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The imperfections are what make us unique. I've always believed that about people and think that thought also applies to homemade crafts.

When I think of homemade crafts my mind drifts back to childhood. All of the Popsicle stick buildings with leaking glue and jewelry made with nothing but dried up macaroni and string come to mind. These were hardly perfect but they were uniquely me.

As an adult my love for crafting has continued. Over the years I have crocheted, cross-stitched and made rugs. As you might imagine, I have had varying degrees of success. Most would not think of perfect when they see my work, but everything I've done has a meaning for me and that is what makes them most valuable to me.

Perfection, I have found, is a very subjective thing. It is in the eye of the beholder. What might appear perfect to a novice would not ever be considered so by a more experienced crafter. For example, my mother is an experienced quilter. She sees imperfections in stitches and patterns that I would never think to look for myself. I am just enjoying the effort and appreciating the time spent creating the piece. That is just one example of how perfection is viewed differently depending on who's eyes are looking at the product.

Looking around this room I see many homemade crafts my children have made. Since they are still relatively young perfection is not even an expectation. This does not make them any less valuable to me. My children enjoyed the experience of making all of them. Isn't that what crafting is supposed to be about: enjoyment and passion? The process and the experience should not be subject to a judgment.

Finally, if I am at a craft show I am probably more likely to choose a piece that is not perfect. As long as no vital parts are missing, one with imperfection is one that's truly unique and worthy of a place in my home.

Learn more about this author, Renee Lash.
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