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The Vibrant Evolution of Tie Dye Through the Ages
Tie dye is more than just a colorful fashion trend. It carries a rich history that spans continents and centuries, reflecting cultural shifts and artistic expression. This post explores how tie dye developed from ancient techniques to a symbol of creativity and individuality today. Traditional Japanese shibori fabric with blue and white patterns Ancient Origins of Tie Dye Tie dyeing techniques date back thousands of years. Early examples appear in Asia and Africa, where artis

Kate Spinks Dean
2 days ago3 min read


Mastering Tie Dye at Home with Your February Curious Octopus Box Workshop
Tie dye is a fun and creative way to refresh your wardrobe or add a splash of color to everyday items. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to make your own unique tie dye designs, the February Curious Octopus box offers the perfect opportunity. In next month's box you’ll receive everything you need to get started with tie dyeing, plus access to a live online workshop where you can follow along and ask questions in real time. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some exp

Kate Spinks Dean
5 days ago3 min read


Unlock Your Creativity: Join Our Live Bookbinding Craft Night and Create Your Own Journal
Creativity offers a powerful way to relax, express yourself, and learn new skills. Tonight, you have the chance to dive into a hands-on craft experience by joining a live bookbinding session where you will make your own journal. This event is part of a monthly craft kit subscription from Curious Octopus, which sends everything you need to your door and guides you through the process in a live, online setting. Whether you want to treat yourself or find a thoughtful gift for so

Kate Spinks Dean
5 days ago3 min read


Embrace the Long January Nights: Discover New Crafts with Curious Octopus Subscription Boxes
The nights in January stretch long and quiet, inviting us to slow down and find comfort indoors. While the cold and darkness might feel limiting, this time offers a unique chance to rest and spark creativity. Instead of scrolling endlessly or feeling stuck in winter blues, why not explore a new craft and join a community of makers? Curious Octopus subscription boxes provide a perfect way to learn fresh skills and enjoy creative projects throughout the month. A cozy crafting s

Kate Spinks Dean
6 days ago3 min read


Embrace the Slow: Why Rest and Creativity Matter More Than New Year Resolutions
The start of a new year often brings pressure to reinvent ourselves, set ambitious goals, and chase productivity with renewed energy. But the Gregorian calendar is a human invention, not a natural deadline. Instead of rushing into a "new year, new me" mindset, this January invites a different approach: slow down, rest more, get cosy, and nurture creativity. Taking time to pause can lead to deeper fulfillment and more meaningful progress than any rushed resolution. A cozy corn

Kate Spinks Dean
Jan 73 min read


Inspirational Ideas for Creative Projects
Creativity is a powerful force that can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Whether you are looking to start a new hobby, enhance your skills, or simply find a fresh outlet for your imagination, exploring creative projects can be incredibly rewarding. This article offers a variety of inspirational ideas for creative projects that can spark your enthusiasm and help you bring your artistic visions to life. Exploring Ideas for Creative Projects When it com

Kate Spinks Dean
Jan 64 min read


Almost One Year of Curious Octopus – A Journey in Creativity
It’s hard to believe, but Curious Octopus is almost one year old! What started as a small idea—to help people explore new crafts and enjoy the joy of making—has grown into a little creative community that I’m so proud of. When I started Curious Octopus, my aim was simple: to give people the chance to be more creative, try new skills, and make something beautiful with their own hands . Life gets busy, and creativity can easily take a backseat. My hope is that every kit and ev

Kate Spinks Dean
Nov 24, 20253 min read


Take Time for Yourself This Festive Season with Christmas Crafting with Curious Octopus
The holiday season is almost upon us - twinkling lights, festive music, and… the inevitable rush to buy, wrap, and prepare. But what if this Christmas, you gave yourself something truly special? Christmas Crafting! A little time to slow down, unwind, and create something with your own hands. That’s where Curious Octopus comes in. Each month, we send a new craft kit straight to your door, along with access to a live online workshop where you can learn a skill step-by-step in

Kate Spinks Dean
Nov 17, 20251 min read


Your Polymer Clay Kits Are Here! Still Time to Join the Craft Night This Wednesday
Happy Monday, crafters! By now, most of you should have your Polymer Clay Earring Kits in your hands - and I hope you’re as excited as I am to get creating! This month’s box was a beautiful collaboration with Chloe from Peaches and Tea , and the navy, neutral and copper colours are just chef’s kiss for the festive season. 🎥 Craft Night Is This Wednesday - Are You Joining Us? Just a little reminder that our live, online craft night is happening this Wednesday (12th November

Kate Spinks Dean
Nov 10, 20252 min read


Make Your Own Festive Earrings: Navy & Copper Polymer Clay Earring Kits Are Here!
Make Your Own Festive Earrings: Navy & Copper Polymer Clay Kits Are Here!

Kate Spinks Dean
Nov 4, 20252 min read


Creativity for Mental Health - How Crafting with Curious Octopus Boosts Your Mental Health
Creativity for mental health C rafting is more than a hobby - it’s a way to care for your mind and emotions. Curious Octopus is a...

Kate Spinks Dean
Sep 15, 20251 min read


The history of Kinusaiga
This month at Curious Octopus we're learning the Japanese art of Kinusaiga (絹彩画) Kinusaiga is a contemporary Japanese art form that...

Kate Spinks Dean
Sep 10, 20252 min read


How Virtual Workshops Can Boost Your Creativity
In today’s fast-paced world, finding ways to enhance creativity is essential. Virtual workshops have emerged as invaluable tools for both...

Kate Spinks Dean
Aug 25, 20255 min read


Unique Craft Projects to Unleash Your Inner Artist
Crafting is a wonderful way to express creativity, relax, and create something beautiful with your own hands. Whether you are a beginner...

Kate Spinks Dean
Aug 22, 20254 min read


Amazing Art and Craft Ideas for Your Next Project
Crafting is a wonderful way to express creativity, relax, and create something beautiful or useful. Whether you are a beginner or an...

Kate Spinks Dean
Aug 19, 20254 min read


Creative Self-Care: How 15 Minutes of Crafting Can Boost Your Mood
Feeling Frazzled? Crafting is creative Self-Care You Can Actually Make Time For Self-care often feels like one more thing on an endless...

Kate Spinks Dean
Aug 15, 20252 min read


Top 5 Easy Crafts to Try When You’re New to Creativity
Starting a new creative hobby doesn’t have to be intimidating. Whether you’ve never picked up a paintbrush or are just looking for simple...

Kate Spinks Dean
Aug 12, 20252 min read


Beginner’s Guide to Mandala Crafts: Relaxing, Beautiful & Easier Than You Think
Find Your Calm with Mandala Crafts Ever looked at a beautifully intricate mandala and thought, "I could never do that?" Think again!...

Kate Spinks Dean
Aug 8, 20252 min read


How to Make Time for Creativity
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to push creative hobbies to the bottom of the to-do list. But making time for creativity isn’t just a...

Kate Spinks Dean
Aug 1, 20252 min read


Why Creative Hobbies Matter
...Even if you think you're not creative! Discover why creative hobbies matter, even if you don’t feel ‘creative’. Learn how simple...

Kate Spinks Dean
Jul 25, 20252 min read
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