How to make and use Inspiration Jars to spark ideas, explore your stash, and try something new in your crafting
Feeling stuck in your crafting? Not sure what to try next?
This fun and flexible idea is perfect for when:
- You feel overwhelmed by your stash
- You want to try something different but don’t know where to begin
- You’re looking for a creative boost without starting a whole new project
Inspiration Jars give you simple, stash-based prompts to get your ideas flowing again.
This will help you:
- Use your stash (even the forgotten bits at the back of the cupboard!)
- Try new tools and techniques you might not reach for often
- Add a surprise twist to your projects that you might never have planned
How It Works
You’ll have two jars (or envelopes, boxes, mugs — whatever you have handy):
- Tools & Techniques Jar – filled with prompts like “Heat embossing”, “Stamping”, or “Ink blending”
- Products Jar – filled with items like “Washi tape”, “Tags”, or “Alcohol inks”
Step 1: Download the free PDF lists below (or create your own, tailored to your stash)
Step 2: Cut out the strips.
Step 3: Leave out anything you don’t have in your stash.
Step 4: Pop them into your jars (or envelopes).
💡 My jars are actually empty jam jars that I coloured on the inside with Alcohol Pearl Inks – a quick, easy way to make them pretty and uniquely mine.
When it’s time to create:
- Draw two strips from the Tools & Techniques jar
- Draw two strips from the Products jar
- Use all four prompts (or at least one or two) somewhere in your project
That’s it – simple, fun, and the perfect way to get inspired.
Join Our Monthly Inspiration Jar Challenge!
Don’t want to make your own jars? No problem!
Starting in September 2025, join our Make in Wonder Inspiration Jar Challenge.
Here’s how it works:
On the first Friday of every month, we’ll reveal four brand-new prompts – two tools/techniques and two products – for you to use in a creative project.
It’s completely free, and a fun way to:
- Stay inspired all month long
- Use more of your stash
- Try something new with your memory keeping or journaling
CLUB members will find the monthly prompts shared in the CLUB Facebook group, but we’ll also post them on Instagram and Facebook for everyone to join in!
A Few Tips for Success:
- Be flexible. If a prompt feels tricky, adapt it to work for your style.
- Mix old favourites with new ideas. You might rediscover a product you haven’t used in years!
- Document your challenge. Snap a photo of your four prompts before you start — it’s fun to look back and see what sparked your project.
- Share your results. Post your creation on Instagram or Facebook (CLUB members can post in our Make in Wonder CLUB Facebook group) and tag us and use #makeinwondermakers so we can see (and maybe feature!) your work.
Your Free Download:
This file includes both the Tools & Techniques list and the Products list.
Cut them out, pop them in your jars, and start using them whenever you need a little creative boost!