CraftyHope: inspiration

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What's What (Vol. 3 - May 4-17)

It's been two weeks since my last post, but we had our staycation during the first week. Then, I spent all of last week trying to get caught up. (Not that I EVER feel caught up.)

What's finished

Since it has been two weeks, and it rained for about half of our vacation, I did get a few things done.

This assemblage work has been in process for several weeks. It's the first in what I hope will be a series that highlights the little details of some of the ephemera in my stash. As such, this piece (available at Hello Gallery) is titled Ephemeral Treasures 1.

Likewise, I took a bit of time last week to turn my ICADs (Index Card a Day) into greeting cards for the gallery.

And, the May Finding the Words art journal spread for YouTube was completed.

Those are just the bigger tasks I accomplished. There were loads of smaller ones too.

What's in Progress

Speaking of cards, I've been working on restocking my supply of cards that get included with purchases from the Etsy Shop. That meant making masterboards and watercoloring some flowers for them.

I can't share what's actually on my desk at the moment, though, as it's my Inspiration Trove assemblage project for the month. I should hopefully have that available to watch within the week.

What's Next?

In addition to the Inspiration Trove video, I'm hoping to have another Thrifty Thursday video up this week, list a few pieces on Etsy, work on a NEW WEBSITE, and get into my Spicy art journal.

What's Caught My Eye?

Since we were on vacation...it's been a lot of things!

This note written in the sidewalk outside a thrift store in Milton, FL is just one of them.

I also found this abandoned birds' nest in the brambles of our property while I was doing yardwork yesterday.

What's Had My Attention?

I just started listening to/reading The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick and am really enjoying it. In fact, it's this month's book for a book club that I'm likely joining. So, that's exciting too.

What's Inspired Me?

Our staycation was full of inspiring activities. We went to the Walter Anderson Museum in Ocean Springs, MS. It was full of so much colorful inspiration!

We spent an afternoon at the beach (Orange Beach, AL). It's my favorite place to restore my soul, and I am so thankful that we live so close to the coast.

A whole day was enjoyed in Milton, Florida. First, we rode 16 miles of the Blackwater Trail on our bikes. Then we did some dining, antiquing, walking along the Blackwater River, and sampling the local brews.

What was the Best Part of my Week(s)?

See the section above! 😜

What's New?

It's not especially new-new, but I did recently get my PaperArtsy Infusions into little organizers that I've had hanging around. I even made a whole Reel about it on YouTube.

What's New with You?

May Art Challenges and Inspirations

It's time again for me to share some of the challenges and inspirations that will help me create over the course of the month. I hope you'll join me in a few of these!

I would be remiss if I didn't mention my own challenge #CraftyHopePrompts. This is a weekly mixed media challenge in which each Monday, I pull three prompts and create a prompt card from an old playing card. Then, each Saturday, I make another project with those same prompts. The videos explain how you can play along, but I welcome any questions you have about this project.
The reveal that's coming up the next soonest is the monthly Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge from Angela. The reveal date is the 15th. This year, the theme of the challenge is "Double Color." You can learn more about the challenge in Angela's video. This month, the two colors are Peach and Pearl White. We are to make a bracelet using copper or silver and the optional fun element of filigree. You can upload a video with the hashtag #PiratePrettiesJewelryChallenge and/or share your make in the Pirate Pretties Facebook Group.
The Honey Do List is another jewelry-making challenge. It comes from Sarajo and Eric of SJ Designs Jewelry. Each month, Eric gives Sarajo a photo that he's taken. The photo is to be used as inspiration for one or more jewelry designs. Sarajo shares this photo on her blog so we can all be inspired too. The reveal date this month is May 29th.
My friend, Nina Ficket, has a Clean Slate journal series in which you simply work in a junk journal sometime during the month and film it. With all the other prompts and inspirations, this is a bit of a palette cleanser for me and often just what I need.
Lastly, I'm not promising anything, but Index Card a Day (ICAD) often begins on June 1st. This is a 61-day challenge from Tammy of Daisy Yellow that usually has daily prompts and weekly themes (all optional). If you're curious you can watch my ICAD creations from last year in my ICAD 2022 playlist on YouTube. Or, just do a search for ICAD. Or, ask me any questions you may have. Though, this ICAD page on the Daisy Yellow blog probably answers most your questions. This is a fun daily challenge. And, it will probably start the same day the 100-Day project ends. How about that!?

That's all I've got right now. And, that's probably plenty!

But, definitely let me know if you've got any fun inspiration to share.

I know I could always use as much as I can get.

April Art Challenges and Inspirations

I'm posting this in hopes of spurring both you AND me to get inspired. Last month, this list fell by the wayside entirely as did most of the challenges on it. I hope to remedy that this month. The 100-Day Project (and my decision to take on TWO projects for it) has been kicking my butt. Yet, I'd like to get something else made too. So, here's what else I might use to encourage some creativity.

Sarajo's Honey Do List challenge from her husband, Eric, is bright and full of color. This is a jewelry-making challenge you can learn more about on her SJ Designs Jewelry blog. The reveal date is set for April 24th, but that's just the beginning of when you can share your creation(s) and when Sarajo will share hers.
The Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge is also a jewelry one from Angela of Pirate Pretties Jewelry. The reveal date is the 15th. This year, the theme of the challenge is "Double Color." You can learn more about the challenge in Angela's video, but I will let you know that the two colors this month are black and grey, the metal choices are silver or gunmetal, the project type is a necklace, and the optional fun element is chain. Your reveal can be either a YouTube video with the #PiratePrettiesJewelryChallenge hashtag and/or a photo comment in the Pirate Pretties Facebook group.
Of course, there's the #100DayProject that began at the end of February. We're about halfway through it now, but you can start your own at any time.
I have my own weekly my own #CraftyHopePrompts mixed media prompt challenge. This is something I created for myself to build up a prompt deck. Each Monday, I pull three prompts and alter a playing card with those prompts, adding them to the card to be used later. On Saturday, I create another project that uses those same prompts. If this sounds interesting to you, I encourage you to watch any of my CraftyHopePrompts videos and play along!
Lastly, my friend, Nina Ficket, has a Clean Slate journal series in which you simply work in a junk journal sometime during the month and film it. With all the prompts and inspirations, this is a bit of a palette cleanser for me.

