tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14592642155249321222024-03-13T15:51:21.921-07:00Steam Fairie Craftsteffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-79340129650374585822016-01-09T00:00:00.000-08:002016-01-18T02:47:38.222-08:00Hey Clay! 2015 Play Day :o)Back in December I found out that our local pottery (<a href="http://www.oxcombepottery.co.uk/" target="_blank">Oxcombe Pottery</a>) were taking part in Hey Clay! 2015 - it was an event organised by the <a href="http://www.craftscouncil.org.uk/what-we-do/hey-clay/" target="_blank">Crafts Council</a> in which over 70 different venue opened their doors to let people have a go at playing with clay.<br />
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I went along with my friend Wendy, and we were so pleased we did, it's a wonderful venue, an old farm building specifically converted into a pottery. We were shown some completed pieces that had been fired using different glazes and different techniques, and then we were let loose with our own ball of clay!<br />
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I created a tea-light holder, and in a challenge from one of the potters to see how thin I could draw out the clay I also made a little trinket holder/ornament.<br />
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The above pictures were before firing (as we couldn't fire them on the day) so the clay is still a little damp and grey.<br />
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This photo was taken after they were fired and they have now gone a whitish colour. It was a really fun couple of hours, which has raised my interest in clay, I may just have to pop back and have a proper go!!<br />
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Thanks for reading<br />
Steffi :o)<br />
xx<br />
<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-23249714339814320972016-01-02T12:38:00.000-08:002016-01-02T12:38:44.480-08:00New Year - Renewed Focus!!You may have noticed that I have been quiet in blogland for a while - I have, when able, still been playing at being crafty in the background, but through the winter months, I have felt I needed to take time to look inwards and to regain my focus. A mini-hibernation if you will. <br />
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I'm going to share here a few photos of some of the crafting I have done during my silence, as at the moments the photos are sitting unseen on my mobile phone!<br />
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First, a couple of tags and altered playing cards that were created for some swaps. Then this is an altered Tim Holtz folder that I made on a wonderful messy workshop with Dyan Reaveley (of Dylusions and Art from the Heart).</div>
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I was really lucky to be able to attend Tando's Ministry of Mixology weekend in Coventry - they are already planning the next one, but I don't think I'll be able to make it as I was really exhausted afterwards for quite a while. It was a wonderful experience though, and I would highly recommend anyone to attend if they can. The workshops were with Andy Skinner - a grungy notebook, and Michelle Webb - a lovely beach-hut scene.</div>
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And last but not least :o) I joined in my first ever Pocket Letter swap - very new to me but it seems to be a new craze following on from ATCs - you use a 9 section ATC holder and then fill each pocket with something - embellishments, little gifts, a note whatever you fancy really. There are some amazing ones on Pinterest! This one, not so amazing, is mine.</div>
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Thanks for reading - hopefully I can keep this blog more active in 2016 :o)</div>
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Steffi</div>
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xx</div>
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<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-67112029216088846332015-10-06T13:12:00.000-07:002015-10-06T13:12:13.694-07:00Journaling Workshop with Birgit Koopsen BernsteinHello again - luckily not so long between posts this time :o) thanks mainly to the lovely Sue Tucker from Art Workshops (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NorthEastArtWorkshops?fref=ts" target="_blank">link to the Facebook page</a>) having arranged a wonderful weekend of workshops with the lovely <a href="http://birgitkoopsen.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Birgit Koopsen Bernstein</a> (please do follow the <a href="http://birgitkoopsen.typepad.com/" target="_blank">link to her site</a> and have a look through her work) back up in Middlesborough. This is the first time that Birgit has taught in the UK so it was a wonderful opportunity to see something new. I could only manage the Sunday unfortunately, I would have loved to do the whole weekend but it was not to be - that said the day I did attend was wonderful, I can't believe we got through so many different techniques!!<br />
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If you've followed my past posts at all, you'll probably know that I've toyed with the whole idea of journaling for ages but not really got very far with it. This is partly do with a 'fear' or starting. When you are sat staring at a blank page it can be quite daunting knowing how or where to start. The beauty of this workshop was that we started with a completely blank journal and just played with lots of messy inks, and paints all day, making backgrounds in different ways, before focusing in on completing some of the pages.<br />
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We worked with acrylic inks (they were new to me but I really like them!), acrylic paints, water colour pencils and shaving foam! Yes shaving foam - great technique and quite addictive!!<br />
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Really like this one - I can see a fairy in there waiting for me to reveal her!</div>
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Then we worked on finishing a few pages up - so more messy play with paints and inks :o) !!</div>
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I hope you like these pages. I feel a little braver about journaling now. I've joined up to Irreversibly Moi's challenge - <a href="http://irreversiblymoi.com/fall-in-love-with-art-journaling-challenge/" target="_blank">Fall in Love With Art Journaling</a> which will last 10 weeks - here's hoping I can keep up with it. The first challenge was to use your initials to create a page - I decided to create a basic page, using just my first initial 'S' and I created it with a Uni-Posca gold pen and a purple coloured biro.<br />
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Thanks for reading<br />
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Stefanie :o)<br />
xx<br />
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<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-10062828267336659322015-08-26T08:51:00.004-07:002015-08-26T08:51:28.316-07:00Playing with Powertex :o)Hi, apologies for delayed absence, have been really struggling with my Fibro and unfortunately my crafty mojo completely vanished for a while :( Because of this I have taken the tough decision to step down from the Design Teams at Rhedd's Creative Spirit and Altered Eclectics. Hopefully though it won't be too long before I'm back up and running and entering their great challenges again, I've missed entering them even though I've really enjoyed being on the DTs.<br />
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Anyway enough moaning (sorry!) before I plummeted, I had booked onto a Powertex workshop with <a href="http://www.alicraftworkshops.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ali-Crafts</a>, and I dug deep to make the effort to still attend, as it is something I've wanted to work with for ages. Powertex is a fabric hardener that gives you the ability to sculpt with textiles - it's also water based and environmentally friendly - what's not to love!?!<br />
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So we started off by choosing what type of figure we would like to make, they have a selections of head styles; I chose a Masai warrior and <a href="http://www.freyeeshahall.co.uk/" target="_blank">Freyesha</a> (a lovely fairy artist) chose a beautiful maiden. We then fastened this onto a piece of dowel on a wooden block and wrapped it and bulked it out to give it the form we wanted. Once happy with the basic shape we painted this with the Powertex liquid. <br />
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This dried pretty quickly, but once you start coating the fabric pieces, they will take longer to dry.<br />
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So then we had to choose which fabric to use as a covering for our pieces - cotton based is one of the best as it still dries fairly quickly but if you're not pushed for time you could use any. I had a large piece from a linen type shirt, and an edging piece from something like a cardigan (just drawn out of the very ample scrap bag!) We dunked them in the Powertex and then worked it into the fabric before working out where to position it on the model. I wanted mine to look like the bright colourful blankets I've seen the Masai wear in documentaries and so I first placed it on the shoulders and then draped it around the front. Once happy with that I moved on to the woollen fringed piece and positioned this in a similar way.<br />
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We then had a break for lunch during which time the pieces dried enough for us to begin working on them with Treasure Gold (gorgeous scrummy product!!) I also took pictures of Ali's (who led the workshop) and Freyesha's figurines so you can see how different they can look.<br />
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I used treasure gold pastes which had a reddish tone as they worked really well with my visions of a Masai warrior, and also blend in well with my home decor (!) I'm really pleased with the finish piece which now lives on my sitting room hearth.<br />
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If you fancy giving it a go yourself, and you're local to Lincolnshire I highly recommend <a href="http://www.alicraftworkshops.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ali-Craft Workshops</a> - they are lovely people and really enjoy what they do :o)<br />
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Thanks for reading - hopefully next post won't be so long in the writing!!<br />
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Stefanie :o) xx<br />
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<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-6774509955122439152015-07-02T14:48:00.004-07:002015-07-02T14:54:13.395-07:00Sea Witch Canvas for Rhedd's Creative Spirit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Hi, firstly apologies for my prolonged absence, I've been dramatically under the weather with a bit of a Fibro flare, and despite even the thought of crafting usually lifting me it just didn't happen. However, we've now had some sunshine, my other half persuaded me to get out in the garden and I am improving :) (edited to add - apologies for the late appearance of this post, I'd scheduled it for the 1st but it didn't work!!) </div>
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So this month, my creation for Rhedd's Creative Spirit is actually a repurposing. I had a very early canvas that I'd painted, my first dabble with expanding paint (not actually sure that's its' name) but it's a paint that puffs up as it dries. Clever stuff!!</div>
