The Happiest Kids Crafts In The World! - An Interview With Timm Sevitz
Chatting about social media, cardboard waffles and being a crafty dude in a predominately female world.
Timm Sevitz is one crafty dude. As if it wasn’t obvious from all the fabulous content on his TikTok, Instagram and Facebook channels he goes off and writes a brand new book busting at the seams with color and creativity. I was so excited to get my copy of The Happiest Kids Crafts In the world: 75 Colorful Art Projects to Inspire Kindness, Build Confidence and Encourage Positivity. The book is everything the title promises and more - this is coming from not only an author of 4 kids craft books, mom of two but also an afterschool art teacher constantly looking for engaging projects.
Timm and his projects are a delight but don’t let the rainbow colors and fun fool you - this guy knows a thing or two about marketing with over a million followers on his various social media channels. He shares a few tips and tricks and shares what gave him the kick in the pants to get started in the first place.
Also, Timm is a man in a traditionally female dominated industry and we touch on how he wants to normalize the idea that creativity and craftiness are not tied to gender. GIANT hooray from this boy mom over here.
Way more than just kids crafts in this interview so settle in.
If I met you in the aisles of a craft store what would be your elevator pitch to let me know all about the myth, the legend Timm Sevitz?
Hi, I’m Timm! I’m an artist, illustrator, and author based in Central Texas. I believe in encouraging kids and kids at heart to explore their creativity through art and crafts. I’m best known for my kind and uplifting videos on social media that feature colorful, easy projects designed to spark imagination, spread joy, and boost confidence. My mission is simple: make creativity fun, doable, and welcoming for everyone, while inspiring a new generation of makers and artists with smiles, laughs, and lots of glitter, pom-poms, and glue.
As someone who also works in the craft industry I often explain to people that unlike every two weeks when some people get one big pay check we often times have 174 side hustles to equal that amount. Is creating content and being crafty your “full time gig” as well?
I do the same. I don’t have a 9 to 5. I have a 9 to midnight, a noon to 3, two deadlines, a video to upload on 4-6 different social media platforms, all while answering DMs, writing emails, and planning for the next season. It’s all held together with a little tape, a lot of glue, and one big dream. Somehow, it all works. It’s just hard to explain in a nutshell! But I’m not sure I would have it any other way.
I know you work with lot’s of brands and obviously have the new book any fun past or present side hustle projects to mention?
Oh my gosh, yes! One of my absolute favorite side projects was a collaboration with Eggo a couple years back. They reached out looking for something fun, and after a few days of thinking, I came back to them with, “Okay, this might sound wild… what if I turn your Eggo boxes into a cardboard toaster oven, with cardboard waffles?” I expected hesitation, but they were all in! I was like, “You know this is just cardboard, paint, and hot glue, right?” and they said, “Where do we sign?” 😂 It was so much fun to create, and honestly, one of the first moments I felt like, “Wow, this could really be something.” It was only my second major brand collaboration and I was so nervous, but it turned out great. The little toaster is now on display at the Kellogg headquarters in Chicago! Super proud of that one. Here is a link if you want to see it for yourself!
How did your new book, The Happiest Kids Crafts On Earth, come about?
The book came about thanks to a friend of mine, Alexander Campbell (@acfloralstudio), who designs the most beautiful floral bouquets. He was writing a book at the time and kindly suggested me to his editor at Page Street Publishing. I’m forever grateful to him for that. A few weeks later, I got an email from the publisher asking if I had ever thought about writing a book and if I might be interested. I was so nervous. At the time, I didn’t consider myself a writer and was in deep self-doubt.
But I’m really trying to do things that push me out of my comfort zone and say yes to new experiences, even if they scare me. So I took a deep breath and said yes. It wasn’t easy, but every step of the process reminded me that I’m capable of more than I give myself credit for. It’s helped build my confidence and encouraged me to keep taking chances. I’m so glad I didn’t let fear stop me and that I’m in this season of saying yes and growing in ways I never expected.
Any new book ideas brewing?
Well, not a lot of people know this, but I’m a ✨platinum✨ member of the Over Thinkers Club. Ha. I always have ideas brewing and plans in the works. Sometimes I spend so much time planning and gathering supplies that I run out of time to actually make all the projects. Whoopsie.
As far as book ideas go, I think it would be so fun to do a seasonal Halloween book filled with cute and creepy little crafts. I really poured my heart and energy into The Happiest Kids Crafts in the World, and it has been amazing to see how people have embraced it. Right now, I’m just enjoying this moment, but I’m always open to new ideas and fun opportunities when the time feels right.
I can’t help but wonder if all the tariffs will effect publishing as well.
That’s a really good point, and I’ve been wondering the same thing. It’s definitely something to keep an eye on, especially for those of us working with publishers, printers, or anything that relies on materials and production. As a small business owner, it’s always important to stay informed and be ready to adapt if needed.
Picking projects, age ranges and themes for a book is hard. Do you have a sweet spot age range that you like creating content for the most? I’m a younger kid process art fan myself.
