My ways of beating crafters block


I think all crafters have come up against an ideas roadblock at some time in their creative journey, when no matter what you do, you can't think of where your next idea will come from.  So here are some of my ways of dealing with this problem:


  1. Imagine you are walking around a craft market.  What would you want to look at and why?  Write it down - what you are interested in seeing is what you are probably interested in creating.
  2. Children's books especially colouring books are full of great design ideas - discover your inner child.
  3. Clean and de-stash your craft area.  Cleaning things out can be inspiring - I recently finished a donna cover for my daughter made from all the baby t-shirts of hers I had been hoarding.  I get more space and she gets to enjoy some of her favourite t-shirts again.
  4. Develop a specialist library and review it regularly.  I am so amazed at how looking at a book again can bring up a new idea or version of an idea.
  5. Keep a design library of your favourite ideas and see if there are different ways to use the same idea.  I have recently been exploring a Kewpie style design in paper, stitchery, on fabric, in two and three dimensions, and on brooches. It feels satisfying to really get extra out of a good idea.
  6. Keep a notebook and pencil handy if you have an idea, or email yourself to remember ideas!
  7. Write a list of all the birthdays and events you buy people presents for.  Could you make any instead?  You may find other people like you solution for the dreaded 'man' gift problem.
  8. Retail therapy – window shop for new ideas. You may be inspired (but leave the credit card at home)
  9. Think about all the things you would do if you won some money – is there anything you would buy or try with the winnings? Study, new supplies -  could you find a (cheaper) alternative.
  10. Commitment to crafting – make yourself practice a bit of craft everyday even if you are not in the mood. Doodle a little, or stitch a mini stitchery, or just craft something very small.  The skill practice will keep you in shape for when the idea does hit.
  11.  Write a list of household chores needing doing –  If all else fails, this will really focus you on craft. I would prefer to do anything rather than chores.

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