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As it was an early piece, I've not been able to move past it, even though I didn't really like it. It just sat on ine side in my dining room, being ignored.</div>
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The other day, still feeling a bit fed up with things, I decided its' time had come. I needed to do something bold and dramatic, and I decided that to begin again from scratch with this canvas would be a great catalyst.</div>
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The original colour was white, silver and a pale turquoise, unfortunately I didn't think to take a 'before' picture, as I wasn't truly sure how this would work out!</div>
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I started with various shades of blue acrylics and literally just slapped it on all over! I blended some metallic green to some of the blue a slapped it on too! It was quite liberating really as I didn't have any plan as to where I was going with it.</div>
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Once dried, I dabbed some white flecks onto the textured areas (from the puffed paint) which is when I started to think of a bubbling sea. I then added some greeny-blue fibres using gel medium.</div>
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This seemed to create rays emanating from the corner, so I pondered what I could add to the corner. Then I remembered I had made some moulded clay faces ages ago and not used them I used some more gel medium to add a face to the corner, along with some more beads. I painted the face with a slightly darker greeny-blue.</div>
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I didn't think the small piece of netting was quite enough and so I added some floristry wire which was hexagonal (a bit like chicken wire) and trimmed it to fit around the face. I also added some light green seed beads around her face and along where I'd added the fibres.</div>
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Then to balance it out, I added a pile of Chinese coins in the opposite corner, again adding a touch of rub and buff.</div>
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I really enjoyed playing freeform, and it has helped me begin to feel better - let's hope this continues!!</div>
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Thanks for reading</div>
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Steffi :o) xx</div>
<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-34111659606500376392015-05-01T01:14:00.005-07:002015-05-01T01:14:58.650-07:00Fabric Scrappy Canvas for Altered EclecticsAnd now for something completely different! Well maybe not completely, but it's been a while since I shared anything sewing based.<br />
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I have got rather a lot of fabric hidden (I mean stored) away, and often when you make something with fabrics there are bits left over. <br />
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Wanting to do something that felt a bit cheery and springlike, I decided to raid my leftover fabric stash, to cover a thin canvas board I had.<br />
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I grabbed a random selection of offcuts which I then arranged over a sheet of Heat & Bond (hard to describe - but it's essentially a paper based glue for fabric that is heat activated). Once I was happy with the layout I then pressed over it with an iron - at this point it's best to place a thin cloth over the piece so that none of the glue ends up stuck on the base plate of the iron - if it did it would most likely ruin it!<br />
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The next stage is to take it over to the sewing machine - all the scraps will be held in place by the heat and bond so you shouldn't lose any on the way! I chose to use a variety of my machine's stitches and different brightly coloured threads to edge each of the scraps. Where they overlapped, I stitched up to the next piece of fabric to make it look like the stitches carried on underneath. <br />
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I then wanted to add a sentiment, so I chose a SuziQ one and stamped it using standard black Archival ink onto a piece of plain calico. I did a bit of research online to see which inks were recommended, some people seem to prefer Stazon, but I did find one link to a blog where she had used about 10 different ink pads, and then ironed and washed them. (if I can find the link again, I'll pop back and add it here). The Archival came out as well as any of the others so I went with that. I also added a little colour using Zig fabric markers which are permanent once ironed. I then stitched this into place by again stitched round it.<br />
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I then placed the whole piece on a sheet of pelmet vilene interfacing) and sewed all the way around the randomly shaped top piece using a zig-zag stitch. Once I'd done this, I trimmed the vilene back to the stitched edge, and using pva glue attached it to the canvas board.<br />
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I'm really happy with this piece of fabric art, just looking at it makes me smile.<br />
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Thanks for reading<br />
Steffi :o)<br />
Xx<br />
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steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-36968170367142438402015-04-30T16:09:00.000-07:002015-04-30T16:09:01.182-07:00Altered Beermats for Rhedd's Creative SpiritHi, today I'm sharing some altered beermats that I turned into little wall hangings for a recent swap.<br />
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They started off as ordinary beermats (other makes of beer are available :o) ) and then I coated them with black gesso.<br />
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Then I took a couple of sheets of some designer paper, tore them in order to give a distressed edge, and, placing the beermats on the diagonal, covered one half with the papers in two layers. On the uncovered half I attached a wooden key and lock which I had coloured with my Krylon copper leafing pen.<br />
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The swap was for a 4" x 4" square, and these mats were just under, so I glued a piece of black card to the back, before writing my sentiment, which I'd based on how I'd decorated the front: 'Peel back the layers and unlock your true inner beauty', I added a piece of filigree at the base and doodled a border around the edge. <br />
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I then used my crop-a-dile (love it!!) to add an eyelet to the top corner, and strung some ribbon through to create a hanging loop.<br />
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Turning back to the front, I realised that the extra piece of card had created a frame, so I used my Krylon on this too.<br />
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I wish I'd made more as I would have kept one for myself! </div>
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Thanks for reading </div>
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Steffi :o)</div>
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xx</div>
<span id="goog_424808281"></span><span id="goog_424808282"></span><br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-42635469757602481812015-04-15T08:13:00.002-07:002015-04-16T03:17:45.611-07:00Starfire and Crystals (mid-month post for Rhedd's Creative Spirit DT) Today I am sharing this little wall hanging, created on two 5" x 7" canvas boards. These are quite easy to find in various shops and are fairly inexpensive , I think these came from The Works but I have also seen them in The Range. I have also shared this over on <a href="http://rheddscreativespirit.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rhedd's Creative Spirit</a> as the mid-month tutorial - do pop along and see the other DT pieces and maybe enter it yourself?<br />
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It took me a while to work out just what I was going to make, and as usual the finished piece is totally different than what I started with in my minds eye!!<br />
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I was going to paint the boards with acrylics, but after I decided on the main image I was going to use I thought I would like to enter this in the Dylusion's Challenge page on Facebook - each month they set a challenge with different 'rules' for April it is to use Blue, Red and Stars. <br />
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Once I'd decided what my theme was going to be I applied DecoArt Texture Sand paste through a star stencil to one of the canvas boards, and then allowed it to dry overnight. You can use a heat-gun to dry texture pastes, but sometimes this will give you a different finish effect. They can puff up, go extra smooth or crack a little - this isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it is worth being aware of. I found an interesting blog post where the blogger had compared the different results, here: <a href="http://sarathings.com/2012/06/27/tuesday-techniques-stencils-part-4-modeling-pastes/">http://sarathings.com/2012/06/27/tuesday-techniques-stencils-part-4-modeling-pastes/</a><br />
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Next, colour. As the boards are already primed with double gesso I decided to go straight in with ink sprays. I used London Blue and Black Marble. I wet the boards first and then applied the inks, letting them merge into each other, I tried to keep the darker areas to the edges by spraying the black in this area, and the blue more to the middle, although on the 'star' board a little streak of the darker colours has run through the middle - I actually like this although I was trying to avoid it.<br />
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Once the inks had dried I applied some Rub'n'buff in Gold Leaf lightly to each of the textured stars. This gave just a hint of a gleam and at first I was happy with this. As the rest of the piece evolved I decided to add a small amount of gold glitter glue on top. I crossed my fingers that I wouldn't have to start over, and when the glitter glue was dry in was relieved with the results - the two combined mediums gave a slightly muted appearance, with just a touch of glitter.<br />
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I typed out my chosen quote 'Until you are broken, you don't know what you are made of' in a Word document and played around with the size and font until I was happy, and then printed onto white card. I then stamped my image 'Survivor', one of Dyan Reaveley's newer stamps (and one I just had to have as soon as I saw it!!) using Archival Ink in black.<br />
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I coloured the stamped image with Dylusion's Cherry Pie in a water brush, this was on the body and parts of her hair, and when dry I used a couple of promarkers in oranges and yellows on the east. I fussy cut her, and cut the quote into individual words. I used Tattered Rose Distress Ink to colour the words and then edged with Brushed Corduroy - this worked fine for me, but as they were printed not stamped they do bleed a little, this will either suit your project or ruin it completely, so do check you are happy, I know some people will seal printed pieces with hairspray, to stop this bleeding, but I haven't tried this - yet!!<br />