And, I think that's everything. Did I forget anything? Let me know in the comments.

February Challenges and Inspirations

I hope your January was as productive as mine was. February is shaping up to be a good one too. I pushed myself to put in a request for space in a local cooperative gallery when I saw that they were looking for new artists there. I almost didn't. But, a reminder about working on my Word of the Year came into my feed at the same time. My word is BRAVE. As I was considering approaching this gallery later in the year, I decided to step up to the plate and go for it. I've met with the owner, and she is interested in my jewelry and art. So, it sounds like my bravery is paying off already. While I wait to finalize all of that, I'm keeping busy with creating.

One of the greatest motivators and inspirations for me is participating in a variety of challenges. Each month, I like to share a list of the ones I'm planning on working on as well as any others I've found. This is that list!

First, I have to mention my own #CraftyHopePrompts mixed media prompt challenge. This is something I created for myself to build up a prompt deck. Each Monday, I pull three prompts and alter a playing card with those prompts, adding them to the card to be used later. On Saturday, I create another project that uses those same prompts. If this sounds interesting to you, I encourage you to watch any of my CraftyHopePrompts videos. Or, just pick up with the most recent (Week 19) Mixed Media Prompt.
Another prompted mixed media challenge is Seek Gather Create. The hostesses call it a Mixed Media Scavenger Hunt Challenge because you need to seek out the materials to use. This challenge is also weekly, but only for a month. The list of four prompts will be released each Sunday. The first ones were just announced this past Sunday and they are Tissue Paper, Denim, Something folded, and Something rusty or rust-colored. I've already got a video of what I created with these prompts. I encourage you to follow the four hostesses on Instagram where they will be announcing the prompts each week. They are Lisa Goddard, Tina Hois, Laura Denison, and Melanie Theriault.
If you're more interested in Jewelry challenges, there's the Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge from Angela of Pirate Pretties Jewelry. This is a monthly challenge with some different parameters each month. First, know that each month, there are two colors for you to combine into your piece(s). This month, the colors are Kelly/True Green and White/Clear. In addition, you are to use silver or gold to create earrings and optionally include clovers or some other good luck charm. You can find more about this challenge in Angela's video. The reveal is set for the 15th and you can either share your creation(s) in a YouTube video using the hashtag #PiratePrettiesJewelryChallenge and/or a picture in the Pirate Pretties Facebook group.
Sarajo of SJ Designs Jewelry has shared the February inspiration photo for her Honey Do List Challenge. This month, it's actually two textural photos from her husband, Eric. Sarajo will have a linky tool up on the 27th for you to share your creation. She leaves this open for several weeks in case you're running a bit behind (like I usually am!)
The 100-Day Project will begin on February 22nd. I've participated in this project for the last several years and really love how versatile, easy, and inspiring it can be. Really, just pick something creative you want to do for 100 days. You don't have to share it or end up with a completed project or anything like that. You can work on one thing for one minute or really however you want to roll with it. The point is really just to be creative for 100 days. I'm pretty sure I've got my project picked for this year, but need to settle on a hashtag. Also, since I've done it several times before, I thought I might even do a whole other post next week on benefits and ideas and other information about it. For now, please go check out the site and consider joining in the creative fun!

And, that's the list of what I plan to work on this month. Do you have any challenges or inspirations that are keeping you creative and moving forward right now?

January Challenges and Inspiration

With the start of the new year comes a new slew of challenges. And, I don't mean the day-to-day challenges of just making it in the world. I mean, ART CHALLENGES! There always seems to be a plethora of them in January. I can't keep up with them all. So, to keep it simple, I'll share the ones that I'm either participating in or have shared about in the past. If you know of any others, I encourage you to leave information about them in the comments.

For my own sake, I should mention my #CraftyHopePrompts challenge in which I am building a prompt deck by pulling three prompts a week, altering a playing card with them, and later creating another project with those prompts. You can watch this week's Prompt Card or go through the whole playlist of videos to learn more. This week, the prompts are Red, Handwritten Letter, and Cheesecloth.
Sarajo is back with a new inspirational photo from her husband, Eric. They call this jewelry challenge the Honey Do List. I think I may already have an idea for this month. But, the reveal isn't until Jan. 30th. And, the linky tool will be open for several weeks after that, if you need a bit more time!
Another jewelry challenge is the #PiratePrettiesJewelryChallenge from Angela. This year, it's a "Double Color" challenge in which we are to work with two colors in each design. You can learn more about the challenge in Angela's video. This month, the colors are red and pink, the metal choices are silver or rose gold, the project is a purse or bookbag charm, and the optional fun elements are charms or dangles. The reveal date is the 15th (SOON!) and can be done either in a video on YouTube or on the Pirate Pretties Jewelry Facebook Page.
I completely missed that this next jewelry challenge was going on and am kicking myself for it. Allegory Gallery has a whole calendar of daily jewelry prompts for their Bead in the New Year 2023. They've done this MANY years before and it's a load of fun. The calendar is on their Facebook page and could be a great inspiration any time of the year. I might even take it on for a February project....we'll see!
My art journaling friend, Nina is doing a Clean Slate Journal Challenge this year that involves simply using a junk journal. I just put up my video for it this morning. It was a great incentive to jump into a journal and play.
Here's a quick reminder to begin thinking about The 100-Day Project. It's apparently going to begin sometime toward the end of February. Though, an exact date hasn't been announced. I've participated several times before with quite a few different projects and have found that it's a fabulous way to explore something that I'm interested in doing. Last year, it was assemblage art, and I have been loving it ever since. Remember that your project doesn't have to be huge. It can be something small - just a little something you can do every day to be a little creative. Think on it!

