Sara Barnes, Author at My Modern Met

16 New Year’s Resolution Ideas for Creative People To Make in 2024

Sara Barnes — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 01:23:39 +0000

16 New Year’s Resolution Ideas for Creative People To Make in 2024

Photo: Stock Photos from Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Every year, people declare their New Year's resolutions and are determined to make the coming 365 days their best yet. Many think about hitting the gym or getting their finances in order. But as a creative person, you might have different goals. If you’re struggling with what to focus on in 2024, we’ve got New Year's resolution ideas that artists, photographers, designers, and crafters can easily adopt.

One of the most important resolutions you make this year is to list and keep track of your goals. Doing this, especially at the beginning of January, will give you a clearer picture of what you want to accomplish. But it’s not enough to just write down a few ideas and leave them be. Make a commitment to revisiting these goals from time to time—whether that’s weekly or monthly—to see how you’re progressing towards them and what needs to change.

Get more New Year's resolution ideas for creatives by scrolling down.

Looking for New Year's resolution ideas? Scroll down for our list of new year suggestions that are specifically for creative folks!

1. Make a list and keep track of your goals. Studies show that people who write down their goals are more likely to achieve them. But while big dreams are nice, tackling them can also feel overwhelming. Journals like Ink + Volt and the SELF Journal marry daily productivity with long-term plans to help you move towards your goals each day in a manageable way.

2. Make more time for your art. Whether it’s five minutes, an hour, or even more—extra time can lead to more creative projects. Try limiting your time on social media with an app, or better yet, taking a social media break to inspire you to buckle down on a project you’ve been wanting to try.

3. Finish a small project. Everyone has to start somewhere, so even if your resolutions list is full of large-scale projects, try including a small one to start so that you’ll feel encouraged to bring it to completion.

4. Network with creatives IRL. Join a professional networking group or attend events where you’ll be with other like-minded creative souls. (Creative Mornings is a great place to start.) Think networking is scary? Try going with a friend or meeting people online first. Just make sure you branch out while you're there!

5. Explore a new facet of your field. Is there something in your field that you’ve always wanted to try? Learning a different approach or technique isn’t just fun, but it can be beneficial, too. Once you know it, you could integrate it into your current work and take your portfolio to places you never thought it would go.

Stock Photos from Iakov Filimonov/Shutterstock

6. Make a dedicated space for you to work in. If you’ve got room, do some rearranging and make a space dedicated to creating your artwork. Even so much as having a desk is a great way to get you in the mindset of creation.

7. Attend more galleries, craft markets—anything that’s within your field. Get out of your studio and see what other people are making and doing. If you’re a painter, challenge yourself to attend more gallery shows. For makers, it’s always helpful to attend craft markets to see how other people are marketing their wares. (Both are great opportunities to network!)

8. Show your work to someone. If you’re an artist who’s starting out or a student fresh out of school, make it your goal to start showing your work to the world. This can be in person, or on social media platforms like Instagram, Behance, and TikTok.

9. Look for inspiration offline. Scrolling through Instagram can be inspiring, but it can also give you some serious envy of other people’s projects and careers. Put down your phone and tablet, close your laptop, and look for inspiration offline—whether that’s in a museum, flipping through an art magazine, exploring the urban jungle, or going on a hike. Notice what catches your eye and think about how it can inspire your work.

10. Get a new hobby. Our creative lives don't happen in a vacuum. While you're looking for inspiration away from your computer and phone, consider picking up a new interest that doesn't have anything to do with your artwork. If you're a designer, try cake decorating. You might be surprised by the ways in which another outlet will infuse your other work with new life.

11. Read more books. In addition to finding inspiration offline, another resolution idea is to read more books. They could complement your creative practice or be totally unrelated to it—who knows, you might glean some knowledge you can use in your work.

Photo: Stock Photos from Jacob Lund/Shutterstock

12. Join a Facebook group for people in your industry. This is another form of networking, albeit digital, that can help you form meaningful connections with other people in your industry. Facebook has thousands of groups for all types of creatives. My Modern Met even has one you can join: Art, Design, Photography, and Drawing Club.

13. Attend a conference. Conferences can be a financial commitment, but if you can swing them, they are valuable (and fun) opportunities to meet like-minded people, learn the latest techniques, and understand the issues that are affecting your industry.

14. Find ways to give back to your community through creativity. If you're feeling the desire to volunteer, consider ways in which you can use your creative skills to help where you live. That could be doing design work for a community organization or using your writing skills to aid another in spreading their message. Try seeking out these opportunities this year.

15. Take care of your body and mental health. You are not a machine, so make sure you take time to replenish yourself. Get enough rest (most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep) and find a workout routine that works for you. Meditation apps can help ease the mind of anxiety, and keeping a gratitude journal can show you all the good that's in your life.