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I then tried to work out on my layout, so I placed 'Survivor' towards one edge on the lower board, and then played around with where the words of the quote would fit. Once I was happy with this I decided that it would use some tiny gemstone chips that I've had for ages, and arrange them in lines as if they were radiating from her. I used Finnabair's 3D gel to position them on the canvas boards. (In this picture the gel is showing up as white but it does dry clear and transparent)<br />
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Whilst the crystals were drying, I decided to use some sealer on the coloured image and the quote, but (stupidly!) placed them on some cardboard packable to do this. The sealant ran over the edges and, if I hadn't realised and moved them sooner it would have totally stuck the paper to the cardboard. I usually do anything like that when the pieces being sealed are in their final position, or on some plastic or polythene that they won't stick to. I hadn't done them in situ as I hadn't wanted to seal the whole board, just the stamped and printed bits.<br />
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I have used a Crop-a-dile to punch holes into the boards and then add eyelets, and then used some chain to fasten the two together, and to create a hanger. The final touch was just to edge the boards with a little black Archival ink, and also a few glitter glue swirls alongside the crystals.<br />
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I loved this image from Dyan Reavely as soon as I saw it, with having Fibromyalgia, most days throw up their own challenges, and this reminds me of a strong woman who has come through a lot; teaming it with quote really spoke to me, and in the same way that little boys are made from slugs and snails in the nursery rhyme, I see this survivor as being made from Starfire and Crystals, but only realising when she has come out on the other side of her battles.<br />
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Thanks for reading, I hope you like this as much as I do.<br />
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Steffi :o)<br />
Xx<br />
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I would like to enter this into the following challenges :<br />
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A Creative Need - Collages - here <a href="https://acreativeneed.wordpress.com/join-in-the-monthly-challenge/">https://acreativeneed.wordpress.com/join-in-the-monthly-challenge/</a><br />
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Mixed Media - Creative Gym Exercise 6 - Words and Letters - here <a href="http://mixedmediaplace.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/creative-gym-exercise-6.html">http://mixedmediaplace.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/creative-gym-exercise-6.html</a><br />
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Stamp and Create - April Anything Goes - here <a href="http://stampandcreateblog.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/april-challenge-anything-goes.html">http://stampandcreateblog.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/april-challenge-anything-goes.html</a><br />
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and<br />
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Artful Times - Challenge 78 Tattered and Torn - I interpret my 'Survivor' as having been tattered and torn with her battle scars - here <a href="http://artfultimes.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/challenge-78-tattered-and-torn.html">http://artfultimes.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/challenge-78-tattered-and-torn.html</a><br />
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<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-43674908206761391442015-04-13T10:43:00.000-07:002015-04-13T10:43:20.637-07:00Andy Skinner Workshop at Art Workshops WynyardOh my goodness, I just realised that I haven't shared details of the last workshop I attended, Andy Skinner's one organised by the lovely Sue of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NorthEastArtWorkshops?fref=ts" target="_blank">Art Workshops Wynyard</a>.<br />
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When we arrived, we were greeted as usual by a layout of what we would be working with during the workshop. So for this, we had some pre-cut greyboard in different shapes and sizes, all numbered with their eventual position on the finished project.<br />
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I won't share the individual steps we used to create all the pieces, as no-one can do this better than the man himself, Andy Skinner (take a look at his website here: <a href="https://www.andyskinnercrafts.com/">https://www.andyskinnercrafts.com/</a> , his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/ThePapique/videos" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a>, and his <a href="https://www.andyskinnercrafts.com/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page) so here are just two photos of part of the process.</div>
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The second photo shows a stage of the amazing rusting technique Andy shared with us, I was totally blown away, and can't wait to use it again!!</div>
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And this is a photo of my finished mirror, with all the completed pieces in their correct places!! It was a great day, Andy shared many techniques with us, and we got to play with lots of the DecoArt mediums in different ways - this is really important as it helped me to see which I liked the best, making them a 'Need to Buy!!' item, and which I could put on my Wish List for later! </div>
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If you ever get the opportunity to attend one of Andy's workshops, I definitely recommend it, I certainly hope I get the chance to go to one again!</div>
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Thanks for reading</div>
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Steffi xx</div>
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steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-29130578957245850192015-04-01T02:13:00.000-07:002015-04-01T02:13:05.350-07:00Elemental Wands - for Altered Eclectics<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For my Altered Eclectic DT post this month, I've decided to show some elemental wands that I've made, I think they come under the title of 'altered art' as they started of as twigs! This is a photo of them all together.</div>
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Many spiritual traditions believe in the importance of different elements within daily life, health and balance. These include traditions such as Ayuverdic (yoga and medicines), Ancient Chinese (with acupuncture), Buddhism and Paganism.<br />
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In some traditions the elements are considered to be Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water, whereas in Paganism we recognise Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Spirit. I have created a wand for each of these elements and have them on a display shelf in my front room.<br />
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When creating each of the wands, I focussed on my belief's and feelings about each element to ensure that this filtered through to the piece itself. I simply used a sharp penknife and craft blade for tools and combined this with threads, wool and other fibres and jewellery components such as beads and metal wires and foils. <br />
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<u>Earth</u><br />
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Some of the characteristics attributed to Earth are, strength, nuturing, stability and balance, and related colours include brown and green. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqMYUVQzq0_gevxnEh94RQtSq7W0UjvDHegukP2u1x6jrHuTiJp7fCFlSV0NaxyJB6axfLnACxbFvkdqazStgk7VWoXi_A9e6It322Ae4AOjX9t2tpApcvIGvJgTo613I9oBcR-Qn8npg/s1600/earth+wand2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqMYUVQzq0_gevxnEh94RQtSq7W0UjvDHegukP2u1x6jrHuTiJp7fCFlSV0NaxyJB6axfLnACxbFvkdqazStgk7VWoXi_A9e6It322Ae4AOjX9t2tpApcvIGvJgTo613I9oBcR-Qn8npg/s1600/earth+wand2.jpg" height="105" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOus2B3OFgzT0xsx9QEvUOHO4auKOLJ5wXVf1DAf81eTgjq311cbJV3CFg8nn2SmYzFbnl8rwCRCx6__8dMRpMjJ-X_o5B1LHEN3VpOFmrSxF0S7yJ6SgJzw3uvhkzzVzmHFFnk476_Q4/s1600/earth+wand1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOus2B3OFgzT0xsx9QEvUOHO4auKOLJ5wXVf1DAf81eTgjq311cbJV3CFg8nn2SmYzFbnl8rwCRCx6__8dMRpMjJ-X_o5B1LHEN3VpOFmrSxF0S7yJ6SgJzw3uvhkzzVzmHFFnk476_Q4/s1600/earth+wand1.jpg" height="130" width="200" /></a></div>
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For this wand I used a twig that was of an equal shape - ie it had two straight pieces each coming from a central pivot. I removed all the bark, apart from the middle section. At each end I wrapped a mixture of brown and green embroidery threads, interspersed with some strands of copper foil. I feel that I have created a piece that truly represents Earth.<br />
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<u>Air</u><br />
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Air is seen as the element of communication, freedom and of a clear mind. Think of the phrase 'blowing away the cobwebs' and the belief that thoughts and wishes are carried away on the wind in the same way as dandelion seed. There are many given colours for correspondence with Air, these include white, sky blue. pastels and yellow.<br />
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I treated the bark differently for this wand, removing some in directional lines which appear a little as dashes, leading to the sharpened point at the end, I wanted this to represent two-way communication, both talking and listening and reaching an agreeable conclusion. I used blue and purple threads and then added various charms, some in moon shapes, feathers and a butterfly to show the movement through air and some heart shaped ones to convey loving communication.<br />
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<u>Fire</u><br />
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Fire is seen as quick, passionate and creative, you can be said to have a 'fire in your belly' when you are determined to achieve something, or to 'burn with desire'. There are also connotations of change, or of a new beginning, if you think of tales of the Phoenix bird. Obvious colour associations are reds and oranges.<br />
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I really liked the twisty shape of this twig, it reminded me of the way in which flames in a fire dance. I simply chose a set of beautifully coloured fibres to wrap around one end of this wand, tying wooden beads on the ends, and I found this lovely red piece of suedette cloth, to me it represented warmth and so I added this to the other end.<br />
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<u>Water</u><br />
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Regarded as the element of emotion. Fast flowing water is purifying, clear and pure whilst stagnant water is stale and murky - this is true of our emotions also, if we acknowledge them and let them out it is better for our health, whereas bottling them up inside can be damaging<br />
