Artistic Renderings

Big Bucks

2012-02-17T23:10:00.000-08:00

This is the first we have seen our "big bucks" this year so we were excited.... The buck in the back is an 11 pointer,,,and he is sooooo big. His belly comes as high as the bottom of our front window. These two have been down here in the woods for a good 5 years and we have watched them grow and develop.

Altered Art Glasses / AFTCM Swap

2012-02-14T20:06:00.000-08:00

In one of the mixed media groups I belong to the swap theme was "altered glasses". That's all...just altered glasses .... and it sounded like fun, but what to do?

Ahhhhhhh the bag of computer parts I had purchased a couple of months ago. Computer glasses. Everyone who spends any time on the computer, and has eyes as bad as mine needs "computer glasses".... Do your look like this? Tehehehehe.

SUCH FUN..... "out of the box".

Giraffe n Zen

2012-02-11T19:53:00.000-08:00

I belong to a real special group of artists and we have swaps and exchanges that we are
encouraged to participate in. One of the swaps coming up is to do a Zentangle. I know that there are many different designs that are considered zentangle and I am not sure if mine meets the "guidelines" set by "whom", but it is out of the box, and was a hoot to work on. It is done on a 4 x 6 piece of portrait grade canvas, a sharpie extra fine black pen, Ice Crystal Glitter paint, along with other paints by Americana (one of their newest paint colors I used was Margarita) and then framed with one I had in my stash. Now that I have done this one I want to do another similar one; but different.

I am not sure yet who my partner will be but I am in hopes she will enjoy it.

BTW....the background on this piece is done using the mottled technique. I have used 5 colors.

Artistic Technique Terminology

2012-02-10T19:53:00.000-08:00

Talk about CONFUSING.... Some of the terminology in painting makes you just sit there kinda unsure of how to proceed...... and then when the terminology stays the same but the artist does something different from what you have been taught you are REALLY lost.

These terminology descriptions are used when doing landscapes...... so pull out your notebook and jot yourself a note.

For all of the following techniques I soak my brushes in water fro about 5 minutes and then rub briskly on a terry towel to fluff out the bristles. The brushes should be damp dry when loading and using. The fluffing out of the bristles does NOT ruin your brushes.....it helps them PERFORM.

My brushes of choice (after MANY years of trying others) are Dynasty.

DRYBRUSHING: Load a very small amount of color or colors to your brush and wipe most of it off on either a paper or terry cloth towel. Test. Very lightly touch the surface with your brush....I refer to it as tickling the surface with your brush as you paint. **** I love the Faux Squirrel Single Blenders and the Decorator series Dry Brushes. Both lines are different, come in several different sizes and work WONDERFUL.

FEATHERING: This is a form of dry brushing where you are blending the color on your brush into another color on the surface until it blends with no harsh ridges or edges of color.

MOTTLED: I love this technique and use it mostly for backgrounds. Several different colors can be applied to your brush (I use the Faux Squirrel line in angles and flats, or the Eye of the Tiger brushes depending on my surface) tapping gently to just merge colors and then apply directly to your surface using random strokes in different directions. Do not work the colors or you will end up with mud rather than a "mottle". This technique also works great for skies, grassy areas, foliage, walls on houses, etc.

STIPPLE: I use several different kinds of brushes depending on the effect I am looking for. I use this technique when I am doing foliage, clumps of bushes, etc. For the first application of highlight I choose a color which is just SLIGHTLY lighter than the foliage color and form the tops of bushes, clumps of foliage on a tree, etc. For the final highlight I hold my brush right down at the ferrel as I want TOTAL control of the brush and where the paint is going to go. I use a heavier load of paint on my brush and just drop little pieces of paint to highlight on bushes, trees, etc. The application is done with a quick, tapping motion. ( I love using this technique for teddy bears also).
**** I use IPC Brushes, Faux Squirrel Blenders, Decorator Series Dry Brushes, Decorator Series Foliage Wave brushes and Debbie Mitchell Stipplers.

SCUMBLE: Although nearly the same as mottling I call it sctumble when I am working in smaller areas such as the top of a background tree line, clouds, hair, etc. The strokes are going in different directions and overlap. **** I use IPC Brushes, Faux Squirrel Blenders, Decorator Series Dry Brushes, Decorator Series Foliage Wave brushes and Debbie Mitchell Stipplers.

SCRUBBING: This technique is used when underpainting areas (some call it base coating) where you don't need refined coverage. Many times an overhand method of holding the brush provides a stronger motion of the brush for this technique. It is a more aggressive painting procedure to simply cover the canvas. I like this technique when I want a weathered look for a house, door, etc.

I am hoping that this will clarify some of the questions you might have had referring to the different technique terms.

Dynasty brushes can be purchased at: http://www.artistbrushstrokes.com

If you have any questions please drop me a note at: hannahmaesporch@hotmail.com

Art by Nicole Martensen

2012-02-10T11:33:00.000-08:00

The artist for this piece is Nicole Martensen and it is a piece that really intrigues me. The depth she has managed to obtain on a flat surface using color, the drips of paint, the mottled background etc. is amazing. An inspiring piece that makes me want to fly down to my little studio and create.

Artists who provide this type of inspiration are my "awes" in life. They make the heart go pitter patter, and I love studying the piece to see what went where and why. It is art I don't just "glance at" but art that is meant to be totally enjoyed. A "stand in front of" piece.

Hats off to Nicole.

This piece was published in the May/June issue of Cloth, Paper, Sissors which is one of my favorite magazines.

Little Girl

2012-02-10T00:25:00.002-08:00

The Vet called me and had the pathology report on the mass that was removed from Miss Pru's tummy
(mammary tumor). The mass was malignant, but the vet feels confident that she "got it all". It was not the type of tumor that metastasizes to other parts of the body so for that we are grateful.

Dr. Ladyga said that while Pru was "under" she felt her entire body and right now there are NO additional masses. I am to check her weekly and I plan on taking her back every 3-4 months for them to check her tooto check her to as they know right where to check and what is a mass or normal.

I took the news much better than I expected to but think I have actually been preparing myself for the worst when I realized how much it had grown in just a weeks' time.

We have a cancer survivor.

It is day 4 after surgery and she is knawing away on her Busy Bones same as before, though I don't know how.....is active, wants to play, and is back following me, making her wants known, and wanting
attention. YIPEE.

If you have a female dog and she was neutered later than recommended please check your dog on a regular basis for cysts and or tumors. Prus' was the size of a kidney bean, hard and we could move it but it felt "attached"..

I also thought I would share with you who have dogs to check all of their treats/food, etc. on the back of the package. If the contents were made in China as so many of them are I found out, put them back on the shelf. They are harmful to our pets. One of Pru's favorite treats was a China product so I am in the process of replacing them with products made here in the US. The Vet provided us this warning when we were in the first time, and I also did a search on the computer to learn more. BAD
for our fur babies.......

Little Girl

2012-02-06T17:52:00.000-08:00

Our Little Pru girl had major surgery this AM and she wants nothing to do with me OR Larry. She had
a kidney bean sized tumor on her tummy (I took her to the Vet last Monday right after I found the lump,
which hadn't been there longer than a week) and they also found an abscessed tooth which they were going to remove as well, and do a tooth scraping and cleaning. When they called me at noon to let me know she came through the procedures great they informed me they had removed 10 teeth. 3-4 were abscessed and the rest were real loose... The vet said she has a tiny mouth that was full of way too many teeth..... Needless to say she is not happy with us; and I am sure in a lot of pain.... She has a good 4-5 inch incision on her belly...and we won't get the pathology report until the end of the week so we will be on pins and needles..... She is our fur baby....and she is going to feel so much better and I am hoping when she recuperates she will be back to her normal loving self.......

Bennacht (Blessing) by John O'Donohue

2012-02-02T23:54:00.000-08:00

Beannacht ("Blessing")
by John O’Donohue

On the day when
the weight deadens
on your shoulders
and you stumble,
may the clay dance
to balance you.

And when your eyes
freeze behind
the grey window
and the ghost of loss
gets in to you,
may a flock of colours,
indigo, red, green,
and azure blue
come to awaken in you
a meadow of delight.

When the canvas frays
in the currach of thought
and a stain of ocean
blackens beneath you,
may there come across the waters
a path of yellow moonlight
to bring you safely home.

May the nourishment of the earth be yours,
may the clarity of light be yours,
may the fluency of the ocean be yours,
may the protection of the ancestors be yours.
And so may a slow
wind work these words
of love around you,
an invisible cloak
to mind your life.

Reflections

2012-01-31T12:13:00.000-08:00

Reflections in water excite me. I love to see the differences in water that is still vs water that is moving slightly. With reflections it doesn't make a difference where the sun is.....reflections and shadows are two entirely different things so the "rules of thumb"; so to speak, are different.

You measure the length of an object with your index finger and thumb and this exact size is replicated in the water and the reflection size begins at the base of the object....If there is land between the item and the water, the reflection in the water will be shorter than the object on land. If the object is leaning to the left on land it will lean the very same way in the water.... In many reflections you will see that the opposite happens in a reflection ....ie: On land the top of a mountain is lighter but when it reflects into the water the top of the mountain is darker because it is closer to you.

Observe reflections....see what they do in nature and make notes if you are unable to take a photo to illustrate what you want to paint.

In the bottom picture you can see that there is land between the bush and the water so the reflection begins accordingly....not at the bank but further out into the water. Notice that the bush is darker as it got closer to where I was standing to take the photo. Also there are reflections from both banks...

In the top picture you cannot see the land reflected into the water because of where the photo is taken...and because we are further away we cannot see the land reflection.

Reflections are determined by where you are standing. atmosphere, whether the water is moving or still and where the object is on land.....if it is far enough back from shoreline it may not be reflected in the water.

If you have no photo to go by you must determine effects if you want to paint a "realism".

But who says that I can't paint my mountain orange if I want, or make a shadow longer than it should be? When you are painting you are the artist, you make the determinations according to what you want ; to what pleases you. If you don't want to be precise....there is not a "LAW" that says "YOU MUST", and nothing will happen if you DON'T. The most important thing is that your painting or piece of art is balanced and pleasing to the eye.....

