Olga tells Bored Panda that what led her to make things by hand was the search for a suitable medium to let out her creativity. “I loved nature and fantasy, and I tried a few artistic media before, but nothing clicked. 

Then, during the winter holidays in late 2018, I had some free time and decided to buy a pack of clay and a multitool and give it a try. I couldn’t stop after that. Sculpting just worked for me. I was finally able to work on my own designs and had so much fun in the process,” she shares.

Currently, you can find her immersed in creating a series of sculptures called Grimwood Edge. “Each sculpture has its own story, inviting observers to explore this imaginary world and expand on it with their own imagination,” Olga writes on her website.

“Through my work, I aim to reveal the twilight nature of these mystical creatures, balancing sentimental admiration for nature with the phantasms hidden behind the familiar inhabitants of our ordinary world.”

When Olga creates, she usually goes with the flow. “My projects usually start with a simple idea: "Oh, that would be cool to make." I love starting without much expectation and seeing where the process leads. 

Sometimes, I make a rough sketch to calculate dimensions, but I mostly rely on experimenting and improvising. I like to tell a story through my sculpture, letting it emerge naturally, step by step. This approach can lead to difficulties, but it results in a solid story that evolves rather than being forced.”

When asked about her favorite creations up to date, she told us that her most loved projects tend to be her latest ones, as they reflect her current skills and ideas. “While I work on a sculpture, I immerse myself in its story. Once completed, I release it into the world and move on to the next subject, always looking forward to new challenges and inspirations. This cycle works for me, ensuring that each piece holds a special place in my creative journey.”

She also kindly agreed to provide some recommendations for those who are just starting to get into handcrafting. “Don't be too hard on yourself and have fun. Life is stressful enough, so let your craft be a safe place where you can explore your inner self and find comfort. Sometimes it takes time to get there, so keep exploring and enjoy the journey!”

Maker of tufted rugs and the sole artist behind Gremlyn Rugs, Stephen, tells us that he always was drawn to the process of creation, and making things by hand just feels incredibly fulfilling. "It’s the satisfaction of crafting something unique and the joy of working with my own two hands. Plus, there’s something amazing about the act of creating something beautiful out of nothing."

Similarly to Olga, the inspiration for creation usually strikes him from anywhere—nature, art, or even a random thought. "I begin by sketching or jotting down concepts to flesh out the idea. Then I move on to gathering materials and planning the execution," he explains.

"The next step is all about trial and error, adjusting as needed, and refining the details. Once I’m happy with how it looks, I move on to the final step, paying close attention to craftsmanship and quality."

One big challenge that Stephen faces when making his art is managing his time effectively. "The creative process can be unpredictable, and balancing it with other responsibilities sometimes means projects take longer than anticipated.

Additionally, sourcing the right materials can be tricky. Sometimes you have to adapt on the fly if something isn’t available or doesn’t work as planned. Navigating these obstacles requires patience and flexibility, but they also contribute to the growth and learning that come with each project."

One of his favorite projects up to date is a snail pull-apart rug he created two years ago. "It begins as a snail rug with an intricate shell, dripping details, and lovely shades of blue, pink, and purple. When you pull it apart, it really brings those colors to life, revealing a dynamic and visually captivating design. I love how it combines functionality with interactive visual elements."

Some advice Stephen gives to aspiring handcraft artists is to embrace the learning process and not be afraid to make mistakes. "Begin with simple projects to build your skills and gain confidence. Experiment with different materials and techniques to discover what you enjoy most.

Remember, the journey is just as important as the end result, so stay curious and keep exploring. Most importantly, have fun and let your creativity guide you. Every mistake is just a step toward mastering your craft!"

Ian Finch-Field, maker of leather accessories, costumes, and props and the owner of Skinz-N-Hydez Leather Apparel, tells us that he’s been a maker ever since he can remember. “I come from a family of artists. Mainly painters, but I have been blessed with many inspirational artists and builders in my family. They taught me that my only limitation is my own mind. To expand beyond that and think outside yourself and those imaginary limits.”

He finds it hard to describe his creation process, as inspiration for it comes in a dream-like state. “I rarely sketch anything out on paper or have a clear finished product in mind. I piece it together in my mind as I go," he says.

For him, the most challenging part of being an artist is being restricted by the need to make money. ”It feels like my creativity has been limited due to having to produce and re-create product; to be able to survive as an artist. I have machinery to help out, and it does, but it's also limiting. It puts me in a box of limitations rather than me being able to create freely. I miss letting my creativity take over and not worry about the end result of having to make money from it - to survive.”

His few favorite projects include steampunk gear for Justin Bieber, The Big Bang Theory, Dispatches from Elsewhere, and the band Ghost. “I've also really enjoyed making masks for WWE wrestlers, DJs, musicians, plays, and operas. My most memorable projects I've made were for short films; specifically for Andrew W. Jones and the short films: Doctor Glamour (2012) and Buccaneer Galaxy (2014). Andrew challenged the limits of my creativity. He really helped start my career and further my love to create.”

His advice for anyone who wishes to start creating is to experiment, learn, and be inspired by others. “Think outside the box. Think outside the limitations you and others set for you. Create just to create—who cares if it sucks. Next time, it won't suck as bad. Learn from those mistakes and grow to be a better artist/maker.

Being able to create has helped me get through a lot. I don't know where I would be if I wasn't able to create and I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels the same way.”

If you’re looking to support more small businesses that care about sustainability, uniqueness, and quality, make sure to check out our previous articles full of amazing artists and crafters!