom-poms, the topic of your make-in-a-day book published by Dover.
Victoria Hudgins: This was a fun book for me. Our first book, Materially Crafted was a huge work — it goes in depth on all kinds of crafting materials and projects and was a beast to create. In contrast, the pom-pom book feels so light and fun! I love that all the projects included can be accomplished in an afternoon. We are all so busy these days, there is a place for the more intense crafting work — but sometimes you just want to sit down for an hour and end up with something fun and pretty. This book fills that need and I just adore it. The colors and simple ideas are some of my favorite.
DB: Who are your favorite artists and writers? Do they inspire your current work? If so, how?
VH: I am constantly being inspired by other artists, writers and bloggers. There is just so much great content being produced daily right now. It is hard to choose a few favorites but I am currently gushing over the embroidery work done by Jose Romussi, I also love the imperfect home feel that The Nesting Place blog promotes and I can never get enough of the fashion and food inspiration that Sofies Haus shares on her gorgeous site.
DB: The name of your website, A Subtle Revelry, is wonderful! Can you tell me more about it, especially the “subtle” part?
VH: The idea behind adding subtle to our blog name came from a strong desire to celebrate all the moments in life. I don’t believe you need to have a huge celebration planned or a Pinterest perfect dessert table to celebrate the goodness in life or your family/friends. We’d much rather throw a few bright leaves on the table and gather around a place that is filled with revelry and not over styled. Having a subtleness to our crafts and parties is something I always strive for.
DB: Do you have a favorite craft, or do you love all your children equally? ;^)
VH: I think my favorite crafts are the ones that inject a bright dose of fun into an ordinary situation. From the book, I am partial to the office supply project for this exact reason! Our desks can become a space of utilitarian purpose, but it is much more fun when you have a sprinkling of spunk and color included. Whether we are talking about a space at home, or a moment in the day — the more you can make that spot in life bright the better your outlook will be. I also really loved the pom-pom heart wreath, it is currently hanging on my wall and I get compliments on it every time someone walks inside my home.
DB: How old were you when you started crafting? Do you still have your first crafting projects?
VH: I’ve been crafting since I was very young, but what I think I remember most was high school. I was in the student council and had the responsibility for crafting and setting up for dances, assemblies and things like that. It was when I really noticed how much I adored creating fun and beautiful spaces for people. My husband jokes with me that all those years in the, “poster making club” really paid off — and I think he’s right. ;) I love that I get to continue making projects and designing spaces that make my family and others smile — It’s a great gig!
DB: Any new projects you’d like to share with readers? Plans for the future?
VH: We are always working on new projects around here and with the new year approaching the planning is in full force right now. One thing I am really excited about is an email course we are planning for Revelry Recovery — how to get your body & business back after the holidays, it should be a fun focus for DIYing ourselves in January. I also am celebrating my kids, birthday parties this coming week so December is full of unicorn and ninja crafting fun around here!
DB: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
VH: Just an encouragement to always be crafting life in the way you dream it to be. Whether that’s cutting yarn, cooking cakes, or just not doing anything for a minute. Life is lived to be celebrated and so often we get busy and forget that. Revelry is waiting for you everywhere, you only have to create it.