16. Be afraid and do it anyway. There are a lot of ways you can talk yourself out of taking that next step in your creative practice. One of the biggest is that “it’s just not the right time.” We hate to break it to you, but there will never be a “right time,” so it’s best to just start. You’ll be glad you did.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 16 New Year’s Resolution Ideas for Creative People To Make in 2024

25 Gifts Under $25 That Are Thoughtfully Creative Without Breaking the Bank

Sara Barnes — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 04:20:25 +0000

25 Gifts Under $25 That Are Thoughtfully Creative Without Breaking the Bank

Has your wallet been feeling a little light as of late? If you’re watching what you spend (like so many of us), My Modern Met Store is here to help. We've made it easy to find high-quality gifts under $25 so that you won't have to miss out on holidays or special moments. Whether you’re purchasing presents for upcoming parties or in search for a little way to say “thank you,” we have you covered with a bevy of unique gifts your friends and family are sure to love.

Some of our most popular products are under $25, proving that the best things come in small packages—and they'll be winners for any gift-giving occasion. One of our best sellers is the Small Wooden Cat Pile. It’s a fun game nicknamed “Cat Jenga” that comes with six teak wood felines. Try your luck at stacking these kitties as high as you can without them toppling over. Looking for even more of a challenge? You can always add more Cat Piles to the bunch and up the difficulty!

Scroll down to peruse our picks for cool gifts that won’t break the bank. For even more items under $25, check out our entire selection in My Modern Met Store.

Looking for the perfect present that won't break the bank? Check out My Modern Met Store's selection of cool gifts under $25!

Personal Style

Yayoi Toesama Socks

Chattyfeet | $12.50

Frida Kahlo Temporary Tattoo Set

Tattly | $15

Woman's Haori With Cranes Reusable Tote Bag

LOQI | $17.50

In Bloom Temporary Tattoo

Tattly | $15

Pablo Picatso Enamel Pin

Niaski | $12.50

Frida Kahlo Bag

Unemployed Philosophers Guild | $14.95

Camera Earrings

Yellow Owl Workshop | $21.50

Basquicat Enamel Pin

Niaski | $12.50

Toys, Games, and Activities

Small Wooden Cat Pile

Comma | $20

For the Home

Birds on a Wire Mug

Unemployed Philosophers Guilds | $19.95

Splatypus Jar Scraper

OTOTO | $14.95

Starry Night Candle

Flatyz | $17.95

Jungle Spoon

OTOTO | $16

Frida Kahlo Mug

Unemployed Philosophers Guild | $19.95

Pasta Monster Serving Spoons

OTOTO | $17.95

Books

Artists and Their Cats Book

Alison Nastasi | $16.95

Pocket Maya Angelou Wisdom Book

Hardie Grant | $9.99

Great Masters Page Flag Set

Girl of All Work | $7.50

Fantastic Cities Adult Coloring Book

Steve McDonald | $14.95

Viviva A5 Ivory Sketchbook

Viviva Colorsheets | $16

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 25 Gifts Under $25 That Are Thoughtfully Creative Without Breaking the Bank

Cyber Monday Deal at My Modern Met Store: Save 15% on All of Our Creative Products

Sara Barnes — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 10:55:11 +0000

Cyber Monday Deal at My Modern Met Store: Save 15% on All of Our Creative Products

We don’t mean to alarm you, but there is less than a month until the start of Hanukkah and the morning of Christmas day. Now is the time to get started on your holiday shopping. After all, you don’t want to wait until the last minute and be scrambling for a gift—especially as more people are buying online and sending presents in the mail this year. Let us give you some motivation to get shopping with our Cyber Monday discount at My Modern Met Store. Take 15% off your entire order when you use the code CYBERMONDAY2023 until 11:59 PM PT on December 3, 2023.

The holidays are a perfect opportunity to buy something special for your favorite person. We’re happy to report that we’ve got something for everyone. Know a sneakerhead? We've got a poster that will put their knowledge to the test. The Sneakerheads poster highlights “some of the greatest moments in the history of the modern sneaker.” See if your giftee can identify them all. If your gift recipient is a space lover, look no further than the Space Time Hourglass necklace with meteorite dust. This pendant features a piece of genuine Campo del Cielo meteorite; every necklace contains a slightly different meteorite, making each one completely unique.

So, what are you waiting for? Check out My Modern Met Store to see our entire selection of creative products from makers around the world. When you’re ready to checkout, remember to use CYBERMONDAY2023 to save 15% on your entire order. And if you spend over $100, the shipping is on us (for U.S. locations only).

With the holidays rapidly approaching, now is the time to check out our Cyber Monday deal at My Modern Met Store! Save 15% on your entire order when you use the code CYBERMONDAY2023 at checkout.

