sam_98

One thing Julia Cameron advocates is using "morning Pages". They are 3 pages of long hand, strictly stream of consciousness, sometimes "brain drain", sometimes diary, sometimes planning. This course has you deal with artist child, and help rediscover creativity. The spiritual part will work for anyone. Julia wants all to be open, and as a Christian, I know God is at work in my life, but others will think of "Higher Power" in different terms. So don't let the Spiritual part keep you from checking this out and see if you benefit from it. The other thing she advocates is an "Artist's Date" each week. Sounds corny, but i

katei

It's ok - just don't beat yourself up on it. We all take breaks from time to time. How about having coffee with an old quilting buddy and see if that brings the inspiration back.

mlaceruby

Maybe you need a change of style!
I embroidered for almost 10 years(8+ hours a day) and sold items at craft shows and online.Made embroidered quilt blocks and quilts with them. I got really burn't out! It became work!
so NO more embroidery!
and I discovered batiks! something that I thought I hated.
I liked everything traditional and they looked to modern.
Now I love them and piecing has given me a new creative burst!
But don't force yourself, maybe get a new book or take a class.

sam_98

The Artist's Date" is a block of time, perhaps two hours a week, especially set aside and committed to nuturing your creative consciousness, your inner artist. It is an excursion, or a play date with your artist child. You take no one with you. Last time I went through the book, I did the artist date. This summer I keep realizing I am going the week and not getting it done. I am still a work in process.

sewmuchmore

Maybe you can help someone who wants to learn how to quilt and bring her under your wing. Through helping her you may find your zeal for quilting again. Just something to think about.

marciacp

Jan,
That is an interesting way to look at it. I think you are right - I quilted and then I 'retired'. Actually a lot of this started after I sold my on-line shop. I continued designing patterns for a
fabric manufacturer for about a year after that, but then life
happened, and I stopped that too. I have continued to do a lot
of designing at home, and have maybe 20 more patterns designed, but can't even seem to make the samples for them so that I can test the instruction and have a quilt for the pattern cover. Right now, I don't really want to design professionally,
I just want to regain the enjoyment I have always had for making
quilts. I thought about taking a class in something very different from my style - maybe I should give that serious thought.
Marcia

marciacp

Karen,
I haven't considered that, and I truly love teaching, at least
when it is actual bodies in front of me. I am always happy to
share what I have learned and I could consider your suggestion.
Marcia

marciacp

Sam,
I appreciate all your comments and suggestions. And I will have to say that the Christian aspect would appeal to me, because I am a Christian also. I will keep you suggestions in mind.
Thanks,
Marcia

marciacp

I don't know your name, but I sure appreciate your idea. I would love it if I could find someone that would like to learn how to quilt
and then help her. Also, I see that you are from GA. Even though I don't live there now, I was born and raised there. Great state!!
Marcia

thequilteddove

I can relate completely. I retired & started an LA business. I've only been doing it for a few years, but I find I don't have any time for myself and it really has taken the 'joy' out of it. I haven't made/finished a quilt for myself since January! I love hearing how pleased my customers are w/their quilts and all, but like everything you do day in & day out, it looses it appeal after a while.

I haven't decided to give up my business, but I have been taking the time to enjoy my summer more this year :)