2 Great Tips for Collecting Treasures NOT Clutter

Art and collecting go hand in hand and not just because people collect art.

I have yet to meet a fellow creative who does not harness inspiration by hoarding something. Whether it is a resource like we buy at Hobby Lobby or found objects waiting for the perfect project to be incorporated into.

Our stuff can been inspiring and comforting, especially in the moment of acquisition. It can also become overwhelming and even paralyzing. Who knew things could multiply so, when stored in bins and drawers?

If your treasures are weighing you down or inhibiting your motivation to get started, here are 2 great questions to ask yourself.

1- If I had the time, is this how I would want to spend it? This is a big one and your answers may surprise you. I cleared out so many unfinished projects with this simple and revealing thought process. Sometimes unfinished projects have served their purpose through experience and learning or they just outlasted our desire to finish them and that is okay. Give yourself permission to keep only the projects you are still excited to pick up again or move on to something totally new. I personally would rather spend 2 hours on my paddleboard than finish something that no longer sparks my creativity.

2- How much is enough? Trust me, I am a "too much is better than too little" kind of girl, especially when it comes to making dinner. However, when I looked at the number of sequin packages I had, I knew that I could give half of them away and still have enough left to keep a good supply in the studio for possibly years. It is true that sequins don't take up much room, but as creatives we also have a visual mental inventory that can get too full. Unlike physical space, there is no difference between seed beads and the same number of chunky yarn skeins. Imagine pairing things down to what you can actually use in a year or whatever parameter you choose. Maybe designate a specific amount of shelf space or sized container and anything that doesn't fit must go. You will free your space and your mind!

Share your favorite clutter clearing idea below in the comments.