Sneakerheads Poster

Dorothy | $39.95

Space Time Hourglass Necklace with Meteorite Dust

Yugen Handmade | $55

Lyfe Levitating Planter

Flyte | $299

Great Wave Socks

Curator Socks | $14.25

Fuji from Gotenyama Tote Bag

LOQI | $14.50

PyroPet Einar Unicorn Candle

54Celcius | $39

Deskspace Solar System Series With Sun Lamp

DeskX | $368

Moon Chalk – Color Set

Nikolas Bentel | $34

RGB & CYMK Earrings

Yellow Owl Workshop | $21.50

‘Frida Catlo' Enamel Pin

Niaski | $12.50

Vincent van Gogh Action Figure

Today is Art Day | $29.99

Optic Table Tiles

Bower Studios | $18

Mon Cherry Measuring Spoons and Egg Separator

OTOTO | $15.95

Cubebot Multicolored Wood

David Weeks | $28

David Toewie Socks

Chattyfeet | $12.50

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: Cyber Monday Deal at My Modern Met Store: Save 15% on All of Our Creative Products

37 Creative Gifts Under $10 That’ll Make Someone Feel Like a Billion Bucks in 2023

Sara Barnes — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 04:20:28 +0000

37 Creative Gifts Under $10 That’ll Make Someone Feel Like a Billion Bucks in 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

You don’t have to break the bank in order to give a meaningful holiday gift. There are plenty of creative gifts that’ll help you celebrate the season—and they cost $10 and under. These small tokens make the perfect gift for coworkers or for other situations where you want to express your gratitude during this time of year. And we promise these inexpensive gifts will make a big impact.

Finding the perfect Christmas gift on a budget is all about careful consideration of your recipient’s interests, then finding things to complement those hobbies. Do they like to relax with a warm bath? Then they’re sure to love luxurious bath salts! Or, is your giftee a music buff? This set of creative playing cards will test their music history knowledge. These thoughtful purchases will make your recipient feel like a million bucks.

These unique Christmas gifts are wonderful reminders that great gifts are thoughtful gifts—regardless of price. So just because you are spending a little less, that doesn't make them any less special. Some of these accessories also make nice add-on gifts to whatever larger present you might be gifting mom, your best friend, or someone special in your life. All you need is a ribbon or bow to make the set complete.

Check out our selection of gifts under $10, below. Many of them make great stocking stuffers!

Looking for inexpensive Christmas gifts? Here are our picks for the best gifts under $10.

Music Genius Playing Cards

Rik Lee | $10

Resin and Flower Initial Keychain

Resin Designs by Emma | $9.14

Bob Ross Paint by Numbers

Bob Ross | $7.39

Pocket RBG Wisdom: Supreme Quotes and Inspired Musings from Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Hardie Grant | $9.99

Clam Ring Box

Urban Outfitters | $10

“Hug in a Mug” Coffee Mug

Opalhouse | $7

Moth Enamel Pin

Okinson | $11.36+

Sleeping Sanrio Character Figurines

Urban Outfitters | $8

Personalized Resin and Flowers Bookmark

Nic Themist Treasures | $10.47+

Cloud Earrings

KawaiiShopByND | $9.13+

Scented Soy Candle

Opalhouse | $10

Fuzzy Multicolor Slippers

Star Above | $10.50

Inspiring Words Soap

Uncommon Goods | $8

Watercolor Botanicals Notebook

thevysherbarium | $8.22+

Dessert Erasers

Urban Outfitters | $8

Personalized Leather Keychain

TabetLeather | $6.50+

Essential Beanie

Urban Outfitters | $8

Personalized Makeup Bag

ElizaGraceWeddings | $8.50

Personalized Pencil Set

DesktopState | $9.99+

Multicolored Cubebot in Micro Size

Areaware | $28

Snake Ring

Vermeil Supplies | $8+

45-Piece Cactus Stickers

Stamped and Sealed Co. | $2.80

Artistic Nail Wraps

EZ Nails Store | $4.19

Agate Slices

Rock Paradise | $4.25+ each

Letter Tile Keyring

MadeByLeniShop | $1.31+

Pearl Milk Tea Sheet Mask

Urban Outfitters | $3

You're Beautiful Coin Purse

Blue Q | $7.99

Basquiat Crew Socks

Urban Outfitters | $10

Pink Vial Bath Salts

Shore Soaps | $8.56

Classic Characters: Women Trailblazers Page Flags Set

Girl of All Work | $7.50

Custom Personalized Charger Cable Name Tag

DelightfulLuna | $5.50

Cactus Photo Holder Set

ODDIER | $10.99

Succulent and Cactus Tealight Candles

AMASKY | $6.99

Face Scrubbies

RightSoap | $6+

Personalized Wish Bracelet

MooandMeDesigns | $3.60

Small Owl Stuffed Animal

LaMequecaBoutique | $8+

Vintage Map Magnet

TannerGlass | $5.75+

This article has been edited and updated.

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Black Friday Sale at My Modern Met Store: Save 15% on All of Our Creative Products

Sara Barnes — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 10:55:20 +0000

Black Friday Sale at My Modern Met Store: Save 15% on All of Our Creative Products

Black Friday has a reputation for being a bit wild. The day conjures up images of unruly crowds of people lined up early in the morning ready to rush into stores for the best deals. It sounds exhausting—especially when you can kick back and order all your holiday gifts from the comfort of your home. For all of your creative gifting needs, look no further than My Modern Met Store where we're starting our Black Friday celebration a bit early. From now until November 26 at 11:59 p.m. PST, you can enjoy 15% off your entire order when you use the code BLACKFRIDAY23 at checkout.