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For this I deliberately chose a straight stick, water always finds its' own path and will even find its' way through stone over time, so I wanted to represent this as straight and direct. I used wool in greeny-blue tones and added small shells. I wanted this to remind me to allow my emotions to flow free as I have a tendency to hold them in (my birthsign is Aquarius - the water carrier - which is probably why I keep them in).<br />
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<u>Spirit</u><br />
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Well I guess Spirit really speaks for itself, it is the one element that runs through all the rest, and connects everything to everything else. Colours given as correspondences for Spirit are usually white black and purple.<br />
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I decided to use my intuition (which I think is always best in any case) when it came to the colours I used on this wand, when I think of Spirit I ususally see blues and flashes of silver so this is what I used to wrap the end of this wand. First though I removed all of the bark from this twig, I wanted to be able to connect deeply with the inner core and not a superficial surface. The only other pieces added were a feather, long held by many traditions to represent Spirit, and a bead with the Yin-Yang symbol - I firmly belief that both the masculine and feminine energies need to be present to complete a perfect 'whole' and a state of harmony and balance. I feel that this ancient symbol, originally Chinese represents this balance perfectly. <br />
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Many thanks for reading this blog-post which has included a little of my Pagan viewpoint, do remember though that I do not intend to impose this on anyone, I feel an individual knows their own truth and must find it themselves.<br />
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Steffi<br />
xx<br />
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<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-17565650590418121572015-04-01T02:12:00.000-07:002015-04-01T02:12:38.979-07:00An Altered Book for Rhedd's Creative Spirit DT Today I'm sharing photo's of an altered book I made for a dear friend, just because :o)<br />
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It started life as a hardback book that I'd bought from a charity shop. I decided how many pages I wanted to create and then I split the books pages into even sections to match this number, I also removed some pages so that the finished book wouldn't be too bulky.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWe4GowJ0Ul8OSkPyD6WgyGufw3KWcHaLPKCV2619uW87wA0MgJlme-sDUfFmJJtu5ZIh1GoLLaJ7xez5Grw7rxfs_nXU8oiKC0ECKNDgagwu2E92thwzWNgIEvOfsYLzG-GZbiVAPXA/s1600/altered+book+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWe4GowJ0Ul8OSkPyD6WgyGufw3KWcHaLPKCV2619uW87wA0MgJlme-sDUfFmJJtu5ZIh1GoLLaJ7xez5Grw7rxfs_nXU8oiKC0ECKNDgagwu2E92thwzWNgIEvOfsYLzG-GZbiVAPXA/s1600/altered+book+1.jpg" height="320" width="229" /></a></div>
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This is the front cover, I gessoed it first and then painted with brown acrylic. The medallion squares made from craft foam, which I've heated and textured with some stamps and then aged with some rub'n'buff and added a brad to the center. I've then added fleur de lis ribbon and a Zetter perfect closure with a padlock clasp.<br />
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This is inside the front cover, I've used a Mackintosh style paper as she really likes his roses, and I've added a couple of tags which are created from wallpaper samples and metal foil and coloured with various inky techniques.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzrUIldb8kj3MVNI1Jq_0TAD33_Z45JZKq3KbKl9E07aokHHbL6NkPLciRUoXBF9zXsYCiEJ2vrzwWH6TzQXT-v1b2xyBtknX4emuagVcHQ3cFdqapTONSs91VgdnPuJ2_G4_8TKG5r_M/s1600/altered+book4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzrUIldb8kj3MVNI1Jq_0TAD33_Z45JZKq3KbKl9E07aokHHbL6NkPLciRUoXBF9zXsYCiEJ2vrzwWH6TzQXT-v1b2xyBtknX4emuagVcHQ3cFdqapTONSs91VgdnPuJ2_G4_8TKG5r_M/s1600/altered+book4.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JLjJArbHQS5y7Llkw2v0RFahxuUrNgyUup2HmUQq_x4lFbar4m4Kek2-7jF-OhlrGThI_zwQMUIPe_eeR3mdFfUBBt8vLm-5R3-RROLodKn6Zz32002YrM2RrufU47B3Jn_0arQHzX0/s1600/altered+book5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JLjJArbHQS5y7Llkw2v0RFahxuUrNgyUup2HmUQq_x4lFbar4m4Kek2-7jF-OhlrGThI_zwQMUIPe_eeR3mdFfUBBt8vLm-5R3-RROLodKn6Zz32002YrM2RrufU47B3Jn_0arQHzX0/s1600/altered+book5.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The first double page spread was just a cheerful reminder of our friendship using various bits I had hiding in my stash. <br />
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For this spread I created a tag shaped window in the middle page so whichever side the book is open on the tag image on the other page can still be seen, I really liked the interest it created although it was really hard to photograph!! This is the poen I used:<br />
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On The Wings of A Butterfly<br />
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by Christine McClimans Your friendship is special<br />
Like the flowers that bloom,<br />
Or when a butterfly emerges<br />
From within its cocoon...<br />
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You remind me of that butterfly,<br />
Loving and free,<br />
Bright and colorful,<br />
For the world to see...<br />
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We will share sunshine and rainbows;<br />
Sometimes, the rain and the snow;<br />
We'll stand together through it,<br />
While the cold winds blow...<br />
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When the time is right,<br />
We won't stop to ask "Why?"<br />
Our friendship will take flight<br />
On the wings of a butterfly...<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Christine McClimans</span><br />
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And here is another of the double page spreads that I collaged to represent her family tree.<br />
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I hope you've enjoyed this little peek!<br />
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Thanks for reading<br />
Steffi xx<br />
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<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-92178946314020994212015-03-09T10:31:00.000-07:002015-03-09T13:25:44.683-07:00Fantastic Workshop with Art Wynyard Warriors & the Amazing Finnabair!! :o)I feel a little self indulgent as I have actually spent my Christmas and Birthday money on myself (!) and treated myself to a couple of workshops, organised by the lovely Sue Tucker. The workshops are held just outside Middlesborough in a great venue and Sue always lays on plenty of refreshments and chocolate!! Take a look here - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NorthEastArtWorkshops?ref=br_tf">https://www.facebook.com/NorthEastArtWorkshops?ref=br_tf</a> ) this is the Facebook page where Sue advertises upcoming workshops. Firstly I got to spend another wonderful afternoon watching <a href="http://tworzysko.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank">Finnabair</a> do her thing, she is such an amazing artist and teacher, and so very generous with her hints and tips, then at the end of the month I get to play along with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Andy-Skinner/191986214169432" target="_blank">Andy Skinner</a> - not bad eh?! <br />
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The workshop I attended was called Everyday Treasure, and involved turning an ordinary canvas into a steampunk-y shadow box to display a lovely little rocking horse. One of the most exciting bits when we first get sat down is peering into our goodie bags to see what we've got to play with!! Feels just like a naughty child spying on their Christmas presents early! Have a look at some of the lovely bits we got:<br />
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First bit was to set to and build the little rocking horse and then to begin to alter the frame:</div>
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As it is Finn's workshop, I won't share all of the steps as it would not be fair to her. Also as I say she is so generous with sharing her techniques that you would be far better watching some of the videos that she shares on her <a href="http://tworzysko.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank">blog</a>!! Needless to say that it involved lots of gesso, paints, metal embellishments, pigment sprays and lots of laughter!!</div>
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'Slightly' messy fingers!!</div>
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Group of Happy Crafters with our finished works of art, and mine is below :</div>
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I had such a lovely time, and met up with some fellow crafters who had shared the experience last time too, and now I'm so looking forward to next time!!</div>
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Thanks for reading :o)</div>
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Steffi xx</div>
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I would like to enter this canvas into the following challenges:</div>
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Mixed Media Challenge (brand new challenge!!) - Anything Goes - here: <a href="http://mixedmediaworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/welcome-to-mixed-media-world.html">http://mixedmediaworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/welcome-to-mixed-media-world.html</a> </div>
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All Crafts Challenge Feb/March - Anything Goes (but no cards) - here: <a href="http://www.sparklingblackrose-craftmylife.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/all-crafts-challenge-febmarch.html">http://www.sparklingblackrose-craftmylife.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/all-crafts-challenge-febmarch.html</a></div>
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Imagination Crafts March Challenge - Always Anything Goes - here: <a href="http://imagination-craftschallenges.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/imagination-crafts-march-challenge.html">http://imagination-craftschallenges.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/imagination-crafts-march-challenge.html</a></div>
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Crafty Calendar Challenge March Challenge - Add Some Metal - here: <a href="http://craftycalendarchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/crafty-calendar-march-challenge-add.html">http://craftycalendarchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/crafty-calendar-march-challenge-add.html</a></div>
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steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-66896645181727401422015-02-28T16:44:00.000-08:002015-02-28T16:44:01.825-08:00Altered Tin for Altered Eclectics DT Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My DT make for Altered Eclectics for March is a little hanging made from old packaging cardboard and the lid of a small tin. I then added a heart I'd made in my melt pot.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUWbpjLic4uLNG0ALoBbcAHZCMojQ4IL61foexd9p4M_1SCM2-O2C8O4D13ojT0KTnmyP97Cedn8wz_ZEiJe6Kf_tJH6_xT3zbRkYgVEIMGmyz_Cb5cTfiud4TONB-biQfTU1kYMPMGQ/s1600/altered+tin+before+with+overlay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUWbpjLic4uLNG0ALoBbcAHZCMojQ4IL61foexd9p4M_1SCM2-O2C8O4D13ojT0KTnmyP97Cedn8wz_ZEiJe6Kf_tJH6_xT3zbRkYgVEIMGmyz_Cb5cTfiud4TONB-biQfTU1kYMPMGQ/s1600/altered+tin+before+with+overlay.jpg" height="302" width="320" /></a></div>
