Crop ‘Til You’re Happy, Not ‘Til You Drop
A full day of cropping can leave me stiff and sore – especially my neck and back. But, you don’t need to suffer AND you can still crop all day. So grab your water bottle and let’s talk about crafting smarter, not harder.
Save your neck
I’m often stiff and sore after a long day of cropping, but the new Layout Studio from Creative Memories is a game-changer in this department. Now I can easily elevate the layouts I’m working on up to a 60-degree angle. I’ve only been using the Layout Studio for a few days, and honestly, my neck noticed the difference on day one. It has helped alleviate neck pain while I crop, allowing me to scrapbook longer. I’ve even started using the Layout Studio on my desk while reading and editing documents. The Layout Studio just launched today, and you can now get your own!
While you’re at it, take a look at your chair. An adjustable chair or a simple lumbar support cushion can make a surprising difference during a long crop session — your lower back will be grateful by hour four!
For more information, check out this article by the NYTimes Wirecutter. It offers great advice on setting up your workspace in an ergonomic manner and makes recommendations for office chairs and other ergonomic products. You’ll see from the graphic in this article why elevating your layouts with the Creative Memories Layout Studio is so critical!
Step Away from the Table
Sitting all day is the worst thing you can do for your back. That’s why I build in ways to ensure I periodically get up and move. I purposely set my 12” Trimmer and Custom Cutting System on a separate table in my office. This encourages me to stand up every time I need to cut 12” paper or wish to cut circles and shapes. If I haven’t had time to go for my daily walk, I’ll set it on a table in a separate room, like the dining room table, helping me to meet my daily step goal.
I also set an alarm to do five minute movement breaks every 90 minutes. I love to follow the 5 Minute Movement and Stretching Breaks on the WorkBreakStretch YouTube Channel. So, don’t forget to trim, walk, repeat. Here is one of my favorite WorkBreakStretch Videos for you to give a try:
And don’t neglect your hands — all that cutting, punching, and ink blending adds up. Add a few finger and wrist stretches to your movement breaks and your hands will thank you at the end of the day.
Water and Feed your Creativity
I will often hit a mid-afternoon slump when cropping all day if I don’t properly hydrate and eat. Make sure to keep a covered water bottle at your crop table. A covered water bottle protects your layout, photos, and supplies from spills. It’s easy to forget to drink when you’re deep in a layout — and dehydration sneaks up on you faster than a rogue sticker gets stuck on your elbow!
You also need to feed your creativity. I always keep light, mess-free snacks nearby. Nuts, fruit, or crackers keep my energy steady and my layouts crumb-free! Need a reminder? Set alarms for lunch, dinner, and snacks – more great excuses to step away from your craft table and move!
Mind your lighting
Don’t strain your eyes squinting at tiny photo details or fine cuts. Good lighting isn’t just practical, it’s a essential. A daylight LED craft lamp reduces eye fatigue so you can keep creating longer. You’ll also want to make sure that any lamp you use provides true-to-color lighting. If you are in the market for a new lamp, check out this article. (Note: I’m not affiliated with this site — just a helpful roundup I came across! )
Good for the Soul, Not Just for Memory Keeping
More and more research is emerging that links crafts such as scrapbooking to mental health. A recent New York Times piece highlighted research showing that even a few minutes of creative activity each day can slow cognitive decline, support heart health, and boost overall well-being — not bad for a hobby we already love! The social aspects of scrapbooking also contribute to well-being.
I’m curious to know what you do to stay comfortable while you are crafting? After all, the best crop session is one you walk away from feeling inspired — not aching! Drop a comment below.
