Inspiration can be a tricky fellow to find, especially when you try to look for it! However, there are a few tricks that you can use to help get your creative juices flowing.

500 BraceletsBefore getting out your tools and materials, pull out a few of your favorite books of photos. When I am working on a particular type of jewelry piece, let's say that my goal is to make a ring, and then I will try to look at photos of rings and bracelets. Lark Crafts 500 Series is an excellent reference to keep around, because each book is filled with at least 500 different pieces all of the same types of jewelry. 500 Bracelets is beautiful book and every time I flip through, I feel like I am always finding something new!
What if you have exhausted all the books in your library and still nothing seems to pull at your inspirational strings? Try revving your mind by physically engaging it in the creative process. What I mean by that, is to take creative action!
Metalsmithing and jewelry design are unfortunately not the most cost effective of activities, so instead of pulling out a sheet of metal, first bring out the paper and pens. What I have found to be most helpful is to sit down each time before I want to work with a notebook and a single pen. Then, without trying to force anything, I begin to make repetitive marks on a page for an entire 30 minutes. The repetitive motion of a line, squiggle or mark, actually helps your mind switch to thinking in a physical and creative way! This technique was taught to me in a visiting lecture series. I�ve found it extremely helpful, especially during times when I have hectic schedule and my mind tends to be occupied by a million things. The repetitive motion really helps me focus, and I think it can help you too!
Remember, the key to success, is finding what is most helpful and comfortable for you!
There are many ways to help get your mind and creativity engaged. Many people, myself included, find that a walk is also a very effective way of taking a break, and recharging your mind. Next time you start to get frustrated, or feel as if you are stuck in a project, stop and take a step back. Taking breaks from your work help your mind and body recharge. You won�t be able to create anything, if you feel like mush!

Ring A DayAnother great way to stay inspired is to assign yourself a Piece-A-Day project. This is when every day for as many days as you choose, you have only 24 hours to think of a piece and take the time to create and finish it. This project is deceptively difficult! Ring A Day is an inspiring look at 365 jewelry artists who took the time to create a finished ring in a single day. The pressure of time can often force us to find new ways to work and inspire us to use new materials.Try out one or more of these creative juice makers and  let us know how they turned out for you!

Tune in Next Week for Tips and Tricks on taking care of tools, pearls, and more!

2 Comments

AP

Date 6/20/2012 12:33:10 PM

Amelia

Date 6/20/2012 1:17:33 PM

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