
- JoAnn Fabric And Craft Stores
- Michaels
- RedHeart
- Yarnspirations
- Craftsy
JoAnn's is by far the number one place we go for ideas and inspiration. Taking a trip to the store puts you right in the crafting environment. We love the free project sheets they have posted throughout the different departments. You can buy the supplies for the project right there, or simply take the project sheet home and use the supplies you already have. Of course they want you to buy, but no harm, no foul if you can't afford it.
While in the store, you can also stop by their classroom. They usually have finished projects on display which may spark an idea for a new project. You might even catch a class while it's in session.
It doesn't end after your trip to the store because they also have a great website with tons of projects. The helpful thing is that each project has thorough descriptions, material lists, and reviews to help you decide whether the project suits your needs and ability. Their blog "The Creative Spark" provides many ideas and step by step advice for crafters of all levels.
Michaels
Michaels is similar to JoAnn. The difference being that JoAnn has a fabric department where you can have your fabric cut by the yard. I like to say JoAnn's is more sewer friendly.
Michaels also has free project sheets posted throughout the store, and offer classes as well. Their online site provides projects and video tutorials to take your project from start to finish.
RedHeart
RedHeart yarns is for all you knitters and crocheters out there. They offer free patterns to kick-start your projects. We love their website because they also provide tutorial videos for learning and improving techniques. If you sign up for an account, you can download and favorite patterns and products. This really comes in handy since there are so many to choose from.
Yarnspirations
Another one for the knitters and crocheters. This one is a must. Their website has an "Inspiration Machine" which lets you select and find projects based on skill level, season, type, and category. Their blog gives helpful advice, work a-longs, and giveaways that also help with project creations.
Craftsy
One of our favorites, Craftsy is a robust platform for any craft enthusiast. It caters to sewing, knitting, crocheting, drawing, and many other crafts. There is an online community/gallery where people post finished projects, complete with details on the materials used and their source of inspiration. Browsing through the gallery helps get those creative juices flowing. The Craftsy Blog gives great advice and conducts class giveaways periodically. Another great thing is they have kits available for purchase that come complete with the pattern and required fabrics/materials, eliminating the need to find and purchase them separately.
So there you have it. Our top 5 spots for project ideas and inspiration. This is by no means the definitive list. Where do you go for project ideas and inspiration? Tell us how you get your creative juices flowing in the comments below. We may share them in a future post!