Picking the perfect gift can be a challenge. How do you find something that’s unique and special when there is just so much to sift through online? That’s where our curated selection is indispensable. Start with some of our recent bestsellers such as the Birds on a Wire mug or the Animal Multi Tool. Both have a transformative quality—the mug changes colors and the multi tool is a shapeshifter—and make everyday life more extraordinary.

Check out My Modern Met Store to see all of our offerings. Remember to use BLACKFRIDAY23 to save 15% on your order. And if you spend over $100, the shipping is on us (for U.S. locations only).

We've got a deal for Black Friday! Save 15% on all of the creative products at My Modern Met Store when you use the code BLACKFRIDAY23 at checkout.

Lyfe Levitating Planter

Flyte | $299

Birds on a Wire Mug

Unemployed Philosophers Guild | $19.95

Large Geode Jigsaw Puzzle

Nervous System | $95

Viviva Colorsheets

Viviva Colorsheets | $19.95+

Blue Jay Embroidery Kit

Kiriki Press | $22

Animal Multi Tool

Animal Multi Tool | $24.50

Space Time Hourglass Necklace with Meteorite Dust

Yugen Handmade | $55

Mars Dust Globe

Humango | $35

Moon Chalk

Nikolas Bentel | $34

Pyropet Einer Unicorn Candle

54Celcius | $39

“Basquicat” Enamel Pin

Niaski | $12.50

Modern Artist Socks Gift Set

ChattyFeet | $39.95

Animal Society Temporary Tattoo Set

Tattly | $15

Cactus and Succulent Soy Container Candle

Zoet Studio | $27.50

This article has been edited and updated.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THE MY MODERN MET STORE NEWSLETTER FOR UPDATES!

READ: Black Friday Sale at My Modern Met Store: Save 15% on All of Our Creative Products

40 Quirky Products for a White Elephant Gift Exchange That Are Under $25

Sara Barnes — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 03:20:35 +0000

40 Quirky Products for a White Elephant Gift Exchange That Are Under $25

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Every year, people are putting a fun spin on the conventional holiday gift exchange with a white elephant party. The rules lend themselves to a playful environment and even some light-hearted shenanigans.

So, what is a white elephant gift exchange? Also called a Yankee Swap, there are a few basic rules. Essentially, each person in the swap contributes a wrapped present to a gift pool. Usually, the event organizer has stipulations on the price and type of gift. Some white elephant exchanges, for instance, encourage people to re-gift something they never wanted in the first place. Other variations encourage people to purchase gag gifts or to shop with a spending limit in mind.

Once the items are in, players draw numbers to determine the order they’ll select a gift. Then, all of the participants sit in a circle so they can all see the presents. The first player picks their gift and opens it. Here’s what makes the white elephant exchange different from something like a Secret Santa: the following players can take an item from the pool or steal a previous player’s unwrapped gift. If someone has their present stolen, then they can either choose a new gift or steal it from someone else. This continues until everyone has had a turn.

If you’ve been invited to participate in a white elephant game this Christmas, it can be tricky to pick a gift. You’re not buying for a specific person; instead, you’re purchasing something that would appeal to at least several people. To help you in this endeavor, we’ve selected a variety of quirky and creative gifts that are each $25 and under. We’re sure that there’s an art lover, tea enthusiast, and cat lover in your group! See our entire selection, below.

Need something for a white elephant gift exchange? Here are quirky and creative gifts that are each $25 or less!

