Keeping a Design Journal/Notebook

I keep a design journal for ideas for jewelry. I take it with me everywhere (to work, to our studio, on vacation and even when I go to my parents' house for dinner). I'm constantly adding things to it. I draw out designs that I think of, tape pictures of jewelry from magazines in it, write out the steps to new projects (what size wire worked, what didn't, how it oxidized, etc.), tips that I've picked up online, lists of items I need for my next project, and lists of interesting websites that I've run across and want to revisit. So many times, I've done a project and then forgotten what size wire I used or where I bought the beads from. So now, when I do a new project, I keep track of that stuff in my journal. And as everyone knows, my true desire is to do something jewelry related full time, and until then, I get to work my corporate job during the day with endless meetings. So I'm constantly doodling in meetings and drawing out interesting wire designs. I always make sure to keep those little scraps and tape them into my design journal later.

My journal is actually an artist's sketchbook. But a 3-ring binder works great too. There is a fellow beader at my local monthly seed bead meetings that keeps a binder with all of the seed bead directions in it and a sample of each new technique she tries. That way, when she goes back to do the design later, she has a sample to go by and her notes. I don't know if she does this, but it would be a great place for her to also stick in her original designs or keep track of colors that work well together or where she buys certain seed beads. I, of course, started one just for seed bead projects as soon as I saw hers.

I've tried to get Chad to keep one. He creates such incredible glass beads and pendants and I'll ask him to recreate one he's done previously. Sometimes he can figure out the colors and sometimes he can't remember what he's used. But he will never write down what he's used....grrrr.... Maybe one day I'll nag him enough that he'll do it - if not for himself, at least for me when I want him to recreate one of his beautiful beads. ha ha ha

So who out there keeps a design journal? I'd love to hear about yours... If you don't keep one, I highly recommend it. When you actually have the spare time to make jewelry but can't come up with a design, it's an instant resource for ideas!!!

By the way, Chad and I are going to FINALLY keep the blog going regularly. So be sure to check back often for updates on the store, new merchandise, sale items, project ideas and tips and tricks. And we'd LOVE to hear from you!!!! Feel free to post your responses on the blog.

-Amanda