What Is a Virtual Crop? What You Need to Know Series! Part 2 of 2

Last week we shared all about virtual crops and what to expect - if you missed it, it's a great place to start.  Today we're getting into the practical side of things:  how to prepare and what to bring to you can get the most out of your crafting session.  The term virtual crop can also relate to virtual workshop.  The word crop is used throughout the post, but can easily be substituted for workshop unless denoted.

What should I Bring to a Virtual Crop? One of the best things about virtual crops is that you're already home - so technically, you have access to everything! But here's a helpful list to get you set up and ready:

📋  Your Virtual Crop Supply Checklist ✅ Your current project or a new one you've been wanting to start ✅ Your go-to card making supplies — dies, stamps, ink pads, cardstock ✅ Your die cutting machine if you're using it ✅ Good lighting so you can see (and be seen!) clearly ✅ A snack and your favorite drink ✅ Your phone or computer for the video call with chargers ✅ A notebook for jotting down ideas and tips ✅ An open mind and a willingness to have fun! 🌸

Do I Need to Be an Experienced Crafter to Attend? 

Crops - Absolutely not! Virtual crops are welcoming to all skill levels — from complete beginners who are just getting started with card making all the way to seasoned crafters with years of experience. The whole point is to create together, not to compete.  

 

In fact, beginners often get the most out of virtual crops because you're surrounded by experienced makers who love sharing their knowledge. Have a question about a technique? Just ask! Can't figure out how to use a die? Someone in the crop has definitely been there and will be happy to help. 💛

 

Workshops - Experience level should be considered when signing up for a workshop. Not all workshop descriptions will provide a recommended experience level, but usually you can tell by the tools and supplies required to assemble the featured project.  If you don't own a majority of the basic tools and supplies, you might feel overwhelmed during the workshop. One thing to consider, the instructor may assume everyone knows how to use their die cutting machine, and they will most likely not provide instruction on how to build the "sandwich", this also has to do with the fact there are several different die cutting machines, and each one operates a little differently.   I recommend, you always reach out to the host, and ask if the workshop is right for you. 

 

What Makes Virtual Crops Special?

I want to be honest with you — when I first heard about virtual crops, I wasn't sure they could replicate the magic of an in-person gathering. But after hosting and attending many of them, I can tell you that virtual crops have some advantages that in-person crops simply can't match:

•       🌍  No geographic limits — crafters from all over the country (and the world!) can join

•       🏠  You craft in your own space with ALL your supplies right at your fingertips

•       😴  No travel time — you can join in your pajamas if you want!

•       📱  Easy to fit into your schedule — many virtual crops are just a few hours

•       🎥  Replays mean you never miss a tip or demo even if life gets in the way

•       👯  You build friendships with crafters you'd never have met locally

 

It was challenging for me to get on board with virtual workshops, but I am a huge advocate, and while it is not exactly the same as a live crop, it suites me perfectly.  For me personally, I find the benefits of a virtual crop/workshop far outweigh in person events.  With that said, the energy of a well hosted crop is hard to replicate.  

One other surprising element I have found with virtual events, everyone is more likely to interact with one another virtually, more so than in person.  It has been my experience that in person events can many times feel like a high school dance, and people aren't always as outgoing in person as they might be virtually.  That seems to be my experience.  Have you noticed this as well?  Have you experienced with type of event?  If you tried both, which is your favorite?

Let us know when your last in person crop was and where?

Let us know when your last virtual crop/workshop was and was it a crop or a workshop?

Happy Cropping!

Andrea