“THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC OF BECOMING A MEDIOCRE CRAFTER"
Marie Claire - US|The Makers Issue
In her new book, The Age of Magical Overthinking, author Amanda Montell explores the state of the modern mind. This exclusive excerpt examines why we're obsessed with things that are handmade.
Amanda Montell
“THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC OF BECOMING A MEDIOCRE CRAFTER"

A therapist in a large beaded necklace once told me over video chat that in order to yank your attention into the present, you’re supposed to do things with your hands. “Watercolors, card tricks, any hands-on hobby,” she said, her kind eyes squinting glitchily over Zoom. I winced at the suggestion, as a sentiment from my hometown hero John Waters leapt to mind: “The only insult I’ve ever received in my adult life was when someone asked me, ‘Do you have a hobby?’ A HOBBY?! DO I LOOK LIKE A FUCKING DABBLER?!” I wanted to sneer, but then I remembered: Nora Ephron loved to cook. Michelle Obama has her knitting. Greta Thunberg allegedly cross-stitches for relaxation between climate justice meetings with presidents. None of it is what they’re known for, but it’s what they love. What they do with their hands. “A hobby,” I told the therapist. “I’ll think on it.”

Unfortunately, I believe I might be the single worst crafter of all time. Since childhood, my instincts as a painter, a French braider, a friendship bracelet maker have been practically non-existent. I recognize that a woman publicly admitting to her lack of domesticity is still taboo, or at least unflattering, like someone confessing they don’t like dogs. For the record, I have made heartfelt attempts at “dabbling.” During the craft boom of the 2020 lockdown, I managed to grow a small forest of basil, though I manslaughtered it within a matter of days.

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“THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC OF BECOMING A MEDIOCRE CRAFTER"
Marie Claire - US

“THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC OF BECOMING A MEDIOCRE CRAFTER"

In her new book, The Age of Magical Overthinking, author Amanda Montell explores the state of the modern mind. This exclusive excerpt examines why we're obsessed with things that are handmade.

time-read
10+ minutos  |
The Makers Issue
Field of Dreams
Marie Claire - US

Field of Dreams

While agriculture has historically been a male-dominated industry, a new crop of farmers is working to make the community more diverse, inclusive, and cool.

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The Makers Issue
On Pointe
Marie Claire - US

On Pointe

As a dancer with the New York City Ballet, India Bradley knows a good performance-and that the outfit plays a role.

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The Makers Issue
MASTERS OF THEIR CRAFT
Marie Claire - US

MASTERS OF THEIR CRAFT

In today's murky fashion landscape of discourse and 'cores, to be a revolutionary is to tune out the chatter and focus on your skill. Here, a vanguard group of designers who prioritize their artistry above all else.

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10+ minutos  |
The Makers Issue
CAMERA, KIRSTEN
Marie Claire - US

CAMERA, KIRSTEN

After a two-year hiatus, the actress is back where she wants to be: the big screen.

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The Makers Issue
Whiskey Business
Marie Claire - US

Whiskey Business

Fawn Weaver, the founder of Uncle Nearest spirits, is doing more than just raising a glass—she’s raising awareness.

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The Makers Issue
The 700-Mile Journey to Get an Abortion
Marie Claire - US

The 700-Mile Journey to Get an Abortion

As states continue to enact harmful legislation that restricts access to reproductive healthcare, a network of pilots is flying people across the country to get services they need. Marie Claire reports from the air.

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The Makers Issue
INSIDE THE TRIUMPHANT RETURN OF THE WIZ
Marie Claire - US

INSIDE THE TRIUMPHANT RETURN OF THE WIZ

The famed show is back on Broadway, and with it, a dazzling new group of creatives. Before the curtains go up, writer Amber Ruffin gathers the cast to discuss the magic of making the musical.

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The Makers Issue
RAISING THE BAR
Marie Claire - US

RAISING THE BAR

Despite endless body wash options, the art of luxury soap making hasn't slipped away. Many beauty brands are leaning into the centuries-old product, while elevating it with unique scents and ingredients.

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The Makers Issue
What Really Happened to Jessica Savitch?
Marie Claire - US

What Really Happened to Jessica Savitch?

In the 40 years since her death, the pioneering newscaster has become an Icarus-like parable, a woman who was punished for her outsize ambition. She was one of the most powerful names in news, until one disastrous broadcast tarnished her golden image. In an exclusive report, her friends and family speak out about what everyone got wrong about her life.

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The Power Issue 2023