Health & Beauty

Cactus Cool Mist Humidifier

AmuseND | $13.89

Pack of 4 Aromatherapy Candles

FKJOL Store | $18.99

Reusable Water Bottle

Hydracy | $24.97

Nail Polish Holder

Tweexy | $9.99

Birthday Cake Bath & Body Gift Set

Uncommon Goods | $21

Fashion & Accessories

The Great Wave Tote Bag

Loqi | $17.50

Shark Socks

Uncommon Goods | $12

Mismatched Frida Kahlo Earrings

Yellow Owl Workshop | $21.50

Animal Society Temporary Tattoo Set

Tattly | $15

Animal Paw Novelty Socks

FreeNFond | $9.99

Embroidery Temporary Tattoo Set

Tattly | $15

Kitchen & Cooking

Gourmet Pizza Dough Gift Set

Uncommon Goods | $24

Cherry Measuring Spoons

Ototo | $16

Bread Baker's Handbook

Uncommon Goods | $21

Cookie House Mug Buddies

Margen Soliman | $24

Butterfly Tea Gift Set

Uncommon Goods | $25

Birds on a Wire Mug

Unemployed Philosophers Guilds | $19.95

Bartender Glasses

Kikkerland Design | $25

Agate Coaster

Anthropologie | $16

Death Star Ice Cube Mold

WiiRun | $13.97

Baby Nessie Tea Infuser

OTOTO | $14

Avocado Food Huggers

MSC International | $6.49

Fun Trinkets

Rainbow Yoga Joes

Brogamats | $25

Storm Cloud Weather Predictor

UncommonGoods | $25

Chill Beer Flannel

Tyrone Hazen | $20

Playful Sports Mugs

Uncommon Goods | $25

Page Flags Set

Girl of All Work | $7.50

Tokens of My Love: 24 Redeemable Coupons

Jordan Sondler | $12.99

Salvador Keychain

Sketch.Inc | $25.95

“Meowhaus” Enamel Pin

Niaski | $12.50

Animal Multi Tool

Kikkerland Design | $24.50

Lollipopter Kinetic Toy

John Edmark | $25

Silicone Wine Glass Holder for the Shower

30 Watt | $11.49

Puffer Fish Dryer Buddies

Kikkerland | $11.95

Louis C. Tiffany Favrile Domed Magnets

The MET | $22

Creativity Boosters

642 Things to Draw Book

Chronicle Books | $16.95

Hedgehog Embroidery Kit

Kiriki Press | $22

Flipbook Kits

Uncommon Goods | $12

Multicolored Pencils

Duncan Shotton | $15

Build-On Brick Mug

Triumphic | $11.99

This article has been edited and updated.

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2023 Guide to Creative Christmas Ornaments So You Can Trim Your Tree in Style

Sara Barnes — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 03:20:02 +0000

2023 Guide to Creative Christmas Ornaments So You Can Trim Your Tree in Style

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Trimming the tree is an important part of Christmas decor. These small tokens that hang on the branches offer an unconventional form of personal expression. By incorporating specific ornaments into the overall decoration, you can create a customized tree that celebrates who you are and the memories you’ve made over time.

Baubles are a popular way to trim a tree, but they are far from the most creative. Almost anything can be an ornament! Whether your up your holiday decor by hanging something unconventional from your tree or go for a classic motif like Santa Claus, snowflakes, or reindeer, there are plenty of baubles to choose from. Some people like a cohesive look, opting to hang glass balls in just one or two colors, while others like a glittery festive tree that throws caution to the wind.

Ornaments also come in all types of materials. Glass ornaments are popular and can be both traditional or contemporary depending on what you select. If you have kids in the house and don't want to worry about breakage, fabric, wool, and felt also add a nice folksy touch to any tree.

To showcase some of the artistic possibilities that you can hang on your tree, we’ve gathered a selection of modern ornaments that are fun and quirky. There’s something for everyone here, from the millennial who can’t get enough of avocado toast to the llama lover to the creative artist. Each will give your tree personality and will be fun to hang year after year.

Check out the best creative Christmas ornaments, below.

And if you want to get even more creative, make your own ornaments using our DIY Christmas ornament guide.

Trim your tree in style with the best artistic Christmas ornaments this holiday season.

Paint Palette Ornament

Anthropologie | $22

Glass Camera Ornament

Anthropologie | $44

Yarn and Knitting Needles Ornament

Anthropologie | $38

David Bowie Glass Ornament

Cody Foster | $31.99

Retro Ceramic Christmas Tree Ornament

Wondershop | $5

DIY Christmas Tree Ornament Kit

Jill Makes | $36.60

Crochet Christmas Ornament Set

PT Crochet Collection | $48.80

Letter to Santa Ornament

Old World Christmas | $17.99

Hand Decorated Glass Snowman

Bohemian Stars LTD | $17+

Personalized Wood Christmas Ornament

Vintage Staircase | $39+

Fa La La La Llama Ornament Pattern

Betz White | $14.64

Sloth Ornament

Old World Christmas | $21.99

Avocado Toast Ornament

Old World Christmas | $36.99

Personalized Family Hot Chocolate Ornament

HomeToHeartCo | $26.84

Personalized Christmas Ornament for Artists

Slng Shop | $24.12+

Retro Deer Christmas Ornament Set

Wondershop | $3

Fused Glass Wreath Ornament

Keep It Glassic | $32.94

Pumpkin Spice Latte Ornament

Cody Foster | $37.98

Baby’s First Christmas Ornament

Emily Kinsella | $73.22

S'more Fair Trade Felt Ornament

Ornaments4Orphans | $18.29

Hot Chocolate Felt Fair Trade Ornament

Ornaments4Orphans | $18.29

Northern Lights Ornament

Land K Creationz | $15.68

Knit Gingerbread Man Ornament

Wondershop | $3

Fused Glass Snowman Ornament

Glassworks Idaho | $18.30

Classic Glass Ornament

MacKenzie-Childs | $98

Personalized Fox Ornament

Muddy Heart | $86.62

Gilt Globe Ornament

Anthropologie | $14

Beehive Glass Ornament

Northlight | $13.99

Sesame Bagel and Cream Cheese Ornament

Anthropologie | $38

Glass Gingerbread House Ornament

Wondershop | $5

Smiling Avocado Felt Fair Trade Ornament

Ornaments4Orphans | $15.85

Nutcrack Ornament

Wondershop | $5

Wood Snowflake Ornament

Nestled Pine Woodworks | $20.68

Alpine Knit Ornament

Anthropologie | $18

Starry Night Handpainted Ornament

La Pastiche | $34.99

Pizza Slice

Noble Gems | $12.93

Architectural Ornament — DIY Kit

Houha Designs | $24.40

Personalized Christmas Tree Ornament

J House Engraved | $23.13+

Stacked Donuts Ornament

Northlight | $13.99

Knit Christmas Sweater Ornament

Wondershop | $3

“Love You a Ton!” Whale

Cardtorial | $18

Sushi Ornament

Tinsel House | $31.72+

Festive Golden Retriever Ornament

Wondershop | $5

Wool Star Fair Trade Ornament

Ornaments4Orphans | $18.29

You+Me Puzzle Pieces

Cardtorial | $20

Vintage Pastel Cars

Finest Imaginary | $24.08

Gothic Dragon Ornaments

Design Toscano | $29.67 (set of 3)