I love impressionistic loose painting because it is my style....it is what I like....it is more natural to me with colors bouncing on each other.... It is my preference......as well as other impressionistic painters.....
I am not a rigid black and white person....I am middle of the road-er, and tend to see things in muted tones and individualistic ways of life......

Choose your mentors wisely.......

Painting Tip / Checking your painting

2012-01-30T02:04:00.000-08:00

As I am painting and then again when I am done I look at my painting in several different ways for form, values, etc.

I look at my item in a mirror for a mirror image, and I also turn my work upside down. Usually if something is not quite right it will jump out at you in viewing one of these ways. It is kinda like "checking yourself" when we were learning to do simple mathematical addition, subtraction, division, etc. Just a "making sure".....

When I am completely done I like to put the item on an easel somewhere in the house or prop it in an area that I pass by often so I can check it several times this way also.

You may want to lighten a highlight, darken a shade. emphasize an area, change the direction of a leaf, etc. before you call your painting "done".

Still Life / Art / Painting

2012-01-26T14:06:00.000-08:00

I have been reading a lot about still life, thinking about the piece I painted this week, and the desire to do more. It has been a good teaching and learning experience. I have determined that the reason I don't care for most still lifes is the "lack of emotion and feeling". There is nothing that is left to the imagination. I am
however; much more comfortable with the impressionistic form where brush strokes are seen. With the swish of a brush a bit of emotion is left in softness or hardness vs the rigid line to line color in type you see on greeting cards.

I like the painterly look, the variance of colors in an object vs the flatness of just a base coat, highlight and shade.

Impressionistic Still Life

2012-01-25T20:06:00.000-08:00

One of the things I want to do this year is to work outside of my comfort zone so this is an impressionistic still life. I have always been a "tight" painter so the impressionistic loosey goosey techniques used are hard for me. This was done because I loved the tall skinny bottle my daughter used for her lemon vodka at Christmas time. It was painted on an MDF plaque that I had in my stash. I used Liquitex acrylic paints and

Dynasty brushes. The doily was a plastic one that I had and just stippled onto the board using it as a stencil.

I took the photo at a slight angle so I didn't get any light glare so the items are just a little off kilter. I am anxious to do a couple more still life pieces so I need to take a walk through the house and find some items which will be easy and yet challenge me a bit. When I am working on new technique I stay with "them" until they become more comfortable.

Beautiful Sari Silk Wrap Bracelets

2012-01-25T11:39:00.000-08:00

Etsy shop MaryMercedes.

Mary makes these awesome one of a kind silk wrap bracelets using some of the buttons that I sell. She does such a gorgeous job. Each one is unique and beautiful. Check out her shop to see other artistically made bracelets by Mary.

KARMA.......

2012-01-24T01:29:00.001-08:00

VALENTINE ATC

2012-01-22T23:32:00.000-08:00

This was a really fun ATC to do. It was done on a wooden ATC

and I decided to try my hand at a simple collage/mixed media piece for a change of pace.

I used some wire of different weights, Acrylic Paints, Red Glamour Dust Paint, some Silver tape, 2 Mats, one white with a black core, the other a black with white core, and some neat antique silver charms that I had on hand.

It looks even better after I laid a white frame on the top.....just the perfect

touch. I would like to do some more of these ATC's using mixed media. Maybe I will do something similar to this on either canvas or masonite to use as a cover for one of my journals...... It might be an idea to also use frames for the front and back....... I enjoy thinking and doing outside the box.

LOWE CORNELL CIRCULAR ROTATING BRUSH STORAGE UNIT

2012-01-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

Holcraft has Lowe Cornells brush storage unit on sale right now for $10.49. It is a circular, rotating unit

with 72 assorted holder sections and 7 flat wells. Product # LC380. Looks fantastic. I tried to copy a photo to my blog but was unable to do so .... so go to: http://www.hofcraft.com/paintingaccessories-brushstorageholders.htm

STEAMPUNK SWAP / EXCHANGE

2012-01-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

This was a fun swap. Our prompt was a steampunk doll....... Mine is made with 4 dominoes.....and numerous misc. items. I have attached a sawtooth hanger to the back so that it can be "hung" if the recipient chooses to do so. I hope my partner will
like it.

JERRY YARNELL / DYNASTY BRUSHES

2012-01-12T15:12:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to see that Jerry Yarnell is endorsing the Dynasty Black Gold Flat brushes because of their
"extreme chisel edge"... hopefully he will investigate some of their other brushes and become a total member of the Dynasty Family of brush users. He has been my mentor for over 10 years. He is fantastic as an artist, teacher, and all around person; committed to having his students learn by not holding back any information which might be helpful. He goes that extra mile .....which is something which is rare.

Sketching

2012-01-10T23:48:00.000-08:00

Most of the paintings I do are scenery and landscapes as well as designs from one of my photographs so I really needed to do some sketching.... something I VERY RARELY do, or have done. I normally paint first and then do my sketch by tracing what I have painted.....

I wanted to start a journal so I am going to do some much needed journal sketching to go outside of my box for 2012 and see what happens. I have a small and large sketch book with black and white paper.
They will probably end up a mix up of sketches, words, ideas, etc. but that is OK.... I can justify the time being that it will be a great help to me as I paint, design jewelry, altered art etc. Just good ole
Art Journals.

On Yahoo I have joined a group recommended by a friend where sketching prompts are provided. This is my first which was "My Watch", and I was really surprised that it wasn't as horrible as I had expected; which makes me more willing to try the next prompt which is a kitchen jar, tin, or bottle.

The scariest part was that first mark on the white paper....and the more I worked at it the more engrossed I became. I know I DO need an kneadable eraser which is on my list for the next Michaels visit.

So surprise yourself. Draw your watch.

A breath of SpringShine

2012-01-06T23:53:00.000-08:00

A friend of ours up the street brought down these forced bulb flowers to bring a little spring shine into the day. They are so petite, fragrant and pretty. I am not much of a flower grower but I "think" these are narcissus. Such a nice surprise to make the day
"special".

TEXTING THUMB WRAP for Trigger Thumb and Carpal Tunnel

2012-01-06T22:54:00.000-08:00

My daughter got me the neatest wrap for Christmas for my thumb and carpel tunnel/trigger thumb related to my decorative painting, mixed media work as well as knitting, crocheting and computer texting, etc. I have had several shots so it is doing pretty good, but I have used the wrap 3 times since receiving it.

The item can be either hot or cold. I put the wrap into a baggie and then into the freezer with my ice cubes for cold therapy. For hot: I put it into my microwave on a little rubber mat that I have and wore it to bed to help relax the tendon. Very relaxing. You can purchase unscented or lavender.

I have no affiliation with this vendor....just thought I would share the site with other artists who might have a need for easing aches/pains that come from our art, repetitive motion, etc.

Texting Thumb Wrap is the item my daughter purchased for me.

Thanks Michelle

www.theferrishwheelshop.com

Portion of Cascade Mountain Range

2012-01-05T17:11:00.000-08:00

This is just a small portion of the Cascade Mountain range that is visible as I drive to and through Bend. It doesn't matter how many times per week I see the range I am in awe of the beauty.... I always look, and I get a feeling of peace and my heart beats just a little faster. It is gorgeous... **Click on the photo and enjoy it larger.

DYNASTY / BLACK GOLD BRUSHES / WEBSITE AND BLOG

2012-01-05T16:57:00.000-08:00

I Just finished going over to the Dynasty Blog and watched a couple of their U-Tube Videos that you can "get to" from their blog. Go to: http://www.dynastybrush.com and in the menu at the left choose their Blogsite.

They have some great information, tutorials, videos etc. on both sites that are worth your time watching.

IMHO Dynasty brushes are the highest quality brushes and best performing brushes I have ever used.
There are many "types" to choose from. I love the Dynasty IPC brushes, Faux Squirrel, Eye of the Tiger, Dynasty Decorator Series, and the Micron mini line. It all depends on what I am painting and my surface which of these brushes I will choose to use. AWESOME brushes.

Check out my Landscape / Scenery Kit of Dynasty brushes on my Etsy site at: http://www.artisticrenderings.etsy.com

LOVE THIS QUOTE.....by UNKNOWN

2012-01-02T22:39:00.000-08:00

WHEN PEOPLE HURT YOU OVER AND OVER, THINK OF THEM AS LIKE SANDPAPER...

THEY MAY SCRATCH AND HURT YOU A BIT, BUT IN THE END, YOU END UP POLISHED AND THEY END UP USELESS.

I am well polished.....stronger, and more intent because she......... was sandpaper, and has been discarded.

Journal / Mixed Media 2012 Goals

2012-01-02T22:13:00.000-08:00

In order to do; one must sometimes commit. SO...... in 2012 I am going to journey into doing a Journal or two and see what happens (I have hunted down my colored pencils, a couple of nice pens) and also do some serious mixed media pieces.....both are things I have never done...although as a young girl I remember making a paper book and I did "something" in it....and as a teenager I wrote a lot of poetry but I have NO idea where either of these books are today....probably ashes. I have several "neat" learning books so hopefully with the help of some of my "really" talented internet friends' guidance, help, prompts, etc. I will travel down the road and not hit a lot of big bumps.. or get stuck in a rut or a deep mud puddle.

NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS....THE PATH INTO 2012

2012-01-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

I have been pondering resolutions for 2012. I don't drink in excess so there is nothing to give up, I quit smoking over 12 years ago. I am overweight by many peoples' standards but I feel good so I am choosing to not diet but to eat healthier in 2012. My Tai Chi class provides the exercise that is best
for my body aches, pains etc. which come with age.

Life has been good to me....I am pretty much happy and content...with the normal ups and downs I have little or no control over.

I guess my resolution is to become a better person, friend, wife, mother, grandmother in 2012 and to
achieve a higher level of artistic ability.

To all of my friends and family I wish a happy, successful, stress free, healthy 2012.

Knitting

2012-01-01T16:17:00.000-08:00

I am enjoying knitting again and have been working on short knit scarves and neck warmers. Keeps my fingers limber, accomplishing something, and a sense of self satisfaction. I love the yarn I used for the blue scarf as it is like a chenille. Super soft, not itchy and is a textured yarn....naturally it is no longer available for purchase so I have been utilizing Ebay for straggler skeins. I HATE thick, long, bulky, itchy things around my neck....or anywhere next to my skin for that matter so this yarn is just perfect.

