in?spi?ra?tion – (nsp-rshn) n. 1. Stimulation of the mind or emotions to a high level of feeling or activity. 2. The condition of being so stimulated. 3. An agency, such as a person or work of art, that moves the intellect or emotions or prompts action or invention. 4. Something, such as a sudden creative act or idea, that is inspired. 5. The quality of inspiring or exalting: a painting full of inspiration. 6. Divine guidance or influence exerted directly on the mind and soul of humankind.

Inspiration. Sometimes all you need is to see something that completely captivates you, conjures up a memory, bestows you with feelings of joy, and viola! your creativity sweeps in, whisking you off your feet and planting you smack in the middle of that project you’ve been procrastinating, only this time, you’re wearing a smile because you have a fresh approach.
If you love photography, especially lifestyle photos that flutter you away to the land of exquisite things, you’ll fancy Amy Butler’s photos online, total viewing pleasure. (If Amy sounds familiar, I reviewed her new DIY sewing book yesterday.)
Textiles – whether in my hands or felt through the pages of magazines or images online, give me a sense of calm. Fresh flowers and chocolate help, too. (smile) What does it for you?

Psst: Check out Amy’s booth from the International Quilt Market – it’s drop dead beautiful! Amy and her husband amaze me, and they’re both so cute, too!
(images from amy butler designs)


































August 1st, 2006 at 11:02 pm
Oh yes, Amy is incredibly inspiring! I often gaze at her lifestyle pictures just wishing life could really be like that! Her new collection is lovely…so fresh.
August 2nd, 2006 at 12:47 am
thanks for the reminder about her booking coming out, i just ordered myself a copy (and i don’t sew!)
August 2nd, 2006 at 1:01 am
amy’s photos are like an inspirational quilt. I am from India and we have such lovely fabric with great patterns and wonderful colors that its a joy to any person with artistic mind.
August 2nd, 2006 at 2:45 am
Hey, I just came from her website to yours! Her patterns and photographs are so beautiful, aren’t they?! I love the patchwork seatcover.
August 2nd, 2006 at 10:57 pm
wow, they are so fresh and alive. Great Chair! Must chack out that book!
August 3rd, 2006 at 6:24 am
Her patterns are great and the quilt is just amazing!
August 3rd, 2006 at 2:26 pm
Yes, gorgeous! Ican’t stop looking at that site!
August 3rd, 2006 at 3:26 pm
I find your blog to be very inspiring in itself. I love to check it out DAILY!!! I can’t help but wonder how you find all this info. and put it all together. I’m amazed. I think sometimes I just get on the internet and use the same search options and nothing really seems to change much but now I have a wealth of knowledge at my fingertips thanks to you. Your blog is inspiring, so thank you.
August 3rd, 2006 at 4:15 pm
Such GLORIOUS photos – and yes your blog is extremely inspirational.
August 4th, 2006 at 9:23 am
It really inspires me. Thank you!!
Such beautifull colors :):)I love your Blog !
October 9th, 2006 at 1:29 pm
I went to the fabric store this weekend to buy some of the belle collection. A fabric rep from Westminster happened to be there and I got to preview her new collection Lotus. How exciting!