Snowball Crate Ornament

Wondershop | $3

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 2023 Guide to Creative Christmas Ornaments So You Can Trim Your Tree in Style

80+ Painting Ideas That Will Inspire You To Pick Up a Brush Right Now

Sara Barnes — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 02:25:30 +0000

80+ Painting Ideas That Will Inspire You To Pick Up a Brush Right Now

Photo: Stock Photos from RossHelen/Shutterstock

When it comes to painting, everyone starts out on an even playing field—those that paint well have built their skills over time. Doing so, however, requires patience, and for you to put brush to canvas (or paper) and increase your aptitude stroke by stroke. We’ve seen this happen in a drawing; just a few years of drawing practice can mean the difference between a sketch that’s just okay and one that shows extraordinary talent.

We've put together a list of painting ideas that anyone can try.

Photo: Stock Photos from Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

What type of paint should you choose?

Choosing a type of paint for your work can be quite overwhelming at times given all the varieties out there. Some paint types can be more durable than others or can completely change the look of your final work of art. The right paint choice can be very important in accomplishing your artistic goal, depending on what you are creating. The different paint types vary in style and properties making a big impact on your next painting quest. Some popular types of paint are watercolor, acrylic, oil, and gouache. Read our comprehensive list of types of paint to get a better idea of which one is right for you and your project.

What supplies will you need?

Once you choose the paint type you want to work with, you can focus on other supplies. Outside of your paint set, you will need brushes, possibly a canvas or painting paper, and maybe even an easel if you're feeling fancy. We have recommendations for three of the most popular types of paint. Check out our guides for the best watercolor paint sets, top acrylic paint, and best oil paints that beginners and pros will love. Although these paints are the most popular, you can go beyond a brush and pick up a paint marker. We even have a guide for the best paint markers, too.

Once you’ve got your watercolor, acrylic, or even oil paint, you can get started right away on honing your craft. But even having all the right supplies can’t save you from the dreaded creative block; sometimes, you just can’t think of anything to paint! Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of prompts that are jumping-off points for your work. The easy painting ideas are divided into two lists—one is inspired by life while the other challenges you to use your imagination.

When looking through the list, consider the following: what sounds like fun to paint? What will challenge you to get better? Are there certain techniques you’d like to try? A leafy tree, for instance, gives you the opportunity to experiment with texture, while imagining these subjects in monochrome is a great exercise in understanding tonality, light, and shadow.

Photo: Stock Photos from Kuznetcov_Konstantin/Shutterstock

Easy painting ideas inspired by real life:

Your favorite coffee mug

Photo: olies/Depositphotos

A prickly pear cactus

Photo: AndreYanush/Depositphotos

Your furry friend

Photo: yakimenko/Depositphotos

A tranquil lake scene

Photo: Max5799/Depositphotos

Your eye and eyebrow (try observing from real life)

Photo: Nataliass/Depositphotos

A leafy tree

Photo: borojoint/Depositphotos

Your childhood home

Photo: Max5799/Depositphotos

Someone sitting on a chair

Photo: vad_1/Depositphotos

Fluffy clouds

Photo: cat_arch_angel/Depositphotos

A bouquet of flowers in a vase

Photo: Marinka/Depositphotos

A bird on a branch…

Photo: borojoint/Depositphotos

…or a wise owl

Photo: brita.seifert@googlemail.com/Depositphotos

A curling ocean wave (check out Ray Collins’ wave photographs for inspiration!)

Photo: balaikin/Depositphotos

Copy a masterpiece painting of an artist you admire

Photo: Rawpixel/Depositphotos

A bowl of fruit

Photo: natalia88/Depositphotos

Fish underwater

Photo: VitalikRadko/Depositphotos

A portrait of yourself when you were a kid

Photo: re_bekka/Depositphotos

Your hand or foot

Photo: vad_1/Depositphotos

Your favorite collection of things

Photo: Alexis84/Depositphotos

A building facade you’ve always admired

Photo: segun007/Depositphotos

Someone standing under an umbrella while it’s raining

Photo: Max5799/Depositphotos

A streetlamp illuminating a dark street

Photo: Marsea/Depositphotos

A peacock’s colorful plumage

Photo: DeepGreen/Depositphotos

The Eiffel tower, or any other memorable landmark

Photo: martinm303/Depositphotos

An avocado cut in half

Photo: AntonMatyukha/Depositphotos

Your mode of transportation (car, bike, scooter, skateboard…)