And, that's my list for now. Like I said, let me know in the comments if you know of any others. I'd love to at least see the results of the challenges.

November Challenges & Inspirations

Can you even believe that it's November? Where has the year gone? Let's not ponder that too long as there's still so much to do. Right now, I'm talking about the challenges that I enjoy participating in each month. It's time for me to round them up and encourage you to join in with some of this inspiration.

The first thing that comes to mind is my own mixed media prompt challenge - #CraftyHopePrompts. It's a weekly opportunity for me to create using some of the supplies in my stash. You can get a better idea about it in my latest video: Mixed Media Prompt Card Week 6. There are a variety of different ways to play with this challenge. I hope you'll ask me if you have any questions.
Now, the challenge with the soonest reveal date is the Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge from Angela of Pirate Pretties Jewelry. This is a birthstone jewelry challenge with four guidelines: use the birthstone color of either citrine or yellow topaz, include gold or bronze metal, make earrings, and (optionally) incorporate the fun elements of sun, moon, or stars. The reveal date is the 15th on YouTube and/or in the Pirate Pretties Facebook group.
Another jewelry challenge is the Honey Do List from Srajo and Eric of SJ Designs Jewelry. Eric shares a photo he's taken to inspire Sarajo, and she shares it with us. The November inspiration is moody and mysterious. I love it! She's set the reveal date as Nov. 21st. However, the link tool is usually open for several weeks after that, if you're running behind.
I love the #4Core challenge from Ina Solsbery. She offers up the challenge of using four core ingredients in a mixed media piece. This month, those are 1-remake, redo, reinvent something (she explains this in depth in her video), 2- add something that flies or represents flight, 3- triangles, and 4- submit before & after photos to her email (in the video description).
There's also Mixed Media Menagerie from Laura, Nicole, and Erin. This is an art journal challenge in which you incorporate their three prompts into your work. This month, the prompts are earth tones, gouache, and toothbrush. You can share your results using the hashtag #MMMNov22 on social media.

I know there are a few other challenges I'm leaving out - Halcraft's pretty palettes and a few others, I'm sure. But the ones above are the ones I'm most likely to participate in. What about you? Is there anything that will spark your creativity, in particular, this month?

October Challenges and Inspiration

Each month, I like to do a quick roundup of some of the challenges and inspirations I've found for that month. It helps me keep it all in one place, and allows me to share these with you in hopes that you will join me in some of them!

I would be remiss if I didn't mention my own challenge that began this week. I'm calling it #CraftyHopePrompts. The basic idea is that I am building a prompt deck for mixed media art by altering a playing card each week. Each Monday, I'll share the prompts I draw and the card I made. Then, on each Saturday, I'll share another project I create using those prompts. You can watch my Week 1 Mixed Media Prompt Card on YouTube to get a better idea of the challenge. And, please use the hashtag if you play along! You can either use my prompts or draw your own. (I have a complete list of prompts in the description area of the video linked above.)
Sarajo of SJ Designs Jewelry is back with the October Honey Do List Inspiration. This is a jewelry-making challenge that comes from her husband, Eric. He shares a photo inspiration to prompt some jewelry designs. The reveal date is October 24 (MY BIRTHDAY!!) and the linky tool will be open for several weeks after that if you're running behind.
Halcraft Collection has revealed their Pretty Palette for October. Again, this is a jewelry challenge. You'll find all the information in their post. I do encourage you to explore their past palettes too as they have some beautifully inspiring designs and tutorials.
The Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge reveal is on the 15th of each month. This is a birthstone challenge. This month, the challenge colors are Pink Tourmaline or Opal. In addition, the other prompts are to use rose gold or silver metal, create a necklace, and (optionally) use chain or links. You can learn more about this challenge from Angela's video on YouTube. And, you can check out her Facebook Page. The reveal can be a video and/or a picture on the Facebook page.
The #4Core challenge from Ina Solsbery was announced in her video. This is a mixed media art challenge that can be entered by emailing a picture to Ina. You can also share a video of your own contribution. For October, we are to use the theme of Aware, Beware, Danger. In addition, include something crackled, ripped, broken, or damaged; a crescent shape; and at least one spider (eek!)

And, that's it for the time being. October always feels like the beginning of the holiday season and all the busyness that entails. Taking some time to create is a great break from those stressors. Whether you participate in any of these challenges or not, I do hope you find some time to create.

September Challenges and Inspirations

Oh, September is already getting away from me! I meant to post this list last week. As I like to participate in several jewelry and art challenges each month to help me find inspiration I might not otherwise, I share my list in case you're looking for inspiration too.