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My first step was to cut several layers of cardboard using Tim Holtz's Cabinet Card die and also a couple of pieces using the Pediments die. Once cut I covered them all with white gesso. I purposely used an older stiff brush to create texture in the surface. I measured and cut out the centre to be able to fit the tin lid in (it had a really nice lip that could hold it just nicely in the hole. Apologies as I forgot to take a photo of just the gesso (!¿!).</div>
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The tin was lined with strips of aged book pages, which I buffed with some distress inks. Then the heart was glued in place.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifv39olb7I9ZGn9smvrhbQY98zUAzzHbaDq1jfqs0kYz9hzcY_oSDqIes2FDhWdQCifapmwrtBuTZMgCwxZZ4JXBBUfw4d33XRn45I3sOVGyUoiv1rp452IgE8i0-5ujTb6Tuvh_9PeDo/s1600/IMG_20150224_144804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifv39olb7I9ZGn9smvrhbQY98zUAzzHbaDq1jfqs0kYz9hzcY_oSDqIes2FDhWdQCifapmwrtBuTZMgCwxZZ4JXBBUfw4d33XRn45I3sOVGyUoiv1rp452IgE8i0-5ujTb6Tuvh_9PeDo/s1600/IMG_20150224_144804.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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The card layers were glued together and I fastened the Pediments at the base to elongate the look of the piece. I then painted the card with a copper paint, and once dry covered with a layer of crackle paste. Once this was also dry I aged it up with my distress inks, and put the tin in place. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5uDVce860dmR9BuEdhQn2oaxb3DpwCHpbYmDkw4RGX5b6gw3od4raXAV1adb3y-lxfjem7uD7oPGs6HEn_gbsaifW60BbABFFNhEU0_u3YQBWPVPpElJAqyMzNwjw2TbaRVy7mlImJM/s1600/IMG_20150224_215121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5uDVce860dmR9BuEdhQn2oaxb3DpwCHpbYmDkw4RGX5b6gw3od4raXAV1adb3y-lxfjem7uD7oPGs6HEn_gbsaifW60BbABFFNhEU0_u3YQBWPVPpElJAqyMzNwjw2TbaRVy7mlImJM/s1600/IMG_20150224_215121.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJLjaUlUsxOqQcR2oDpld_KxipwW73dprZBBK58D9Wg2PcTnOzTvIELj_AS7cD2YEA_rRQNj6EgAb0cSax_D0GfN9PJk08R8EXcyqqaL7Sdbuh22ijQAFlmP-MV_rRdcd1MIJ02ulSKY/s1600/IMG_20150225_104407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJLjaUlUsxOqQcR2oDpld_KxipwW73dprZBBK58D9Wg2PcTnOzTvIELj_AS7cD2YEA_rRQNj6EgAb0cSax_D0GfN9PJk08R8EXcyqqaL7Sdbuh22ijQAFlmP-MV_rRdcd1MIJ02ulSKY/s1600/IMG_20150225_104407.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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The next step was to add a Tim word band attached with twine and some pieces of filigree. Another piece of twine was used to create the hanging loop.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtzQGJdf8Ei2_tHaZb9khu_06UiaPcZ7ELoYy39RVPh1Zqayrvg2ANYHBLJqEVk8Wkm3g5Mg2ktOxdmqz60EGyFLg9ADQMFSkBnUdMEKEPZ-iwt6UKQMAcNynSlW78iqAnZ6OR3UcKoM/s1600/IMG_20150225_164633_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtzQGJdf8Ei2_tHaZb9khu_06UiaPcZ7ELoYy39RVPh1Zqayrvg2ANYHBLJqEVk8Wkm3g5Mg2ktOxdmqz60EGyFLg9ADQMFSkBnUdMEKEPZ-iwt6UKQMAcNynSlW78iqAnZ6OR3UcKoM/s1600/IMG_20150225_164633_edit.jpg" height="252" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzzinIxJzQ3ppKYf2AAsxKXBkSuqzl8fKAMpvcKBN3TZ4jd6VdT6Gwok70sCh3Kv_N2x6XBn0Bjc08KhQDqxRA4hM8zwW0DLrPRNwzNDHkxpndOir0XNZ8LEnE69amfY5XzPjbSydZz8/s1600/altered+tin+finished+with+overlay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzzinIxJzQ3ppKYf2AAsxKXBkSuqzl8fKAMpvcKBN3TZ4jd6VdT6Gwok70sCh3Kv_N2x6XBn0Bjc08KhQDqxRA4hM8zwW0DLrPRNwzNDHkxpndOir0XNZ8LEnE69amfY5XzPjbSydZz8/s1600/altered+tin+finished+with+overlay.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a></div>
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This piece feels very personal to me, related to some of my health issues (physical and mental) and is now hanging where I can see it daily. <br />
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Please remember to visit <a href="http://alteredeclectics.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Altered Eclectics</a> and see what goodies my teammates have to share with you for March.<br />
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Thanks for reading :o)<br />
Steffi xxsteffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-68502704135094686622015-02-28T16:04:00.001-08:002015-03-09T10:37:38.974-07:00Domino Book for Rhedd's Creative Spirit DT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hi :) today for my March DT piece for Rhedd's Creative Spirit, I'm sharing a little domino book I made for a swap - it had to follow a butterfly theme (not hard I think every crafter has butterflies in their stash!!) and have lashings of lace!</div>
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So I started with two ordinary dominoes and coloured them with alcohol inks. I had forgotten how much I love alcohol inks - the colours are great and you can use them in lots of different ways. Definitely worth a quick look on Pinterest (or if you're like me that will turn into a few hours!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNUyUPSG-4cGvwnS5CMnUaevnko0N9quhp-3hJOeo8_W6DccX2W2UJHcxKtkasKzrBKAMqrOcjCtdW_0EFoSKnpiWe6ha15zWpitSKxso08IGcPYQ3b134RIqfPlcd3FAePT4ncfKzZ5s/s1600/IMG_20150128_113727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNUyUPSG-4cGvwnS5CMnUaevnko0N9quhp-3hJOeo8_W6DccX2W2UJHcxKtkasKzrBKAMqrOcjCtdW_0EFoSKnpiWe6ha15zWpitSKxso08IGcPYQ3b134RIqfPlcd3FAePT4ncfKzZ5s/s1600/IMG_20150128_113727.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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The next step was to create an inside for the book. I measured the dominoes length and then cut a strip of cream card a fraction smaller and concertina'd it, going over the creases with a bone folder to make sure they were crisp. Then I used a distress ink pad that toned with the dominoes to shade the edge of the folds. </div>
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Next I took a few of my butterfly stamps (I did let a dragonfly slip in) and stamped along one side of the card. Flipping it over, I attached a layer of lace tape and some pink gem butterflies. Before attaching the card to the inside of the dominoes I attached a length of crocheted lace to each, so that the book could be tied shut when finished.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjatrdg4MGnpUqc1fy8WMeYHnVlIb3LzeTgGfyVCsppsj0rmoNMs-u_CRJrk94kyn58_cfKzvCQFXbm-1gZgaMuHvXvmk54DicHXNTB3V8dFPGfdljjhdFKObEGS7OyKv8WWW1GNvJVn_U/s1600/IMG_20150202_125331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjatrdg4MGnpUqc1fy8WMeYHnVlIb3LzeTgGfyVCsppsj0rmoNMs-u_CRJrk94kyn58_cfKzvCQFXbm-1gZgaMuHvXvmk54DicHXNTB3V8dFPGfdljjhdFKObEGS7OyKv8WWW1GNvJVn_U/s1600/IMG_20150202_125331.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkK2IOdl3tGY8pJcr9furaNRjF6wSC2zvpS_q0eyHTt1kCzv23RgatNKRKTF2zR-6KpxUwFnXHfiTYKB_gGSAcqvpRpvTWru2dVVm0qdKQ92sAz_jP2ecrWOexFtvzpeNm5iL2n4J2D-8/s1600/IMG_20150202_125341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkK2IOdl3tGY8pJcr9furaNRjF6wSC2zvpS_q0eyHTt1kCzv23RgatNKRKTF2zR-6KpxUwFnXHfiTYKB_gGSAcqvpRpvTWru2dVVm0qdKQ92sAz_jP2ecrWOexFtvzpeNm5iL2n4J2D-8/s1600/IMG_20150202_125341.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another part of the brief was that the book needed to have feet so it could stand up. I took 4 little beads that were a pale jade colour and glued them into place. On the front of the domino book I used another piece of the lace tape and also added a floral wooden butterfly. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFgzwJLF2MJYDY9ZlSvKykysrlMyZMOd9zhnGX_INHwxifxvA76OrisRj0FrPY7v94VRRBGgrsPOyWZ_bqGRzIEDf6_QGAQnYTe94nTpSp-IYc5LxG6pIC6slMHqvx6TqemtbQn8jQzw/s1600/domino+book+with+overlay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFgzwJLF2MJYDY9ZlSvKykysrlMyZMOd9zhnGX_INHwxifxvA76OrisRj0FrPY7v94VRRBGgrsPOyWZ_bqGRzIEDf6_QGAQnYTe94nTpSp-IYc5LxG6pIC6slMHqvx6TqemtbQn8jQzw/s1600/domino+book+with+overlay.jpg" height="320" width="248" /></a></div>
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I'm really pleased with it, so much so that it was a wrench to send it away! It is definitely my new favourite!!<br />
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Please pop across to <a href="http://rheddscreativespirit.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rhedd's Creative Spirit</a> and see all the loveliness created by my teamies.<br />
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Thanks for reading :o)<br />
Steffi xx<br />
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I would like to enter this into the following challenge:<br />
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Dream it up - Frilly and Fabulous - here : <a href="http://www.dreamweaverstencils.blogspt.co.uk/2015/frilly-and-fabulous-week-one.html?m=1" target="_blank">http://www.dreamweaverstencils.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/frilly-and-fabulous-week-one.html?m=1 </a><br />
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steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-59204715364034599762015-02-01T00:00:00.000-08:002015-02-01T00:00:02.130-08:00Altered Matchbox for Altered Eclectics DTHi, today I'm sharing my first Design Team make for <a href="http://alteredeclectics.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Altered Eclectics</a>. It is an altered matchbox that I made for a swap.<br />
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I started off with an everyday, kitchen sized matchbox. Here's a little picture of it, you can just see that I was already sizing up some paper alongside it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE5nZw64T-3uPPh3mw4odJEshdE44H6MEMQEDS-QbbLn9B_KhtNkjyKBofhp22bWhSy94q8YBah8vCl208geE5okEIAw2r5wTCnlurNtU2dx-dJvWSRhJSondAccDtshDDWbv9hgpL20Q/s1600/altered+matchbox+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE5nZw64T-3uPPh3mw4odJEshdE44H6MEMQEDS-QbbLn9B_KhtNkjyKBofhp22bWhSy94q8YBah8vCl208geE5okEIAw2r5wTCnlurNtU2dx-dJvWSRhJSondAccDtshDDWbv9hgpL20Q/s1600/altered+matchbox+before.jpg" height="235" width="320" /></a></div>
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I stayed with the butterfly papers to cover the matchbox, and inked them with a couple of distress inks. Then I've added some lace tape to the edges of the top and sides. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgsH-nmFDOTUt8NYFL1DO4OkP2LbpgxWzni90q4OYelFNQoHX7Xy7pO_qTf3S9732g5LaPBtijQ8V0QTSDcrTkvFBXDxu5Nzur35NM5npOzL4aJNsNv3lYTRAvDgcdp9qjQYSYPiBHQ4/s1600/altered+matchbox+midway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgsH-nmFDOTUt8NYFL1DO4OkP2LbpgxWzni90q4OYelFNQoHX7Xy7pO_qTf3S9732g5LaPBtijQ8V0QTSDcrTkvFBXDxu5Nzur35NM5npOzL4aJNsNv3lYTRAvDgcdp9qjQYSYPiBHQ4/s1600/altered+matchbox+midway.jpg" height="195" width="320" /></a></div>
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The large flower is a Kusudama flower which is made using an Origami technique; I've used a different piece of designer paper from a co-ordinating collection for each segment of the flower; the centre is a Prima paper rose. I've also lined the match tray inside and out with a paper, and added a little metal drawer handle. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3g8NRASzqf_yk9gkvOUqIpxmvSuXZtpeVvAKH7McldfmMBiuG4sUGA11GWJVYGfr_CYR2pYptYF2MLUPAwuVYvokGHoYHHsJ8xbZMU6pT9bS9aa1su0DS6wqwYoHewHWFvKtqr2i9RUE/s1600/altered+matchbox+view+one.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3g8NRASzqf_yk9gkvOUqIpxmvSuXZtpeVvAKH7McldfmMBiuG4sUGA11GWJVYGfr_CYR2pYptYF2MLUPAwuVYvokGHoYHHsJ8xbZMU6pT9bS9aa1su0DS6wqwYoHewHWFvKtqr2i9RUE/s1600/altered+matchbox+view+one.jpg" height="320" width="310" /></a></div>
