I am a sucker for free stuff, but who isn’t?!  In my crafting world, there are three types of free “stuff” that I cherish: free patterns, free ideas, and free items.

Free patterns are everywhere if you look for them (or subscribe to emails that send them directly to you!).  Some, like the American Flag pictured, are provided by companies looking to sell you something.  Others are provided by crafters who just love sharing their passion and spreading the joy of creating.

Pinterest is the Mecca for free ideas, but truthfully…any magazine, home design show, or friend’s living room can do the same thing – inspire.

I think its safe to say I don’t go a day without being inspired.

Sharing ideas leads to modifications and tweaks that develop new ideas and promote innovation.  I worry that I may use someone’s idea too literally without due credit, but by the same token, I hope that I can provide ideas to the world in the same way and expect no credit. (NOTE: I do try my hardest to list sources and do not condone stealing/piracy!)

Finally, there’s found items; things you come across – whether in nature or a dumpster or grandma’s closet – that just scream “I’m useful!”  I tend to horde many of these such items in my craft room, which my fiance is fine with…as long as they stay in the craft room.  I’m pretty sure I could walk past pretty much any pile of rubble and feel the wheels start turning.

So why this post today?  I told myself my email folder of promotional messages needed a scrubbing tonight and I can’t just delete things without looking at them…right?  The next hour flew by looking through free patterns on Lion Brand’s website which lead to many, many new project thoughts and money saving schemes.  Do you have this problem too?  Or are you able to keep your projects in check?  I mean…I still have wedding crafts to do before the fall hits!  How does one “pause” creativity?!