Finding Focus

Sorting colors in my studio over the past month has been both inspiring and challenging. As an artist who works with fabric, I often find it difficult to focus on just one technique at a time. My mind races through ideas for art quilts, scrap fabric projects, and slow stitching. Each technique sparks new creativity, making it hard to settle on a single path. To manage this, I’ve found a way to work on several projects simultaneously, but all within the same color family. This approach gives me a kind of focus while still allowing my creativity to flow freely.

Right now, my workspace is filled with camo-colored fabrics.

On my table, I have a few machine-sewn art quilts in progress, a slow-stitch wall art piece that will take a long time since it’s all hand-stitched, and the beginnings of a patchwork vest. I don’t have to leave the studio to find what I need

fabrics, buttons, zippers and threads for hundreds of projects are right here. Sometimes, though, I do step out for a cup of coffee to clear my head.

The Challenge of Finding Focus

Many artists and makers face the same challenge I do: the urge to jump between sewing, quilting, and upcycling projects. Each technique offers something unique, and it’s tempting to explore them all at once. But this can lead to scattered energy and unfinished projects.

I’ve noticed that when I try to focus on just one technique, my mind wanders to others. For example, while sorting fabrics for quilting, I might suddenly think about making fabric flowers

or upcycling scraps into new designs. This creative overflow can be exciting but also overwhelming.

How Working Within a Color Family Helps

To handle this, I started grouping projects by color. Working within a single color family creates a visual and thematic focus. It’s not about limiting creativity but about channeling it in a way that feels manageable.

My current camo color palette includes greens, browns, and muted earth tones. This palette ties together my machine-sewn art quilts, the slow-stitch wall piece, and the patchwork vest. Even though the techniques differ, the color connection gives a sense of unity.

Balancing Multiple Projects

Working on several projects at once requires some planning. I keep a rough schedule for each piece, setting small goals like finishing a quilt block or completing a section of hand stitching. This helps me make steady progress without feeling stuck.

Here’s how I balance my projects:

• Machine-sewn art quilts: I work on these when I have access to my sewing machine and want to make faster progress.

• Slow-stitch wall art: This is my hand-stitching project, perfect for quiet moments or evenings. It’s slow but meditative.

• Patchwork vest: This project combines sewing and upcycling, using fabric scraps and old garments. It’s a fun way to experiment with texture and design.

  
  

Having these different rhythms keeps my creative energy flowing without burnout.

The Role of Upcycling in My Work

Upcycling plays a big part in my studio practice. Using scrap fabrics and repurposed materials not only reduces waste but also adds character to my projects.

Upcycling also fits well with working in color families. I sort scraps by color, making it easier to find pieces that fit the current palette. This way, even small fabric bits find new life in my projects.

Tips for Staying Focused in a Creative Space

If you find yourself juggling multiple sewing, quilting, or upcycling projects, here are some tips that might help in finding focus:

• Group projects by color or theme to create visual focus

• Set small, achievable goals for each project to maintain momentum

• Keep your workspace organized with easy access to materials

• Allow yourself breaks to step away and refresh your mind

• Use different techniques to suit your mood or time available

  
  

These strategies can help you enjoy the variety of your creative work without feeling overwhelmed.

Embracing the Creative Flow

Sometimes, the best ideas come when you let your mind wander between techniques. Instead of fighting the urge to switch projects, I embrace it by working on several things at once. The key is to find a way to keep that flow productive and focused.

Working within a color family has been a simple but effective way to do this. It gives my projects a common thread and helps me feel grounded even as I explore different techniques.

If you’re struggling to focus on one project or technique, try grouping your work by color or theme. You might find it easier to balance your creative energy and enjoy the process more.

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