Thursday 27 August 2009

Direction

I'm feeling a little directionless today. Part of the problem is having so many ideas and things I want to do in my head and then just not having enough time to explore and develop any of them.

Because I work full time, its really hard to find time to make and design things. At the moment I seem to be making a really wide range of items and I am thinking perhaps I need to concentrate on one area. But then I kind of feel like its a bit scary to commit.

I suppose part of the problem is that sales are quiet at the moment, so its not like something is selling really well and its obvious which area to concentrate on.

I am a member of Nottingham Craft Mafia and I had my little review last night, which I suppose is why I have really started thinking about it (although to be honest its been at the back of my mind a while). It was good to get some well needed advice and opinions. But the advice seemed to be to concentrate more on the textile pictures and wall hangings.

Now in a way this is what I want to hear, as this is what I enjoy doing most and I personally think I am best at. But artworks seem really hard to sell, as its a more personal thing and people seem to consider a picture as more of a commitment. I think it just seems a much harder market to crack, which I think is why I have been making lots of other things.

I think perhaps that maybe I should just stop thinking about things too much and just get on with it, and make what I enjoy and hopefully by doing that sales will follow. Its just a bit hard sometimes! ...... sorry I have gone on a bit today!





6 comments:

  1. Sorry to hear you are a bit off today. I think everyone has moments when they question what they do. Personally I think it's great that you have a wide variety of products. I know that I would be a little bored if I was to only choose one creative discipline. Hpe you feel better soon :)

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  2. I can relate to how you are feeling 'cos I get days like that. What I tend to do is walk away from it and do something else and start back later with a fresh mind. Hope the successful, creative mind soon returns and good luck with sales. A x

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  3. I know where you're coming from. I love to do a bit of what I call 'serious' sewing, but it's my funny items that sell -so I concentrate on them - as awful as it sounds, sometimes you really do need the extra cash.

    I think you work is very beautiful - do what your heart tells you & I'm sure you'll soon feel better. The new season is nearly upon us & & it may help you to feel creatively refreshed too. Good luck with everything xx

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  4. Thanks everyone for you all your supportive comments. Feeling a but more positive today.

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  5. helen, i know what you mean, i am feeling a bit the same at the moment, too much going round in my head, loads of ideas, but simply not enough time to develop them, or even get any ideas down in my sketchbook. And even when I do get to sit down in the studio, like today, I'm at a loss for what to do!! What is up with us girls??

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  6. I think your textile are really beautiful, keep making and the down turn in the markets will change then you'll have lots of stock!
    Selling textiles I believe is a tactile thing, so try to do some craft fairs and always add some smaller cheaper items that have your name stamped on them, it's your calling card.
    Good luck!

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