The Honey Do List challenge for August from Sarajo and Eric is still open for another couple of weeks. This is a jewelry challenge that uses a single photo from Eric as inspiration. I'll update this list if Sarajo shares a September photo.
The September Pretty Palette Inspiration from Halcraft Collection is called Calm Cool Collection as is a selection of peachy-mauve-pinks and a gray. Again, this is a jewelry challenge, and you can find all the information on their site.
The 15th of each month (SOON!), is the reveal day for the Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge. This reveal takes place on YouTube and/or in the Pirate Pretties Jewelry Facebook Group. For September, we are to use the color sapphire, work with silver or gunmetal, make bracelet stacks, and (optionally) include steampunk elements.
Ina Solsbery recently shared what the #4Core ingredients are for her September challenge. This is a 2d or 3d mixed media art challenge. This month, Ina asks that we have an eye (eyes) as our focal point, use script or writing somewhere in the piece, have a cluster or design/pattern of diamond shapes, and include an ombre effect. You can watch Ina explain each of these aspects in her video. If you participate, you can simply send her an email with a picture or you can make a video and share that with her as well. All the information is in the description box of her video.
As well, for you Mixed Media Artists, there is "Mixed Media Menagerie" from Nicole, Erin, and Laura in which they have three prompts for you to use in your art journal. The reveal for this takes place on Instagram (and YouTube if you like). This month, the prompts are masking tape, tags, and leaves.

Those are all the ones I'll likely be participating in this month as the month is already getting the better of me. Feel free to share any others you know of as I'm always looking for more inspiration.

August Challenges and Inspirations

Here's my little monthly roundup of some of the jewelry and art challenges I've found online to inspire me. I hope they inspire you to play along too.

Sarajo of SJ Designs Jewelry has shared the inspiration photo for The August 2022 Honey Do List from her husband, Eric. I think it's a gorgeous photo that will hopefully spur some lovely jewelry designs. She's set the reveal for August 29th.
I need to get my booty in gear because the Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge reveal is on the 15th of each month, and I haven't started yet. 😳 This challenge takes place on both YouTube and in the Pirate Pretties Facebook group. It's a birthstone jewelry challenge with a couple of other prompts. For August, the color is Peridot, the metal choices are silver or bronze, the project type is a bookmark, and the optional fun elements are a tassel or dangles.
The Halcraft Collection Pretty Palette Inspiration for August is awful dreamy. You can find all the information about this one on their site.
If you're into 2D or 3D mixed media art, you may want to check out the #4Core challenge from Ina Solsbery on YouTube. At the beginning of each month, she reveals what she made for the previous month, shares what other artists made for the challenge, and announces the four core ingredients for the current month. Once you have your project made, you can send in your picture (and link) to her email before the end of the month. This month, the four ingredients are to make wall art on a sturdy substrate, include a mosaic design, work with several colors and textures, and send in a 2nd photo that shows a closeup of your mosaic. I've really enjoyed these challenges from Ina this year and hope you will play along!
There is also Mixed Media Menagerie from Nicole, Erin, and Laura in which they have three prompts for you to use in your art journal. The reveal for this takes place on Instagram (and YouTube if you like). This month, the prompts are florescent. stapler, and graffiti and the hashtag is #MMMAug22.
Oh! And, #SeekGatherCreate for Summer 2022 has just begun. We're smack dab in the middle of week 2. This challenge comes from Lisa, Melanie, Jana, Tina, and Laura. The five prompts will be revealed on Instagram each Sunday for you to use during the week on any substrate. This week, the prompts are blooming flowers, tissue paper, something teal, stripes, and fabric. I've already revealed my contribution for this week on both Instagram and YouTube if you want to see it.
Terry of the Tapping Flamingo on YouTube has her #BeCreative challenge each month that is open to any medium you wish. Each month, she has a theme. This month, the theme is Beach and the reveal is on the 13th. She hasn't shared the hashtag yet, but I'll add it here if I see it! Check out her video from the beginning of the year that talks about the challenge.

I feel like I'm missing something, but it's just not coming to me right now. If you know what it is, drop me a comment so I can add it above. Are you going to be playing along with any of these!?

July Art Challenges and Inspirations

For you and me both, I like to make this little monthly list of art challenges and inspirations to keep up with anything I want to try out and be able to find some inspiration when I need it. I hope this list does the same for you. Here's what I have for July.

Each month you can find an inspiration photo over on the SJ Designs Jewelry blog. Sarajo's husband, Eric, shares the photo with her readers, and they call it the Honey Do List. The July inspiration photo is available now, and the reveal date is set for July 25th.
The Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge reveal is coming up very soon on July 15th. This is a birthstone challenge from Angela. This month, the color is Ruby, the metal is gunmetal or gold, the project type is earrings, and the optional fun elements are skulls or owls. You can post your reveal on either YouTube or on the Pirate Pretties Facebook Page. You can find all the information about this challenge in Angela's video (linked above.)
Halcraft collection shares its pretty palette challenge each month. This month the palette is called Summer Fun! You can learn all about this jewelry challenge over on their site.
Ina Solsbery has revealed her list of Four Core ingredients for her mixed media #4Core challenge for July. You have all month to make something and email a picture (and even a video link) to her that fits within the requirements. I encourage you to watch her video - the information about July is at the end.
If you're interested in another mixed media challenge, there's always Mixed Media Menagerie from Nicole, Erin, and Laura. It's a simple art journal challenge that gives you three prompts. This month, those are oil sticks, fabric, and birds. You can click on any of the hosts' names above to go to their videos and learn more about the challenge.
Terry of The Tapping Flamingo on YouTube has a Be Creative collaboration challenge each month. It is open to any medium. The theme this month is History and the hashtag is #BeCreativeHistory. Watch the linked video to get more information from her. The reveal is on July 13th.

I'm already running behind but hope to participate in most of these if possible. Let me know if you're participating and if there are any other challenges that should be added to the list. Happy creating!

June Challenges and Inspirations

I'm hoping to make this quick since the month seems to already be getting away from me. If you're looking for art and jewelry inspiration this month, I've got the list for you.

