My Go-To Art Tools for Tired Days

Creative Comfort: My Go-To Art Tools for Tired Days

Even on the most exhausting days—like today, when I’m recovering from a bug—I still crave a bit of creativity. But let’s be honest: when your brain is foggy and your energy is low, ambitious projects are out of the question.

That’s when I reach for a few trusty art tools that let me play without pressure. These are my go-tos when I want to stay connected to my creativity without burning myself out.

1. Procreate’s Liquify Tool

It’s almost meditative. I’ll take an old artwork, smudged photo or even a blank canvas with blended blobs of colour, then start swirling, pushing, and twirling with the liquify tool. There’s no plan—just movement and colour. It’s satisfying and often sparks ideas for future pieces.

🔗 Procreate’s Official Liquify Tool Guide
🎥 Watch a Quick Liquify Tutorial on YouTube

2. WOMBO Dream (or other AI art tools)

Sometimes I’ll plug in a random prompt just to see what visuals it generates. Even if I don’t use the results directly, it gives me visual stimulation and a little creative nudge without needing much from me in return. When used ethically and collaboratively, AI art tools are a great way to explore ideas for your own future projects.

📲 Download WOMBO Dream on iOS
📲 Download on Android
🌐 Visit the Official Site

3. My “Mess Making” Sketchbook

This is a no-judgment zone—just a place where I let loose with doodles and creative experiments. When I’m tired, I don’t worry about making something “good”—I just let my hand move and see what happens. Sometimes it’s all about the process of creating rather than an end result of a finished piece.

📝 Layering Scribbles: Sketchbook Ideas from Polly Castor
🎥 Textured Backgrounds for Sketchbooks – Tutorial

Your Turn

What are your favorite creative tools or habits when you’re feeling drained? Drop them in the comments or tag me on Instagram (@tepearley) if you post your own sleepy-day art session. I would love to see them!