Husbands

2011-12-28T00:13:00.000-08:00

I love it when my husband and I can work on something together. This is
a vintage plane that we picked up at a thrift store and I asked my husband
to transform it into a coat rack to be hung in our entry way. I love what he did and it goes well with the eclectic decor in this area. So....I guess

after I just re-read what I wrote he did the thinking and the work so he deserves all of the credit...and that is a good thing. I love how he incorporated the vintage cane into the plane's ring on the left side.

Get Positive and Enjoy

2011-12-26T12:37:00.000-08:00

Some Intelligent insight quotes about art and artists.....by Suzi Blu an extremely talented mixed media artist.

"I believe it is PASSION, NOT a degree, that makes you an artist. It is your excitement about materials, colors and textures, your enthusiasm when you see work you like and oooh--you want to run home and do it too. THIS makes you an artist."

"The only difference between you and an art master is time."

"Happy is more important than impressive.
I feel so sorry for artists who are "stuck" in yesterday, enveloped in negativeness, and can't see past
"themselves" or their preconceived ideas of what is and isn't art based on what they "think".

New Year Ponderings

2011-12-26T00:24:00.000-08:00

It is time to begin thinking about New Years Resolutions, Goals, Inspiration and a brief
review of the past year. Hmmmmmmm.

This will be a "good thing" to have as the first page of my 2011 Journal. I am hoping to
do an art one and one that is just daily jibber jabber, and impromptu thoughts and happenings.

Totally Handmade/Homemade/Handcrafted

2011-12-26T00:15:00.000-08:00

My daughter and son in law created their own special gift for family members and friends this year and I just had to "show off" the creativeness.

The bottle of liquor was lemon vodka and mmmmm was it good. We opened and enjoyed it Christmas Eve. Michelle and Chris corked it, shrink wrapped the plastic seal and Michelle created the label. "Houser's Lemony Libation" and Happy Holidays 2011 was on the label along with the ingredients. She then made bottle stoppers for everyone with her handmade lamp work beads. I wish the photo showed how vibrant the bead colors were. What a neat idea. (Craft beer and liquor is just one of the "big" things here in Bend.)

She really had some "special" gifts this year also making handmade pictorial memorial Christmas tree ornaments using her lamp work beads. How neat to include those who have passed in a pleasant way by including them in the festivities.

It was a great holiday and I really hate to go to bed tonight and know that tomorrow I have to wake up to a normal day.

I hope everyones' holiday was special.

FOR BIRD LOVERS

2011-12-13T22:59:00.000-08:00

I love watching the birds and we really do get quite a few different species so it is fun to watch them "inter-act" and I laugh a lot as I watch their antics.

It is fun achieving good close up photos.

Handmade Lampshades

2011-12-11T15:44:00.000-08:00

My sister lives back East and has a couple of Etsy sites:

http://www.retroemporium.etsy.com for her vintage and antique items, http://www.recycledmemories where you can find her vintage fabric items that she makes from vintage bedspreads, material and vintage tablecloths. Everything from purses, to clothing to these magnificent lampshades. Our grandmother was the "towns'" seamstress so Cindy has picked up this art form and carried it backwards and forwards again.

These are a couple of her beautiful lined handmade lampshades....aren't they awesome?

She will be adding these to her Etsy site recycled memories soon...

2011-12-09T23:31:00.000-08:00

This is an 8 x 8 canvas piece that I painted for my husbands' doctor. She has been such a help to Larry with various stages of dealing with back and knee pain. The last time we were in to see her I had a watercolor book with me that I was studying and she was really interested in the book so I thought I would do a small painting for her.

I love painting winter, water, trees, mist, fog, clouds, snow, etc. I am in hopes she will like this piece I did for her.

I used one of my winter photos as a reference. I have several albums that are full of scenery "shots" as painting landscapes really intrigue me and come from my heart ... I love "feeling" and "temperature" so I strive to achieve this as I paint.

My brushes of choice are Dynasty's Ink,Pastel,and Chalk brushes;
their decorative series line of dry brushes and foliage wave brushes, and their wonderful faux squirrel line for flats, rounds, daggers, liners, etc.

What a difference when you use artist quality paints by Liquitex, a high quality top of the line hand wrapped canvas board and brushes. I am lucky to have such wonderful suppliers....

8 Foot 2 Man Saw

2011-12-04T23:21:00.000-08:00

I have painted walls that were done with vertical designs but this is my first large horizontal design.

Surprisingly most of my hand painted pieces are sold to men vs women. This gentleman will be 80 years old next month and requested a scenery with a barn, little cabin, mountains, and an elk or deer.

I worked evenings spending between 4-5 hours per day until it was finished. I am showing the saw in
3 increments of the design....the barn and house, the middle section which was the small lake and mountains, and the right hand portion was the ice fishing shed and an elk.

Both he and his wife were delighted with the piece.

The piece was painted using Liquitex acrylic paints and my favorite Ice Crystal Glamour Dust paint for the glitter on the snow, ice on the lake, lights in the cabin windows, etc. I took the photos with the saw laying flat which creates the look of slightly "non straight" lines for the buildings but they are straight....

ACRYLIC PAINT REMOVER.......

2011-12-02T02:13:00.000-08:00

It is 2:00 AM and I had decided it was time to go to bed (I am working on a commissioned 8' cross cut saw. I turned around and when I did I heard "something" swoosh to the floor.... ye, Gad's....was my first

thought, my second and third. I had knocked over the paper plate that I use for my palette (I am standing to do this piece) and NATURALLY it landed upside down/paint down on the carpeting (brown, beige, green with a few specks of black) that is on my floor. Very "gingerly" I picked up the plate and sure enough....not only did paint get on the rug but it was PAYNE'S GREY........ Now What??? Just what I DON'T want to think about or do at 2 AM. So my mind ran through what I "might" use and I decided on a product that I purchase on a regular basis for tough stains called "Grandma's Secret Spot Remover".... When I looked at the instructions the first removal item was "PAINT" and I most definitely had that. I laid a paper towel on top of the paint and pounced my hand a little to blot the most of it up....then I squirted on some of the "Secret Spot Remover" and left to get myself a good stiff drink of Pepsi.

It ended up taking me about 3 small applications for a spot about the length of your little finger and as wide as a thumb....but I be doggoned it removed the paint out of the rug.....and just a VERY faint

spot..... I was amazed, thrilled, delighted and excited that it had worked...

I purchase this at Hancock Fabrics where they most generally have it in a wicker basket on their check out counter, and my last bottle I found at JoAnnes......in with misc items...you know how JoAnnes is...

you can never find things where you would expect them to be..... It is a tiny little 2 oz bottle, and a bit

pricey but when it saves clothing stains and my carpeting....it is a very practical investment. The bottle is white, cap black and there is a picture of a little grandma on the front label....which is a real light yellow. It is thick and creamy clear and you don't need a lot so it goes a lonnnnng way. I only used about a teaspoon on my Paynes Grey mess...... Maybe tomorrow when I am refreshed again I will take a photo of the bottle so you will know what you are looking for.....it is not an easy product to "find"...

Oh and by the way for those who like to try and fault it IS ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE.... NON TOXIC, no chlorine and biodegradable. There is a website listed http://www.grandmassoap.com

Just thought this was a product worth telling about....for any of you who might like to save a few dollars

with "paint" spillage, splashes, daubs, etc.

So now I can go to bed and go right to sleep and not worry about a stain to remove tomorrow...YIPPEE.

NIGHT.

Debbie Cotton's New and First book

2011-11-26T15:52:00.000-08:00

I hope that Debbie doesn't mind me posting this....but I am so excited as a "consumer". 80 pages of pure delight; reminiscent of books from some of my favorite yesterday painters that cared about what they did, how they did it and how it would "help" those who purchased the book information wise.

This book is just magnificent in quality.... and what is between the front and back cover? Well let me tell you ... you WILL NOT be disappointed. Tips, techniques, step by steps, brush information, and a variety of different designs. It is definitely an experience and great learning for those who are beginning to paint.

Debbie has gone that extra mile to make this first book one you will remember, cherish and will delight in ; not to mention wondering what her next one will be like. The book is a treasure, and a keeper.

So congratulations Debbie. You HAVE to be proud, you deserve to be proud, and others who purchase this book will be delighted when they receive their copy.

Go to: http://www.simply-cotton.com to order yours and support the efforts of this great artist.

Revolving Utensil Caddy from Walmart

2011-11-25T15:45:00.000-08:00

About 3 years ago when "browsing" at Walmart in the area
where they have plastic household items I found this awesome, heavy rubbermaid type plastic, revolving, utensil caddy on a little turntable base. There are 4 sections around the outside and one in the middle. You can see how many brushes it holds. I took a lightweight medical white tape and wrote down: Flats, Filberts, Rounds, and Bristle Brushes for the four outside section Labels and on the inside circular section I keep Specialty Brushes.

It sets up on one of my wall shelves and are my old....non
Dynasty Brushes that I can grab when in a pinch.

WORKS GREAT and didn't cost an arm and a leg. Bed, bath and Beyond, Target, etc. also may carry it in their kitchen items. Keep your eyes open as you are doing your
Christmas shopping for this neat little brush caddy for YOU.

Our local WalMart still carries this item so you may have to scour the different house ware departments to find the item....I would imagine stores are set up differently and some stores might carry and others not. I saw a big difference between our WalMart here and those on the East Coast. You might also
check our the revolving tv caddy unit which could also be used for your brushes..... One just needs to
"look outside the box" when looking for items that will "work" in our little studio sanctuaries.

BUTTON JEWELRY

2011-11-24T21:57:00.000-08:00

When Michelle and I were going through the buttons that we had decided upon she took some of them home to use in some jewelry.... Today when she came for Thanksgiving she brought the finished pieces with her and we took photos. The necklace was made with the largest steampunk medallion button in brass. The bracelet was made with the dragon buttons in antique silver. The large dragon button is used for the clasp and the smaller ones within the bracelet itself. She had previously made the beads and had named them Dragon.. The "do dad" cluster she made and attached to her cell phone case is the Steampunk wheel in brass. Awesome pieces ... the beads are Handmade Lampwork she has made in her home studio using Moretti glass.
The buttons are for sale on my Etsy site: http://www.artisticrenderings.etsy.com

BUTTONS........