I’m like you! My favorite age group to create for is definitely younger kids, especially those between 5 and 8. That’s such a great age where their little imaginations are running wild, and they’re just ready to explore the world of art and creativity. They’re not afraid to try new things, make mistakes, or invent something completely out of the box (like WAY out of the box). It’s also the age where you can be totally silly and they’re right there with you, laughing and going along for the ride. There’s something so joyful about that kind of energy. It makes the creative process feel more like play, which is exactly how it should be.
What is your favorite project in the book?
That’s a tough one, because there are so many fun projects in the book, but if I had to pick, I think it would be the Playful Paper Crew (page 49). It’s such a fun little craft because you get to create your own characters and really let your imagination run wild. I included a few templates in the back of the book, like a star, an orange, a cupcake, a cloud, but you can totally go wild and make something extra silly, like a shrimp cocktail or an old-school 80s phone. Ha! Once they’re made, each one can have its own little personality. Maybe one’s super helpful and curious, while another is a mischievous trickster. It’s totally up to you! They’re cute, silly, and great for spreading cheer around the house or even at a party. Definitely one of my favorites.
Any that you think “adults would love this one too”. I want to try a version of the colorful embroidery stitch art!
I may be a little biased, but I honestly think most of the crafts could be fun for adults in the right setting. Then again, I am an adult who loves making kids crafts for a living, so take that as you will! If I had to choose a couple of more “elevated” projects, I’d go with the Felt Mosaic Tote (page 153). That one might speak to you since one of your mantras is “glue stuff to stuff,” which I absolutely love. That is exactly what this is. It is a fun and simple way to turn a plain tote bag into a colorful work of art. I can totally imagine it being carried around at a farmers market or a festival and getting all sorts of compliments. The best part is how easy it is to make.
Another one I’d recommend is Make Your Own Stickers (page 161). It is super easy and really satisfying. All you need is some packing tape, parchment paper, and a picture. It can be something you drew or an image from a magazine or newspaper. They are great as handmade gifts, fun little promo items, decorations for journals, or just something to make people smile. They are also a blast to pass around to friends. I think you’d have a lot of fun with them.
How did you get your start in crafting and in particular crafts for kids?
I used to work at Crate & Barrel designing displays for almost 15 years. Then in 2019, I moved to a small town in Central Texas, and as you can imagine, the opportunities were very different unless I wanted to drive a long way. When the pandemic hit, I suddenly had a lot of time to sit, plan, and research. I tried launching a few Etsy shops selling various items, but I wasn’t truly passionate about any of them. Around the same time, I was struggling to get my illustrations seen on Instagram. It often felt like one step forward and three steps back.
I clearly remember lying on a beach during a get-together with friends, reading You Are A Badass by Jen Sincero. As dramatic as it sounds, something about that book flipped a switch in my brain. A few weeks earlier, I had downloaded TikTok but was too nervous to post anything. After reading the book, I heard this little voice inside that said, just do it. Start something new. What’s the worst that could happen?
So when I got home, I created my very first TikTok. It was this amazing cardboard haunted house that took me a week to make. I posted it … but it didn’t take off. I don’t even think it got 50 views. But I kept going. One day I posted a video showing how I use hot glue in a silicone mold and it went viral.
From there, the channel started as general crafts and naturally began shifting into kids crafts. I went to school for child and teen development, so I have always been fascinated with how little people grow and learn. I always joke that I probably should have been a kindergarten teacher.
That was a long explanation… what was the question again? Ha!
Men are not as common in the craft industry as women. How has the reception been? Typically you hear this question asked to women in male dominated fields but I’m curious on your perspective.
Thank you for asking such a thoughtful question. It’s true that many areas of the craft world, especially kids crafts, scrapbooking, and sewing, have been historically led and shaped by women. I actually got my start as a teenager, sewing little stuffed animals that I learned to make from my mom. I would sell them at craft shows and conventions, and being a young guy doing creative things definitely made me stand out. People were often curious, and helped me connect more with my customers.
Now that the “Timm Sevitz” brand is growing, I’ve felt welcomed into the creative community. I’m also aware that being a man in this space may have given me access to opportunities that have not always been as available to others, especially women and people from historically marginalized backgrounds. I try to stay mindful of that, and I do my best to use whatever platform I have to support, uplift, and celebrate a wide range of voices in the craft world. There is more than enough room for all of us, and I believe the more perspectives we bring in, the stronger and more creative the space becomes.
I also want to help normalize the idea that creativity and craftiness are not tied to gender. Every so often, I get comments suggesting that men do not belong in this space. Instead of discouraging me, those comments remind me how important it is to show up, stay visible, and be a positive example. I wish I had seen more men in creative roles when I was growing up. It would have made it easier to embrace the things I loved, without hesitation. Creativity belongs to everyone. I am really thankful to be part of a community that continues to grow, evolve, and welcome new voices.
What is your go-to social media platform of choice?
I’d have to say Instagram is my go-to. It’s where I feel most connected to my followers. I get such great feedback and cheer each other on. Although, to be honest, I think the algorithm and I are currently in a bit of a tiff. Ha!
