Being creative is a skill that we cultivate as we use our creativity on a daily basis, the ebb and flow of the creative muse will always be a factor as we create.  Some days are harder than others, and I have listed six different ways to reignite my creativity and find inspiration when I need it!

Explore a new medium

I am a full time quilter, I write patterns and books, design fabric and sew a lot, but recently I’ve taken up painting with acrylic paints. It’s something that I enjoy, it doesn’t have a deadline, and I love exploring new color combinations or mixing paint until I have a stunning new color. I’d also love to explore weaving, but haven’t taken the leap beyond my pinterest board, yet! Experimenting with a new medium has offered it’s own inspiration and lately has influenced fabric choices, and while my quilts are typically very geometric, the paintings are abstract and free.

Put some music on

You might have your go-to station for stitching or painting, but why not try something new, or old! The 80’s reloaded can be the jolt to your creative muse, as much as a relaxed concerto might be to someone else. Ask friends for their favorite tracks, if you need help breaking out of your usual.

Spend 20 minutes cleaning up your creative space

Not the entire thing, just focus on one small area that will have a big impact for you. Cutting mat, sewing machine table, or just refold fabric for 20 minutes. I often find cleaning my desk for 20 minutes can yield similar results too! Making room to make a new mess is sometimes all the motivation my creativity needs! Cleaning up can also allow you to explore new color palettes or cause you to look at your scraps in a new light too. Find the forgotten project, or tool that could inspire the next project.

Read a book

Books to Read + 5 Things to do when your creativity is on vacation!

Big Magic

The War of Art

The Creative Habit: Learn it and Use it for Life

Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All

Interaction of Color

afflinks

Take a power nap

When all else fails, sometimes you just need to recharge for a few minutes. Set a time on your phone, and close your eyes. I recommend the couch so that you don’t fall too deeply into sleep, but if your house is busy and you need to lock the door for alone time, do it!

Go for a walk

Our dog Gus is always at the ready for a walk, rain or shine, hot or cold. The fresh air is good for both of us and is often the wake up my creativity needs! Find the beauty of your surroundings, it can be the smallest detail or the amazing view, just don’t miss it.

I hope you are having a creative day!

xo-Amy