Hey there, my fabulous friend! Today we're diving into the oh-so-relatable topic of creative block.
We've all been there, right? You're cruising on your jewellery journey, feeling like a creative wizard, and then suddenly...
The creative juices hit the pause button. What are you going to do? Don't worry, I've got your back!
In fact, I’ve got 5 tips that are going to help you stop that creative block in its tracks and number 5 is a doosy!
Sometimes, a change in scenery is all you need to stimulate your creativity.
If you’re working a project and you feel stuck, try getting up and moving around.
Go for a walk, go shopping (I’m not advocating retail therapy!) or go out for coffee. Just take a break. Chances are you’ll return and things will work again.
A change of scenery can be a game-changer.
Sometimes if your creative block is a bit more substantial and has been going on for a while, you could consider rearranging your workspace, or working in a different room. Exposure to new surroundings can trigger fresh ideas and perspectives.
I often find that reorganising the beads helps me to change my state. I look at all the pretty things and it gives me ideas. I see cool beads that I’ve forgotten I have and that spurs the creative juices.
It's like a giving your creativity a mini-makeover!
Sometimes, it’s as simple as you’ve gotten yourself into a rut. You may be bored with what you’re working on.
If you're feeling stuck with the materials you usually use, try something new. For example, if you usually work with wire, try mixing it up with some leather cord. Try different colours and textures. You never know, you might find something really amazing.
It can also help to learn a new technique. Watch a tutorial (um – I have plenty!).
Change it up a bit. If you have been making lots of necklaces, try whipping up some 5 minute earrings.
Sometimes, you’ve just gotta switch it up a bit to get the inspiration flowing!
Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube - there’s endless inspiration there!
But what if the well is still dry?
You can try looking beyond the world of jewellery.
When you’re out for your walk, look at the things in nature. Do you see an interesting shaped piece of drift wood while walking on the beach?
What about going to an art exhibition.
There's literally inspiration everywhere if you look!
One place I love to go if the inspiration has gone on holiday, is to vintage jewellery. Did you ever see that TV show Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries? It’s set in the 1920s and I just loved to look at the jewellery. I also loved the clothes but that’s a whole other story.
Trust me, getting out and looking for inspiration in unexpected places can be revolutionary!
Sometimes creative block is caused by our life circumstances and if you push too hard to try and get through the block it can lead to burnout.
Remember, creative blocks can be a sign to slow down.
It’s important that you take the time to take care of yourself. That might mean different things to different people
Hit the gym, indulge in a spa day, or just binge-watch your favourite show. Taking care of YOU is key. Be patient, and trust that your creativity will come back stronger than ever.
We artists can be solo creatures – what don’t you think you’re an artist? You are you know!
If you’re feeling a bit lonely on your creative journey maybe it’s time to team up!
Try the local art community to see if there are other jewellery makers there.
If you can’t meet up with others in person, it be might helpful to join an online group.
Ahem, shameless plug—check out my private Jewel Box group on the Style Makers Network, where we discuss all things jewellery making. We’ve been discussing creative block quite a bit lately.
Have you ever suffered from creative block and what did you do to shift it?
Here are links to jewellery I'm wearing in the video:
I made the necklace in a tutorial about using shape and texture in jewellery.
I made the earrings from Indian Glass Beads.
My bracelet is made from memory wire.
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April 3, 2024
Hi, my name is Carol Karl. I live in little old New Zealand. My family and I strive to live the most ‘real’ life we can – by that I mean that we eat real food, we live real lives and just generally be our most authentic selves.
