I’ve been thinking some more about the effect of the economic downturn on people’s leisure habits.
From my point of view, taking into account my own business’s sales, it seems like people are very much turning to leisure pursuits that while taking some initial investment, can last far longer than going out or seeing a movie etc. My sales are chugging along very nicely (thank you!), with people seemingly very happy to purchase an instructional embroidery book, or the supplies to make a new embroidered project.
So, is the economic downturn affecting the way you look at your leisure time? Has it made you more likely to think about starting a new craft project or learn a new technique? Are you less likely to spend money on “experiences” (like the movies, or a meal out) and more likely to spend it on something tangible that can give you pleasure over a longer period by including the time it takes to create it, and in the enjoyment of the finished product?
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.
White Threads is the blog of Yvette Stanton, the author, designer, publisher behind Vetty Creations' quality needlework books and embroidery products.
I think I am more likely to spend money on things I can create and have or a lifetime than movies. However, I kind of was like that already. We have cable television that has mivies that we can buy so we don’t go to a lot of movies anyway. Plus I love watching movies while i stitch.
I am making more gifts than buying them. I am not sure why, I think it is just a nicer gift.
By the way Mary Corbet has profiled your post on her blog. Lots of folks are wondering if the economy is is driving a creative endevor. I think it is. Stitching has a calming effect and people are very worried about what is going on int he world.
BJ
Hi, Yvette!
I like this question a lot, and I really want to comment at length on it! Once I can put my thoughts together, I will!
Best,
Mary
I have cut down on ‘luxuries’ like going out, but refuse to cut down on embroidery supplies (well, maybe a little, haven`t bought any expensive reference books in awhile) because it`s my passion. I would rather cut down on groceries!
I’ve actually been learning more crafts because it’s less expensive to create what I want than to buy it. It lets me customize and be certain I get the quality I want.
Also – it’s soothing, my fingers are busy, and it’s wonderful to have these things!
Thanks for all your comments so far. I think that there are some of us who have been doing this for a long time, so creative leisure time is nothing new to us. But, I feel that because of the current economic climate, that there will be people new to the idea who join us. Keep the comments coming. 🙂