2011-11-18T22:17:00.000-08:00

My buttons have arrived and listing has begun. These buttons are great for items which are knitted, crocheted or sewn not to mention mixed media work and Jewelry items. (The bracelet above is one of the button designs I have purchased and will be listing. My daughter has used it for a clasp on one of her bracelets using her handmade lamp work beads to show what can be done with buttons in jewelry designs.)

I love old, vintage, Steampunk, and different so these buttons intrigued me and I could not find them anywhere here so decided to purchase them and offer them to others who might be in the same "boat" when it came to finding buttons that were different. Check out my Etsy
site: http://www.artisticrenderings.etsy.com I will be
listing about 5 items per day/night.

Winter Icy Christmas Lampwork Bracelet

2011-11-17T00:22:00.000-08:00

When I saw this set of lamp work beads my daughter made (Dragynsfyre) and had listed on Etsy I just loved them....and knew they would make a perfect winter bracelet. The blue was the perfect color and the 3 larger crystal lamp work in the center are white but they look like cracked ice and are just magnificent.....They also take on a bit of the blue through reflected light from the clear blue spacer beads beside them. The charms are the new Christmas charms from Tierra Cast and are two sided, lead free and made here in the US of A. The clasp is also by Tierra Cast and is a pocket watch, unique and so pretty. The white beads at the beginning and end of the bracelet are etched Czech Glass and between them is a 6mm Moonlight Crystal. I can hardly wait to wear this bracelet.

Go to: http://www.dragynsfyre.etsy.com for handmade lampwork beads, charms, clasps, bead caps,
etc. for YOUR creations.

2011-11-16T00:20:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite places to visit time and time again, especially with the change of seasons is Drake Park in downtown Bend which runs through the center of town. It is so picturesque. This year one of my goals is to go there and just sketch, make notes etc. The yellow reflection in the water is from the aspens on the other side of the Deschutes......the colors are so vivid it is almost unrealistic.

ENJOY.....

Steampunk Domino Necklace

2011-11-10T20:57:00.000-08:00

I really enjoy the "zoning out" that creating jewelry provides. I have a love of steampunk and also the
muted color tones the collage artist has been able to obtain in this particular design sheet. There are many colors that one can focus on, or chose to focal on just a few. If you look at this particular design you can see beige, brown, purple, two shades of blue, black, grey and even a little green which creates a piece that can be worn with several different colors to bring out that certain color in the piece.

This particular necklace is mine. and will be a one of a kind as are nearly all of my necklace and bracelet designs. I have used a skeleton bead, vintage "mood" bead, vintage cap beads in resin, several different type of handmade lamp work that is etched and regular, a rectangular stone bead that has all of the collage colors in it, and 3 different sizes, colors and shapes of delica and toho beads. The gunmetal clasp and spacer beads are fairly new by Tierra Cast.

The domino is resin and is my preference over the black wood ones.... The come in many different sizes, thicknesses, and shades of the off white.

It takes me a long time to eeney, meeney, miney, mo over designs and when creating the actual necklace portion there are many trial and errors regarding beading components, color and the balance. I don't like to do both sides of a necklace the same so balance is something that has to be established as you are
creating.

An original mixed media piece of art to wear and enjoy.

Special Etsy Experience

2011-10-26T23:07:00.000-07:00

Christmas time is drawing near so I am more aggressive in my browsing looking for handmade gifts for family and friends.

I hearted a neat mixed media design by Natalia who lives in Amarillo, Texas and her Etsy shop is
http://www.TerraCollageArt.etsy.com

I am just starting in Mixed Media and also work a little with collage photos so the piece I hearted which was an ocean landscape intrigued me.

The next day I received an email from Natalia telling me that she had picked up the last issue of a PaintWorks magazine many months ago and was drawn to the design Swirling Fog. She was just beginning to paint and used the design to create a more dimensional piece as a Christmas Gift for one of her daughters' teachers. (She has 2 "precious daughters"). She had just recently picked up the magazine again and had stopped at the same design....which Yes, was mine. She recognized my name and was so surprised that I would be drawn to her work as she had been to mine in PaintWorks.

She sent me the nicest email and included a photo of her interpretation of my design.

On a Painters' Yahoo group that I belong to I had just recently written how much students have had an
impact on my life....and here is proof of how two artistic souls can be joined. Such a neat thing to have happen... With as many vendors/shops on Etsy what are the chances of this ever happening?

She lives in Amarillo with her husband and 2 daughters and has lived in several different places and countries and was an interpreter and translator of TV shows for television channels. She now is able to

devote more of her time to her unique and beautiful style of art. She says she is inspired by colors, good music, nature and smell.

Glass Frog Paint Brush/Tool Holder

2011-10-24T01:19:00.000-07:00

My workspace on my table is limited and I wanted/needed to have something that could "hold" the brushes I was using on a project as well as tools ( quick to grab) and not take up a lot of space. Something sturdy and substantial. My solution were vintage glass frogs...... I LOVE THEM and they work perfect. I have several as I also collect them. I have two on my painting table. One is for my brushes, and the other I use for my stylus, graphite pencil in black/grey and white, a couple of q-tips, my stylus pen, and then fill in the remaining holes with my specialty brushes. i.e.: mops, dry brushes etc. I love "recycle" when it is this pretty, this small, and fits so easily into your purse, painting bag, etc. to take to a class or when traveling. The brushes are straight up and down so they really don't take up much space and are easily identify-able.

These frogs come in different colors as well as sizes. I have some that are depression glass green and pink that I just love......and how neat to have something pretty, creative and clever to "recycle" and use. You can purchase these at grange and estate sales, antique stores and I have even found them in thrift stores so keep your eyes open.

I also use these when I am working on jewelry pieces to hold my pliers and they also work great when you are working on mixed media pieces, watercolor pencils, colored pencils, micron pens, etc.

HOW NEAT............

Necklaces

2011-10-22T23:09:00.000-07:00

I have been working on some new necklace designs and I just love these 2" pendants.
They are substantial and large enough to make a statement. The domino and scrabble necklaces are cute but are not very noticeable when worn, where these are.

It has been hard to pick a couple to make for myself as I like them all..... Here is a blue for with jeans, and a non red and green Christmas Santa. Just finished some Ouija ones and I will be putting together a necklace for myself with these.

I am listing the pendants on Etsy and for those who don't want to put the pendant on a ribbon, piece of leather or a chain I will make a necklace just for you for a one of a kind piece for an extra charge.

I used small spacer size lamp work beads, Tierra Cast findings, seed beads, chain and lobster claw clasps. I can hardly wait to wear the blue one; Santa will have to wait till
December 1st.

Benham Falls

2011-10-21T01:16:00.000-07:00

My granddaughter and I (along with my little dog Pru) hiked to Benham Falls to day just a few miles from our house. It was a gorgeous fall day and I got some awesome photos. Remember my photos have a copyright. Thank you.

Enjoy.

Fall Foliage

2011-10-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

Oeeeeee, It doesn't get much brighter than this. Awesome foliage right now here in Bend, Oregon.... All around town this is what you see....makes you KNOW there is a God in nature.

2011-10-15T15:49:00.000-07:00

Our fall foliage is at its' peak right now and when I drove up the street today I saw this tree and had to get a picture. Being from the East coast we have hillsides and hillsides of color that is just awesome but here I more or less have to be content with just trees here and there, or like aspens in a grove. With the small corn rows going to seed and this tree it was just a striking photo...good for painting reference.

LIQUID SHADOW by Kerry Trout

2011-10-11T23:47:00.000-07:00

Liquid Shadow by Kerry Trout is a really NEAT product. I have a bottle on my painting table and use it a lot when I paint. I just learned a few new things about the product that I would like to pass on:

To customize the Liquid Shadow to "fit" your design palette even more:

1. For use on lighter colors: Thin with clear glazing medium.

2. Add dark blue if you are working on a blue backgrounds.

3. Add deep burgundy for red backgrounds.

4. Add lavender for snow shadows.

5. Add Orange for a brown shadow color.

6. Add yellow for a warm dark green shadow color.

7. Add medium green to create a rich and cool dark green shadow color.

8. A dry mop really helps to soften your floats

I am really going to work with this product even more in the upcoming months.

This can be ordered directly from the artist at http://www.kerrytrout.net

CROSS HATCHING EXAMPLES

2011-10-02T23:54:00.000-07:00

CROSS HATCHING:

Cross Hatching is an extremely popular technique used by inkers to indicate shadows. It's a very effective technique, if done correctly. Below are some different examples of cross hatching techniques...

CROSS HATCHING is such an interesting technique.....especially if you are drawing, doing pen and ink,
sketching,e tc. So great when designing to indicate areas to be shaded..... I used the technique long before I knew what it was called....and it has been a favorite of mine..... As you can see there are more that just "one way" to cross hatch.

JAMIE MILLS PRICE

2011-10-02T23:38:00.000-07:00

I love painting JMP designs.... They work up quickly for me and I can just relax and paint since doing so many of her designs. I feel like an elf as I paint for the Christmas holidays. It is nice to not have to do anything but just paint....

This was done on a fencepost surface....I take the design I want to do and just go in search of something to paint it on that fits. I just finished doing this same design on a tall thin clock surface painting the background green instead of blue, and the base, sides and back of the clock are done in a bright red.

Right now I am working on some of her penguins which I love doing....

This was done on a round plate that I had and I purchased a clear round glass plate which can be placed on top to keep clean..... this design is just awesome. I used the comb brush that I cut (and have shown you how to do it here on my blog) as well as a Princeton filbert rake which is the best rake I have found so far.

