• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • HOME
  • SHOP
  • BLOG
  • TEAM
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube

Papertrey Ink Blog

Clear Stamps, Dies, Paper, Ink, Kits

  • HOME
  • SHOP
  • BLOG
  • TEAM

Stenciling Tips to Add Pattern, Texture, and Depth

How to Create Beautiful Dimension with Die Cut Layering

Ink Blending Tips for Stunning Summer Cards

Tips To Stay Motivated When You’re in a Creative Rut

July 22, 2021      Papertrey Ink      Leave a Comment

Even the most talented artists hit a creative wall every now and then. Creativity doesn’t come easy and generating new ideas is hard work. Whether you are working on a project or just getting started, it can be extremely frustrating when your mind draws a blank, you’re uninspired, or you feel like you don’t have a single new idea left.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to release those creative juices that are buried deep in your mind. Here are a few things we’ve found that can be helpful.

Take a break
Take the pressure off yourself. Spend some time away from your project to engage in another type of activity. Doing something mindless — like mowing the lawn, housework or organizing a closet — can be the mental break your mind needs. Great ideas hit when you least expect it.

Have an inspiration folder
Gather the items that inspire you into one location that you can reference when you hit a mental block. Select items such as books, posters, quotes, photos, or anything that motivates or inspires you and collect them into a box, a file folder, a Pinterest board, or a drawer in your desk.

Exercise
Exercise has tremendous benefits both physically and mentally. It is known to reduce anxiety, depression and negative mood and improve cognitive function. Taking some time to sweat it out can clear your head so you are open to those new ideas.

Do something else that is creative
If you are experiencing a mental block in one particular creative area, try focusing on something else that is creative. For example, if you are a painter who is feeling uninspired, write in a journal, play a musical instrument or listen to music. Sometimes that change in creative outlet is just what you need to get the new ideas flowing.

Consult other creatives
Talk to a friend or colleague about their creative process. Everyone has a different approach, philosophy or workflow, and talking with others about it is a good way to generate new ideas. Bouncing ideas off each other can benefit you both.

Forge ahead
Some creatives can break through the rut by plunging right in and forcing it. Set a timer for a small amount of time, and tell yourself that for those 15 minutes (or whatever the time frame is), you are going to do nothing but brainstorm. Don’t judge or scrap anything you create during this time. Enjoy the process of creating it. If you can’t start with inspiration, just start. Sometimes inspiration will follow.

Need supplies to bring your great ideas to fruition? Papertrey Ink offers beautiful, high-quality crafting supplies that will exceed your expectations. We specialize in stamps, crafting paper, ink, dies, ribbons and other embellishments for any creative project. Looking for inspiration? Visit our website to see the wide range of products we offer. And be sure to check us out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest for our latest updates and tips!

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

papertreyink

papertreyink

Welcome to Papertrey Ink! We bet you have an amazing artistic side of you that loves to craft. We want to be your new home for everything stamp, dies, paper, and ink. Everything we offer will help you build a toolkit where you can create anything for any occasion for anybody. Take a look around and find your next project here.

INSTAGRAM

papertreyink

5,429 46,005

Simple Style • Endless Possibilities
#PapertreyInk #PapertreyProjects

Papertrey Ink | Paper Crafting

papertreyink

View

Jun 17

Open
Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳 Send a little p Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳
Send a little piece of the world with the Tuck It: Travel Stamp Set — filled with iconic details from dreamy destinations. Pair it with the coordinating die set for the ultimate crafty getaway!

#PapertreyInk #TravelThemedCards #TuckItTravel #CardmakingAdventure

Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳
Send a little piece of the world with the Tuck It: Travel Stamp Set — filled with iconic details from dreamy destinations. Pair it with the coordinating die set for the ultimate crafty getaway!

#PapertreyInk #TravelThemedCards #TuckItTravel #CardmakingAdventure
...

123 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 17

Open
Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy R Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy Reverie Stamp Set brings rustic charm and heartfelt western flair to your card making. From wild west dreams to timeless cowboy details, this set is perfect for adding a little rugged romance.

