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As much as I love craft projects, I’ll be honest: All too often, I finish them and…don’t know what to do with them (especially my freehand painting). That’s why I tend to stick to baking projects, where I can eat the finished result, or candle-making. It’s got to be useful, so it doesn’t feel like clutter.



That’s why I got so excited when I saw a sneak peek of Michaels’ new collaboration with designer and potter Jonathan Adler. He’s known for his elevated-yet-playful housewares, and he brought that aesthetic to the craft chain in spades. The line includes decor and oversized lawn games, but I’m all about the DIY projects. They’re beginner-friendly, with end results that feel worthy of hanging up—or carrying with you day-to-day (like the sunglasses case I’m currently working on).
Better yet, they can serve as ways to break free of the scroll and provide a mental reset for the week. Each one can be tackled in short bursts, providing a jolt of productivity and creativity—two key components that help me feel refreshed (and avoid burnout). Here are my top five picks from the line, in case you could use a mental escape:

1. When You Need a Craft for Book Club: Jonathan Adler x Michaels Bright Print Diamond Art Bookmark Kit, $17
I’ve heard diamond art feels like a meditative practice, letting your mind wander as you go through the motions to complete each design. But I’ve often thought that (1) I don’t have the patience for a giant poster and (2) I wouldn’t hang up the sparkly end result. These bookmarks are the perfect alternative. And, since they come in a four-pack, they make for a great book club or girls’ night craft, too.

2. When You Want a Craft to Build Excitement for Your Next Vacation: Jonathan Adler x Michaels Blue & White Greek Key Monogram Needlepoint Clutch Kit, $20
C’mon, make your own Greek key clutch?! This could be a great toiletries bag or makeup bag to throw in a tote as you travel, and the monogram is customizable to suit your initials.

3. When You Want a Craft You Can Tackle in Minutes: Jonathan Adler x Michaels 5″ Geometric Lamp DIY Pinewood Vase, $12
You could give it a simple stain or go all out and paint it however your heart desires. Plus, it gives you an excuse to treat yourself to some flowers afterward, right?

4. When You Want an Artsy Craft (with Guardrails): Jonathan Adler x Michaels 11″ x 11″ Pineapple Canvas Painting Kit, $15
I’m still working on my freehand painting skills, but in the meantime, I enjoy the mindless fun of a paint-by-number kit. They can be kind of cheesy, but Adler’s designs are very modern and fun. This pineapple canvas features the sketch—minus the numbers to follow—allowing for a little more creativity. The end result speaks to my beach-loving heart and would be very at-home in our Airbnb.

5. When You Crave a Reset Craft to Help Your Brain Slow Down: Jonathan Adler x Michaels Heart Glasses Punch Needle Case Kit, $20
And finally, my personal favorite! I’m working on this craft now as way to unwind at the end of the night. I tackle a tiny bit each night, feeling productive without the pressure of needing to get it done ASAP. But when I’m done? I’m psyched to use this little case to stow my Quays all summer long.
One Final Tip!
Psst: If you decide to order any of these when they go on sale, I highly recommend looking out for any promo codes and ordering them online for curbside or in-store pickup. I’ve often found that there are more online-only deals than in-store discounts lately, but you can still have the convenience of getting things almost instantly when you choose to make it a pickup order. (And you don’t have to hit shipping minimums.)