Photo: samot/Depositphotos

A reflective object such as a vase or glass

Photo: Wirestock/Depositphotos

Your favorite insect

Photo: DeepGreen/Depositphotos

A collection of seashells

Photo: Viktoria_Karpunina/Depositphotos

A pair of shoes

Photo: vad_1/Depositphotos

Take your art supplies outdoors and paint a park en plein air

Photo: Afonskaya/Depositphotos

Painting of different athletes

Photo: 7slonov/Depositphotos

Paint the night sky

Photo: KostyaKlimenko/Depositphotos

Mountain landscape

Photo: Elinacious/Depositphotos

The moon

Photo: svetas/Depositphotos

The beach

Photo: itmuryn/Depositphotos

A butterfly

Photo: sun_tiger/Depositphotos

A cherry blossom tree (with q-tips instead of a brush)

Photo: Marinka/Depositphotos

A pumpkin

Photo: shoshina/Depositphotos

The sunset sky

Photo: samillustration/Depositphotos

Paint on rocks instead of on canvas

Photo: Wirestock/Depositphotos

Paint your lunch or dinner

Photo: suslik83/Depositphotos

A shiny balloon

Photo: OlhaArt/Depositphotos

Someone who is doing an everyday activity such as sleeping, cooking, putting on makeup

Photo: Leonid_Eremeychuk/Depositphotos

Go big: show peonies blooming on a giant canvas or piece of paper

Photo: Valenty/Depositphotos

A snowy landscape

Photo: vad_1/Depositphotos

Good painting ideas inspired by the imagination:

A person with flowers growing from their head

Photo:Nongkran_ch/Depositphotos

Create an image inspired by your favorite song

Photo: agsandrew/Depositphotos

A majestic unicorn with a rainbow-colored mane

Photo: milanawork@mail.ru/Depositphotos

Create a self-portrait in a Cubist style (try using a limited color palette)

Juan Gris, “Portrait of Pablo Picasso,” 1912. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)

Reimagine a scene from your favorite Disney film

Photo: Liuzishan/Depositphotos

Imagine a dog could walk and talk like a human. What would they say and do?

Photo: Gastello/Depositphotos

Create your own repeat pattern…

Photo: Molesko/Depositphotos

… or mandala-inspired design

Photo: outsiderzone/Depositphotos

A cat in a fancy hat

Photo: rm211171/123RF

Your dream home

Photo: luzaazure/123RF

Try painting with your fingers

Photo: golubovy/Depositphotos

The sky imagined in colorful swirls like in van Gogh’s Starry Night

Photo: whatawin/Depositphotos

A scuba diver swimming through a galaxy instead of the ocean

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ᴄ ᴏ ꜱ ᴍ ɪ ᴄ ✨ ᴀ ʀ ᴛ ɪ ꜱ ᴛ (@lanchendesigns)

A person made out of balloons

Photo: kamenuka/Depositphotos

Tiny people moving throughout a regular-sized world

Photo: Golsa Golchini

Hide a face in a repeating pattern (like Lee Wagstaff)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lee Wagstaff (@lee_wagstaff)

A spooky scene in the woods (try painting it on a wood slice)

Photo: Melpomene Chatzipanagiotou

Animals in the place of humans

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Guillermo Lorca García H. (@guillermolorcagarcia)

Salvador Dali-inspired interior

Living underwater

Paint a fantastical garden of imaginative plants

Photo: nikahgeh/123RF

Merge two of your favorite animals into one

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sujay Sanan (@sujaysanan)

Try painting in an Art Deco style, like Tamara de Lempicka

Photo: mayaartworks/Depositphotos

Hide a person's face in an unusual way

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Amy (@amyjuddart)

Imagine that you're that you’re a giant

Photo: PHOTOGRAPHER NAME/123RF

A person whose skin cracks like porcelain

Photo: KseniyaOmega/Depositphotos

Create your own fairytale

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Thanh Nhàn (@xnhan00)

Fuse day and night into a single scene

Photo: maxfilitov/123RF

An easy quote

Photo: rawpixel/123RF

Metallic abstract

Photo: denisined/123RF

Geometric art

Photo: theromb/Depositphotos

Splatter art

Photo: tsyew/123RF

Animals outside of their natural habitat (look to Marina Kusraeva for inspiration)

Photo: Marina Kusraeva

A landscape inspired by an enchanted forest

Photo: altitudevisual/123RF

Life in the future

Photo: alfazetchronicles/123RF

Combine a realistic subject with abstract elements

Create a painting just of loops. What designs can you make with that?

Photo: braindamage/123RF

Something that slithers (doesn't have to be a snake or a slug!)

Personal self-portrait inspired by Frida Kahlo

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Museo De Arte Moderno MX (@museoartemodernomx)

Painting Tutorials

Photo: Joanna Kosinska

If you don't have a vast knowledge of painting, any one of these ideas can be daunting to start putting pigment to canvas. Here are some painting tutorials to try which will teach you how to paint a particular subject while giving you confidence for future works of art.