Right out of the gate, let me mention that it's ICAD time. ICAD means Index Card A Day and runs June 1-July 31. This is its 12th year. It's a mixed media challenge from Tammy of Daisy Yellow in which you alter an index card each day. To assist you, Tammy has weekly themes and daily prompts that are optional. In addition, my friend, Nina has made her own set of Mixed Media ICAD prompts which she is sharing on her Instagram. It's definitely not too late to join in. Catch up if you want or just start now. Make sure you share your creations on Instagram using any variety of these hashtags: #ICAD #ICAD2022 #DYICAD2022
Sarajo of SJ Designs Jewelry has revealed the latest photo inspiration from her husband for the Honey Do List. This is a jewelry challenge in which you create something inspired by the photo and share it on or after the reveal date of June 27th.
The Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge reveal is coming up very soon on June 15th. This is a birthstone challenge from Angela. This month, the color is pearl or alexandrite, the metal is silver or gold, the project type is necklace, and the optional fun element is a bold pendant. You can post your reveal on either YouTube or on the Pirate Pretties Facebook Page. You can find all the information about this challenge in Angela's video (linked above.)
Halcraft collection has released the Pretty Palette inspiration for June. All the information about this challenge is on their site. It's another jewelry challenge.
For a fun 2D or 3D Mixed Media challenge, I encourage you to check out Ina Solsbery's #4Core challenge in which you must include four core ingredients that change each month. You can watch Ina's detailed announcement about the June ingredients in her video here. Essentially, the ingredients are to include the theme of exploring relationships/connections, use violet/purple, include rocks or stones, and use a small container that can reveal the relationship/connection. Again, please check out her video for a better understanding of this list. Once your project is complete, you must email Ina pictures and (optionally) links to be included. You have until the end of the month.
Terry of The Tapping Flamingo on YouTube has a Be Creative collaboration challenge each month. It is open to any medium. The theme this month is Travel and the hashtag is #BeCreativeTravel. Watch the linked video to get more information from her. The reveal is on June 13th.

If you know of something that should be added, give me a shout!

May Art Challenges and Inspiration

Finding a good challenge always keeps me inspired and moving forward to try new things. And, I like to see how these challenges inspire others too, so I make sure to share them in one place in case anyone else wants to play along. Below are the challenges and inspirations I've found for this month. Which of them inspires you to make something new?

I'm starting with the ones that have their reveals the soonest. Some of these are in the next several days - so I encourage you to find out what the themes are for next month if this is too short of notice for you.

The Be Creative Challenge from Terry of Tapping Flamingo on YouTube is set for its reveal on the 13th (of each month). For May, the theme is Flowers. You are welcome to interpret this inspiration in any medium you wish. This is a video reveal with the hashtag #BeCreativeFlowers so that those participating can find one another.
On the 15th of each month, there's the Pirate Pretties Jewelry Challenge reveal from Angela. This is a birthstone-inspired challenge in which for this month, we were challenged to use the color emerald, gunmetal or bronze metal, make earrings, and (optionally) use the fun elements of Celtic and/or crystals. If the 15th is cutting it close, you can start on June's challenge of using the colors Pearl or Alexandrite, silver or gold metal, make a necklace, and (optionally) included a bold pendant. Your reveal can be on YouTube and/or in the Pirate Pretties Facebook group.
Another strictly-jewelry challenge is the Honey Do List from Sarajo and Eric of SJ Designs Jewelry. Each month, Eric provides a picture as inspiration for the month. The reveal is set for June 3rd when Sarajo will have a linky tool up for you to share your post. In fact, you can probably still find last month's linky tool open if you find some inspiration in April's photo from Eric.
If you'd rather just have a palette to work from rather than a whole photo, Halcraft Collection has their Pretty Palette Inspiration that they share each month. I believe this challenge is open for the whole month, but you can find all the information on their site.
If you're more interested in art journaling, check out Mixed Media Menagerie. It's a challenge on YouTube and Instagram that gives you three prompts to work into a mixed media piece. This is hosted by Nicole Watson Art, Erin DeCoste, and Laura Mixed Media. For May, the prompts are soft pastels, watercolors, and florals. You can participate in the tag-a-long by using the tag #MMMMay22 on either (or both) YouTube or Instagram. You have all month to play along.
Lastly is the #4Core challenge from Ina Solsbery on YouTube. Toward the beginning of each month, Ina reveals what she made for the previous month and shares what the "Four Core" ingredients are for the current month. This is a 3D or 2D mixed media challenge. (Ina is an amazing assemblage artist and has kept me inspired through my 100 Day Project.) The four parts for this month are 1-theme: related to light, 2-vintage or rustic style, 3-add a black and white pattern on one element in the piece, and 4-include something traditionally found in the kitchen. Ina does a fantastic job of explaining and giving examples of these at the end of her April reveal video. If you're interested, I encourage you to watch and play along.

I know there are plenty more challenges out there that I'm probably leaving out. Please share them in the comments!

April Art Challenges and Inspiration

Taking on a challenge is a great way to push your creativity into areas you hadn't thought to tread. I'm always on the lookout for that kind of inspiration. And, I like to share it here with you each month in a quick roundup. Here's what's on the plate for April.