Whether you're sending a sweet “howdy” or capturing the spirit of the open range, this set has you covered.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife

Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy Reverie Stamp Set brings rustic charm and heartfelt western flair to your card making. From wild west dreams to timeless cowboy details, this set is perfect for adding a little rugged romance.

Whether you're sending a sweet “howdy” or capturing the spirit of the open range, this set has you covered.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife
...

79 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 16

Open
Unbox inspiration! 🎨 Our Surprise Box is fille Unbox inspiration! 🎨

Our Surprise Box is filled with handpicked goodies that coordinate like a dream — stamps, dies, stencils, and more! Packed with exclusive tools and designs you’ll love creating with. Each box is themed, thoughtfully designed, and only available while supplies last.

Surprise yourself or a crafty friend! 🎁

#PapertreyInk #SurpriseBox #CardmakingJoy  #CraftingInspiration

Unbox inspiration! 🎨

Our Surprise Box is filled with handpicked goodies that coordinate like a dream — stamps, dies, stencils, and more! Packed with exclusive tools and designs you’ll love creating with. Each box is themed, thoughtfully designed, and only available while supplies last.

Surprise yourself or a crafty friend! 🎁

#PapertreyInk #SurpriseBox #CardmakingJoy #CraftingInspiration
...

175 2

papertreyink

View

Jun 16

Open
A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Sque A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Squeeze Stamp Set is bursting with charm — think lemonade pitchers, fresh-cut lemons, and all the zest you need for your next card. 

Whether you're crafting for a summer birthday, thank you card, or just because, the Main Squeeze Stamp Set will add the perfect citrus twist to your creations.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #MainSqueezeStampSet #FreshAndFun #handmadecards

A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Squeeze Stamp Set is bursting with charm — think lemonade pitchers, fresh-cut lemons, and all the zest you need for your next card.

Whether you're crafting for a summer birthday, thank you card, or just because, the Main Squeeze Stamp Set will add the perfect citrus twist to your creations.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #MainSqueezeStampSet #FreshAndFun #handmadecards
...

212 5

papertreyink

View

Jun 15

Open
Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨ Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨

Our Matthew 5 Mini Stamp Set from the Reflections series is a beautiful reminder to shine bright in every season of life. With timeless scripture and encouraging words, it’s perfect for cards, tags, or faith-filled notes that lift hearts and inspire others. A simple way to remind someone they are the light of the world—because kindness and faith never go out of style.🕊️

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #Matthew5 #ReflectionsSeries #FaithBasedCrafting #HandmadeCards #InspirationInInk #ShineYourLight #CardmakingWithPurpose

Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨

Our Matthew 5 Mini Stamp Set from the Reflections series is a beautiful reminder to shine bright in every season of life. With timeless scripture and encouraging words, it’s perfect for cards, tags, or faith-filled notes that lift hearts and inspire others. A simple way to remind someone they are the light of the world—because kindness and faith never go out of style.🕊️

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #Matthew5 #ReflectionsSeries #FaithBasedCrafting #HandmadeCards #InspirationInInk #ShineYourLight #CardmakingWithPurpose
...

115 2

papertreyink

View

Jun 15

Open
This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sw This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sweet perfection by @kellylunceford — bright, cheerful, and full of handmade joy. 🍓☀️ As the seasons shift, there’s nothing sweeter than rediscovering favorite supplies — and this strawberry-themed card is bursting with sunshine and charm! Kelly shares her annual tradition of crafting with strawberries, pairing fresh colors, layered florals, and playful die cuts to celebrate the start of a new season. Follow along step-by-step and create your own sweet slice of summer! 

Comment INSPIRATION for a link or hop over to our Papertrey Ink blog to check it out.

