Design inspiration can come from anywhere, especially when we're least looking for it. The kids in my neighborhood are an almost constant source of new ideas from their crazy mix-and-match outfits to their latest art projects at school. Kids just see the world in a different way. Maybe they have a lot in common with good web designers after all.

Colorful Ribbons

Sometimes, even the little things that drive you crazy can spark your creativity. Earlier this week, my daughter raided my sewing box for every ribbon she could get her hands on. She wove them through her hair, tied them to her clothes and shoes, left them flowing from bracelets and even decorated a few strategic stuff animals. Once I got over goggling at the mess and instructed her on cleanup, I had to admit, she must get her taste from somewhere.

So the ribbons got me thinking - their shape is almost universal. From streamers to bows, they are easily recognized as embellishments. They can blend in to a design or stand out as a call to action. They come in just about any size, color or texture you can imagine.

Clever Use of Ribbons in Website Design

Here's some resources to get you started:

Brush Sets

• Photoshop Ribbon Brushes
• High-res Ribbon Brushes Vol. 1
• Lines and ribbons

Photoshop/Illustrator Tutorials

• Design a Realistic Ribbon
• Simple Ribbon Banners
• Creating a Ribbon in Illustrator
• Create a Colourful Abstract Wavy Ribbon

Inspiration

• Color Pencil Ribbon Guy by =dgdesigner
• Ribbon Sculpture

Creative uses for ribbons

• Website:Studio Synergia
• Website:Franklin Lyons
• Website:Sara Longnecker