If you’ve had a full week or just need a reset, I can’t recommend this enough: Try making something with your hands this weekend.
Even if it’s simple. Even if it’s messy. Especially if you’re tired.

Try AirDry clay or Drywall mud (joint compound). You can:

• Create abstract wall art with just a canvas and some scrap tools

• Make small sculptural shapes (coasters, mini shelves, wall hooks)

• Even add subtle texture to upcycle a tray or wooden object

 I wrote a blog post about the therapeutic benefits of making—and specifically why drywall mud became my primary medium.

If you end up trying something, post it here! Or if you’re stuck on what to make or how to start, drop a comment—I’d love to help.

I was shocked by how easy it felt. I ended up making two textured pieces using scrap fabric and drywall mud. They’re technically unfinished and now live in my garage studio, but they’ve become a permanent fixture. They mark the beginning of something I didn’t know I needed.

At the time, I didn’t even think of myself as creative. I came from a world of corporate jargon and constant overthinking, where creativity felt like a title only for god's chosen ones. But making those first two pieces felt… Quiet. Meditative. I remember how still my brain felt while I worked. Just hands in the mud and total presence.

That feeling never left me.

Today, drywall mud is one of my primary materials. I sculpt with it, finish furniture with it, and use it in more ways than I can count. And while I don’t always get that same meditative calm every time (depends on the project… and my mental health), the connection to making is always there.

I’ve started writing about my experience with it on the blog, especially for anyone who’s curious or wants to try it for the first time. You’ll find a few beginner-friendly posts in the Dee’s Day Makes section if you’re interested.

If you’ve ever thought about making something, start here. It’s a great material to explore texture, form, and movement. 

Would love to hear about your first making experience too.

— Dee

I figured I’d kick things off by sharing what I’m currently working on around the house, along with a few creative explorations. Nothing too polished—just a quick snapshot of what’s on my plate right now:

• Updating my entryway and building out the coffee + bar area
• Reworking the kitchen counter to finally include better systems and work zones
• Swapping out summer veggies in the garden and sketching plans for a newly landscaped section in the backyard
• And because I clearly love a full plate, I just started a ceramics class at the ATX Community College.

It’s a lot, but that’s exactly why I’m excited about this forum—a space to share what’s working, what’s not, and lean on a community for support, ideas, and perspective. If you’re also juggling home projects or learning something new, you’re in good company!

We’d love to hear what you’re working on - maybe we can troubleshoot together or just cheer each other on.

P.S. Here’s my (WIP) ceramic piece from class; she’s a little wobbly, but I’m incredibly proud. I already know what she’ll represent in a few years as I get better.

xo,

Dee