I don’t know about you, but at times it can feel daunting when I know I want to create something.. especially when I’m not sure what that might be. So in the spirit of sparking some inkspiration for all of us crafty people out there (and those that are just starting out), I thought that I would share some of what I do when I’m looking to design and create a card/project!
First things first…
Images
One of the best places to start when creating a project is with the image(s) you want to use, so think of what images you are drawn to. If this is a card for someone you know, think of what images would speak to them. In the case that this is for a particular event or occasion then that would likely guide your choice of image(s), for example a birthday cake or balloons for a birthday card. At times the image(s) I choose ends up helping me in my choice of colour(s) and other elements for the project.
Words/Phrases
You want to take into consideration what message you want to convey to the person you’re giving this to, whether this is for a specific occasion or just because. Do you want just a simple word or two, or would a sentence or phrase be better able to say what you want.
Colours
This can be done at any point in time during the creative process. Sometimes I start with choosing the colours and at other times they come once I have a better picture in my head of what the project is going to look like.
No matter when this happens, this is similar to how you choose your image(s). Take into consideration what your favourite colour(s) is and what colour(s) compliments it. If the project is for someone else consider what their favourite colour is. The season you’re creating in or the occasion your creating for may or may not play a role in this decision.
More often than not I use the 2 Colour Rule, which means that you use two colours for your card or project. These two colours are then seen throughout the project with the cardstock, ink and the embellishments. The only exception to this rule is when you use a neutral colour as your third colour; black, white, grey, brown, navy as well as metallics.
If you want to stop there you can or you can also look at bringing in other elements to take your project from a #simplestamping project to one with a little bit more zing.
Embellishments
There are many options if you decide to take this route and you don’t have to choose just one (although if you are just starting out you may want to start with one and then as you feel more comfortable add more layers).
Designer Series Paper is a great way to add pattern and texture to your projects. You can simply add a strip or it could be the background for your images/words.
Adding ribbon/twine will also give similar effects and options for both are never in short supply!
And of course there is always one of my favourite ways to add a little something extra to a project… a rhinestone/jewel or glitter gives such sparkle and shine to projects and you don’t need to add a lot.
I hope that these tips have been helpful to get those creative juices flowing and don’t forget there’s a lot around us everyday that can spark an idea for a project!