Finding Your Design Inspiration

Sometimes getting inspired can be hard and sometimes it happens instantly.  One of the key aspects to finding design inspiration is to realize what it is that you want to accomplish.  You need to ask yourself what it is you want your designs to say, and what type of statement you are attempting to make with your work.  If you are unclear about what type of statement you are trying to make, then clearly you will have problems.

If, for example, you are wanting to create fantastic clothing, ask yourself not only what that clothing should not only look like, but what materials it should be made out of and what overall look you are going for. Assembling a lot of the basic components together will no doubt go a very long way towards helping you figure out what kind of designer you wish to be.

Look to the Internet

Other designers are constantly struggling with the same issue of inspiration.  The Internet has transformed life in so many ways, and it has also transformed the world of design.  The Internet has profoundly impacted the world of design and, as a result, designers have a wonderful new tool.  Look to the Internet for design inspiration.  Look at fashion websites and evaluate trends, see what’s hot, and, more importantly, see what appeals to you.

Look to the Everyday World

It can probably not be said enough that you should look at the world around you for inspiration.  Great designs are often found in objects that others overlook every day, whether it is part of a building or part of nature.  Finding something beautiful and unique may quickly spark you into a new design direction.

Ask a Friend or Relative for Opinions

Ask people to evaluate your designs.  Every designer knows that sometimes you can get too far into your own “head.”  As a result, you can and will lose perspective on your work.  Having a trusted friend or relative take a look at what you are doing and give you feedback can be worth the time.  It doesn’t matter whether or not they know anything about the industry, what is important is that their perspective is fresh.  Perhaps the feedback that they give you will make you see your design work in a different light, and this, in turn, will take you in a new direction.

Experiment Freely Until Something Clicks

Experimentation can often be helpful in finding inspiration for your designs.  Don’t be afraid to make an article of clothing even if you don’t think you will be completely satisfied with it.  You can always modify it until you have worked up something that you like.  Sometimes the simple act of working with the hands can bring inspiration.

Take a Break and Let Your Subconscious Do the Work

The subconscious is a powerful and often overlooked tool.  If you are having trouble with your designs, walk away if you can.  Getting a little perspective on the issue can help open your eyes to new possibilities.  After a break, you may sit back down at your design and have instant inspiration. The subconscious truly can do amazing things for us when we are not trying so hard to bring about results.

Ask Yourself What Is Important to You

In the end you must ask, “What is it I want to say?”  Now you may have heard this before, but it is important enough that it should be repeated.  Knowing what it is that you want to say and what statements you wish to make will influence your outlook.  Your unique outlook will always influence your best design.