Answer: a LOT of work. I find inspiration everywhere, but the hardest part is encountering something at just-the-right-time to spark an idea. So I keep thoughts, clippings, quotes, ribbons, fabric scraps, websites…..anything that will fit…….in a journal or notebook.
I remember this journal page distinctly…. because it marks one of the first times I saw reverse applique used in a really trendy way. I was in a small boutique and I made a bunch of mental notes on some of the clothing I saw. I just write down things that make me say “wow” or that I think are intriguing or that I think could be used in a different way. Also on this page: some magazine clippings of kimono tops, fabric I loved on a Gucci purse, and a sketch of a cute airplane-shaped cracker I recieved for an in-flight snack. There is no rhyme or reason to what goes together on a page.
I love the pages below because they have so many random things going on. Many times I will start a page and then revisit it at a later date filling in blank space. These pages have fabric and jacquard scraps sewn onto the page, there is an idea for a cork board using music sheets, a random halloween sticker, and a diagram on how to do a chain stitch…. not to mention the birds that I added party hats to.
Many times I will just make lists. I’ll brainstorm long lists of things I’m liking at the moment, movies I’ve seen, and stuff I want to check out. There is also a photocopy of a page from a Sabrina Ward Harrison book and a cigar label glued to the page.
So…..if you’re feeling a little “un-inspired”…..you could start compiling things together that will spark your creativity. Or maybe these pages will inspire you?
How do you stay inspired? How do you come up with new ideas? I’d love to hear from you.
Have a great weekend!
