Folk-style summer trends
Our new folk-style summer issue of PaperCrafter is on sale next Friday and it looks fab! Folk themes are really hot this season so our charming motifs, illustrated by top-drawer...
Are you stuck in a crafty rut, lacking ideas, or simply bored with the techniques you’re using? If so, it’s time to take a step back from your desk and restore your crafting momentum. Fear not, it happens to the best of us and we’re on hand with our top tips to help you take action and break through the creative block.
1. Crash course
A great way to get your creativity buzzing again is to try something new and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Take a look at your local craft store for workshops or visit craftcourses.com to find one near you. The excitement of learning a new skill with others will fuel your crafty projects and allow you to revisit techniques you already know and love.
2. Clear out the clutter
Have you got a stamp collection you’ve been meaning to use for ages but can’t find a use for? Is your paper stack making you feel uninspired? If so, the problem is right in front of you. Remove old, unwanted supplies from your craft room and make way for fresh ideas. Not only will you find the process therapeutic and refreshing, but you’ll also have more space which gives you the perfect excuse to buy new craft supplies.
3. Shop local
Instead of shopping online, venture to your local craft store. Browsing shops ignites all sorts of creative ideas. You might spot a shade of blue that inspires your next origami project, or a die that’s ideal for a birthday card. You’re likely to have a more personal, friendly shopping experience too, and it gives you the opportunity to get advice and tips from like-minded crafters. Plus, who doesn’t want to do their part for their local community? If we can do this whilst shopping for craft supplies, we’re in!
4. Craft for a cause
There’s no better feeling than creating hand crafted gifts for others, or even better, making something for a good cause. Charities are always looking for talented makers to share the crafty love by putting their skills to good use. If you’re stuck in a rut, what better way to boost your enthusiasm? You could organise your own Crafternoon and raise money for Mind, the mental health charity, get involved in their letter campaign with Craftivist Collective, or find out what’s going on in your local area. Whichever you choose, it’s a great way to feel good about what you’re making and socialise with other crafters.
5. Sharing is caring
Social media can be a wonderful source of inspiration when you’ve having a creative block. But how often do you share your own works of art? Join in by sharing your past paper projects with fellow crafters online. Not only will you most likely receive lovely comments about your creations, but you’ll feel good about the fact that you’ve inspired another crafter. At PaperCrafter HQ we’re always looking for fabulous designs to feature in the magazine, so don’t forget to share your makes with us. You can share them with us on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest or email photos of your creations to Editorial Assistant Amelia Bolton at amelia.bolton@aceville.co.uk. You can even get involved in the magazine by becoming a Designer for the day, for more information visit papercraftermagazine.co.uk/designer-for-the-day.
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