I am often asked “where does the inspiration for your cards come from?”
There are many ways to get inspiration these days thanks to the internet. Whether you surf Pinterest or Facebook or other online sources, you can get a lot of inspiration online. However, one thing I like to do is observe my surroundings. When I walk into a new building, I study the works of art on walls around me. Before I became involved with Stampin' Up and became a card designer I know I barely noticed the artwork that surrounded me. Believe it or not, doctor offices and hotel rooms are excellent sources. I like to take photos of that art, and then I use those photos to help create my cards. Another place to find inspiration is from magazines, television shows, and road trips. Being aware of your surroundings can spark a number of card design ideas.
Below you will see the cards I based on a picture from a doctor’s office. It was fun and challenged me to find the right colors in an effort to achieve the same effect. We actually were leaving the office and had made it outside and I said wait I have to go back. I am sure at first that was concerning but then I stopped and snapped a couple of pictures. The trigger was the colors and shapes. As a Demonstrator; I see things in Stampin’ Up! colors so I saw Early Espresso, Crushed Curry, Dapper Denim, Cajun Crush and many more. It just happened to be at the time Swirly Birds Stamp Set and the Swirly Scribbles Thinlits were all the rage. A card inspiration was born.
While it may seem like "CASE"ing (copy and share everything) is where we often find ourselves, that is fine. I encourage you to spend some time looking around and find something that calls to you when you design a card. I would love for you to share any photos you have used in your design process.
