Writers block is widely accepted as a common issue writer’s face when it comes to ‘getting in the creative zone’. Well,the same goes for crafters!

Sometimes, even though you have all the tools and the time — it just isn’t happening.

To help you set the mood, we spoke to several creative folk who shared their advice, discovered some top tips from the creatives in-the-know and pulled together our own thoughts on how to get in the creative zone…

1. Give yourself time

“Give yourself space and time to be creative. I allocate specific time slots to just ‘being creative’, sometimes this results in a little quiet time flicking through magazines but on other occasions I can create something new, or come up with an idea by just having a few moments to think.”

Monica Welburn, Blogger and founder of The Elgin Avenue 

2. Listen to some music you don’t usually listen to.

Listening to your go-to Beyoncé playlist can help you get stuff done but to really get in the mood, try shaking things up and listening to something you wouldn’t usually listen to. It can spark a new way of thinking and lead to new ideas.

3. Go back to the start…

“Never be afraid of starting over. A lot of the time it’s easier to start fresh”

Kim Lawler, Creative Designer speaking to Mollie Makes. 

4. Switch off from technology

“Getting in the creative zone in an office environment can be tricky, so I try to switch off from all other tasks whilst I’m working on something creative. I always draw out my sketches for photo-shoots by hand so I can picture exactly what I’m working on and it feels good to get away from the computer and back to basics.”

Cassie Pryce, Style At Home’s Deputy Home Editor

5. Exercise

A short run, a yoga class or even just a walk can do wonders for clearing your head. Once you have finished you will be de-stressed and relaxed ready to get down to it!

6.  Meet up with your creative pals

“I love to surround myself with creative people. They love life with such a contagious way.”

Rachel Wolchin, writer 

7. Just go for it!

“My main tip is just get started and go for it. Gather together your ideas in your mood boards and you’ll soon see your scheme develop. If you’re painting and it’s not exactly what you were after, then just paint it again — you can’t really go wrong.”

Cheryl Lumley, Blogger and Upcycling Expert

8. Surround yourself with inspiration

“There are some great blogs around that really make you want to be creative; www.brittanymakes.com, www.thegatheredhome.com, www.recyclart.org to name but a few. Joining a craft or upcycling workshop and being surrounded by others who are keen to get create is a brilliant way to get in the zone. Of course, there is Pinterest and YouTube, both of which offer lots of tutorials to inspire you.”

Chris Billinghurst, Founder #UpcycledHour and owner of Upcycled Homes

9. Think about the final product

“Make what you like! Make what you want to see. I ALWAYS start there.”

Amina Mucciolo, Founder of Studio Mucci

10. Have a shower (or bath)

It’s true what they say, some of our best ideas come to us when we are in the shower. Whether you’re a bath or a shower person, being surrounded by water can be inspiring.

Have you got a tip to share? Tweet us @MakeItRustoleum and we’ll add our favourites to the list.