LAST ROSES OF SUMMER

2011-10-02T23:28:00.000-07:00

Even though the chill is in the air, and we are preparing for some fall weather our roses don't seem to realize that the "season" is over and this time of year they just seem to be "their best".... My husband has had 3 bushes this year and we have our fingers crossed that they are hearty enough to make it through the
winter here.....the last one didn't; so fingers are crossed. I love taking photos of them, especially when they are this beautiful. They are protected with a metal cage as the deer seem to like them too....but I love the deer too so we just have to do what we have to do to have both.

Enjoy the last rose of summer....

Halloween and Fall ATC's

2011-09-27T16:56:00.000-07:00

I am in the neatest little group and we just had a Fall and/or Halloween ATC swap. I chose to do one for each theme and frame them for my
partner so that they would become small works of art. The maple autumn leaf and acorn piece is my own design (and yes, I know that acorns grow on an oak tree and not a maple but I wanted to do maple leaves and acorns, and since I am an artist I used artistic license) and the other is a portion of a design by one of my favorite artists', Monika Britt. I also used a bit of artistic license on her design by extending the ghost out onto the frame.... I LOVE her cat with the zig zig scared wiskers...so funny.

My partner just received them so now I can show here on my blog.

I love painting and doing ATC pieces. These were done on handwrapped portrait grade canvas and is practically nubless which is great when you are working small like this.....

My partner loved them so that "made my day" and is what art is all about.

Liquitex Soft and Full Body Acrylics

2011-09-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

I love mixing the colors, achieving depth, and have colors that are bright and speak well of themselves to others.

With these paints I am assured that the work I do will be of the best quality, archival, etc.

The paints come in soft body (jars) and full body (tubes) but have the same great qualities of artist grade paints.

They come in a wide variety of colors and hues but I find I pretty much have been working with a limited palette. I love winter scenes the best as I love the
white and blue of winter so this means only a few colors many times.

There is a WIDE variety of mediums which are available and I have just begun
working and playing with some of the more unusual ones which creates some neat texture.

So...if you are looking for a change, want to venture away from the craft paints and into fine artist paints and mediums do as I did and buy just a couple to see how you like them, what they can do, etc. I am most certainly glad I have ventured outside my box and stepped up a notch.

Jerry Yarnells' Book Library

2011-09-26T00:48:00.000-07:00

If you are wanting to learn some GREAT basic information on painting Basics, Magic, etc. you cannot beat these books by Jerry Yarnell.

Jerry uses Liquitex acrylic paints and uses a very limited palette so you will get some great tips on mixing.

He is a well known artist who paints in a realistic impressionistic style that is easy if worked step by step. He provides information so that you understand and can apply it to your own work.

Taking college Art classes is great if you have the time, and the finances to do so but if you don't this is a wonderful learning experience provided by a well rounded
artist..from landscapes, to still life to wildlife. He pretty much does it all..which is so important in looking for a teacher or mentor.

2011-09-22T00:57:00.000-07:00

Today was a gorgeous, actually hot, fall day so I ate lunch in the park beside the Senior Center with my camera before my Tai Chi class. I definately need to do this more often. Appreciate what is around me. The simple things in life we don't appreciate enough. The pompass grass was gorgeous and one of my favorites as well as the berried out
sumac trees which line the driveway and a section of the parking lot.
Notice the colored stone sidewalk or walkway in the first photo...

Enjoy the fall scenery where YOU are.

2011-09-18T00:30:00.001-07:00

Feather Woman

2011-09-17T18:53:00.000-07:00

The feather that is marbled was done by a very talented artist. The eyewear is designed by an Etsy artisan who makes all types of different, exotic, false eyelashes. In this photo she has used one of her feathers in her design. Totally awesome. I said if I was 40 years younger I would be willing to give this a try. LOL....

Feather Woman ( as I have lovingly dubbed her) does a beautiful job with her marbeling and I have several of her hand marbled papers as well as her feathers that I have used in my artwork and will be using in the future. She is truly a skilled, talented artisan.

It just proves that many times in order to create you have to have the artisticness of another artisan to complete your own work.

Memo Clips

2011-09-17T15:56:00.000-07:00

I have really enjoyed painting these memo clips and have a lot more to go. These are designs by: Monika B., Debby H., Chris H., and Cindi C. It is always relaxing to paint
another persons' designs. I can let my mind wander, add little embellishments such as the Glamour Dust Paints, change the color palette, etc.

These memo clips come in 6', 9' and a whopping 12'. I love them. They are great for holding my pattern information for the project I am working on, a recipe in the kitchen, to do list, grocery list, to show off a photo, a Christmas card....just a very versatile household item that also adds some fun, decor, etc. It seems that handpainted items that are useful sell a little better than just decorative pieces.

I am working on a rose one now of my own design. The background (right now) is Driftwood and I am using Burnt Sienna and Bleached Sand for the roses. TOO FUN...

Nice People DO Finish First ????

2011-09-17T12:51:00.001-07:00

It is not so much finishing first that is the most important thing in life. How you ACHIEVE first is the most important thing. The friends you make along the way who support, the detours that you veer off on and what you find unexpectedly that adds to your lifes' journey.   And although nice people do finish first, second and third isn't bad either...
                                      Being first is something that a lot of people strive for in life. I strive for things of the heart. Friendships, relationships, the journey of life. The blue ribbon in life consists of how you get where you are going, not so much the ribbon and my ribbon is personal so sometimes I am REAL happy with a 2nd or 3rd. And first by who's standards? Mine or others?
                                          My parents were kind, loving and brought me up to respect those who deserve respect. My childhood was a happy time in rural Pennsylvania and I wouldn't trade those early years. My father was a carpenter and I learned so much from watching him as he created with his hands. My mother was a homemaker so I learned to be a good cook, sew, crochet, embroider, knit, etc. Although my sister lives 3000 miles away she is close in heart and we share a lot of ventures and adventures as well as memories.
                                    Unhappiness? Don't we all have this in life?   The secret is not to nurture the unhappiness. Loosing parents way before we are ready to do so is a hard time in ones life. Divorce, having a child who suffers with a life threatening illness, saying goodbye to family and friends as you move away to new life adventures.   Unhappiness makes you stronger, teaches lessons, and often leads to a greater happiness.
                                      I have run across those in life who are detrements to my happiness and I have learned to create a shield against them. I don't allow them into my life. I am sure that everyone who reads this knows of people they shield themselves from.
                                      Personally I feel that I have a first place life. I don't think that there is anything that I would change. I feel pretty content in who I am, where I am, and where I am going. I love to give, share, and create.
                                     In the art field I have surrounded myself with artists in the fields where my interests lie. These artists have provided me with learning. They have nurtured and supported.   I go where I want to learn. I strive and I am happy with where I have gone, and where I am going.
                                     Regrets. Yep. Most people have them. We make mistakes in life, but we go on. Mistakes are good. It is how we learn.
                                     I am not a "dweller". I am a "Get it Don'er".
I don't have time for negative thoughts, and negative people.   I consider the source....and I move on.   My life is busy, and life is short.
I have goals to reach and a road to journey.

Santas Mustache and Beard Brush

2011-09-16T23:43:00.000-07:00

With the holidays coming up faster than we would like and many of us getting an early start on holiday painting I felt that what I did with this
brush warranted repeating and reshowing.

I could never find a brush narrow enough for painting Santas mustache,
beard finishing lines, or maybe hair on an animal or feathers on a bird so I took things into my own hands and gave my brush a haircut.

I had rakes/comb/feather edge brushes in different sizes and brands in both flat and filbert so I took one and cut both sides of the bristles off completely at the ferrel leaving just a few bristles in the center to paint with. They were already feathered to give me neat linework so I just needed "narrow".

Ruin a brush one woman said .... I don't look at it as "ruining a brush" I look at it as making a brush I needed and just could never find narrow enough.

So,,,,,,,,,, if you find you also need a narrower brush here is the solution.

Good luck and enjoy painting those mustaches....

Christmas Charms by Tierra Cast

2011-09-16T23:23:00.000-07:00

LEAD FREE:

My daughter just brought me Tierra Cast's new Christmas Charm line.
The charms are so nice as they are two sided, something you don't always see. The charms are even prettier than the photo shows.

It is going to be fun making holiday bracelets this year using these.
I love the nutcracker and the rocking horse....tooooo cute.

Check out her site on Etsy: http://www.dragynsfyre.etsy.com

and for seed beads my grandaughter: http://www.dragyngirl.etsy.com

TAI CHI for GOOD Mental and Physical Health

2011-09-14T17:03:00.000-07:00

One of the best things that a woman, especially a creative woman can do for herself, is take a class in Tai Chi.

I enrolled in a class that meets twice a week for an hour. It is at an odd time and cuts into my day awkwardly so I am trying to re-arrange my weeks schedule to accomodate this class and have it blend in so that I still get the important things done.

It has been 3 months and my health has improved. I am able to relieve everyday stress, my stiff, aching joints have become more "fluid" in movement and I am finally being able to use mind, legs and arms at the same time which has been no easy feat. LOL.... I have always admired the graceful movements of Tai Chi....and the medatative quality of the
participant.

I also have a tape that is just for seniors which follows real close to my
instructor of the class so I can use this on off days.

This form of exercise is good for mind, body and soul and so much better than medication(s).

HOW TO TEST IF PAINT COLOR IS OPAQUE OR TRANSPARENT

2011-09-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

The following information is important for glazing and provides the information

you need to make your own glazes dependent upon your own designs' color

palette. You will want to use colors which are transparent over what your basecoat color is so trial and error comes in to play. Just "using" any color of glaze is not the primary idea of glazing.... Use your basecoat color and the color you are wanting to use as the glaze and "test it" as is shown below.

How to Test if a Paint Color is Opaque or Transparent

Image: © Marion Boddy-Evans. Licensed to About.com, Inc.

Different pigments have different covering properties. Some are extremely transparent, barely showing on top of another color. Others are extremely opaque, hiding what's beneath. Considering this, and not just what the color is, can enhance a subject. For example, using a transparent blue in a sky gives a greater feeling of airiness than an opaque blue will. Compiling a chart of the colors you regularly use, such as the one above, shows at a glance how transparent or opaque a color is.
You Will Need:

All the colors you usually paint with.
Medium-size brush.
Cloth to wipe the brush on.
Jar of clean water.
Pen to record the color names.
Piece of white paper. If you've got about a dozen colors, you want a sheet about A5 size.
Ruler (optional, straight lines aren't essential).
Hairdryer (optional, for acrylics or watercolors).

