Do you ever have a pretty
definitive idea of how you want something to look, be, or turn out, only to
find that finding it ready-made is easier said than done? There are so many items we automatically
assume we just need to buy at the store as-is, and yet there is a self-made
route to take to really customize what we’re in the market for. Enter: your
version, your way.
When the boxed thank you
notes and note card sets on the shelf don’t meet your needs in theme, color, or
quantity, it’s easy to settle and just pick something anyway. The alternative, however, can get you exactly
what you want. Custom online printing is
so widespread, selling customizable versions that graphic designers have made
and posted for sale, as well as offering the option to design your own graphic,
upload, and order. Whether you’re handy
with a computer program that builds your own designs or not, you can find
countless themes, color schemes, and customizable text, photo, and printing options
of gorgeous designs with online printing companies like Zazzle.com.
If you’re a couch snuggler,
throw pillows aplenty might be your thing.
Sometimes you find just what goes with your theme and palette in-store,
and sometimes you don’t. To stretch
beyond that limited inventory, you can take two routes, depending on whether or
not you’re handy with a sewing machine.
If you’re a DIY seamstress, you can turn to fabric by the yard (which
can also come in limitless options when purchased online) or take nearly-there
versions of fabric, like 20 inch square dinner napkins that can be ironed, sewn
together, and custom filled. If you’re
not the needle-and-thread type, you can locate plenty of seamstresses across
the globe who are available for hire through their online galleries like
Etsy.com. What they collectively offer
outnumbers a store shelf’s options, and some will even accept the fabric by the
yard you ship them and make you what you desire.
Can’t find a nice wooden cutting
board design you like? Have one custom
engraved. Would you like a number decal
for your front door or your mailbox?
Pick an online design and have your own house number printed in a pretty
font. Want your item to say it’s
yours? Monogrammers, engravers, and
glass etchers are out there able to fulfill your order. Want to wrap up a special gift in paper you
design or custom design your own bolt of fabric? Those options are out there, too.
When you want to spell it out
that You. Designed. This. make it happen with a little assistance from somebody
crafty who is in the business of custom creating your version, your way.
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star February 22nd.
