Where do you get your ideas?
People have often asked me this. Like many who create arts and crafts, it is usually something ordinary that catches my eye. When I worked in a hospital, I would often think about a colorful scrub pattern that I had noticed during the day and as I fell asleep that night, I'd think about how I'd use it in a card design. (Really, I don't make this stuff up.) More than once I've designed a card because of a dress or outfit in my daughter's closet - because, let's face it, baby and toddler girl clothes are stinkin' adorable and much more fun and colorful than my own! A few weeks ago she wore this darling daisy dress (which was a hand-me-down, as most of her clothes are!) to church and it inspired me for a Mother's Day Card design. Here is the result:
Other sources of inspiration for cards have been a colorful scarf, or a photograph of flowers. And of course, much of the framed wall art I have created has been inspired by children's bedding or another decor item. Home designers will often tell you to start with an item that you love, whether small or large, to choose color and design theme. I'm in the process of updating my kitchen decor, and one of my sources of inspiration is this fun sunflower fabric I purchase on Etsy for curtains:
Kitchen plans are still unfolding, but I'll share pics when I have them!
Inspiration can be found everywhere - next time you see a colorful piece of fabric, a magazine ad layout, or some other item that catches your eye - take note! What is it about it that you love? Can you incorporate this design appeal into your next project?
Theresa Cifali shares some great places for color inspiration in this recent Bella Crafts Quarterly article. Great ideas, here, Theresa! I love the one about wrapping paper, will use that one soon, I am sure!
So - I'd love to hear, where do you get your ideas? What kinds of things have inspired you? Do you have a photo or post about it? Please share it below!
