Five Ideas and Resources for Staying Inspired

There are some days when I wake up in the morning, knowing that I have work to do, orders to fulfill and items to create for customers, but I don’t feel motivated.

Artists, crafters and photographers are often thought of as "moody" because we need to feel "inspired" to create.  But, I think this is common to professionals across all industries: We need to feel motivated, no matter what we do.

One way to get out of a slump is to tap into the creative community:  Find out what colors, textures, images, themes and techniques are inspiring others. When new ideas start sparking, a great place for writing them down is this white board wall sticker (see main image), from Seattle-based Designomite.  Here are just a few ideas and resources to keep in mind next time you are seeking inspiration:

1. Idea: Go on a Field Trip

Sometimes, we need to escape our daily surroundings to get inspired. Go on a field trip in your local community – museums are always an interesting excursion, and usually have one discount or free day during the week. In my city of Houston, we have the Museum of Arts and Crafts Houston, but other cities like Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles and New York have similar museums.

2. Resource: Creative Something

Creative Something is a website that give us a glimpse of what other artists are doing across the world. It showcases ideas and abstract projects from various creative genres.  Its wide scope ensures that there’s something for everyone – from graphic designers to painters to sculptors. They even have a list on how NOT to be creative right here – a fun jab at how you can dig yourself even further into your creative rut.

3. Idea: Take up a New Hobby

Leaving our comfort zones can stretch our minds and boost creativity.  For instance, if you like painting flowers, why not take up gardening, or sign up for a floral arrangement class?  You'll see flowers from a different angle.

4. Resource: Crafters Attack

Crafters Attack is a fascinating craft blog written by the creatively quirky Dana.  Her blog features an array of tutorials, craft techniques, reviews and the love of all things handmade.  Most of her tutorials take everyday items and turn them into something completely different – definitely a kick-start to get your creative juices flowing!

5. Idea: Make New Friends

This may bring you back to elementary school, but it’s definitely helpful to have people around that can inspire you.  If you don’t have friends who share your creative passion, there are online forums where you can meet people that motivate and inspire your creativity.  Sites like Meylah are a great way to come in contact with other creative people, and other sites to think about in terms of finding like-minded folks are Flickr, Craft Forum, Get Crafty, and Craftz.org.

Dionne Christiansen is a graphic designer based in Houston, TX.  She is the face behind the Etsy store City of Dionne and writes at her blog Notes From Dionne.