7 TV shows that feel like a big warm hug
By Erin Qualey
Making It (NBC)
After the beloved NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation ended, no one would have thought that the next joint venture between Leslie Knope and Ron Swanson would be a crafting competition show. But guess what? IT TOTALLY MAKES SENSE. And it’s utterly delightful.
Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman host every episode with giddy enthusiasm. Offerman’s expertise as an expert woodworker comes into play as he has a knowledge base for the general building and woodworking that occurs on the show. However, the crafting gets imaginative and quirky, and soon ventures into territory even unknown to Offerman. The things the contestants do with paper and felt simply amaze. It’s a joy to watch as self-proclaimed craft noob Poehler stands by, in awe of the creations that come to life in front of her. It’s all enough to inspire a viewer to head to their nearest craft supply store and go on a merry shopping spree.
Each episode consists of two challenges, a “faster craft” and a “master craft”. The winners of both types of challenge receive a unique embroidered patch as their winnings, but they also get hugs from both Offerman and Poehler, which I suspect are truly the real prize.
Where to Watch: Tuesdays at 10/9c on NBC.
Bonus Squeeze: Binge or re-binge Parks and Recreation on Netflix.