Top 5 Inspirations of 2013

Next in line for the Top 5 extravaganza is my inspirations!  These are the big ones from this year, the people and things that got my brain ticking and my creativity running.

1.  My own stash of old patterns.  It seems like I bring home piles of old patterns whenever I go out.  I have patterns from the 1950s through to the 1990s.  There have been many occasions this year when I've pulled out these patterns and flicked through them for inspiration.  The 1970s skirts, the 80s tops, early 1960s frocks, rompers and blazers and pantsuits oh my!  Entire outfits, garments or just an interesting feature, there are ideas in abundance in these little packages.

A sample of the collection!  I really need to get onto a proper filing system for these.

2.  The excellent menswear pattern company Thread Theory.  When I started looking for patterns for Darron their Parklands collection of patterns covered so many of my needs.  Their great patterns are a wonderful starting point for making mens clothing, great versatile customisable basic pieces.  Their blog is an excellent source of inspiration as they gather together projects made using their patterns.  The Jedediah sew along helped me so much in building my trouser confidence.  I can't wait for their pea coat pattern to be released, it's already got me inspired!

3.  Twitter.  I have so many great friends on the tweeter, some I know in the real world, some live on the other side of the world.  All the talented fibre artists, the knitters, spinners, weavers, the quilters, embroiderers, sewcialists, the shoppers, stylists and writers.  I love the little insights into your projects and lives.  I love the inspiring conversations and the answers to my dilemmas.

4.  Gillian at Crafting a Rainbow, the wonderful mind behind these Top 5 lists, has been a big inspiration to me this year.  I first 'met' Gillian through Me Made May this year, her warm personality shines through her online presence.  Her blog and her colour palette theory has helped me so much in figuring out the colours I love to wear and use for my 12 outfits and my summer capsule wardrobe.  Thanks Gillian!  I hug you through the internet!

5.  My very best friend, the lovely Emma Louise Wilson.

Emma is a very talented stunt person and actress.  I am so proud of what she has achieved this year.  She is following her bliss and doing what she always wanted to do.  She has committed to her dreams and works hard to make them happen.  This has been a huge inspiration to me.  Seeing someone close to me making their passions work made me realise that with commitment and work I can do exactly what I want too.  On top of being part of my family and a great support to me this year, Emma has been one of my biggest inspirations.

Special mention: It goes without saying that my family inspire me, but I'll take this opportunity to mention them anyway!  My parents are creative supportive people who understand the importance of doing something you love.  The believe in me and that I can accomplish and that inspires me.
My Husband is amazing!  Really I wouldn't make an entire 12 outfits for someone who wasn't!  He inspires and encourages me daily.
My kids inspire me every minute of every day.  Their outlook on life, their enthusiasm and imagination are infectious and wonderful.  They inspire me to do what brings me joy, because as a whole and happy person I can be the mother they need and deserve.

Well, that went down a more emotional route than anticipated!  ~sniff~  I am really lucky to be surrounded by inspirations!