How to Make a Chart:

Sort out your colors in an order that makes sense to you, such as the color spectrum (rainbow).
Mix up a little of each color. Paint a vertical stripe of each. Wait for them to dry.
Paint horizontal stripes for all the colors, in the same order.
If you're using a ruler, wipe the edge after each stripe so you don't contaminate the next one.
Record the names of the colors next to each stripe.

Check the Results:

Opaque pigments are dense and tend to block out other colors. This makes them ideal for subjects that are solid and heavy, such as tree trunks.
Transparent pigments are light and airy, barely showing on top of other colors. This makes them ideal for atmospheric subjects such as a misty morning or diaphanous fabrics.
Semi-transparent are somewhere between the two.
With time, you won't have to refer to the chart, but will instinctively know the properties of a particular color. Until then, stick the chart up on the wall where you can see it while you're painting.

Paint Tube Labels -- Opacity and Transparency Label Information

ACRYLIC GLAZES

2011-09-13T21:12:00.000-07:00

I was asked by a friend to do an article on Glazes and glazing in regard to
acrylic painting.

I don't very often work with glazes as I do mostly landscapes and not photorealism designs which is basically the "type" of painting that utilizes glazing the most in decorative and fine art painting. (Glazing with and in mixed media work is an entirely different topic of conversation).

There are a few sites you can find by googling Acrylic Glazing or Photorealism which can help you with acrylic glazing.

When I am going to glaze I prefer making my own glazes so that I can choose colors based upon my basecoated colors and how light or dark I want the glaze to be.

A Glaze is used AFTER you have basecoated your design and many times after you have hightlighted and shaded your design. A glaze is used to deepen your shade or highlight or the main color of an area within your design but remember that A GLAZE MUST BE THIN, MUCH LIKE WATERCOLOR CONSISTANCY. Several applications of a glaze may be desired or needed to be effective and make a change in your basecoat.

I have purchased containers that are see through plastic; which I feel is really important, so that I can see how dark or light the glaze is by mixing in the container over my basecoated piece.

When using a glaze you must take into consideration the surface absorbency, temperature, humidity and airflow (doors/windows open, fan on)....etc.

Very soft haired brushes are the best to use when applying a glaze so that the bristles do not scratch your basecoat. I love the faux squirrel brushes by Dynasty for my glazing, and any type/size of brush can be used dependent upon your design ie: filbert, wash, angle, chisel blender, etc. I prefer using pitty pat strokes for glazing highlights and shaded areas and a pouncing for central areas; but this again is preference and what works best for me. You may choose an entirely different technique.

Add glazes to your suface flat so that they don't run or puddle.

The "magic tools" for making a glaze are:
1. See through mixing cup(s)
2. Stirring sticks such as a large tooth pick, popsicle stick, etc.
3. A mister with water
4. A Glazing or Retarder medium. The Glazing medium will dry quicker than the Retarder.

I also recommend using a travel hair dryer which is smaller, easier, not as clumsy to use, less noisy and doesn't get as hot as a regular hairdryer. (You can find these economically priced at Bed/Bath and Beyond, Linen and Things, etc. for under $10)

MIXING:
Put aout 1/2 teaspoon of Glazing medium or Retarder into your mixing cup and a very small dollop of the color you are wanting to use to your cup. You can always add more paint depending on the darkness you want, so just start with a VERY LITTLE BIT OF COLOR. Add a bit of water. Continue to add your Glazing medium or Retarder and water until you have achieved the value of color you are wanting to use. Place your see through cup over your basecoat periodicaly to see how light your color is becoming. If you don't use small amounts to begin with you will mix WAY too much glazing medium which will be a waste unless you are wanting to glaze a large area. (If your glaze begins to thicken as you are using it and it is out in the open simply replenish with a little of water from your mister...you will just be replacing what has evaporated).

You will dry each layer of glaze BEFORE adding another with your hair dryer keeping it about 8 inches away from your design.

After you are done you will want to add a glaze of whatever medium you used
for your glaze over the entire design otherwise you will have shiny and matt areas.

So...if you want to use glazes do a bit of research, use your color wheel and decide if your design is the type that glazes will theoretically benefit from. They
are NOT for every painting and maybe just here and there in a painting.

2011-09-10T22:28:00.000-07:00

My grandaughter has just decided to open up her own Etsy shop and will be selling (to begin with) gorgeous Seed beads for all of your many art projects from jewelry to altered art. This color is gorgeous (and I am afraid I will have to purchase) as are the other color choices she has been putting up. All total she will begin by offering either 34 or 43 different colors in two different size packages. She has already listed the gorgeous handloomed, cored Pandora beads for sale that she handmakes. Other neat items will follow...

I know that I will be one of her steady customers as there is no where in town for me to purchase seed beads and I love using them ,,,,, especially these gorgeous colors...so do me a favor and check out her site at http://www.dragyngirl.etsy.com and give her a try if you purchase and use seed beads for "your "designs. I love being able to so clearly "see" the color of the beads.

GOOD JOB MEGHAN AND GOOD LUCK IN YOUR NEW VENTURE. I LOVE YOU...........................

Plaid's new Martha Stewart Line of Paints

2011-09-10T21:48:00.000-07:00

On one of the Yahoo groups I belong to there has been talk about the new line of Martha Stewart Paints that are being advertised at Michaels so thought I would see what I could find out about them.

She has a spray paint kit ($29.95) that instantly converts any of the colors into spray paint.

Special applicator tips with sponge tops are available for a smooth roller look as well as pouncers, etc.

The paints come in 160 colors which can be purchased for $249.45.

There are special finishes ie: chalkboard, gilding, glow in the dark, etching, and crackle.

The paints can be used on all surfaces, even fabric, are good indoors and outdoors, and are dishwasher safe as well as non toxic.

As you can see above she has her own line of brushes, different applicators to attach to the bottles, finish sprays, etc. So it involves a start to finish line.

The thing that kinda "threw" me was they are being advertised as
"Beginners paint"....but I think that the next time I go to Michaels I will have to pick up a couple of bottles and see what they are all about.

Unless the size of the bottles are different her applicators could be used on any paint and I wonder if the spray paint kit couldn't also. Just a thought as I sit her thinking....

In looking in Paintworks magazine I wonder if now that Donna Dewberry has phased out a bit...they are looking for a new method of selling.....

I surely can't yay or nay them until I have tried them.
Someone wondered if they were going to compete with Traditions. I
think we are talking orange and apples....although all paints are in competition with one another....and I "feel" that paint is personal preference based on the artist. If you aren't achieving what you want, maybe a change in paint is the answer....or maybe you just want to add it to what you already have and/or use.

It will be interesting to see what happens and I am a curious soul so I will have to "give them a try".....

2011-09-08T22:34:00.000-07:00

I love thunder storms and evening clouds so when we have both I run for my camera. These are 3 of the better shots I got tonight.

The ULTIMATE IN A TOOL CADDY

2011-09-08T15:59:00.000-07:00

What a neat item to hold your brushes. The holes are different sizes and your brushes stand up straight or at a slight angle. This could also be used for claying, mixed media, and jewelry tools so that they are right there at your "beck and call". Toooooo Cuutttee.

This item can be purchased for $19.99 at: www.cheapjoes.com/art-supplies/31128_brush-holders-cleaners-accessories.asp

Shading / Highlighting / Floating/ Glazing

2011-09-08T01:15:00.000-07:00

Shading and highlighting in acrylic painting was always hard for me until I realized several different things.

1. I didn't HAVE to use the brush brand, type or size that the artist was listing or using.
2. There are several different techniques associated with shading and highlighting.
3. Sometimes you will like one technique better than another based on your design and you can even mix techniques within the design.

My brush brand preference is Dynasty based on years of trying different brands and finally settling on Dynasty for 3 very specific reasons:
1. They work the best for me, my style and technique of painting and provide an ease of painting that I find relaxing. The brushes do exactly what I want and need them to do.
2.  Superior quality
3.  Several different lines to choose from
4. Price is reasonable

I use brushes within the Faux Squirrel Line, Eye of the Tiger, and IPC2 lines. There are different sizes and I would recommend buying every other size ( you can pretty much force a brush a size up or down just by the pressure you exert) and adding the other sizes as you can.

One very important aspect when shading, highlighting and glazing is that the lighter your touch and the less you spread your bristles the happier you are going to be with your "float" of color.

Glazing is done AFTER you have completed your painting and provides a depth of color change... Any color can be used for glazing purposes by simply adding a glazing medium to your color. Transparent colors most generally are used but in some cases you may want a more opaque wash or color.   What colors are transparent and how can you test? Stay tuned for the last article.

                 These are my favorite brushes for floating color:

(Brush identification below).

So if you find "floating" color difficult; go out of the box and try different brushes and even brand (All brushes are NOT alike), to find that ease you are striving for as you paint. The right brush will make all the difference in the enjoyment of painting and also your final results. 2 Important elements in painting.

Everyone has a different "style". Some paint loose, some tight, even the grasp of a brush is significant. How you load your brush,
your touch etc. So as individual as we are, we also become individual in our brush "needs" and techniques.

Dynasty Faux Squirrel Shader
Dynasty IPC2 Pointed Flat
Dynasty Faux Squirrel Dry Brush
Dynasty Faux Squirrel Chisel Blender
Dynasty Faux Squirrel Angle
Dynasty Eye of the Tiger Filbert

The next article will go into specific techniques for shading and highlighting ie:
1. Pitty Pat
2. Dry Brushing
3. Circular
4. Angular

Smoky Quartz Crystal Vampire Smile Necklace

2011-09-06T23:00:00.000-07:00

I just finished designing this necklace for Halloween for those who want to celebrate the holiday in a subtle, more glamourous way. I am going to be making several between now and the beginning of October....what doesn't sell on Etsy will be going Eastward.

This first one is done with Smokey Quartz Swarovski crystals .... I will use crystals for all of them but will vary color and maybe even size. The side teeth are so cool as they are both opaque and transparent. The necklace just looks lacey, delicate and pretty. Nothing grotesque or scarey.

