"If you bring forth what is within you, what you bring forth will save you. If you do not bring forth what is within you, what you do not bring forth will destroy you."






Monday, May 17, 2010

Tutorial: Peeled Paint Effect with an Embossing Folder

This effect was achieved completely by accident! I didn't expect the incredible peeled paint effect this technique would create! 

I took a piece of heavy brown board and spread Liquitex Modeling Paste thinly over the entire card with a wood craft stick. 

I then smoothed the paste evenly over the entire card.  If you want to paint over the morter before embossing, do it now.

Then, I let it dry for 30-45 minutes (40 to 50 minutes if you painted it).  You don't want it to be completely dry - but just dry on the top.  Actual time would depend upon the humidity, and how thickly you spread the paste.  Touch the top of the card and push down slightly, and if it feels fairly dry, you can move on to the next step.

Place the card between an embossing folder.  I used a Cuttlebug folder.  Be sure you have placed the card in the folder to result in the effect you want top - raised or indented.  Close the folder.

I then run the card through my Big Shot.  I really think you could do also this with a rolling pin using lots of pressure. 

Carefully remove the top of the folder, the part over the morter.  Some of the mortar should peel off the card, leaving you with a very realistic peeled paint effect. 

IMPORTANT:  WASH THE EMBOSSING FOLDER THOROUGHLY.  I used a toothbrush to get all of the mortar out of the cracks.

Let the card dry thoroughly before using.  And here's what it looks like:

Monday, May 10, 2010

Cards containing puzzle pieces

I made these cards using the fused fiber tutorial on Lesley's Harmony Road blog.   I don't think I did it correctly; but it still came out rather interestingly.  Thanks, Les!



Saturday, May 1, 2010

Callaway Cyclamen


This painting was started at Callaway Gardens
It is 8" X 10"
I used Arches 140 lb. cold pressed paper.

Dress for May

My dress for May's Dress Challenge is inspired by a Maypole.  The dress itself is embossed watercolor paper rubbed with oil pastels. The waistband, collar and sleeves are grosgrain ribbon.