Documenting Your Creativity: Blogging and Social Media

Old Red Barn Co.

My first class at the Sewing Summit was “Documenting Your Creativity:  Blogging and Social Media” led by Dana Bolyard of Old Red Barn Co. (they handcraft yummy soaps and scrubs). I felt a little intimidated as I situated myself in the middle of the class room to realize that in place of my old fashioned paper and pen most attendees had their laptops or tablets.  Obviously, I have a lot to learn!  These younger technophiles tip tapped away while simultaneously checking out the blogs in reference as my pen worked it’s way across paper.  So, from my hand scrawled notes here is a  summary of what Dana shared.

old school note taking

Dana’s blog is an extension and personal connection to her business. It serves as an online medium for her to document her life and creativity with others.  Her own curiosity about how her mom felt about being a mother to young ones inspired her to  leave a legacy for her own children that will provide windows into her life, feelings and experiences.

image from Old Barn Co. blog

She emphasized that a blog should not be a numbers game, but rather a pure form of expression and interests and a means to build a community.  Here is a list of elements Dana feels make a good blog:

• A clear focus
• Interesting & engaging content
• Writing that is not condescending
• Regular posts
• Photos
• Substance with insight and a personal touch
• An approachable demeanor