Well, how about turning to other Etsy sellers for some advice? The NewNew Blog asked some of our very own members for tips on how to get the creative engine going again when it begins to sputter. Here’s what they had to say.
From Erin of Harp and Thistle Stitchery
When I get stuck creatively, I will build up my stock of made-to-order pieces that are my best sellers. Inevitably, while working on an old standard, new ideas will pop into my head. Another favorite thing to do is go for a long run. The endorphin rush always seems to help get those creative ideas flowing! |
| Avocado Embroidery Hoop |
From Aneta Hayne of Stitchinnetka
None of us likes to get stuck creatively. The moment you feel that void and lack of creative power, it seems like everything slows down and loses its meaning. I think the best thing to do is to consciously recognize this state of emptiness and acknowledge it. Everything happens for a reason, and sometimes it simply means that it's time to take a break, meet up with your friends, go jogging, take a good yoga workshop, or cook or bake something. That usually works for me; just turning my attention to something completely different does wonders.
I know that it might be frustrating if you have a certain deadline for your project, but a lot of times you can create amazing things within minutes. It all comes down to having an open mind. And sometimes our mind just has to be submerged into nothingness. After that phase, there is always some sort of inspiration that will roll into your lap. Sometimes it's a new custom order; other times it’s somebody’s birthday when you can make a special little gift. After that, new ideas can bloom.
Just remember to always start small and let yourself spread your wings again. Even doodling or making silly crafts with kids does wonders. Just be patient and kind to yourself.
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| Prayer Flags Party Decoration |
From Paulette Brooks of Paulette Brooks All Access Art
Creativity isn't just something one can summon up. You're born with it, and it manifests itself at any time it cares to ...especially at unconventional times, like when you see some debris on the sidewalk, and it inspires you to turn that debris into a gorgeous necklace. Creative people can't help themselves...creativity will always rear its head and show its fancy face. Unfortunately, nowadays, that face gets smothered under endless distractions and duties...emails, jobs, texts, bills, and so on. My biggest problem is not in how to summon up the creativity but how to summon the time to allow for its expression. I can't seem to stop the flow of “creativity,” it's there in abundance...it's finding more time in my life to allow for it that I'm tackling.
 Amethyst Garden Magical Pendant |
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| By Mary Ann (maryannfarley) |
3 comments:
Very inspirational. Thanks so much for sharing.
Well condensed and edited! We artisans and crafters need to coin a phrase- similar to 'writer's block'...Any suggestions?! ('Crafters Clutter' is what it feels like, but that's more likely the description of our work tables!)
This is such good advice! I especially like the part about stepping back and doing something else- I think remembering that it's okay to be frustrated when you're stuck creatively and taking a break are really important! :)
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