A Day in the Life with Melissa Phillips

We would like to introduce you to a brand new feature that is starting at the Crate Paper blog this month–"A Day in the Life". It's your chance to get to know our CP Gal's creative spaces, along with their numerous inspiring set-ups and displays. Greeting us with a special invitation into her work space for the very first time is CP Gal, Melissa Phillips.

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Hi Friends! Today I am going to take you on a mini tour of my crafty space to give you a glimpse into my crafty life :). Creating is a huge part of my life and of who I am. I thank my mother for allowing me to be creative, teaching me how to be creative, and through her example, showing me the joy that comes through creativity.

In my craft space, I surround myself with all things inspirational. Everything I love, is out on display. Some, all of the time, others, rotated as I develop new interests, as the seasons change, or even to follow certain trends.

You will always find a pile of fabric in my craft room. I use bits and strips of it often and have been inspired by the patterns and colors found in fabric for as long as I can remember. This love must date back to when my mom used to sew Barbie clothes for my dolls, using up scraps she had on hand :). You'll also find current product on hand in my craft room, as I feel new crafting supplies are the greatest source of inspiration for me. Sometimes just seeing things laying out a certain way, inspires me to sit down and get creative.

No surprise, you'll always find glitter here! It's a daily habit and I can't create without it. Baker's twine is another must have and staple. Scrunched seam binding, crepe paper garland, silk ribbons, etc.

I love surrounding myself with beautiful things and little bits of creative artwork are scattered throughout my craft space to inspire me and jumpstart my mojo.

Trimmings, washi tape, buttons, more ribbons...

Handmade gifts from friends...

I find huge amounts of inspiration via online outlets, so my computer is most definitely my sidekick. My most favorite sidekick to have in my craft room though is my little girl. In the center of my room I have a 100 year-old table (or more), that belonged to my grandma. I painted it to match my cabinets, reupholstered the chairs, and set up a spot for creativity to bloom, with me on one side of the table, and my little girl on the other.

My sewing machine, sigh...I'd be lost without it. Around here it's used not only for fabric, but also for paper. Those beautiful vintage photos also belonged to my grandma and I love having a bit of her here with me in one of my most favorite places in my home. She too, was a crafty soul.

My little inspiration board where I pile on past projects, current projects, gifts from others, pictures of my little girl, etc.

Magazines are a love of mine and a constant source of inspiration too.

My favorite go-to magazines are Somerset Life, Artful Blogging, and Scrapbook & Cards Today.

Paint is another staple here in my craft room. I love to rough it up, sand it off, distress, and add glitter. Chalk paint is a favorite currently. Anyone else?

Might sound crazy, but I love baking while I create. In my mind, these two creative outlets go hand in hand.

There's just something about smelling something baking in the oven while I create, that inspires me and wraps my up in comfort and happiness. So, with my craft room right off my kitchen, I am in both places 99% of the time.

Last, but certainly not least, you'll find my craft room filled with photos of my loved ones. I often include favorite photos and snapshots in my home decor, mini albums, etc. I find so much joy reminiscing while creating...another comfort and gift that comes with creating.

Thanks for allowing me to share a part of myself that has brought me so much joy, happiness, contentment, relief, and comfort. I'd love to share my favorite quote with you before I go.