This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sweet perfection by @kellylunceford — bright, cheerful, and full of handmade joy. 🍓☀️ As the seasons shift, there’s nothing sweeter than rediscovering favorite supplies — and this strawberry-themed card is bursting with sunshine and charm! Kelly shares her annual tradition of crafting with strawberries, pairing fresh colors, layered florals, and playful die cuts to celebrate the start of a new season. Follow along step-by-step and create your own sweet slice of summer!

Comment INSPIRATION for a link or hop over to our Papertrey Ink blog to check it out.
...

189 6

papertreyink

View

Jun 14

Open
Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Ou Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Our Vintage Postage Stamp Set lets you turn any card into a charming piece of happy mail! With its classic postal elements and elegant sentiments, it’s perfect for creating envelope-style card fronts that feel warm, personal, and full of vintage love.

#PapertreyInk #VintagePostage #HappyMail #SnailMailLove #CardmakingInspo #HandmadeCards #StampWithLove

Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Our Vintage Postage Stamp Set lets you turn any card into a charming piece of happy mail! With its classic postal elements and elegant sentiments, it’s perfect for creating envelope-style card fronts that feel warm, personal, and full of vintage love.

#PapertreyInk #VintagePostage #HappyMail #SnailMailLove #CardmakingInspo #HandmadeCards #StampWithLove
...

148 0

papertreyink

View

Jun 14

Open
Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Cowboy Boot Die is the perfect blend of western flair and handmade charm. Designed with stitching details in mind, this die makes it easy to craft adorable, dimensional boots for cards, tags, and gift toppers.

Whether you're crafting for Father's Day, a country-themed birthday, or just want to add a little southern charm, this boot was made for makin’!✨ 

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #InStitchesDie #CowboyBootDie #WesternCraftVibes #HandmadeCards #CardmakingInspo #SewCuteCrafts

Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Cowboy Boot Die is the perfect blend of western flair and handmade charm. Designed with stitching details in mind, this die makes it easy to craft adorable, dimensional boots for cards, tags, and gift toppers.

Whether you're crafting for Father's Day, a country-themed birthday, or just want to add a little southern charm, this boot was made for makin’!✨

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #InStitchesDie #CowboyBootDie #WesternCraftVibes #HandmadeCards #CardmakingInspo #SewCuteCrafts
...

170 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 13

Open
They’re baaaack! Your favorite dies just rode b They’re baaaack! 
Your favorite dies just rode back into town — and trust us, they won’t stay long! From fan-favorite layers to card-front classics, this restock is full of must-haves you’ve been waiting for.
 🛒 Shop Now before they're gone again!  https://www.papertreyink.com/back-in-stock/

They’re baaaack!
Your favorite dies just rode back into town — and trust us, they won’t stay long! From fan-favorite layers to card-front classics, this restock is full of must-haves you’ve been waiting for.
🛒 Shop Now before they're gone again! https://www.papertreyink.com/back-in-stock/
...

136 0
Follow on Instagram

FACEBOOK

Papertrey Ink

Email Subscription

I agree to be emailed to confirm my subscription to this list

Categories

Archives

Categories

Recent Posts

  • Stenciling Tips to Add Pattern, Texture, and Depth
  • How to Create Beautiful Dimension with Die Cut Layering
  • Ink Blending Tips for Stunning Summer Cards
  • Introducing the PTI Summer Challenge
  • Project Inspiration: Hello Sweet Sunshine by Kelly Lunceford

papertreyink

View

Jun 17

Open
Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳 Send a little p Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳
Send a little piece of the world with the Tuck It: Travel Stamp Set — filled with iconic details from dreamy destinations. Pair it with the coordinating die set for the ultimate crafty getaway!

#PapertreyInk #TravelThemedCards #TuckItTravel #CardmakingAdventure
123 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 17

Open
Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy R Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy Reverie Stamp Set brings rustic charm and heartfelt western flair to your card making. From wild west dreams to timeless cowboy details, this set is perfect for adding a little rugged romance.