Sarajo at SJ Designs Jewelry has unveiled the photo inspiration for the April Honey Do List. This is a jewelry challenge in which you use the photo that her husband, Eric, has provided as inspiration. The reveal date is set for April 25, but the linky tool is usually open for a month after that, so you have plenty of time to play along.
On the 13th of the month, Tammy of The Tapping Flamingo on YouTube is hosting a Be Creative challenge for any medium. She will offer a creative word or phrase each month for you to use. For April, the phrase is Rain Showers. Her hashtag will change each month. The one for April is #BeCreativeAPRIL2022.
Angela of Pirate Pretties Jewelry on YouTube has a monthly challenge. It's a birthstone theme each month with a color, metal, project type, and (optional) fun element. For April, the challenge color is diamond, the metal is silver or gold, the project type is a bracelet, and the fun elements are vintage or cross. The reveal is set for the 15th of each month on YouTube with the hashtag #PiratePrettiesJewelryChallenge and/or you can join her Facebook Group and add your reveal picture in the comments of her reveal photo.
I recently discovered that Ina Solsbery on YouTube also has a monthly challenge collaboration. This is a general mixed media art challenge that she called #4Core because you only need to include the Four Core "ingredients" to play along. This month, those are to create in miniature (smaller than 6x6 inches), include an animal, incorporate two arrows, and submit your completed photo within your hands to show scale. She asks that submission photos be emailed to her by the end of the month so she can include them in the slideshow in her video. Watch her March #4core video to get an idea of how this works and read the details in the description.

I know there are probably other challenges out there, but these and #The100DayProject are the key ones in my mind at the moment. If there are any other challenges that you think should be included in this list, please don't hesitate to let me know so I can add them to the list. Happy creating!!

March Art Challenges and Inspiration

Whew, February just flew by, didn't it? I can't believe it's already time to gather up and share a new month's list of inspiration. Last month's challenge list was really long. I don't think this one will be as long, but let's see.

Let's begin with the one already in progress and consuming most of my thoughts: #The100DayProject is in full swing as today is day 19 from the official kickoff. Of course, you can join in any time with your project.
Sarajo has revealed the inspiration photo from her husband, Eric, for the March Honey Do List. You have plenty of time to get inspired by this one and make some jewelry as the reveal date isn't until March 30th.
The Machu Picchu palette from Halcraft Collection for this month's Pretty Palettes challenge has me dreaming of the beach. You have the whole month to create something inspired by it and share your jewelry design on their Facebook page.
As far as I know, Nicole Watson is still doing her #30MinuteThursdayArt challenge on her YouTube channel. I've been a little lax in my participation the last week or so, but that might change.
Also on YouTube is the #JoyofBlue collaboration from Sarah of Crafting and Relaxing. The reveal for this challenge simply involves creating with the color blue and posting at noon eastern on the 12th of the month. Make sure you use the hashtag so others can find you.
On the 13th of the month, Tammy of The Tapping Flamingo on YouTube is hosting a Be Creative challenge for any medium. She will offer a creative word each month for you to use. For March, the word is Irish Spring. Her hashtag will change each month. The one for March is #BeCreativeMarch2022.
Angela of Pirate Pretties Jewelry on YouTube has a monthly challenge. It's a birthstone theme each month with a color, metal, project type, and (optional) fun element. For March, the challenge color is aquamarine, the metal is silver or copper, the project type is a necklace, and the fun elements are shells or fish. The reveal is set for the 15th of each month on YouTube with the hashtag #PiratePrettiesJewelryChallenge and/or you can join her Facebook Group and add your reveal picture in the comments of her reveal photo.

I know there are more out there, but the ones I've tried to get more information about haven't responded to me. However, if you have some to add to this list, I'd love to hear about them! Comment below!

February Challenges and Inspirations

If you've been reading my blog long enough, you know I love a good challenge. If you're new here - guess what...I love a good challenge! 😜 And, in order to keep up with all the inspiring challenges I find, I like to compile them all in one place each month so you and I can both find them easily. Let me admit that since I've been exploring YouTube a bit more, I've found quite a few more challenges there to add to this list. Some allow you to revel on other platforms, some limit you to YouTube. If you know of any other challenges or inspirations that I may have missed, don't hesitate to let me know. I'll also be adding to the list as I find more too.

Sarajo of SJ Designs Jewelry has shared the February Honey Do List inspiration for you to draw inspiration from. As well, the linky tool for the January inspiration is open for quite a few weeks if you happen to find inspiration in it. I know I did!
Each month, the folks at Halcraft Collection share their Pretty Palette for the month to inspire your jewelry creations. I'll put the February Pretty Palette here when it's posted.
Throughout February, the #SeekGatherCreate challenge for Winter 2022 will be going on over on Instagram. Hosted by @LisaGoddard @Lauraddenison @TinaHoisArt and @Janaclinartharris, this month-long challenge is really four challenges as each week, they'll reveal a list of what you need to seek and gather with which to create. It's a mixed media challenge in which you just need to use the hashtag to participate.
Nicole Watson Art on YouTube and Instagram has begun a #30MinuteThursdayArt challenge on both platforms. The challenge is to get out a journal or piece of paper, get out a timer, and just create. You can learn more from her posts.
Also on Instagram and YouTube is the #JoyofBlue collaboration from Sarah of Crafting and Relaxing. The reveal for this challenge simply involves creating with the color blue and posting at noon eastern on the 12th of the month. Make sure you use the hashtag so others can find you.
On the 13th of the month, Tammy of The Tapping Flamingo on YouTube is hosting a Be Creative challenge for any medium. She will offer a creative word each month for you to use. For February, she has two words you can choose from: Love or Mardi Gras. Her hashtag will change each month. The one for February is #BeCreativeFeb2022. You can watch her January reveal here.
Angela of Pirate Pretties Jewelry on YouTube has announced her 2022 monthly challenge. It's a birthstone theme each month with a color, metal, project type, and (optional) fun element. For February, the challenge color is amethyst, the metal is silver or rose gold, the project type is a bracelet, and the fun element is feathers or birds. The reveal is set for the 15th of each month on YouTube with the hashtag #PiratePrettiesJewelryChallenge and/or you can join her Facebook Group and add your reveal picture in the comments of her reveal photo.
This is the newest YouTube Challenge I've discovered. It's from Sweet Bee Paper Co. She selects a theme each month and gives you the opportunity to create within that theme and use #SweetBeeChallenge in your video title or Instagram post when you reveal it during the month. This month, her theme is Love. This theme is open to any medium. You can watch her February Theme announcement.
My friend Nina Fickett hosts a 28 Days of Love Challenge each February. It's a daily art challenge that only asks that you create daily using Love as your theme. Though the link is to her blog, the challenge actually takes place on Instagram. You can find her there as @Nina_Fickett and use #28DaysOfLove2022.
Sparkle by Monica alerted me to these next two "Collabs" on YouTube. (THANK YOU, Monica!) This first one happens on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month and is #TasselTuesday from Creating with Jovi. It looks like her most recent one had a gnome theme, but for the most part, I think it's open to the maker.
This second one is the Jewelry Making Fun Collab from Dahlia's Designs on YouTube. I've got a message out to her now to find out if it's an open collab and where to find the themes. I'll update this when I have more information.
How could I forget?! #The100DayProject starts on February 13th. This is a daily project that encourages you to create (however you want: paint, draw, sing, dance, make jewelry, take a walk, take pictures, whatever!) for 100 days. I've participated the last several years with a variety of mediums. And, I think I've decided on this year's project, but I'll reveal it next week.