EDWARD

2011-09-03T23:39:00.000-07:00

What a regal name for a Bobcat.... Today when I went to Michelle's I was able to get a good face shot of this guy.... He is licensed, and has been in captivity since birth. Michelle is the 2nd owner and his brother is in our High Desert Outdoor Museum.

Edward has a kitten (cat now) that lives with him and has been his companion for years. When Michelle got Edward she had to take "Itty Bitty" too. They are inseparable.

And as much as I love cats............ I am highly allergic. Sneezing, runny , scratchy eyes, scratchy throat, swelling, the whole 9 yards so I pretty much have to be content with photos.

I love the way this photo turned out...See his Poof of fur below his
right ear...and the size of his feet?

2011-08-31T13:25:00.000-07:00

This photo turned out so pretty I wanted to "share it". And remember you can find something to take an awesome photo of without leaving your home. Some of most favorite photos were taken right here......

Have a great day everyone.

65th Birthday Bracelet

2011-08-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

For my 65th birthday I received a gorgeous handmade bracelet not only from my daughter but much to my surprise and delight from my granddaughter who is 19 and joining in the beading area with her mother making these gorgeous weaved tube Pandora beads. My daughter's shop on Etsy is Dragynsfyre where she sells her lampwork beads and beading accessories and Meghan's

shop name is DragynGirl. Why does DragynMom not sound good at all?

So the photo below shows my beautiful Pandora bracelet that I have wanted for quite some time. The handloomed Pandoras are done by Meghan and the matching lampwork by Michelle along with the Tierra Cast Pandora spacers which are sold on Michelles Etsy site. I just LOVE it.

Art Show

2011-08-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

This morning my daughter and I went to a fantastic art show/faire along the banks of the Deshutes River here in Bend.

It was HOT, HUMID, and SMOKY, and most of the vendors as well as the "viewers" had
thrown off sandals and were walking in the cool, plush grass to find some relief at least fo rour feet.

Every year they have this particular Artist Faire and I love going. The turn out this year was awesome...and people appeared to be buying and enjoying. What really stood out for me was the interaction between people, the laughter, and the amount of art that was whimsical...notice I did not say cutsey... To me there is a big difference.
The one photographer artist and the metal sculpture artist were getting a lot of positive feedback from the crowd....and they were loving what they were seeing. It
seemed good to see the freshness in art... I do not believe that there was an artist
there who was doing fine art. I believe it is getting to the "point" where people may want their art to be more of a reflection of "who they are", what they find humorous,
and love to see the mix of materials and creativity by the artist.   There is sure individuality and to recreate is almost impossible...much of the art that was displayed was truly one of a kind. And the men, what a surprise to hear them talking excitedly with their wife or companion regarding the altered art pieces...they were loving it. There was laughter and not that hushed silence that we remember from art galleries of yesteryear...the stiff, ridgid art.

The Art Galleries here in Bend are on fire....but once again the art is very different and new artists are on board as well as artists who have bent with the time, the era, the demands of the buyers. Giclees still seem to be popular but I have heard that they are also on the way out. People want originals. They want small, and lower prices.  They want pieces that are eclectic and will blend rather than art that is trendy.

This year I purchased a couple of pieces "for me" whereas I am usually buying Christmas gifts for "others". One piece is a mixed media (Rooster for my kitchen) painting and the other is a photograph that could be described several different ways. I see it as a form of steampunk, another would say it was political, and some identify with what is being done, so they are very versatile pieces. Both of the pieces that I purchased came matted so I am anxious to find frames and get them up down here in my studio. Both are unusual in size so I will have to either make a frame or find one at Michaels as they carry odd sizes in one section of the store.  This is another difference. Art is not being seen as "framed art". I saw gallery canvas but art that people could purchase and frame as "they" want rather than having the added expense of a frame that they don't really care for, doesn't go with the wood in their home, or possibly they prefer displaying on an easel.

I did purchase a birthday gift for my husband to put along our pond/waterfall. A piece of mixed media metal sculpture of a "road runner" (using "tools") and those who know my hubby know why this applies perfectly. lol.

I also enjoyed observing the "observers" and artists' dress as it is eclectic and just as
exciting as the vendors art. This year was no exception. Most of the colors were
muted mauves, purples, and grey.... along with neon green being seen a lot. Clothes
were loose fitting and comfy.....YIPPEE......

I thought it would be fun to share these artists with you my blogging friends as you sit in the comfort of your own home. I have noticed that a couple of the vendors also have an Etsy site which is exciting..........

I was surprised to see no steampunk jewelry. I hope it is not on its way out....It has been around for about 4 years and is nothing new....but maybe there are just not many designing along this venue of jewelry. Most of the elements that are used are found items, repurposed and different so most of the buying is not done so much from a retail vendor but from garage and estate sales, thrift and antique stores, Etsy and using items not generally being seen used as a jewelry component.

www.KamalaDolphinKingsley.com

www.Baggettastudio.com

www.Vickifish.com

www.kaseberg.com

www.jhurlbert.com

Handpainted Flattened Tablespoon

2011-08-24T23:39:00.000-07:00

I really enjoy "outside the box" painting surfaces. When I found these flattened sterling silver tablespoons at a flea market when we were traveling a few weeks ago I picked up every one the vendor had for sale and was thrilled to death. Tonight I finally found time to get one painted (which was a feat in itself as my right thumb is in a splint) . I love winter scenes, the moon, evergreen trees, water, and the color blue....lol....

Originality in Journals and Sketch Books

2011-08-21T19:52:00.000-07:00

I love sketch books but prefer mine to be one of a kind....so I have decided that I am going to make my own front covers which is half the fun in my opinion. Paint, mixed media, maybe a title, etc. I also have purchased a couple from artists who do one of a kind pieces.

You can use material, watercolor paper, tissue paper, ribbons and weave your cover, layered, encaustic. With an artists' mind the sky is the limit.

There is one that I just recently purchased which is small....and wider than it is tall which is just perfect for quick little quotes, sayings, or maybe just a word and than a sketch.... I loved the size, the cover and that the entire journal was handmade and bound by the artist.

I just recently purchased a piece of equipment which will spiral bind so soon I hope I can make a complete original piece. You could use magnets to "close" or perhaps a beautiful ribbon that will wind around the book several times with some charms or lampwork on the end. I love the little books that can be made that will open several different ways.

I have a friend who makes handmade papers...and I have several pieces which she generously gave to me a while back... she is most definately an artist in her field. I intend to use some of her papers in a journal along with some of her original hand marbled feathers.

ATC 3 1/2" x 5" Portrait Grade Fine Art Canvas Panels

2011-08-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

I have a design in the October issue of Paint Works magazine titled Witch-y Wardrobe which uses a fine grade of canvas, hand stretched on a canvas board. The canvas is Portrait Grade and once you paint on these you will fall in love. The nubs are practially nil.

The ATC size (quanity of 3) has been added to my Etsy selling site http://www.artisitcrenderings.etsy.com or you can order from me directly by sending me an email @ dianaputnam@hotmail.com

(Also available are the 5" x 7" panels in this same fine grade canvas)

The back of each of these panels has a fantastic little typed label where you can add in information regarding your painted piece.

Size Challenge

2011-08-18T23:35:00.000-07:00

Last summer a man up the street who had purchased several of my painted pieces inquired as to if I would be willing to paint a saw for he and his wife. I love painting on saws so I immediately agreed to do so.

Just today, he brought the saw to me....holey moley.... I like big, love doing murals but I have to say that this will be the longest horizonal piece I have ever done.

He wants a cow, fence, cabin, barn "maybe a mountain", elk and a pond.... and of course the background trees. He has the item all sanded, primed and ready for me which I am extremely glad for as this is a sharp piece. He has another one that is smaller he would like me to do for a family Christmas gift.

This will be a lot of fun .... even though he has stated what he would like to see,
he has still given me a lot of free reign in designing. I am anxious to begin.

Relating to Art

2011-08-18T16:07:00.000-07:00

How one relates to art is "personal". We all see art differently and it most generally relates directly to where we are in our own life and love of art.

Blobs of paint on a canvas takes us to a different level than looking at a masterpiece.... One is free formed and the other tends not to leave much to the imagination. Sometimes it is fun to let our "inner child" come out and be playful as we observe anothers' art. It could be something we like or something we just can't see, but it is personal....and should not reflect upon the artists' ability or non ability...it is their expression in art form. Art sometimes is very controversial;
once again our personal opinion becomes formed...and in talking to others who might have more insight could be the key to changing or reinforcing our first opinion.

I personally love art that is not straight forward. Maybe this is why I love the world of altered art, of inner expression. I love art/painting which are not rigid and straight forward, but leaves room for me to enter and wonder and lets me become a participant.

Creativity

2011-08-18T15:51:00.000-07:00

Creativity and the release of creativity tends to be different with different people. I love to interact with other artists who are as dedicated to "art" and have the same interests that I do. I do not feel that I am selfish with my art.....I love to share what I know, how I do things, what works for me and listen to others who are also willing to unselfishly share their excitement, findings and
accomplishments.

There are many forms of art that interest me. Painting is my first love followed by photography, and mixed media preferably leaning towards assemblage.

My creativity comes from conversation with others, letting my mind wander, going to art galleries, etc. It comes from participation and sometimes alone-ness. (Is this a word?) Art is also a part of my dreams at night so it has become important for me to keep pencil, paper and a flashlight beside my bed.
Creativity also comes from sharing a new procedure, a new product, a new artist, technique, solving a problem, etc. A bonding of artistic souls who are all headed in the same direction...and the willingness to work together as a group and alone. I love to take a product/topic of conversation and explore it's use, options, etc. The exploration of a brand or item which provides the easiest accomplishment not only for me but for others. We are all different so what works can also be different and helping to find this for others and myself would have to be the ultimate high in a day---- that good feeling that spreads inside....

I love exploration and really miss my California students.....their enthusiasm sparked mine....their excitement sparked me, and their accomplishments made me feel so good, so alive. And I thank each one of them for the sharing of art that we seemed to have together.

Am I the only soul who has these goals?

Happy "arting"............

