Creative amateurs who really did try their best

We all strive for perfection, but reality often brings plenty of quirks and surprises! Dive in for a joyful look at some genuine first attempts, unexpected outcomes, and creative catastrophes that prove the fun really is in the trying—not just the flawless result.

“Veiled Virgin' by Giovanni Strazza”

Gerry1of1/Reddit
Gerry1of1/Reddit

Is this a classic sculpture or a very determined dog auditioning for an art history class? Sometimes imitation really is the sincerest—and most hilarious—form of flattery.

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“I'm getting good at this!”

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TygerWaffles/Reddit
TygerWaffles/Reddit
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Nothing says 'homemade with love' like a pie crust that seems to be plotting its next move. This dessert looks like it has its own mischievous story to tell right out of the oven.

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“What my friend ordered vs what was delivered”

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Terrible_Show_1609/Reddit
Terrible_Show_1609/Reddit
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There's nothing quite like the excitement of a surprise delivery! The side-by-side comparison just leaves you rooting for the underdog, or in this case, the unexpectedly green floral animal.

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“First time attempting homemade ravioli’s ”

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stinkles555/Reddit
stinkles555/Reddit
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Ah, homemade ravioli: where aspirations soar and the flour really hits the fan. It's all about the spirit and the effort—taste is what truly matters, right?

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“My best friend's six-year-old had a friend over to make cookies. The kids didn't exactly measure correctly. (Yes, they were supervised but not forced to be perfect.)”

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[deleted]/Reddit
[deleted]/Reddit
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Cookie science at its most adventurous! Measurements may have been a bit loose, but the memories (and a fair amount of laughter) are absolutely spot-on.

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“God I'm good.”

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thoorlybiping/Reddit
thoorlybiping/Reddit
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Now, that’s some bold self-confidence! There’s nothing quite like claiming greatness over a cake that’s clearly been through an epic journey in both frosting and form.

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“Unicorn”

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NotNotDragon/Reddit
NotNotDragon/Reddit
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Expectation: mythically adorable unicorn. Reality: a creature as endearing as it is mysterious. This candy clearly has a unique magic all its own.

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“Made Dango”

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RopeIsLongGone/Reddit
RopeIsLongGone/Reddit
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Look at that shine! These homemade dango may not be perfectly round, but their cozy, colorful charm is irresistible. Practice makes delicious progress.

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“First-ever, from-scratch, apple pie.”

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LocalPresence3176/Reddit
LocalPresence3176/Reddit
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There’s a rustic beauty to this first apple pie. Achievements in baking don’t always look polished, but they sure feel rewarding and smell incredible.

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“The sprinkles make it pretty, right?”

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MaraJadeStark/Reddit
MaraJadeStark/Reddit
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When in doubt, just add sprinkles! No matter how wobbly the cake, a little bit of color makes everything seem festive and fun.

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“Chocolate Cream Pie”

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jillyrock8/Reddit
jillyrock8/Reddit
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Chocolate cream pie dreams versus the deliciously chaotic reality. The journey from Pinterest-perfect to pudding swirl is a relatable saga for home bakers everywhere.

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“Merry Christmas”

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absoluteinsights/Reddit
absoluteinsights/Reddit
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‘Merry Christmas’ never tasted quite like this. Spreading the holiday spirit one uniquely shaped cookie at a time. Gingerbread innovation, achieved!

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“'Head cake' husband wanted for his birthday.”

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kymilovechelle/Reddit
kymilovechelle/Reddit
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A birthday cake with character—literally. The requested head cake is giving some strong meme energy and is bound to be unforgettable at any party.