Interview with Karin Schaefer | Make a Spinning Top that creates illusions
Knowing Karin, it’s not a surprise to see that the book matches her precision eyes for detail, functionality that is also very playful. The book contains projects that kids would genuinely like to make and ones that are typically done in one sitting.
I know that this duo tried and tested each and every craft in this book, right down to investigating mechanics in the best system for making a car that would really work out of recycled cartons. That’s Karin and the book is a gem. We’ve had a great kick seeing the book at many birthday parties this year since it’s publication and our son came home a little surprisedthat all of the girls in his class wondered what he was doing in this book!
1. What kind of art did you do as a kid?
I’ve always
loved making things. My mom is very talented when it comes to
drawing and painting but I used other materials to create
things. There is really no limit to what can be done with a pair
of scissors, some paper and tape.
2. Did your parents or school or environment encourage
growth as an artist when you were growing up?
The school system in Sweden was not built to encourage arts when I was a kid. I always felt like an odd bird, but a crafty one. At home I was given time and space to craft. My parents have always cherished the things I made, but I don’t thing they ever thought I would make my living creating crafts!
3. Do you use your work in your home?
I get a lot of
my inspirations from everyday life. When I need something I
immediately think; I should be able to make that. Over the past
three years Freja and I have made shelves, storage bags and
boxes, lights, hangers as well as jewelry and art and it’s all
in use in our home.
4. You know I have to ask this: What project would you
suggest doing with children?
Hand prints! Hand Prints! Very messy, but lots of fun. Is
there anything as adorable as your own kids hand prints? Print
their little paws with textile paint on pillow cases, aprons and
tote bag, and enjoy them for years to come. If your kids don’t
like to get messy, try potato prints instead!
5 And of course: Do you have a favorite snack / or food or one that you like to make with the kids?Unfortunately I’m not all that comfortable in the kitchen, but I do what I can to make sure we eat healthy. The most popular snack in the house is however not at all healthy. We once made candy sushi for the blog and it was a hit. It’s not for everyday, but at festive occasions we make it instead of having a regular serving of candy.
6. What makes a special birthday party or party for you?
I love for the kids to make the decorations for their
parties themselves. I know there are lots of pre-made thing you
can buy, but we need to be careful with our environment.
Birthday parties are an excellent opportunity to teach the kids
how to turn trash into treasures. Toilet rolls become napkin
rings, glass jars can be turned into candle holder and scrap
paper can become fancy garlands. “I can make this” is a
wonderful feeling, don’t you think!
It’s been such a pleasure getting this chance to chat with Karin. Thank you, Karin.
3. Clip bits of paper and glue to the white paper, then glue this onto the CD.
Play time!
Willowday Wishes!
Find all willowday’sSwedish Creatives Interviews here:
MORE WILLOWDAY RECYCLE PROJECTS HERE