Creativity

Creativity-the use of the imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work.

That is the definition of creativity.

What keeps you creative?  How do you get mojo?

I have heard several people say that they are struggling after sewing so many masks.  Quilters are glad to provide a needed service, of course. But typically when we sew it’s because it’s an outlet. Whether it’s an outlet for being creative, shutting off the outside world, just having time to do something that we love.

I am in a unique position that I love to sew and quilt….but it is also my job.

So I can experience burn out regularly as a hazard to my job. So I thought I would share some tips that help me get my mojo back.

I have to be very careful of burn out. I typically get burn out in December. Christmas quilts tend to do that to me…it’s great. I love my job and I need the work for my business. But I tend to get my mojo back after that in January by working on some of my own quilts. Something that will really challenge me and take me out of the comfort zone.

I know it seems weird but those moments when I feel no pressure, no deadlines, & I get to experiment and learn something new. That helps me. I am not saying that everything I make during this time is a masterpiece ….because maybe something that I try doesn’t turn out. But I am still ok with that. It’s the challenge that helps spark me and get my mojo back.  Sometimes it’s just about starting something.

I have also learned that sometimes when I start to clean out my room, look through my UFO pile or Wip’s ..I will suddenly get inspired to finish something that I have started. How is that we can leave an unfinished quilt that only needs a border? Or you have all 50 blocks finished but you just haven’t sewn them together? I do that. guilty as charged.

Another thing thing that will spark creativity is my stash. Maybe when I am looking through my lovelies a piece of my fabric will call to me and want to be cut and sewn.

You could also enroll in a class. Right now it would most likely be an online class. But classes are nice because you can learn  new technique and or just work with other people on a common project and that creates inspiration.

I will also just change up what I am doing. I will typically have several projects in progress. A few embroidery projects, hand stitching projects ( binding and EPP), some piecing and quilting. That way I can work on different things and keep my interest. I am not lying when I say that I have Quilting ADD. It’s a true condition.

Well I hope I have helped you with a few tried and true tips that have helped me get through burn out.

Have a blessed day!

Charisma