The Spring Effect: Renewal Sparks Creative Energy
I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling uninspired and, truthfully, not good enough during the winter months. When it comes to my creative energy and output, winter becomes a time of creative hibernation.
As I continue to navigate my personal creative journey and reflect on its evolution, I can’t help but consider the influence of seasonal changes.
Spring brings with it a sense of rejuvenation. We celebrate it for its ability to breathe new life and energy into everything. But, beyond the blooming flowers and longer days, there’s a deeper connection between spring and my creative journey.
I found myself a bit lost, trying to recapture the peak of my creative output and inspiration that I experienced last summer. Although I managed to make a handful of garments this winter, none of them resonated with me the way I hoped they would—none gave me the rush of joy I had been chasing for months.
Until the sun came out.
It’s often said that daylight has a direct impact on mood and energy levels—it’s almost like a natural dose of dopamine.
I decided to jump on the “horseshoe” shaped pants wagon (whether you love them or hate them!), and I had been eyeing t the Arthur Pants by Sew Liberated for quite some time. In fact, I believe this pattern has been on my radar since I began sewing garments four years ago.
Originally, I chose to make these pants out of my favorite linen, the IL019 All Purpose Medium Weight- Signature Finish in the color Blue Bonnet because it felt reminiscent of denim (my go-to during colder months). I truly believe that linen can be worn all year round. However, this time, the creative spark just wasn’t there. Even with this on-trend silhouette and the incredibly soft and durable linen.
I dreaded opening the instructions. I lacked the energy to cut out each pant panel (there are four in total for each leg…), and between us, I think I chose the wrong color—a decision that weighed heavily on me… until the sun came out…
Fortunately, the all-purpose linen made the dreaded process of pattern prep easier. After pre-washing, this fabric is a joy to handle, to iron, and to cut.
Acknowledging my lack of drive, I allowed myself to construct the Arthur Pants slowly, never spending more than an hour across multiple days. I made some mistakes along the way, like sewing one back pocket to the inside lower hem of a back leg—I left it there as a reminder of my silly mistake! Ha!
By the time I finished these pants, LA’s short winter was over. We had more sunny days than gray ones, and the temperatures reached those mood-boosting levels. The sun filtered through my office blinds, and I saw the Arthur Pants in a new light (literally and figuratively!). I couldn’t wait to wear them, style them, and live in them.
Creativity isn’t always constant; it fluctuates, often with the seasons. Learning to embrace this natural rhythm is crucial for me as a maker. And… I really like these pants, even when the sun isn’t out.
Leave a comment