How do I come up with quilting designs

Have you ever found yourself wondering, "How in the world do I come up with quilt designs?" Don't worry, you're not alone! This is a question I hear all the time, and I have to admit, it's one of my favorite quilting puzzles to solve. Every time I start a new quilt top, I get the chance to explore my creativity and figure out just what I want to quilt on it. It's definitely not always easy, but it's always exciting! If you're just starting out on your own quilting journey, I totally understand how overwhelming it can feel at times. But trust me, with a little bit of practice and patience, you'll be a pro in no time!

Here are a few of my tips:

1. Source of Sunshine - Inspiration: First things first, let's talk inspiration. Dive into Pinterest, flip through magazines, explore books, or just take a stroll around your world. Find things that spark joy and sketch them out. Doodle away! It's not just about the final drawing; it's about teaching your brain those cool moves you need for your quilt designs. Grab your favourite journal (we have beautiful ones in our store!), or my personal doodle friend my iPad and Apple Pencil does a great job for me!
2. Practice Party: You know what they say – practice makes perfect! The more you do something, the better you get. So, embrace the art of repetition; it's like your magical wand for leveling up your quilting game.
3. Patience, My Friend: We're all in the same boat when it comes to patience – a work in progress, right? Take it slow, enjoy the ride, and relish in the learning process. Quilting is not just about the finished piece; it's about the journey.
4. iPad Wonderland: Now, let me spill the beans on my secret weapon – the iPad and Apple Pencil! It's not just a tool; it's like a superhero cape for my creativity. If you can draw a design, you can quilt it. It's my go-to buddy for warming up my brain before I dive into quilting.
5. Designs Tailored for You: Let's talk about choosing designs. Start with ones that match your current skill level. If you've mastered the art of quilting swirls, own it! Experiment with sizes and variations. As you grow in confidence, sprinkle in some more complex designs. Remember, there's beauty in mastering the basics.
6. Just Dive In: Overthinking can be the creativity buzzkill. There were times when, if I hadn't just gone for it and loaded a quilt top, I might have missed out on some incredible quilting adventures. Don't be afraid to try new things – and if a design doesn't work, no biggie! You can always pick it out. Unpicking stitches might not be the highlight of your day, but it's not the end of the world. Some of my absolute favourite designs came from the brave spirit of trial and error. So, embrace the process, let your creativity shine, and enjoy every stitch of the journey!"