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The word band says 'Where there's a will, there's a way' (that was one of my mum's favourite sayings so I always think of her when I see it). I wasn't completely happy with this at that stage, I knew it needed something else but I wasn't sure what. I tried a few things, more flowers, cogs and things until I remembered some little bottle caps I got with images under resin on them. I chose one of those, it still didn't look quite right on it's own, so I added a square piece of metal filigree under it, and that did the trick! It was just the finishing touch it needed.<br />
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I'm really pleased with it, and hope that my swap partner is too :o)<br />
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Now I can't wait to see what all my new teamies have created over at <a href="http://alteredeclectics.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Altered Eclectics</a>, do pop over and have a look too.<br />
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Thanks for reading :o)<br />
Steffi xx<br />
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I would like to enter this into the following challenge:<br />
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Challenge Up Your Life - Challenge 7 Box - here : <a href="http://challengeupyourlife.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/challenge-7-box.html#.VM1OgiusWSo">http://challengeupyourlife.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/challenge-7-box.html#.VM1OgiusWSo</a><br />
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<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-55937383777666323942015-01-31T23:30:00.000-08:002015-01-31T23:30:01.231-08:00Altered Journal cover for Rhedd's Creative Spirit DTToday I'm sharing my second Design Team piece for <a href="http://rheddscreativespirit.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rhedd's Creative Spirit</a> :o)<br />
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I've decided I really need to commit some time to journaling; firstly because it just looks <u>Amazing!!</u> and secondly because it will help with some of the self-confidence issues that still come up with me from time to time.<br />
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So, if I'm going to journal, I need a journal, right?!? I bought a great 6 x 6 scrapbook from Hobbycraft during their sale (£2.50 - can't go wrong at that!) it had nice sturdy inner pages and a ribbon tie fastening. Only thing is the covers were just plain white, and boring!! I decided to change that!<br />
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These are the plain covers, removed and ready for action!<br />
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The first thing I did was to cover them in gesso, to give a nice surface to work on. Once that was dry I reached for some stencils and some texture paste.<br />
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Hopefully you will just about see the hexaganol pattern in the top right corner, and may be able to pick out some of the other bits - it was clear texture paste though so I tilted them under the light to try and catch them.<br />
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Next step was to go a little crazy with the embellishments! I used a variety of pieces, some Finnabair ones (obviously!) some paper roses, strips of lace and some wooden bits from <a href="http://www.thatcraftplace.co.uk/" target="_blank">That Craft Place</a> - that's where I got the 'Dream' word from - I think I might need to buy another - I love it!!<br />
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Once the embellishments were all stuck where I wanted them, and the glue had dried, I went back over it all with the gesso again, to give a nice even surface.<br />
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Then, out came my ink sprays! I think I may have too many (if that's possible!?), they only just fit in their box, and that's only after a lot of shuffling about! This effect was achieved using a mixture of both glimmer sprays and some ink sprays from Dylusions, spraying one, letting it dry and then moving on to the next. I also sprayed plain water on to dilute them a little more so that they would run and cover the whole area. The final step was to take some copper acrylic paint and touch up the raised areas.<br />
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I am so pleased with the result, and the covers really have a sparkle all their own due to the glitter sprays and the copper paint, although it doesn't fully show in the pictures. I think I may need another trip to Hobbycraft to see if they've any scrapbooks left!<br />
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Don't forget to pop over to <a href="http://rheddscreativespirit.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rhedd's Creative Spirit</a> to see what the other team members have created.<br />
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Thanks for reading :o)<br />
Steffi xx<br />
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I would like to enter this into the Sparkle and Shine challenge at Finnabair's blog - here - <a href="http://tworzysko.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/sparkle-shine-blog-hop-challenge.html">http://tworzysko.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/sparkle-shine-blog-hop-challenge.html</a>steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-71902489580182338412015-01-28T10:34:00.002-08:002015-01-28T10:34:43.363-08:00Playing along with Tim's 12 Tags of 2015 :o)Hi there, thanks for popping by :o)<br />
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Today I am sharing my take on <a href="http://timholtz.com/12-tags-of-2015-january/" target="_blank">Tim's January tag</a> - I really enjoyed having a go at this and I'm pleased to get it done before the end of the month! For those who don't know, starting in 2012, Tim Holtz has given a tag tutorial each month and challenged crafters to come up with their own take on it, I wanted to join in last year, but my health being as it was I struggled to even get started. This year I am determined to join in each and every month (fingers crossed!!)<br />
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Here is a little glimpse of Tim's 2015 January tag & if you click <a href="http://timholtz.com/12-tags-of-2015-january/" target="_blank">here</a> you will jump over to his tutorial :o) <br />
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I won't detail all the steps for the tag here, as if you want to join in yourself you should pop over to Tim's blog and have a look there.<br />
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I also needed to do two ATCs for one of the Facebook challenge group I'm in, and the theme was 'Resolutions', I decided that this layout would be great to adapt for the ATCs too, so that is what I've done.<br />
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The starting point for the tag is texturing some Tissue Wrap, I used Tim's 'Melange' for this:<br />
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Then the base is coloured using Distress Paints and Sprays, I used a slightly different combination on mine which gave them a more tan/greeny look. Next Tim used some Alpha Parts to make up the year, unfortunately I don't have these (despite my ever growing collection of all things Tim!) so I used some chipboard letters and numbers for this. I also don't yet have the Chit-Chat stickers for the next step, so for this I used some of my favourite wordy stamps.</div>
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And here are the words edged with Distress Inks and then stuck into place:</div>
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The chipboard letters were coloured using a copper leafing Krylon pen, and stuck down in place. I added a brad to each of the ATCs and on the Tag, which I wanted to use as a focus for myself for the coming year, I added a little bulb embellishment with the word 'ME' on it. A few splatters of paint and finished!<br />
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I've really loved playing along, and I'm really pleased with the way the texture and colour built up! I can't wait to see February's tag now (just as well it's only a few days away!!)</div>
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Thanks for reading :o)</div>
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Steffi xx</div>
<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-77726153818226628032015-01-26T12:56:00.000-08:002015-01-26T13:20:06.460-08:00Three of a Kind - Steampunk ATCsI'm getting back into my ATC making, after not really getting into the groove with them last month when my health was low.<br />
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Today I'm sharing a set of three with you that I've made for a swap on a Facebook Group, there was no specified theme, just that three were required to enter. Being a bit of a steampunk lover, I thought I'd use that as my theme.<br />
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My first step was to cover the base card with some designer paper that was printed with French newspaper. I put on three ripped layers and inked the edges using Antique Linen distress ink, I also distressed the edges slightly using scissor blades.<br />
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I recently found some brilliant wooden embellishments in The Range, a set of hats - top hats, bowler hats and homburgs - together with a mixture of moustaches. I picked out one of each and coloured them black using a sharpie, then glued them into position on the front of the ATCs. I also found a set of sticky notes in the same shop that had an assortment of pointing hands, lightbulbs and the like on them so I added one of these to each ATC, and wrote a suitable word on each. The finishing touch was to stamp some little cog wheels and then add a little pearlised gold texture paste to some of the edges on each.<br />
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Can't wait to see what style of ATCs I get in return!!<br />
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Thanks for reading :o)<br />
Steffi xx<br />
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I would like to enter this into the following swaps:<br />
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SanDee & Amelies Steampunk Challenges - Three's my lucky number - here : <a href="http://sandee-and-amelie.blogspot.co.at/2015/01/happy-new-year-and-new-challenge.html">http://sandee-and-amelie.blogspot.co.at/2015/01/happy-new-year-and-new-challenge.html</a><br />
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Suzy Bee's Bloomin' Challenge Blog - Challenge 64 - Anything Goes with a twist - Use Layers - here : <a href="http://suzypantssmarty.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/24-january-challenge-64-atg-with-twist.html">http://suzypantssmarty.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/24-january-challenge-64-atg-with-twist.html</a><br />