Dream Your Own Abstract Floral Paintings — In this online course on My Modern Met Academy, artist Nitika Ale will walk you through painting techniques to create luscious acrylic blooms.

Dappled Light: Learn Abstract Paintings With Acrylics — Have you always admired the light as it shines through the trees? In another on-demand class on My Modern Met Academy, artist Megan Elizabeth shows you all you need to know about painting these beautiful scenes.

This Step-by-Step Tutorial Shows You How to “Grow” Watercolor Flowers on Paper — Get a supplies list and a look at all the steps involved in bringing flowers to life on the page.

Learn How to Paint a Colorful Sunset in Easy to Follow Steps — Want to recreate the beauty of the setting sun? Here's another step-by-step painting tutorial that will give you the foundation for it.

Fluid Art: How to Start Acrylic Pouring & Create Psychedelic Abstract Paintings — Pour your way into a masterpiece when you get the proper tools and practice the techniques of fluid art.

15+ YouTube Channels to Teach You How to Paint for Free — As expected, YouTube is chock-full of videos by artists who want to help you learn to paint. Here are 15 of our favorites.

Looking for others who love drawing? Join our Art, Design, Photography, and Drawing Club on Facebook!

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Learn to Paint with 403 Free Episodes of Bob Ross’ “The Joy of Painting” on YouTube

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25+ Mind-Blowing Hyperrealistic Paintings

READ: 80+ Painting Ideas That Will Inspire You To Pick Up a Brush Right Now

Halloween Sale at My Modern Met Store: Save 15% on All of Our Creative Products

Sara Barnes — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 11:55:52 +0000

Halloween Sale at My Modern Met Store: Save 15% on All of Our Creative Products

Halloween is a fun time for everyone. From those who like to craft their own costumes to lovers of horror films and, of course, those with a massive sweet tooth, this occasion is something worth celebrating. At My Modern Met Store, we’re doing just that with our annual Halloween sale on all of the creative products in our shop. From October 27 to October 31 at 11:59 PM PDT, take 15% off your entire order when you use the code GHOULISHGOODIES23 at checkout.

Although the spooktacular discount is good for everything in our store, why not apply it to items that you'd imagine would go bump in the night? The Pasta Monster Serving Spoon will lurk in your pasta bowl, just waiting to petrify anyone that comes near the two googly eyes. And going along with this season of fright is a pair of artist-inspired socks known as Screamy Ed. The shrieking face on the footwear is definitely the OMG feeling that you might relate to right now.

Head to My Modern Met Store for our entire selection of creative products. Remember to use GHOULISHGOODIES23 to save 15% on your order. And if you spend over $100, the shipping is on us (for U.S. locations only).

Celebrate the spookiest time of year—no tricks here. Take 15% off creative products at My Modern Met Store when you use the code GHOULISHGOODIES23 at checkout.

Pasta Monster Serving Spoons

OTOTO | $17

Screamy Ed Socks

Chattyfeet | $12.50

Black Wing Bird Scarf

Shovava | $62+

Space Time Hourglass Necklace with Meteorite Dust

Yugen Handmade | $55

Small Wooden Dog Stack Game

Comma | $20

Frida Kahlo Mug

Unemployed Philosophers Guild | $19.95

Yayoi Catsama Enamel Pin

Niaski | $12.50

Animal Society Temporary Tattoo Set

Tattly | $15

Mars Dust Globe

Humango | $35

Four Point Moon Puzzle

Kiriki Press | $22

Moon Chalk

Nikolas Bentel | $34

PyroPet Kisa Cat Candle

54Celcius | $39

Cubist Mismatched Earrings

Yellow Owl Workshop | $21.50

Baby Nessie Tea Infuser

Ototo | $14

Barn Owl Embroidery Kit

Kiriki Press | $22

This article has been edited and updated.

31+ Spook-tacular Gifts to Get Your Spirit Ready for Halloween

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READ: Halloween Sale at My Modern Met Store: Save 15% on All of Our Creative Products

35 Creative Small Gifts That Will Make a Big Impact This Holiday Season

Sara Barnes — Sat, 21 Oct 2023 03:20:09 +0000

35 Creative Small Gifts That Will Make a Big Impact This Holiday Season

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

As the holidays draw near, there’s usually a major focus on big-ticket gift times. But what about the smaller products that you need to buy? They make the perfect gift for stocking stuffers, secret Santas, or office gifts for that special cubicle buddy. These purchases don’t have to be extravagant or expensive; they just need to show that you put some thought into picking them out to make for a great gift.

We’ve found a selection of gifts that are either small in size, small in price tag, or both. All have a creative bend to them, like the floral embroidery high-quality temporary tattoo set that treats the recipient to self-expression and play while doing something daring. Another product we like is an embroidery kit that's perfect for someone who enjoys sewing and loves hedgehogs. These items are certainly quirky, but they're sure to make your recipient's life a little brighter—just as gift-giving should be.

So whether you need secret Santa gifts, stocking stuffer ideas, or a great office gift, check out our entire list below. For even more unique gift ideas, we’ve got a whole category dedicated to creative products.