Welcome to our INSPIRE page
This page is for anyone looking for something new to create. You will find free resources, project ideas, videos and techniques covering many different types of art and crafts.
Whether you are a Hartist, a friend of dAFi or simply searching for inspiration, we hope you find something here that makes you curious and excited to create. We add new ideas as we find them, so please visit again.
Maria Sibylla Merian, Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium (1705)
A stunning natural history work showing insects together with the plants they lived on. It is more ecology and observation and visually striking.
We are glad you stopped by for inspiration. This free PDF of Maria Sibylla Merian’s 1705 book, Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium, is our way of thanking you for visiting. The button may say “Purchase,” but the cost is $0.00 and the PDF will be available to download immediately after you complete the checkout process. No payment is required.
These beautiful public-domain illustrations can be used in collage, mixed media, paper crafting and other creative projects. They come from Maria Sibylla Merian’s 1705 natural history book, which documented insects together with the plants that supported their lives. Her careful observation made the book both scientifically important and visually remarkable.
Interested in felting or received felting supplies you are not sure how to use? This beginner tutorial is a good place to start: https://www.feltify.com/blogs/needle-felting-for-beginners/4-needle-felting-tutorial-for-beginners-needle-felting-cute-no-face-cat-needle-felting-asmr-needle-felting-animals-tutorial You can also watch the videos below for additional felting ideas and techniques
Sewing by Hand
Have fabric but no sewing machine? This video teaches the basics of sewing by hand. Once you understand the basic stitches, choose something that inspires you and begin creating.
Cord Corner
Have paracord, stretch cord, nylon cording or another type of cord you are not sure how to use? These resources can help you get started.
Basic Paracord Bracelet:
https://www.paracordplanet.com/basic-cobra-paracord-bracelet/
Macramé Ideas and Instructions:
https://www.needlepointers.com/main/showarticles.aspx?navid=3814
Beginner Macramé Video:
https://youtu.be/o8fue3bjNWQ
Choose something that interests you and enjoy experimenting.
Make Your Own Art Supplies
Art supplies do not always need to come from an art store. These recipes use common household materials to make paints, clay and other creative supplies. Although several are written for children, the materials can be used by artists of any age.
Collection of 40 Homemade Art Materials
Paints, clay, chalk, playdough and other ideas:
https://artfulparent.com/40-homemade-art-materials-for-kids/
Homemade Watercolor Paints
Made with cornstarch, baking soda, vinegar, corn syrup and food coloring:
https://artfulparent.com/making-homemade-liquid-watercolor-paints/
Homemade Air-Dry Clay
Made with white glue, cornstarch, vinegar and oil:
https://artfulparent.com/how-to-make-your-own-air-dry-clay/
Homemade Puffy Paint
Made with shaving cream, flour, white glue and coloring:
https://artfulparent.com/diy-puffy-paint-for-kids/
Outdoor Chalk Paint
Made with equal amounts of cornstarch and water, plus coloring:
https://artfulparent.com/how-to-make-chalk-paint-for-kids/
Please review the complete instructions before beginning. Do not eat homemade art materials, even when they contain common kitchen ingredients. Consider allergies and sensitivities when choosing a recipe.
Jewelry Wire and Headpins
Different wire gauges work best for different jewelry-making techniques. This guide explains common wire sizes and what you can create with each one:
https://jewelrytutorialhq.com/all-about-jewelry-wire-which-gauge-wire-to-use-for-what
Learn how to use headpins to make beaded dangles for earrings, bracelets and other jewelry:
Loom DIY
Make Your Own Loom
Have yarn, ribbon or other fibers? Try turning them into a woven creation. This free resource explains how to make and use a simple loom:
https://grunewaldguild.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/85/2018/10/Grunewald-weaving-resource.pdf
Yarn Flower Ideas
Use yarn, glue and a small water balloon to create a dimensional yarn decoration:
https://youtu.be/LjFTWlYr6EI?si=cJO2TfkZRerhVGwY
Find more yarn flower projects in our YouTube playlist:
https://youtu.be/TnuoqDS5IKY?list=PLl-jh4j5iuNc0RXyu9btAD3TQ0RStgJW3
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Mixed Media Inspiration
Combine paint, paper, fabric, found objects and other materials without worrying about fitting into one artistic category. Explore our Mixed Media and Beyond Pinterest board for ideas:
https://www.pinterest.com/DisabledArtists/mixed-media-and-beyond/
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Pipe Cleaners and Pom-Poms
Pipe cleaners and pom-poms can become flowers, animals, decorations, small sculptures and many other projects. Explore our Pinterest board for ideas:
https://www.pinterest.com/DisabledArtists/pipecleaners-and-pom-poms/
Explore Color Theory
Color theory can help you understand how colors relate, contrast and work together.
Use these short lessons individually or follow them in order for a broader introduction.
Connect With dAFi
If you are a disabled adult living in the United States and experiencing financial hardship, you can review the Hartist requirements at: http://www.disabledartists.org/apply
If you would like to help us Energize Disabled Through Art, you can donate at: http://www.disabledartists.org/donate