Getting Past "Sewing Block"
Sometimes getting started is the most challenging part of a project. I know it is for me. I have a room full of project books, boxes of patterns, and totes of fabric. Sometimes it is just plain overwhelming trying to decide what I want to make next.
I have found that when I have a "sewing block" (similar to writer's block") the best way to push though it is to revisit past projects. The easiest way to do this is to keep a digital folder in your computer or on the cloud. I organize my project folder with sub-folders of different types of projects. For instance, I have the following files: quilts; paintings; scrapbook pages; doll clothing; apparel; purses & bags; toys; misc.
The most important part of keeping a digital record is making sure you have backed up your files and that you document your projects. I admit I have not been as diligent as I should have in documenting my completed projects over the years, but it is NEVER to late to start.
When I am struggling with a sewing block, I will often browse the internet for ideas. This too can be overwhelming as there is a plethora of information available to us at our fingertips. Not all of the information is reliable either. Just think back to the last time you tried a recipe from a new website. Did it taste good? Since I have numerous food allergies, most of the recipes I try taste like crap and I have noticed that this happens with many of the patterns and projects online, especially the FREE ones.
Here are a few sites that have great items:
I also will browse through my embroidery designs file on my external hard drive.
