Guest Post: Pick Up Some Creativity....

Chris over at Pickup Some Creativity 

has always posted the most amazing tutorials. 

She has an amazing knack of making tricky tasks seeming easy.
She's also very lovely indeed. 

So, natch, I had to get her over here to do 

a guest post for you about putting together a tutorial......

Hello Modern Country Style enthusiasts! My name is Chris. I blog about creativity and life at my blog, Pickup Some Creativity.

Dear Sarah asked me to share a tutorial on how to write a tutorial. It sounds a bit daunting, yes?

I thought the easiest way to go about this is to share with you how I write tutorials.
First, you need an idea to share. If you're worried about sharing something that's been overdone, do a quick google blog search, and find out what's already available.

image via statesman sentinel

Second, create your project, taking as many pictures of you can of each step in your process. I take multiple pictures so that if one turns blurry or the lighting isn't great, I hopefully get another that looks better.  You don't need a fancy pants camera.  I use a Canon  Powershot A530.  I never use the auto settings, and always use natural light.  I generally get great pictures.  You'll be surprised at what a good little point and shoot can do.

image via eastcoast photo

Third, take notes as you go. Write down measurements, any other tips you want to share.  I keep this little notebook with all my tutorial ideas.  I often have several projects in various states of completion, and this is how I keep it all straight.

Fourth, edit your pictures. I wish I could say I am a photoshop queen, but alas, I don't have a lot of money to give to Adobe. So, I use a few free options. First, Picassa. I love this program. It allows you to organize your photos, and gives you lots of great tools. I always use the tuning option.

Second option, Picnik.  This is a great online photo editing tool.  There is even an option now in Picassa that allows you to use Picnik through Picassa.  Heaven!  A third resource, use the paint program included with Windows.  The newest version included with Windows 7 is the best so far.

Fifth.  Don't be afraid to write on your pictures.  I think adding a bit of text, or summarizing a step is a great way to add to your tutorial.  This is easily done in Picassa.  For example:

There are so many wonderful free fonts available.  I have found several great ones at FontSquirrel.  Just be sure to find the folder on your computer where fonts are stored, and you can easily add them.  Picassa will draw from that folder, and you can write on your pictures to your heart's content.

Sixth, write your instructions.  Start with a catchy, descriptive title.  Be sure to list all the materials that might be needed to create your project.  I found a great little html trick that lets you make a bullet list.  You can use this example, but be sure to add your own materials...and not copy word for word!

You can see examples of my tutorials on my tutorial page HERE.  I have definitely gotten better at it, the more I blog.  My first few were definite learning experiences!

Seventh.  Edit and then link up/share.  Use the preview option in blogger to see what your post looks like before you hit that publish button!  Also, be sure to save your draft as you go.  There are so many great linky parties and other sites that share tutorials.  Be brave and email links and descriptions to your favorite blogs.   They just might feature you!

I hope this helps any budding writers out there.  The key ingredient is to just DO IT!  I believe that each of us was born with a divine need to create.  Find what medium works for you, create something, and share with us.  The craft/design blog world is such a positive, happy community to be a part of.  We're excited to see what you have to show us.

Thanks, Sarah, for inviting me.  We need to figure out a virtual way to share a cup of tea!