Which one do you have the largest following for
TikTok has the most followers. It’s my second favorite. I love how completely unserious it is. People are so creative and hilarious, especially in the comments. That’s where I go to stay ‘locked in’ and learn the freshest GOAT-tier phrases like ‘rizz,’ ‘yeet,’ ‘glaze,’ and whatever else GenZ is saying. No cap. IJBOL. (I think I’m using that right?)”
Which social media platform do you think has gotten your projects in front of brands and say book publishers the most?
Instagram for sure. I think brands and publishers tend to look at follower count first, then quickly peek at engagement to see if people are actually interacting. I think it is because Instagram just has that polished, portfolio-like feel that makes it easier for people to see your work and imagine how it could fit into their own collabs and projects.
I know you are on several platforms. How do you manage content for all of them? Do you have a certain system - like first TikTok, teaser on IG, static post with link on FB. I’m a bit of a marketing nerd so I love to hear about these types of things!
LOL! You are so kind to use the word “manage.” Honestly, it’s all held together with hope and a prayer. Ha! But really, there is a bit of a method to my madness.
I’m on a few different platforms and I try to tailor content to fit each one. Most of the time, I create short-form videos with Instagram in mind since that’s my biggest marketing tool right now. It’s where I post quick tutorials, daily behind-the-scenes updates in Stories, still photos, and links. I’ve been experimenting with carousels lately and those have been picking up momentum.
I usually repost some Instagram content to TikTok but also have fun with trends that work well with kids crafts or my book. I’ve learned that what works on TikTok doesn’t always land on Instagram, so I try not to cross-post everything. Sometimes I’ll share the fun ones in Stories just for laughs.
Facebook is filled with some very dedicated crafters. I repost a lot there too, and it tends to do well. I still see good reach and engagement.
As for YouTube, I’m building up the courage to jump into long-form videos. I’ve been hearing more and more about how much potential there is for growth, better engagement, and even better payouts. I’d love to start sending more of my audience that way. I think there’s a lot of value in spending a bit more time with people through longer content. It helps build trust and connection.
I haven’t started a Substack yet, but I love how you’ve made it part of your own style. Your voice and point of view are so clear and thoughtful. I really enjoy reading what you share. I’ve tried Threads and Bluesky, but they didn’t stick for me. Last time I checked I had nine followers on Bluesky. Ha!
Social media keeps changing, and I think as creators and small business owners, we need to keep adapting and learning so we don’t get left behind.
If someone had to pick one to focus on for their burgeoning craft career which social media basket would you suggest they put their eggs into?
TikTok!
It’s where I’d tell most people to start right now. The reach is wild (sometimes unpredictable), the community is fun and super creative, and you can grow fast if you’re consistent. Try posting at least once a day for a month! It sounds like a lot but it will help the algorithm know you are serious and reliable.
It’s also a great place to test ideas and see what resonates. Because it is a super casual environment you don't have to worry about about having fancy gear or perfect lighting. Just be authentically you. The world needs your point of view, so go for it! Put all those eggs into the basket … you never know what might hatch!
That said, if you’re already seeing traction somewhere else, follow that momentum. But for building something from scratch? TikTok’s the move.
What is on the horizon for you? Any exciting things coming up you can share?
I’ve got a fun, easy and FREE (if it’s free, it’s for ME!) virtual workshop coming up that I’m really excited about! It’s called Happy Scrape-Painted Friends, a colorful, silly, 45-minute project that’s sure to make you smile. It’s totally free to join and available to watch online anytime between June 2–6. It’s part of Workshop Week, which features amazing and talented artists from all over the world. If you’re looking for fun, creative ideas for summer, this is a great place to start! Here is the link if you are interested.
I’m also working on a few exciting brand collabs… but I have to keep those under wraps for now. Stay tuned!
Leave us with a few hot takes:
- Favorite craft supply
Cardboard! You can just do so much with it and it’s easy to find. (Bonus: my favorite scissors to cut cardboard are the Fiskars PowerCut! They are AMAZING!)
- Hot glue, Tacky glue or Glue stick?
Since I work alot with kids crafts i have to say Tacky Glue (Shout out to Aleene’s) because it is safest … however as an adult crafter?! I prefer to burn my fingertips off! Hot glue is so fast and you get instant gratification! Hooray!
- Craft supply that you use in an usual way?
Woah! This question really made me think. The first thing that comes to mind is using fabric paint to make window clings. You just draw your design on plastic, let it dry, and then peel it off to stick on a window. it’s such a fun trick! I might need to dig through my craft stash and experiment some more. I’ll get back to you with an even wackier one soon. Ha!
- Does your style align more with Martha Stewart or Amy Sedaris?
I adore this question, Jen! You have no idea! Both of these women are my absolute crafting heroes. I love Amy’s wit and quirky style. She’s so brilliant with her offbeat, unfiltered creativity. And Martha? Her thoughtful, practical approach is iconic. I grew up watching her shows, reading her magazines, and studying all the perfect little details. These two are wildly different, but if I’m being totally honest, I probably lean a bit more Martha. I love them both so much though. If I think about this too long, I might just implode, so that’s my final answer. Ha!
