Cardmaking offers a quick and easy form of creative expression. I like the fact that I can whip up a card in under 30 minutes, make a big mess, come back to it, then tidy it all away once I'm done. I also love being able to use and re-use bits and pieces that might otherwise get discarded. Being immersed in creativity, in whatever form, elevates our energy.
Unifying Elements
As mentioned previously, deciding on a theme prior to making, helps to produce groups of cards that are easier to gift or sell. There is no right or wrong when it comes to creativity - which is important to remember - but despite every good intention, I always end up with a bunch of cards that don't belong in any existing set. I find these cards the most interesting, and challenging. What can I remove or replace, change or add, to enhance an existing set? Or is this simply a one-off, and that's all there is to it?
The cards below initially shared a natural vibe, but they didn't look cohesive; the elephant card originally had a gemstone eye, the fairy card originally featured a dark pink glass bead body, and the brown paper parcel was plain. I simply pulled off what was there, and visually connected them by adding the unifying element of paua. Everything can be re-jigged, re-imagined and re-perceived, because creativity is about being free to explore, change, grow and evolve. Sometimes I get to a point with a card, where we just stare at each other in mutual dissatisfaction. We both know we're not done, but our connection has waned. Inspiration needs a receptive body to express itself through, and sometimes a restorative nights sleep is all that is needed to allow your inner knowing. The next morning, the necessary tweaks are magically evident, and the card is complete
More ideas ...
Seeing how other people make stuff out of found objects, is always inspiring. I love walking along the beach, picking up a few shells and pebbles, and some pretty, sea glass nuggets, and then transforming into something simple, yet beautiful. Check out more fabulous Found Objects ideas on Pinterest.