Whether you're sending a sweet “howdy” or capturing the spirit of the open range, this set has you covered.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife
79 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 16

Open
Unbox inspiration! 🎨 Our Surprise Box is fille Unbox inspiration! 🎨

Our Surprise Box is filled with handpicked goodies that coordinate like a dream — stamps, dies, stencils, and more! Packed with exclusive tools and designs you’ll love creating with. Each box is themed, thoughtfully designed, and only available while supplies last.

Surprise yourself or a crafty friend! 🎁

#PapertreyInk #SurpriseBox #CardmakingJoy  #CraftingInspiration
175 2

papertreyink

View

Jun 16

Open
A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Sque A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Squeeze Stamp Set is bursting with charm — think lemonade pitchers, fresh-cut lemons, and all the zest you need for your next card. 

Whether you're crafting for a summer birthday, thank you card, or just because, the Main Squeeze Stamp Set will add the perfect citrus twist to your creations.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #MainSqueezeStampSet #FreshAndFun #handmadecards
212 5

papertreyink

View

Jun 15

Open
Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨ Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨

Our Matthew 5 Mini Stamp Set from the Reflections series is a beautiful reminder to shine bright in every season of life. With timeless scripture and encouraging words, it’s perfect for cards, tags, or faith-filled notes that lift hearts and inspire others. A simple way to remind someone they are the light of the world—because kindness and faith never go out of style.🕊️

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #Matthew5 #ReflectionsSeries #FaithBasedCrafting #HandmadeCards #InspirationInInk #ShineYourLight #CardmakingWithPurpose
115 2

papertreyink

View

Jun 15

Open
This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sw This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sweet perfection by @kellylunceford — bright, cheerful, and full of handmade joy. 🍓☀️ As the seasons shift, there’s nothing sweeter than rediscovering favorite supplies — and this strawberry-themed card is bursting with sunshine and charm! Kelly shares her annual tradition of crafting with strawberries, pairing fresh colors, layered florals, and playful die cuts to celebrate the start of a new season. Follow along step-by-step and create your own sweet slice of summer! 

Comment INSPIRATION for a link or hop over to our Papertrey Ink blog to check it out.
189 6

papertreyink

View

Jun 14

Open
Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Ou Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Our Vintage Postage Stamp Set lets you turn any card into a charming piece of happy mail! With its classic postal elements and elegant sentiments, it’s perfect for creating envelope-style card fronts that feel warm, personal, and full of vintage love.

#PapertreyInk #VintagePostage #HappyMail #SnailMailLove #CardmakingInspo #HandmadeCards #StampWithLove
148 0

papertreyink

View

Jun 14

Open
Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Cowboy Boot Die is the perfect blend of western flair and handmade charm. Designed with stitching details in mind, this die makes it easy to craft adorable, dimensional boots for cards, tags, and gift toppers.

Whether you're crafting for Father's Day, a country-themed birthday, or just want to add a little southern charm, this boot was made for makin’!✨ 

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #InStitchesDie #CowboyBootDie #WesternCraftVibes #HandmadeCards #CardmakingInspo #SewCuteCrafts
170 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 13

Open
They’re baaaack! Your favorite dies just rode b They’re baaaack! 
Your favorite dies just rode back into town — and trust us, they won’t stay long! From fan-favorite layers to card-front classics, this restock is full of must-haves you’ve been waiting for.
 🛒 Shop Now before they're gone again!  https://www.papertreyink.com/back-in-stock/
136 0

papertreyink

View

Jun 13

Open
Tiny details, big love! 👶💗 Our Baby Steps Di Tiny details, big love! 👶💗 Our Baby Steps Die Set is packed with all the adorable pieces you need to create the sweetest baby shoes and pacifier accents for your handmade cards, tags, and keepsakes. 

From delicate bows and tiny laces to soft soles and pacis, every cut is a step closer to a card that melts hearts. Perfect for baby showers, announcements, or welcoming a little one into the world—because every card should start with a baby step.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #BabyStepsDie #HandmadeWithLove #BabyCards #NewArrivalCrafts #CardmakingInspo #TinyDetailsBigLove
177 7

Copyright © 2025 · Papertrey Ink.