Craft Safe, Craft Happy: 8 Creative Studio Safety Tips You’ll Actually Use

Written by Candice, the Felt-Loving Human Magnet for Flying Objects

Let’s be honest—most people wouldn’t call crafting “dangerous.” But after a bird flew into my studio and I was concussed by a soccer ball near a canteen, I’ve come to the very important conclusion that safety absolutely belongs in our creative spaces too.

So, in the spirit of staying safe while surrounded by scissors, pins, and enough wool felt to roll yourself in, here are some gentle-but-firm tips from me to you.

🧷 1. Put Your Pins Back Where They Belong

You may think, “I’ll just pop that there for now…” and suddenly you’re reaching across the table and—ouch.
Get yourself a good pincushion and make it your best friend. Better yet, one with a magnetic base. Pins on the floor or near your machine are a recipe for pain (or a broken machine needle).

🪑 2. Posture, Posture, Posture

I know the crafting zone is a black hole of time, but if you’re hunched over your machine or cutting mat for hours, your back, neck, and shoulders will revolt.
✔ Sit upright
✔ Support your lower back
✔ Adjust your chair height
✔ Take regular stretch breaks
(Your body will thank you. Your chiropractor will miss you.)

✂️ 3. Close Your Scissors, Always

Scissors left open are not just an accident waiting to happen—they’re also the reason I once ruined a perfectly good felt bundle. Snip responsibly.

🧃 4. Keep Drinks Well Away from Your Workspace

That delicious tea or fizzy water can go from soothing to soggy in one dramatic knock. Keep your drinks on a separate surface (unless you’re into felt tea-dyeing, which I do not recommend).

🧵 5. Don’t Sew Angry

You laugh—but crafting in a mood is when you’re most likely to jam your machine, stitch through your finger, or accidentally sew your project to your sleeve. Take a breather, sip something warm, and try again when the frustration passes.

🧠 6. Take Breaks Before You Break

I know, I know—you just want to finish this one last bit. But your hands, eyes, and brain all need breaks to keep doing their best. Set a timer if you have to! (Bonus: breaks also help with idea blocks.)

🔌 7. Turn Off and Unplug Tools When Not in Use

From hot glue guns to irons to your sewing machine—switching them off when you step away is basic safety, but also a great way to avoid fire, stress, or scorched interfacing.

🧼 8. Keep It Clean(ish)

Your studio doesn’t need to look like a Pinterest dream... but a little order helps a lot. Clear work surfaces, sweep up those rogue threads, and always tidy tools before you leave for the day. Your future self will do a happy dance.

💬 Final Thoughts (From Your Battered but Bright Felt Lady)

Crafting is fun. It’s soothing. It’s creative chaos.
But a few smart habits can help you enjoy it even more—and avoid surprise trips to the hospital (ask me how I know).

Stay safe, stitch smart, and remember: if it flies, flaps, or bounces... duck first, laugh second.