What to Make When You Don't Know What to Make

Manifesting inspiration :-)

We all have those moments when inspiration strikes, but the specifics of what to create remain a mystery. It’s a wonderful yet frustrating sensation: the desire to create without a clear direction. If you're feeling creatively charged but stuck on what to make, don’t worry. Here’s a guide to unlocking your creativity using items easily found around the house.

Embrace the Random

Sometimes, the best way to break free from creative indecision is to let randomness guide you. Gather a handful of objects from around your home, close your eyes, and pick one. Let that object inspire your art. Whether it’s its color, texture, or shape, start with that and see where it leads you.

Ideas to Spark Your Creativity

Here are some fun and simple projects to try when you’re not sure what to make:

1. Abstract Collage

   • Gather old magazines, newspapers, or junk mail.

   • Cut out interesting shapes, patterns, and colors.

   • Arrange them on paper or cardboard to create an abstract design or mood board.

2. Nature-Inspired Art

   • Step outside and collect leaves, twigs, flowers, or pebbles.

   • Use them for leaf rubbings, nature prints, or as part of a sculpture.

3. DIY Stamps

   • Look for sponges, erasers, or potatoes.

   • Carve simple designs into them and use them to stamp patterns onto paper or fabric.

4. Upcycled Sculptures

   • Raid your recycling bin for cardboard, bottles, or cans.

   • Transform these materials into a sculpture, robot, or abstract art piece.

5. Doodle Freely

   • Grab a pen and any scrap paper or notebook.

   • Start doodling without a plan—let your hand move freely and see what emerges.

6. Decorate Everyday Objects

   • Find plain mugs, jars, or storage boxes.

   • Use markers, paint, or stickers to customize them.

Household Items to Use for Inspiration

Look around your home and consider these common items as starting points:

• Cardboard: Turn boxes or packaging into canvases or 3D creations.

• Toilet Paper Rolls: Use them for printing, sculptures, or even tiny dioramas.

• Buttons: Create a mosaic or embellish a drawing.

• String or Yarn: Use it for weaving, wrapping objects, or making wall art.

• Old Clothes: Cut up fabric for collages, patches, or miniature flags.

• Kitchen Utensils: Use forks for painting texture or strainers for spray art.

• Jars and Lids: Paint or decorate them to make candle holders or mini terrariums.

• Books or Magazines: Perfect for collages or blackout poetry.

Try a Creative Prompt

If you still need a nudge, try one of these prompts:

• "Create something inspired by your favorite childhood memory."

• "Use only one color to make a monochromatic piece."

• "Combine three unrelated items into one cohesive art project."

The Importance of Letting Go

The key to overcoming a creative block is to stop worrying about perfection. Let the process of creating be your goal rather than the outcome. Some of the best ideas emerge when you’re just playing around.

So, grab some supplies, set up your workspace, and dive in. Remember: creativity is about exploration, not just execution. Happy making!

If you are still stuck in a creative rut, download this free PDF "roll the dice" art project

chooser!

Roll_the_Dice_Art_Project.pdf

Download PDF • 2KB