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Daring Cardmakers -You Can Leave Your Hat On - here : <a href="http://suzypantssmarty.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/24-january-challenge-64-atg-with-twist.html">http://suzypantssmarty.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/24-january-challenge-64-atg-with-twist.html</a><br />
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Craft Stampers Take it Make it Challenge - Take a Stamp - here : <a href="http://craftstamper.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/take-it-make-it-challenge-all-new-for.html">http://craftstamper.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/take-it-make-it-challenge-all-new-for.html</a><br />
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and<br />
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Left of Center Creative Challenges - Challenge 62 - Layer it Up - here : <a href="http://leftofcenterchallenges.blogspot.ca/2015/01/challenge-62-layer-it-up-with-that.html">http://leftofcenterchallenges.blogspot.ca/2015/01/challenge-62-layer-it-up-with-that.html</a><br />
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<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-59429579173642360562015-01-19T14:57:00.001-08:002015-01-19T14:57:57.566-08:00Pink for a New Baby Girl :o)Hi, today I'm sharing a little mixed media shadow box I've made for Phil's niece and husband's new arrival. A lovely baby girl :o)<br />
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It's another little goodie from Tando Creative, just the right size for some little wooden embellies from <a href="http://www.thatcraftplace.co.uk/" target="_blank">That Craft Place</a>. - I bought a New Baby Grab bag, and asked Danny to just include bits suitable for a girl as we knew in advance that they were having a daughter.<br />
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I first lined each section with some designer paper in different pink patterns, polka dots, flowers and the like and then set to planning what to put where. Then I decided whether to paint the embellishments or not, I decided I would, although they would have also worked left plain. As they are made from 'raw' wood I used gesso on them first, otherwise the wood would just have soaked up all the paint.<br />
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The other embellishments are some word tiles, a wooden fairy button coloured with promarkers, two little resin pendant bases, a cute little bottle-cap with a butterfly image, some metal filigree corners and some brads.<br />
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I'm really pleased with it, and it's now on display in the new baby's nursery :o)<br />
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Thanks for reading<br />
Steffi xx<br />
<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-85928357655905386192015-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:002015-01-01T04:48:43.748-08:00A Little Box of Dreams and Wishes - First DT piece for Rhedd's Creative SpiritHi there - today I'm sharing my first ever make as part of a Design Team - so I'm feeling a little nervous!! Please do pop over to <a href="http://rheddscreativespirit.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rhedd's Creative Spirit</a> to see the wonderful makes that my teamies have shared.<br />
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This is a little altered wooden box that I have blinged up a little. You may realise looking through earlier posts that 'Bling' is a totally new concept for me, slightly out of my comfort zone, so I hope you like it :o)<br />
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This is what it looked like to begin with, just plain wood, I had bought it because I really liked the fretwork on the lid, originally though it was just a cut-away so you could see into the box - which would have been good for holding potpourri or similar - but I wanted to try something different. <br />
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My first step was to paint the box inside and outside with gesso as I always find that plain wood like this really soaks up paint otherwise. The gesso puts down a surface layer that sort of seals the wood so that you can then paint as you wish. I mixed up some of my paint; a metallic pearl and some deep violet; to make a lighter purple with a slight sheen. Once dry I added some metal filigree corners to lower corners of the box - I really like the way they look.<br />
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I then glued a piece of purple card to the underside of the lid to create a base to the fretwork. I mixed some clear texture paste with some glass glitter and then pushed this into all of the scrolls.<br />
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Not very easy to show the glitter, hope you can see it in the photo below.</div>
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I was really pleased with this but still felt it needed a little more so I set to thinking about what I would use the box for. As I say, it is quite small about 3 inches wide and 2.5 inches deep. Last year I kept a Gratitude Jar (although I didn't keep up with it as much as I should have done) and I intend to do this again for 2015, but I wanted something else to go alongside it. I decided that this could be a lovely little holder for my secret wishes over the year to come, and so it is a 'Little Box of Dreams and Wishes' and it is now labelled as such.</div>
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I used a set of alphabet stamps in a fancy font to stamp out the labels and simply glued them in place, they were just the final touch I think the box needed.<br />
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Thanks for reading :o)<br />
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Steffi<br />
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I would like to enter this into the current challenge, #8 at The Mixed Media Monthly Challenge - Something New for the New Year (as I said above Bling is totally new to me!) - here: <a href="http://mixedmediamc.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/mixed-media-monthly-challenge-8.html">http://mixedmediamc.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/mixed-media-monthly-challenge-8.html</a><br />
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<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-6801915961513296992014-12-08T09:00:00.000-08:002014-12-08T09:00:21.766-08:00Shabby-chic mixed media canvas Today I'm sharing a Vintage styled, mixed media canvas that I've created as an end of year gift for a swap on Facebook. The only brief was for it to be mixed media and to be able to house a little calendar that could be replaced each year.<br />
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I started with a deep framed 8x8" canvas and then using a scraped paint technique gave it a base of a light terracotta with highlights of a mossy green and gold. The edge was done in a darker terracotta (created by mixing the other colours together and adding a bit of red). I then did the same with 2 smaller canvases - one was 2.5 x 2.5" square and the other 2 x 1" the smaller one I also wrapped with some lace border ; and then glued them in place on the main canvas.<br />
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Next bit - embellishments :o) I love digging through all my bits and bobs decided what to use! I chose some metal filigree pieces and added paper roses, together with a little bottle cap shaped piece holding a picture of a butterfly. I stamped some sentiments onto tissue paper and used melted beeswax to place these. I also went around the edge of the larger canvas with some flourishes in dark glitter glue. A lovely metal dragonfly placed on the lace covered canvas and a matching piece of lace across one corner finished of the main piece.<br />
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Then I had to work out how to place the calendar and how to make sure it could be replaced each year.<br />
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I realised that the calendar was just a little smaller than a credit card so I decided to cut a sleeve from a plastic card wallet and used some patterned packaging cardboard as a back for it. I made a little flap out of some scrap card and used this to fasten it to the bottom of the canvas, covering it with some washi tape.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREn_A8OaZulkspW3J5FY2NCHIvefVGnA9LhP89uYVKwfS8aA332v_esgdqnYWjggSiM6r6DYsNYTvJSIUmOTIA_NoL20B_7oW2ws83f7Yli9esR7pQxaTi6FWF8A_ZiAsF09lKqtaIC8/s1600/P1000976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREn_A8OaZulkspW3J5FY2NCHIvefVGnA9LhP89uYVKwfS8aA332v_esgdqnYWjggSiM6r6DYsNYTvJSIUmOTIA_NoL20B_7oW2ws83f7Yli9esR7pQxaTi6FWF8A_ZiAsF09lKqtaIC8/s1600/P1000976.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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I'm really pleased with it and hope my swap partner is too.<br />
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I would like to enter this canvas into the following challenges :<br />
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Sisterhood of Snarky Stampers - Challenge 22 V is for Vintage - here <a href="http://snarkystampers.blogspot.ca/2014/11/soss-22-v-is-for-vintage.html?m=1">http://snarkystampers.blogspot.ca/2014/11/soss-22-v-is-for-vintage.html?m=1</a><br />
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Sugar Creek Hollow - Challenge 101 Not a Card - here <a href="http://sugarcreekhollow.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/101-not-card-important-announcement.html?m=1">http://sugarcreekhollow.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/101-not-card-important-announcement.html?m=1</a><br />
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Artist Trading Post Exchange - Recycle for Christmas - here <a href="http://artisttradingpost.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/recycle-for-christmas.html?m=1">http://artisttradingpost.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/recycle-for-christmas.html?m=1</a> (recycled packaging and card wallet)<br />
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Frilly & Funkie - A Vintage Holiday - here <a href="http://frillyandfunkie.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/a-vintage-holiday.html?m=1">http://frillyandfunkie.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/a-vintage-holiday.html?m=1</a> (created for New Years)<br />
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And<br />
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Miriam's Crafting Blog - Challenge 19 Handmade Gift - here <a href="http://miriamscraftingblog.com/1/post/2014/12/miriams-crafting-blogs-19th-monthly-challenge-handmade-gifts.html">http://miriamscraftingblog.com/1/post/2014/12/miriams-crafting-blogs-19th-monthly-challenge-handmade-gifts.html</a><br />
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Thanks for reading<br />
Stefanie xxsteffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-74061168135595669512014-12-01T13:26:00.002-08:002014-12-01T13:26:19.711-08:00December - New month & some news :o)So countdown to the end of the year - I'm just wondering where it went!?<br />
