Inspired

[Wolfdog]

MIGHT BE A SILLY ? BUT HOW DO YOU STAY INSPIRED TO COMPLEAT A PROJECT? I HAVE 3 OR 4 STARTED PROJECTS AND I GET SO FAR AND JUST QUIT AND START SOMETHING ELESE. I STARTED WAY BACK IN THE EARLY 90'S AND DID SOME PROJECTS AND THEN MOVED ON TO SOMETHING ELESE. NOW I HAVE AGAIN PICKED THIS UP BUT I AM HAVEING TROUBLE STAYING WITH IT. DOES THIS MEAN I DON'T HAVE THE DESIRE TO CARVE ? DOES THIS HAPPEN TO ANYONE ELESE? THANKS FOR ANY AND ALL REPLIES!

[againstthegrain]

I don't think you are alone with this. I have several projects started but not finished as well. I find that when I am satisfied with my work, I tend to complete a project, but when I am dissatisfied with the way a particular piece is turning out, I put it down and move to another one. I have a fear of trying to make it better and in my haste and impatience, might end up ruining it so it is better for me to leave it alone for the time being.

I also enjoy trying different types of carving, such as chip, regular, or relief, so it depends on my mood each evening as to what I pick up to carve on. I am the same way with books. I have 3 novels that I am currently reading and it drives my spouse crazy. He doesn't understand how I can keep the story lines straight.

[Ron T]

Hi Mike,

I don't know if it's a lack of desire or if, you're like me and, you get stuck on a part of the carving.

I have over 15 projects started and many of them are 80 - 90% complete. Some need sanding, but they have small areas that I figure out how to get to so I put it asiede. Some need bases and I can't decide how I want them mounted. I have several heads done but I don't know what to do with the remainder, like the hair or a neckerchief or necklace to, or, well, you get it.

[Lonewolfcarver]

I find working on more than one project at a time is better for me creatively. If I get stuck on one I move on to the next. While working on the second project I may discover a way of finishing the first. I also like to leave my unfinished pieces out where I can see them cause you never know when inspiration will hit and you can pick them up again.

[squbrigg]

I recall from some training I took years ago, about the differences in personalities.

Some folks are focused on the process of doing something,
Some folks are focused on the finished item.
Others wouldn't have a clue that there is even something there to do,
And a fourth couldn't be bothered doing anything.

I forget all of the other traits that go with each type, but, if I recall correctly, there were four destinct personalitie types. It was very surprising what you can learn if you put your mind to it, ......... now if I could only remember things, I'd be laughing!!!

Bob

[Wolfdog]

Thanks For A Lot Of Great Info,sounds Just Like I Feel Too. Maybe There Is Hope For Me. I love this Site, No Longer Than I Have Been Reading Here I Have Picked Up A Lot Of Things To Think About.

[squbrigg]

Mike, let me ask you ....... have you finished any projects carving yet? I'm serious.

For any new carver, success is important. Success breeds success! If you feel good about achieving something, it will instill a desire to achieve better and better things. So if you carve something and you are happy with the results, you will be motivated to go on to something more challenging. If you stop mid way through and go on to something else, you loose out on the gratification of doing it in the first place.

I always recommend starting simple and work your way up. But finish each piece, good or bad. You learn by doing, not by reading about it or watching someone else. You will make mistakes and how to fix them or do better the next time. That is how you learn.

It's only wood! Carve plenty, carve often, and carve all kinds of things. Gain experience as you go. Practice, practice, practice. An overnight carving success, usually takes a few years of nights!

Bob

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Anytime I have had a problem finishing a project was when I wasn't sure what step to take next! Think out where you want to go and try to visualize the finished product.....then you are off and running....err at least walking

[kitaye]

I always have several projects on the go,including some non-carving ones. When I get tired of one I move to the next. Eventually I get back around to the beginning. It took me 6 months to finish a simple spatula but it did get done.

[Thor]

If it helps to know you're not alone, then please feel better.

My kids have always called my way of distracting myself from one thing to another "something shiny syndrome".
If there is something in my head, interrupting the process of completing something I'm already working on, then I go ahead and start it. I know that I will eventually get back to the one I was working on. Sometimes it helps to stop, make a few drawings of my ideas instead of actually trying to start them, but not often. I think I have close to 20 projects going at once now, and that's just carvings. I'm also building 3 different projects for my house...the box beds, a kitchen cabinet, and a book shelf. I am trying to get them all done by the Thanksgiving....ha ha ha.

I think I actually raised my kids this way and they are all grown up now and have turned out just fine.
Thor