This list has definitely grown! Don't hesitate to let me know if you've discovered any challenges that need to be added or if you have questions about the ones I've shared. I do hope these inspire you and that you'll play along with some of them, especially since they offer multiple ways to reveal your creations. Happy creating!

November Challenges and Inspiration

The cupboard is looking a little bare in terms of inspiration and challenges this month. But, I would feel neglectful if I didn't share a list (even as short as it is) with you.

The first and main challenge for this list is the Art Elements November Theme Challenge: Gourd. Sue has included a fabulous Pinterest board in the post to help inspire you. Remember that this challenge is open to ANY medium and submissions are posted in the Art Elements Community on Facebook at any time throughout the month.
The inspiration for the October Honey Do List from Sarajo on SJ Designs Jewelry is still available. The reveal date was set for Nov. 8, and Sarajo usually leaves the linky tool open for several weeks. So, have at it! (I need to!!)

And...alas...that's it for the online inspiration I've found (other than the monthly challenges from private groups). I will say that I'm finding my own inspiration in that I just started reading The Artist's Way*. It's helping to spur me forward in my creative journey. As well, the month of November is often regarded as a month of gratitude. Perhaps you want to spend some time counting your blessings, as I know so many do, and find inspiration in that exercise.

If you know of ANY other challenges or inspirations I have missed and could add to this list, please just leave me a comment. I would love to be further inspired. Whether you use this list or not, I hope you find your creative muse (or rather she finds you.) Best wishes for a creative month!!

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

October Challenges and Inspiration

Finding new design challenges has been a bit of a...challenge in itself lately. But, there are still a few out there that I can share with you if you're looking for inspiration.

First, let me apologize for the fact that I totally flaked out in September. Sarajo of SJ Designs Jewelry did, in fact, share an inspiration photo for the Honey Do List. And it is a GOOD ONE! Though September has ended, she still has the linky tool open for almost another two weeks in case you want to design something for the challenge. I've already got my wheels turning for this one.
The Art Elements October Theme is Skulls. I know I've got a few skull beads in my stash and do love the sugar skulls for Dias de las Muertos (Day of the Dead). So, I might be able to do something with that. You have all month to submit your contributions to the album in the Art Elements Community on Facebook.
The Halcraft Collection Pretty Palette Challenge features an array of colors for this month's "Leaf It All Behind" palette. Head over to their page to get all the deets!
UPDATE! Sarajo has shared the October Honey Do List inspiration. The reveal date is Nov. 8th, but I'm sure the linky tool will be open for a few weeks after that date.

I do have another challenge for the month, but it's part of a subscription membership group, so I don't feel comfortable sharing it here. But, I'm always on the lookout for more inspiration. So, if you know of something I've missed, please don't hesitate to let me know so I can add it to the list.

What's been inspiring you lately?

August Challenges and Inspirations

I feel like the only things I've accomplished lately have been driven by art challenges. And, I can't decide if that's good or bad. But, producing art is still producing art, so I'll keep diving into the challenges as long as I can find them! Here's what I've discovered for this month.

The August Art Elements Theme Challenge is Turtles. This challenge is open to any medium and you can submit your designs in the Art Elements Community on Facebook throughout the month.
Over on the Halcraft Collection, you can find their August Pretty Palette that is a pretty summery mix of colors that they're calling Cicada Symphony. You'll also find all the details about the jewelry challenge there too.
Three days ago, a quick two-week challenge began that you can hop on into at any time. It's The Ugly Art Club's Five Minute Challenge that's happening over on Instagram. The challenge is to be creative for just five minutes each day, take a picture of what you created (even if it's not done), and use the hashtag #tuac5minchallenge so we can all support and find each other. Most of the art being created is mixed media art journaling, but the hosts have made it clear that it can be any medium!
Also on Instagram is the Seek Gather Create Challenge from @LisaGoddardArt, @TinaHoisArt, @MixedMediaMagpie, and @LauraDennison. It's a mixed media scavenger hunt challenge in which each Sunday, the hosts share a list of four items for you to find and work into a piece of mixed media art. The second list was just announced, and you can find more examples of what artists have made with the hashtag #SeekGatherCreate. This is a weekly challenge.

And, those are all the challenges I'm aware of at the moment. I will add to the list any new challenges I find, so check back to see what's been added (if any). Don't hesitate to let me know if you know of any I may have missed.

Bead Box 13 - Stocked

Let me go ahead and confess something.

