How Writers Can Use Pinterest as a Helpful Tool

Let's be real, when most people think of Pinterest, they picture DIY crafts, wedding inspiration, or recipe boards. But as a writer, I have found Pinterest to be one of the most invaluable tools. Whether you're a novelist or screenwriter, Pinterest offers a blend of writing prompts, idea generation, and creative inspiration that can streamline your writing process and supercharge your storytelling! In this article, let's explore how you can turn Pinterest into a powerful writing tool—from building mood boards for your characters to discovering niche resources and connecting with a vibrant writing community. *Note: This post is not sponsored by Pinterest; all views and tips are my own.

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Search for Character Inspiration

Pinterest is known for being a treasure trove of aesthetic visuals. However, rather than just using the app for photos of flowers and recipes, you can use Pinterest as inspiration for character development. Whether you're unsure of what you want your characters to look like or you want to search for specific aesthetics, like “gritty detective” or “fantasy warrior," consider using Pinterest to find photos that help you visualize your characters more clearly. I'll often save pictures of expressive faces or interesting outfits to help me build unique, three-dimensional characters. These images can influence everything from your character’s fashion sense to their attitude and backstory.

Connect With Fellow Writers

Pinterest is a type of social media, so it can be a great source of connection between fellow writers. Pinterest can create a community, as many writers share their tips, blog posts, and even snippets of their WIPs. By following writing boards and engaging with pins, you can find a supportive network of fellow creatives. For instance, Blue Pencil Writing has its own Pinterest entirely dedicated to writing, which can be a great resource if you're looking for an interactive writing community.

Look for Setting Inspiration

My absolute favorite way to use Pinterest as a writer is to search for setting inspiration. When I am writing about a setting I don't have much experience with, turning to Pinterest for photos is extremely helpful. Visualizing the world of your story is so much easier when you have something concrete to reference. That's why Pinterest, full of images of landscapes, cities, interiors, and even fantasy worlds, can be beneficial and may inspire the settings in your writing. That being said, Pinterest shouldn't be the only place you turn to for research. Rather, if you're writing about a setting or topic you're unfamiliar with, it's a good idea to also utilize books, documentaries, or firsthand accounts as research.

Discover Writing Prompts

If you’re ever stuck staring at a blank page, Pinterest can help get your creativity flowing with literally thousands of writing prompts. From dialogue starters to “what if” scenarios and genre-specific prompts, you’ll never run out of ideas. I keep a secret board of prompts that I turn to whenever I need a quick warm-up or want to challenge myself with a new idea. For additional writing prompts on our website, click on the button below.

Creative Writing Prompts

Find Writing Advice

Pinterest can be a great source for writing advice. With so many users, you are bound to find niche writing tips that you wouldn't find anywhere else. In general, from plot structure guides to productivity hacks and editing checklists, Pinterest is packed with advice from fellow writers and writing coaches. Plus, you can easily pin and organize posts that align with your writing goals!

Pinterest is a great tool for writers that is typically overlooked. From setting inspiration to organizational help, there is so much Pinterest has to offer. So, the next time you're needing inspiration, consider scrolling through your Pinterest feed. Plus, for more writing advice, writing tips personalized for you, and a general literary community, consider following us—Blue Pencil Writing—here on Pinterest!