Get Inspired – Design Resources and Ideas

June 11th, 2009

As a web designer I know, sometimes the creativity well begins to run dry. For these instances I have had to compile together a few tricks when a little outside inspiration is needed in order to start the juices flowing again.

First of all, don’t try to force anything. Sometimes it is important to take a step back from whatever you are creating and re-assess. Oftentimes I get very caught up in what I am doing, which is a dangerous leeway into frustration. I find it helps to switch tasks for a while, or even leave the computer and take a walk; when you come back to your design you can see it again with a fresh pair of eyes.

We are not all creative geniuses, it is impossible to come up with new, interesting ideas consistently. I do not recommend plagiarism, but taking a look online at websites similar to the style you are trying to achieve may provide new inspiration for your own works. A great resource for this is http://visionwidget.com/showcase/graphics/84-get-design-inspiration-online.html, it features 50 beautiful websites full of unique styles and layouts.

Get a second opinion. People generally know what they like and it is important to remember that your design isn’t going to just be viewed by other designers, so have some friends or colleagues critique your work.

Try some fresh colours. Oftentimes it is difficult to pinpoint exactly why a design isn’t working, so in order to jumpstart what may feel like a flat idea, try completely re-vamping your current colour scheme. This is a quick and simple way to overhaul the look of a piece, modernize something classic, or change an overall mood you are trying to portray. I like using the Colour Schemer Gallery, http://www.colorschemer.com/schemes/ for ideas on which shades work well together. This website is based off the colour schemes of various websites, which you can go and preview.

Finally, remember that design is supposed to be fun! Don’t make it just about work; create some personal artwork in your own time. Developing your personal style should be enjoyable!

A few more great resources:

http://www.gomediazine.com/category/freebies/

For some vector freebies

http://blog.uprinting.com/10-fab-flyer-design-ideas/

Beautiful flyer designs

http://www.texturelovers.com/

A great resource for textures