A Moodboard: What Is It and How Do You Make One?

Sometimes, what we need is to capture all those ideas that come to mind on an inspiration board. Find out what a moodboard is and learn how to make one.
A Moodboard: What Is It and How Do You Make One?

Last update: 21 November, 2022

Have you ever heard of a moodboard? Perhaps the name may be unfamiliar, but you’ve probably seen it or had contact with this concept.

A moodboard is also known as a “mood map” or “idea board.” But what is it and how is it made? This is a tool that, if well constructed, will help you to have a better visualization of the objective you want to materialize.

This map can be digital, or – if you like crafts – made with pieces of different materials. The first thing to do is to define what your purpose is going to be – that is, a decoration project, a business or entrepreneurship plan, or maybe a wedding or party.

Read on to find out everything you need to know about it. And let’s get to work!

What is a moodboard?

A moodboard is a kind of visual map that will help you to get inspired, among other things. Hence its name.

An inspiration board is widely used in the creative field by interior designers, event planners, product designers, and other professionals in similar activities. However, this doesn’t  mean that it can’t be implemented in various fields.

With this tool, you can have a global and quick image of the project in question, since a moodboard will bring together images and words related to it. Meanwhile, while you’re making the board, you will also discard and refine your ideas to achieve a better realization of the plan. We’ll show you how to make one here.

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How to make a moodboard

Although there’s no limit to the style and materials that can be used, you must follow guidelines so that you don’t lose the meaning of this inspiration wall. Here are some of them.

Mujer buscando inspiración.
The search for inspiration can take us down different paths. A moldboard is useful for designers and artists, but its applications are not exhausted there. Anyone can use one.

1. Choose an appropriate title for your moodboard

This title should be closely related to the project. This will keep you focused every time you glance at the map.

A word limit is recommended for both the main title and the keyword title. This should be around a maximum of 5 words.

So, keep in mind that it is important not to repeat the same words. It’s about having a holistic idea of the project.

The best option is Pinterest if you’re looking to make a digital moodboard or if you want a kind of collage. You should only search for and gather those images that you like and inspire you, but that are related to your goals.

This is intended so that your inspiration board transmits both the emotion and the desire to materialize the plan. There should be a focal image; the rest should revolve around your imagination. Play with spaces, colors, and letters.

However, don’t fix anything until you’re sure about it. Remember to filter through the process until you leave what really works for you and what will help you stay on track.

3. Choose a support

As this is a creative process, you can opt for some of the various supports available on the market:

Some people fix the elements directly on the wall or on a door. However, if you prefer, your moodboard can be entirely digital.

4. Filter and choose

Once you’ve accumulated a significant number of images and letters that you think will inspire you, it’s time to fix the background of the support. DO this without fixing the images yet. This way, you’ll have a better development of the concept.

It may take you a few days or even weeks, because during this time, you’ll find more interesting images and replace the ones you already had. However, try to set a deadline.

Once the period is over, it’s time to fix everything! Get your creative self going and try to leave some space between the elements.

Empresario diseña un moodboard en su oficina.
Some offices have something similar to this board but on the walls and windows for their employees.

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Moodboard: A tool to meet your goals

We have many ideas and plans in our heads. And while it’s good to have them floating around in our minds, it’s also great to make them a reality. That’s when the moodboard comes into play. It’s an inspiration board that brings us a little closer to our goals.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a trip, an event, or even a venture. Unleash your creativity and you will be one step closer to getting what you want!


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.