I've been struggling for weeks to find some inspiration for jewelry-making. Usually, I have a Bead Box stocked and ready for those moments. However, I used Bead Box 12 as a crutch during my 100 Day Project and flew through it. Ever since I finished it (both the box and the project), I've been grasping at straws to get back on the jewelry-making horse and bust out a few things. And, I'm finally getting there.

I suppose I should explain the Bead Box. It's a basic 17-compartment plastic organizer. For several years, I've been packing it with designs to take with me when I travel or when my muse isn't speaking to me. Each compartment holds most of the components for a single design. Because of my creative block, it took me a bit of time to get this 13th version of the box packed up, but I knew that I had to before my trip out of town last week. And, though it took some time, I did it!

I really only got to work on one of these designs while I was away, but it was a relief to have the box in my bag with me, just in case. Here's what I packed in it.

While searching for materials that inspired me, I found the large, clear bead and thought it would be perfect to create a loop from. Then, the soldered bubble with the word "French" in it was unearthed. From there, the other elements just fell together. I added a handmade grungy resin opal charm (learned from Fanciful Devices' tutorial on Etsy) and black, clear, labradorite, and smoky gray beads to create a charms and a necklace chain.

The next several compartments were stocked with a variety of tin pairs that I altered in some way in order to make earrings. This one has tin ovals riveted to another larger piece. Holes were added at the bottom so I can add small bead dangles.

I have to say how proud I am that I sketched out several of these designs so that I wouldn't forget what I had intended for them. These, for example, would baffle me otherwise. I like the contrast of the pretty pinks with the grunge and hardness of the dark wires and patina on the tin. They're going to make a neat pair of earrings.

This fourth design is a bit of a shot in the dark of whether I'm going to like it. Many of my designs lately have been lacking buttons (and I LOVE me some buttons). So, I've included a pair here along with some altered tin bits, a wire form, and tiger's eye beads. We'll see how these earrings turn out.

A bit more work was put into these as preparation for the bead box than usual. Really, I just need to add some bead dangles, and they'll be done.

Again, I did more prep to get these into the bead box than I'll have to do to finish them. But, the intention of the box is to keep my hands busy, and this will do that for a few minutes. I just have to wrap a few beads onto the tin to finish these earrings.

I felt like I had enough of the earrings for the time being, so I turned to some of my soldered pottery shards that are perfect for a necklace. This one just needs a simple design with a few beads and chain added. I went for jade to match the color on the pendant. The wire is packed in another bag for when it's needed.

While I was in my bowl of soldered pieces, this bubble jumped out at me. And, the soldered amethyst pebble seemed perfect for it. I threw in a few amethyst beads, some gunmetal-colored seed beads, and a short length of chain to help complete this design. I began to feel like I was finding my groove again at this point of stocking the box.

One more soldered pottery shard for good measure! The subtle textured pattern needed a bold statement to go with it, so I cut, embossed, and colored in red a snippet of tin. Crystal clear beads, glass pearls, and faceted red beads will help make up the chain of this proposed necklace.

Bracelets aren't always my thing, but I like to make sure that I include at least one bracelet design in each bead box. (This one has several!) I love using these word tags from Tim Holtz for bracelet bars. The word was altered with some Vintaj Patina, and since the word is "Collections," I dipped into one of my own collections and gathered some buttons to make up its chain.

Here's another earring design that makes me glad that I sketched it out. I'm pretty sure I saw something online that inspired this one. The pretty blue and white tin is paired with salvaged white seed beads and darkened steel wire. To tell you the truth, I'm looking forward to seeing what I'm supposed to do with these elements as I've plum forgotten!

Here's another of the bracelet designs. I'm usually inspired by the materials I have on hand. In this case, I saw a tutorial somewhere (I had to go back a-ways, but I found this Beadalon Pearl and Stone Bracelet tutorial), that struck a chord. I dipped into my personal bead soup to come up with these materials to create a bracelet that should have a few similar design elements.

While I had my big jar of bead soup out, a few beads called out to me. I put them aside on my desk but before I knew it, they had paired themselves up with that soldered bubble. I'll string a few more beads onto the waxed linen before adding a chain that I'll select later.

Lookie, another bracelet! I guess the waxed linen in the previous design had me reaching for more. This will be a simple knotted bead bracelet with a button closure. The Tim Holtz charm will hang from it somehow.

I had a Pinterest page of beautiful tassel necklaces open for just a wee bit too long. As such, I decided to throw a few things together to create my own. There's some coral-colored sari silk and beads, a large bead cap, pale amber beads, and silvery beads that will all go into this necklace design.

I decided to dig through my bowl of leftovers from the Bead Soup swap and unearthed this pretty keyhole pendant. I believe it's from the Industrial Chic line. Once I had the keyhole, I needed a key. While Robin had sent me several, I was drawn to this crown one that was a gift from a friend. To keep it simple, I've paired them with freshwater pearls (also from Robin) and some clear round glass beads. I'll turn these elements into a pretty necklace.

This final design took a bit of time (tin designs always do!) I created a bracelet bar with two different tin patterns, rivets, eyelets, washers, and leather. I'm so tickled with it!! I'll be adding a simple chain of green beads to compliment the focal.

I'm looking forward to working on each and every one of these designs. However, I'm trying to let them sit in there so that the original intent of the box remains intact and the box is only used sparingly. In the meantime, I've been looking for inspiration in my stack of old beading magazines. And, thankfully, I'm finding quite a bit! I've got a list of techniques to try and designs to make that should keep me busy for a while. Even though I'm revealing this box now, it might just be a bit before you get to see the finished designs - we'll see. For now, you're welcome to take a look at some of the other stocked bead boxes and their reveals.