fun with alcohol [ink]

So, I haven't posted a project in a while...because I haven't done any. But, it's Christmastime, and I can't go through the season without doing a craft or two. I found a super easy and fun project! And there's so much room for experimenting, I almost can't handle it. I want to run out right now and get more supplies, but I'm in sweatpants...and it's cold.

So, I made some coasters out of tile and alcohol ink. I love the way these look. It's similar to batik, which I also love to do. It's as simple as dropping some ink onto the tile, or onto the applicator, and stamping it until you like what you see. Then add some blending solution and stamp around until you like what you see some more. Don't like what you see? Too bad...just kidding. It was pretty easy to just wipe off with a damp paper towel (pretty soon, they dry fast). Or, just keep stamping and swirling, and layering...eventually you'll get a look you like. I'll probably attach felt to the bottoms, or maybe cork. I will definitely experimenting with mixed media later on.

So...here are some photos. (sorry they kind of suck)

the supplies

a set of four that I wanted to match

some others

I tried stamping some words...i like it!

that's it. have a nice day!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

SHARK WEEK

Well, I actually hate sharks. Everything about sharks freaks me out. Maybe this stems from The Little Mermaid...hmmm...But there's something about Shark Week that I just want to celebrate. So, I made this painting. Then I gave it to Josh and Bria because Josh loves sharks more than anyone I know.

Here is the process...I got a smart phone, so now I can take pictures much easier than before. YAY! Welcome to the 21st Century, Bridge.

first, I measured (math skillz) and just used stickers for the words

 
Then, I drew this image and used painters tape to mark it off.

Then I painted over everything (twice). This is really complex, I know. 

Then, after patiently waiting for it to dry, I took the stickers and tape off! TA-DA!!! I'm pretty happy that it didn't come out perfect and crisp. It feels sort of rustic and torn...just like sharks. Because apparently scientists don't know anything and nobody can tell me how long sharks live on average. Or...I got tired of trying to research it and gave up. 

Sketching Prompts

I have this problem. I like to draw and doodle, but I never know what to draw or doodle. So, I found this book at Target...it's 642 ideas and space to draw said idea! how genius is that? Right up my alley. And hey, maybe a little doodle will give me inspiration for something bigger and better! So far I've drawn a "rolling pin."

Happy Sketching!

wedding bells!

I'm pretty excited about the dress I thrifted that I'll get to wear to a wedding this weekend. I don't have before images, but I basically just removed the shoulder pads, adjusted the sleeves, and made it a v-neck collar. Only 2 more weddings to go this summer and 2 baby showers. I'm sort of glad I don't have more friends...I'm broke!

Stay tuned, pigeons.

Re-FASHION time

I got this dress from the newly wed, Mrs. Katie Heilman, a while ago at a clothing swap. It fit like a potato sack dress, but potato sack dresses don't really fit curvy girls very well...so I made it into a halter! You're welcome.

Before

Before

After

After

Also, I will try to do something with the skirt soon! P.s. I need a tan, so I made all the pictures look antique so I don't look so pale...you're welcome again.

flowers from momma's garden

Mosaic

Can't wait to work on my mosaic! But first...baby showers and weddings.

Currently Sewing: Burp Cloths

It's BABY time for all my lovely friends! So, I'm going to sew these burp cloths and give them out like candy at a parade.

Side Note: I've got big summer plans for some art projects. A mosaic, some paintings with plaster, and more sewing are on the agenda. We'll see what really happens:)

scenes from a sketchbook

seymore birdwatching
unfinished...
girl in a chair/rough sketch

artist trading cards pt.2

winter night
rapunzel

I wanted to put this all in one post...but alas, blogger doesn't want it to happen. I just scanned some sketches, so I thought I'd share the ATC I have. They are all done with Prismacolor pens, and the one with color is with Prismacolor pens and markers.

Enjoy!

artist trading cards pt.1

snow white eats the poisonous apple
un cafe
pear princess
tree-girl
dress in color

pencil pouch!

Well, I'm making something like this...but it won't look nearly as awesome.

In case you don't want to click the link, here's the finished product (not mine).

How do I know it won't look as awesome? Because I've seen it, and it's just a little jankier. But it's still cute and will hold my pens and pencils. and a pencil sharpener. Yes, I still use #2 pencils.

I will put up a picture when I figure out how to finish the darn thing. I'm struggling a little...but, luckily I have a little thing called a photo editor to hide the ragged edges.

see ya, pigeons.

Shout out to my Moms

When I compare my sewing skills to my mothers, it's as if I cut all my fingers off and tried to sew. She is just really good at it. One thing I wanted was a pin cushion that wasn't an apple. For some reason I really like pears. I mean, they are delicious, they are fun to sketch, to paint, to decorate with, and to eat. Did I mention they taste really good?

So here is a picture of my generic old apple pin cushion next to my awesome pear that my mom made me.