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I wanted to quickly share the result of a workshop I went on the other weekend, it was a needle-felting one. Loads of fun, and more tiring on the wrists then you would imagine!! It was a last minute decision to go, two of my friends were going and there was a spare place - so 'Why not?' I thought. These are the cute little penguins we made - mine is in the middle. He has now been named Hector and adopted by my Auntie who fell in love with him on first sight!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzpqaGZxcrX54pwZ4m9QwasY9VGhvQXcN1NlDJMn4rNBCAmpXkKtYjZhh1Pc0uHIPKTryKx33eqwdWgZ-czgCYd0ErL3MspI8bsE6LxdI7AVwNcw4wC17Npp8nkCTXxYuT7v9Hrxy5Gyw/s1600/IMG_20141116_151550_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzpqaGZxcrX54pwZ4m9QwasY9VGhvQXcN1NlDJMn4rNBCAmpXkKtYjZhh1Pc0uHIPKTryKx33eqwdWgZ-czgCYd0ErL3MspI8bsE6LxdI7AVwNcw4wC17Npp8nkCTXxYuT7v9Hrxy5Gyw/s1600/IMG_20141116_151550_edit.jpg" height="320" width="313" /></a></div>
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We started of by making a cone shape for the body using wool tops and building it up by needling in layer upon layer of more wool. The needle is a special one designed for the purpose and has a little barb on the end which helps the layers mesh together. Next was the head which began is just a simple ball shape. Once both bits were the right size and shape we put them together and joined them by needling more wool over the top. <br />
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Greys and black were added to make up the 'tuxedo' look of the penguins and then the face. I added some quirky eyebrows to mine so he looks a little like a rock-hopper!!<br />
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Hope you like them!<br />
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And now my news!! I'm really excited to announce that I will be joining two design teams in January!! They are at <a href="http://alteredeclectics.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Altered Eclectics</a> and <a href="http://rheddscreativespirit.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rhedd's Creative Spirit</a> - two challenge blogs promoting mixed media and altered art that I have enjoyed taking part in over the last year and I'm really looking forward to sharing my makes over the next few months!!<br />
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Thanks for reading<br />
Stefanie xxsteffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-57524685447692452412014-11-15T14:02:00.002-08:002014-11-15T14:02:50.982-08:00RememberanceApologies for the absence - things have been quite manic with me, and the dreaded Fibro went into a bit of a flare :( Anyway I wanted to share this little mixed media artwork with you that I made, I really wanted to post this in time for Rememberance Day as this year marks the 100 year anniversary of the start of the First World War. A very poignant time.<br />
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I used a small A6 sized canvas, and first sketched out the outline of the poppies. Then the layers of paint were built up together with inclusions of bits of lace and mesh to give texture and dimension.</div>
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Just a short post, but thank you for visitng, will be back to normal shortly</div>
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Stefanie xx</div>
<br />steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-90772628749673473072014-10-31T03:36:00.000-07:002014-10-31T03:36:08.131-07:0031 Days of Halloween - Day 31 - otherwise known as SamhainWell, the final day has arrived! Well done to all of you that have managed to stay with us the whole month!! Make sure that you remember to visit the other Wicked Bloggers to see what they have to share today :o)<br />
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I've really enjoyed sharing all my different makes through the month, and seeing what everyone else has had to offer too. I love all the spooky stuff!<br />
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Today though I want to share something slightly different, and hope that you don't mind too much. They are still stamped image cards, but they are more spiritual than spooky. <br />
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I am more likely to refer to Halloween as Samhain, you may not be aware that I consider myself a pagan, that is to say that my spirituality is linked to a love of nature and the different seasons of the year; I try to honour this in my daily life - eating local foods when they are in season, rather than imported foods (I believe our bodies are attuned to certain types of food depending on weather and amounts of sunshine, etc) and I keep myself aware of how the days lengthen and shorten as the year cycles through the season. I follow what is true to me, but I certainly don't want to enforce it on anyone else, but I thought it would be apt to share a creation that reflected this view of the season. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCRhhe0MNyR0YPvEQ_o7FklnjbwZFIyWsvv_TmO-lewIpXEstqkIDRx_fDZUEBrgmPSpiFcL64XsrLtVdHbv8WleIyUVKz6ERaFTvMVIecRdWgqIOXLohctG1HEskcc1VoY99am67tTI/s1600/IMG_20141030_214846_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCRhhe0MNyR0YPvEQ_o7FklnjbwZFIyWsvv_TmO-lewIpXEstqkIDRx_fDZUEBrgmPSpiFcL64XsrLtVdHbv8WleIyUVKz6ERaFTvMVIecRdWgqIOXLohctG1HEskcc1VoY99am67tTI/s1600/IMG_20141030_214846_edit.jpg" height="320" width="158" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtdjjyMdnf6fbHoAnmNnpJFpzOn2DjenvAAGZmf9yXzOxSU3YBI5coRqYylRuI_dRygHMVEseLQYtm1psjYytcQD4kUq7doiRb0yYYk_fFwmR8BrI8kMTjSMvxA4-NmbJVNXXWWJnF8w/s1600/IMG_20141030_215152_edit_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtdjjyMdnf6fbHoAnmNnpJFpzOn2DjenvAAGZmf9yXzOxSU3YBI5coRqYylRuI_dRygHMVEseLQYtm1psjYytcQD4kUq7doiRb0yYYk_fFwmR8BrI8kMTjSMvxA4-NmbJVNXXWWJnF8w/s1600/IMG_20141030_215152_edit_edit.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a></div>
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The phoenix on the left is from Third Coast Stamps, as is the sentiment below it, I've coloured it with promarkers. Unfortunately I do not know where the Goddess image in the second card is from as I bought it second hand, but I think she is lovely. The sentiment on this card is handwritten.<br />
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I often think of Samhain as a time to reflect on the year that has gone before, and then to turn my thoughts inwards to focus on what I would like to develop in the upcoming year. Much in the same way as harvests have finished, and that seeds are planted to over-winter and then to grow in the Spring. It is also a time that pagans honour those that they have lost, as with The Day of Dead in Mexico, we believe that those that have been lost to us can draw close at this time, and so we make an effort to remember them.<br />
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I hope that you do not mind me sharing these with you today,<br />
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Thanks for reading<br />
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Stefanie xx<br />
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steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1459264215524932122.post-18991473865677021222014-10-30T09:00:00.001-07:002014-10-30T09:01:09.797-07:0031 Days of Halloween - Day 30Wow! Welcome to the penultimate day on the wonderful Smeared and Smudged bloghop - 31 Days of Halloween!! If you haven't already do visit the other Wicked Bloggers following the links on my sidebar.<br />
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Today's offering is a pair of steampunk vampires, showcased on Tim Holt's die-cut cabinet cards. <br />
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I've cut 4 of the cabinet cards - 2 for the front and 2 for the back - and used Tim's Coloured Crackle technique - as shown in his Compendium of Curiosities III - page 53. I cant share the steps of this process as it is the focus for the latest CC3C organised by Linda Ledbetter which you can find here <a href="http://lindaledbetter.com/2014/10/compendium-of-curiosities-3-challenge-14.html">http://lindaledbetter.com/2014/10/compendium-of-curiosities-3-challenge-14.html</a> . I think it gives an authentic worn leather look when shown in the browns I have used, but it's amazing how different it can look in different colours.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkyx4CntpbdX6Nk93WH-JxSqgKuc_RPkYx3hFA3KVYNk4Lr3RDV4m1ewWu8eHg2Z1jebiTU9TT1Dcfqla9MDY1KkA3NRf9C6-RsdKRnKxgWrssinHhTviyA4fvm0WEklxTH62zrWb7reU/s1600/IMG_20141030_104503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkyx4CntpbdX6Nk93WH-JxSqgKuc_RPkYx3hFA3KVYNk4Lr3RDV4m1ewWu8eHg2Z1jebiTU9TT1Dcfqla9MDY1KkA3NRf9C6-RsdKRnKxgWrssinHhTviyA4fvm0WEklxTH62zrWb7reU/s1600/IMG_20141030_104503.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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The centerpieces are a pair of free digi stamps that I got here <a href="http://craftymomentscardmaking.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/steampunk-vampire-digis.html">http://craftymomentscardmaking.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/steampunk-vampire-digis.html</a>. I've coloured them with promarkers but kept the colours quite muted to give them an older look.<br />
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As I am wanting to enter this into the CC3C challenge mentioned above I decided to have a look at the requirements of the other fabulous Tim Holt themed challenge site - <a href="http://www.vintagejourney.com/2014/10/challenge-17-halloween-to-die-for.html" target="_blank">A Vintage Journey</a> - and found that the current theme is Halloween using Tim's die-cuts - bonus!! So as its been a while since I've entered either I thought I would combine the two.<br />
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I wanted to use slightly 3d embellishments so i die-cut some of Tim's cogs from black cardstock and then went over them with a metallic bronze pen. I have also added some of Finnabair's mechanicals and a small Prima rose which I've also highlighted bronze.<br />
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I really like the finished project and hope that you do too!<br />
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Thanks for reading<br />
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Stefanie xx<br />
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I would like to enter this into the following challenges:<br />
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Compendium of Curiosities 3 - Challenge 14 - here <a href="http://lindaledbetter.com/2014/10/compendium-of-curiosities-3-challenge-14.html">http://lindaledbetter.com/2014/10/compendium-of-curiosities-3-challenge-14.html</a><br />
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A Vintage Journey - Challenge 17 Halloween to Die For - here <a href="http://www.vintagejourney.com/2014/10/challenge-17-halloween-to-die-for.html">http://www.vintagejourney.com/2014/10/challenge-17-halloween-to-die-for.html</a><br />
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Altered Eclectics = October challenge - here <a href="http://alteredeclectics.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/another-month-another-challenge.html">http://alteredeclectics.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/another-month-another-challenge.html</a><br />
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and<br />
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Opus Gluei - Challenge 194 Ghostly Goings On - here <a href="http://opus-gluei.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/challenge-194-ghostly-goings-on.html">http://opus-gluei.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/challenge-194-ghostly-goings-on.html</a>steffihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03682898623652309007noreply@blogger.com23