What inspires you? Sure, this might seem like a pretty big and slightly profound question, but it’s worth asking. There are so many different ways to get inspired, connect with others, share ideas, and reflect on your previous work, that there is no definitive way to find inspiration.
What could be better than finding that thing that makes you jump up and take action to start creating something? And when it comes to knitting and crocheting, how do you make it so you keep generating ideas and build your skills? Online resources are a great place to start collecting project ideas and find the answers to some of your craft-related questions.
If you’re ever feeling like your inspiration for making things out of yarn is dwindling, you can simply visit the Yarnspirations Blog for more ideas about what you can create. You can also follow some of these tips and techniques outlined here to get your creative juices flowing.
Scan Social Media
There’s an incredible community online of knitters and crocheters who love to share their work on social media. To find what you’re looking for, look through popular yarn hashtags to see what kinds of things others are making. Even looking at things made of yarn like tapestries or children’s crafts, essential items that aren’t clothes or accessories, can get the cogs turning in your mind. You might end up finding something that you just have to make yourself!
Spend Some Time in Nature
As helpful and informative as spending time online can be, it’s important to remember to unplug from time to time. Taking a break and going for a distraction-free walk outside gives your mind some time to rest. If you’re wracking your brains trying to figure out what you should make out of your favorite yarn, spending some time outside can be just the thing to reset your mind.
Try a New Setting
Sometimes all it takes to spark some creativity is the experience of being in a new place. You don’t have to hop on a plane to do this, think small: try a new coffee shop, an art gallery you’ve never been to, visit a greenhouse if you can, or take a walk through a different part of town. The physical space that we occupy has a surprising impact on how we think. Some time away from your desk or usual workspace can trick the mind into thinking outside of the box.
Exercise
Taking the time to focus on expanding your energy physically can relieve some of the pressure you’re putting on your mind. Giving your body a physical task to accomplish stimulates your mind and lets you focus on the present. You’ll also get that amazing post-workout glow thanks to the endorphins, which also (you guessed it) boost creativity.
Try Something New
Maybe you’re trying to find the right color palette or design for your next yarn project. Instead of hitting up the yarn store, why not try your hand at a new craft? Just as a way to shake things up, take on a craft you’ve never made before. Just focus on doing something creative and the ideas will come rolling in soon enough.