We were lucky to catch up with Sarah Roth recently and have shared our conversation below.

Sarah, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I am happy when I can create and use my hands. I wake up wondering what will I get to make today. I have had a regular job at times, but always come back to my passion of being a maker. Making art is a form of therapy as well. It can be calming and exciting at the same time.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I have always enjoyed making things and art. My mom was very artistic and we would sit and make jewelry or ornaments together. We shopped craft fairs all the time. One year I bought a wood ornament in the shape of a dog bone. I showed my husband and he said “We can make those”. It then began our working together with wood. He would cut the wood I needed and I would paint. It was fun to show off things we made and to have people ask if they could buy our pieces. Over the years I have learned to use the wood working tools along with many other tools and create different things. I have been asked many times to make custom signs and pieces, What I like the most is getting to know my customers and helping them bring their ideas to life. I also enjoy being at local craft shows and meeting my customers in person.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

In learning to make art it is not always something that comes natural. It takes time, research, materials, mistakes and patience. So much goes into learning and trial and error. As a maker/creative some people don’t see the effort that goes into making things. Just because we have tools that help us that doesn’t mean it’s not handmade. Using physical tools to create along with imagination and assembly equals a wonderful handmade creation.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

When I was making art a number of years ago my friends told me I needed to be on Facebook. They told me I could sell my items and thought it would be a good place to start. I am very glad I listened to them. What I found on social media was so much information on all types of art. It helped me to not only perfect what I like to make but inspired me to be better at my art. I have found groups of friends online and in person, and that has been invaluable. Taking a leap and going outside your comfort zone is where you grow.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/sjscraftylife
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/sjscraftylife