It’s tempting to set a project aside when it isn’t turning out the way you hoped. Maybe the proportions feel off, the color is flat, the surface isn’t as smooth (or furry) as you’d like, or the finished piece doesn’t match the vision you had in your head. I’ve done this myself more times than I’d like to admit. Sometimes it feels easier to start a brand-new project than to work through the challenges of the one already on your table.
But a finished sculpture teaches more than five abandoned ones. When you push through to the end, you learn how to solve problems, make adjustments, and make the best of the work already invested in the piece. You also gain valuable experience with finishing techniques, surface refinement, and evaluating what worked—and what didn’t. Those lessons only become visible when a project reaches the finish line.
I struggled for days with my yellow chicks. Quitting this project ran through my mind every night as I tried to fall asleep. These weren’t the first chicks I made. My previous attempts were ok but not as realistic as I wanted. I decided to keep pushing myself to finish these. In the end, I learned so much and they remain two of my favorite felts.
Finishing doesn’t mean every sculpture will be a masterpiece. Some pieces become favorite successes, while others become important learning experiences. Both have value. The next time you’re tempted to start over, consider finishing what is already in front of you. You may learn more and feel better than you expected!
If you’d like to learn how to make a chick like these, watch my free tutorial.