Rose Portfolio

2011-08-17T01:36:00.000-07:00

I just finished painting this leather portfolio to put onto my Etsy site. I love using the FA Enamel paints as they dry with a semi-gloss and cure in about 28 days. The paints seem like they just absorb into the leather and just do a wonderful job when you cannot finish spray a piece in the case of leather, vinyl, etc. When I haven't painted for awhile I like to begin with freehand painting roses and ribbons on a piece as it limbers me up a bit and I get immediate satisfaction as the design works up quickly for me.

Fantastix by Tsukineko

2011-08-14T14:46:00.001-07:00

Today while looking for something entirely different I ran across this item and decided it was worth a try as I am a "glutton" when it comes to "help" items when I can see the need or use in the art mediums I work in.

The package says "absorbant" and "resuable" and is a coloring "tool" for wet and dry media great for: Chalking, fabric painting, bleaching, glueing, watercolor, acrylics, blending, touch ups and accenting, etc.

The ones I have purchased are Brush points but they also come in blunt point and as you can see there are 6 in a package for under $5 , plus my 40% off coupon so affordable.

If you want to read more about this and other items they might have of interest to to: http://www.tsukineko.com

The Long Road Home

2011-08-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

I guess I am a homebody at heart because coming home seemed like a long way.... HOME. Familiar surroundings, friends, family, day to day life living, my own bed and pillow, my "things", my artisan friends and groups/members who inspire, motivate, and fuel my inner child.   It was a contemplating time, time to let my mind wander and think about things...and I enjoyed the freedom of thoughts. I am glad to be me.

Gallery Glass Paints

2011-08-07T17:13:00.000-07:00

Recently I was on an artists' site who was doing faux Cloisione' using Deco-Art glass paints. I found it interesting but didn't have any Deco-art brand to work with so I pulled out my Gallery Glass of which I have a lot of as I love doing the faux stained glass on old windows.

My first look was to see if I could clean up my brushes with water or if I would have to invest in some additional brushes.....WATER CLEANUP...

I had a steno pad coverlette that I had purchased and painted laying by me so I decided to give the Gallery Glass a try. The first bottle I pulled out was Copper Sparkle. I went over the darker part of the rose with it, which worked fine but I didn't really see a lot of change. Then I decided to slip slap the color around the rose and leaves and actually paint a few leaves with the paint.

You decide.
What I ended up with was a wash effect which gives the indication of background foliage.....I like it so I will be continuing to experiment with them and also get a couple of colors in the DecoArt to compare. I really like the Copper Sparkle as you get a no color look....at least you do on the micro type black material cover so one has to take both of these elements into consideration. (BTW, this little book is my constant companion. I love that it is small, protected and pretty.) I have a leather larger cover so I am going to experiment on this next with some different colors and see what the results are.

In touching where I painted it is not stiff and the sparkle part of the Copper Sparkle is there; minimal and pretty.

DUSTY........

2011-08-05T23:56:00.000-07:00

This little puppy HAS to be painted, he just cries for the paintbrush and canvas...he is the cutest, most playful, infectious little guy. He is a cross of I think 3 different breeds so he is a "mutt" but ohhhhhhhhh what a mutt. I know he is part poodle and part Shitz Tzsu but I can't remember the other mix....but just look at his askew LONG hair on his ears and face and how sparse and white it is.... I am thinking to start with a black canvas and then built up the light colors... WHAT A PICTURE....

Geraniums

2011-07-30T21:26:00.000-07:00

Geraniums are one of my favorite flowers. I have a small pot of them on my patio which I am proud of as normally I can never keep a plant alive more than a couple of days...this has been doing good. Today I noticed it had a pretty single flower on the budded stem so I wanted to take a photo which didn't happen until tonight. Here are two photos one is without flash and one with. Both are pretty.

EXCITED PART #2

2011-07-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I was really excited about a new design I was working on, surface etc... I finished and on Friday I emailed the intro and photos to PaintWorks. Today I received notification from Linda Heller to mail this piece along with another that was accepted for publication already for her final review....so I shall remain excited..... SUCH FUN....

Woodless Colored Pencils

2011-07-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

I have been using Koh-I-Noor Woodless Colored Pencils for the pieces I do and I love them. I picked up my box at the Thrift Store for $1 about two years
ago and have been adding colors through Dick Blick on line.

        I love the way these pencils "work" and how I can achieve a depth of color
easily with them.

       These pencils have a laquer coating, and 5 times more lead than a regular
pencil. They come in boxes of 12 and 24 but you can also purchase just the colors that you want/need. AND...they can be sharpened in any regular pencil
sharpener.

        If you are looking for colored pencils check these out.....

EXCITED.....

2011-07-19T17:55:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile since I have done some real serious painting... Today in the mail I received a surface I had ordered and when I opened the box and saw the actual "Size" of it I quickly unpacked the box, changed my shirt, copied off a photo from those in my album, got my brush basin filled with water, found my tracing paper, chose my paint colors and 2 hours later my surface is basecoated, my colors are logged, as well as the brushes I used...which means I am ready to begin the FUN part which is making the painting come "alive". I can hardly wait. It is soooo exciting when I know FOR SURE where I am going and when it takes form, and begins to really take shape...well it is an exhilerating feeling. A lot of emotion goes into my pieces and I hope it shows when I am done; making an extra special piece. This piece is will be dedicated to my husband.

Before I begin the next step I need to take a few photos....because a student or painter would never believe this is what the basecoating step should look like. If this is an accepted design for publication or a pattern packet this step needs to be a part of the "package"....

EXCITING................

PANDA BEAR TEA ORGANIZER PATTERN PACKET

2011-07-19T01:18:00.000-07:00

This has to be one of my favorite designs and I have just listed the pattern packet on
Etsy for sale.

The Tea Box organizer would make such a neat gift for that tea drinker on your list...or
for yourself. The box is made of bamboo and the quality of the box amazed me. The inside divider removes easily for cleaning and pops back in just as easily.

You will receive 2 photos, source supply list, complete instructions and a line drawing.

Acrylic paints are used and the design works up quickly.

Altered Art Spoon Hanging

2011-07-15T22:15:00.000-07:00

This is my second in a series of altered art spoons....I have been stocking up on vintage spoons and each one that I do will be OOAK (One of a Kind).

My first altered spoon was a pin and this one is a small teaspoon wall hanging made with "found elements"... the key acting as the "hanger".

I will be listing the spoons and the altered art shoes on Etsy . If they do not sell after about 2 weeks they will be sent to the consignment gift store on the East coast which carries my items.

FLOPPY HAT EXCHANGE

2011-07-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

Just finished this for an exchange. Theme "Floppy Hat". That was all the information we were provided so it was outside the box, put on my thinking cap, and once again the route I took was far from what I had first "intended".... FUN.... These exchanges are as much a surprise to me as the recipient....I never quite know when I start where I am going to end up.....

I crocheted the hat making up my "pattern" as I went along using a nylon thread called Omega that I just love. I crocheted openwork so that I could weave a ribbon through to make a bow and cascading streamers. (wired ribbon).

The stand is a patina-ed brass candle stick that I found at the thrift store which was just the perfect size and height to be proportioned with the hat. I glued a wood shape into the candle cup portion, painted it flesh tone, added some hair (painted) and then glued on a button for a finish at the area where a brooch might be pinned.

The hat brim is really "floppy" as you can see by the pictures....

Monday it will be on its way to my partner.....hope she will enjoy it in her home.

HUGE dandelion

2011-07-07T17:05:00.000-07:00

I LOVE dandelions. Outside of my painting room door there was a new plant growing and I wondered what it would produce. (Anticipation). Today when I walked outside there was a HUGE dandelion about the size of a teacup....so inside I flew to get my camera to take photos...of course. Just 5 minutes ago I walked back outside to take some more as I knew the light had changed.........and it was GONE.....blew away. I have
several more buds so I am hoping that I get a few more before we leave for a few days for a get away. So enjoy these photos....There are a couple I would like to blow up larger. I am always saying this and never "do it" but this time I am going to.

Necklace..

2011-07-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased /rec'd a wood focal piece for a necklace and decided to do an altered art piece. My first step was to cover the wood with pattern tissue which is an element I just love working with. I put on a few elements that I found to be "me" and then as I was tossing and turning trying to get comfortable, cool, and fall asleep last night I decided I was going to make this necklace with "pieces" which somehow relate to what inspires me.... I am anxious to see how the necklace develops.. I don't have a pattern but have come up with items to use that will be significant to me.

I want the necklace to contain colored pieces so that I can wear it without having to think about co.ordinating or matching and will fit with my bluejean, tee shirt lifestyle. I want it to be very unique and eclectic and maybe inspire others to think about their life, their art and make one for themselves. Mystical....as it won't shout anything, like a red blouse but quiet in nature....yet symbolic and hopefully striking.

An interesting journey .... so stay tuned for the finished descriptive piece.

MY 10,000 VISITOR WINNER

2011-07-03T00:05:00.001-07:00

The winner of my 4 piece landscape Dynasty brush kit is Ellen Brons who resides in Holland. Congrats and thank you so much for visiting my site....and for being the 10,0000 visitor.

10,000 POST

2011-07-02T22:58:00.000-07:00

I am Sitting at 9, 9999 visitors to my site. The next person to read this and the first to send me an email (hannahmaesporch@hotmail.com) will receive one of my Landscape brush kits free by providing your name and address.

Thank you everyone for making this site a success....

Diana

A Citrisolv Day

2011-07-02T22:47:00.000-07:00

This is my 3rd magazine and each time I do one I learn something new. Today it
was temperature, breeze, in regard to drying too fast. These are a couple of my

favorites. I think in a couple of weeks I want to do a big "something" using an image so need to think about it.... I will use either masonite or canvas as my structure.

FLORAL FANTASY

2011-07-01T20:47:00.000-07:00

I was outside with my camera today and the sun was just perfect for these two shots I got.

My peony bush has 3 buds this year but it looks as if the flowers are going to be huge. My husband had just watered so there are some droplets here and there. Peonies were
one of my Mothers' favorites and she had 3 bushes in our back yard so mine bring back happy memories.....

The other photo is spring green growth on an evergreen that we have and are nurturing after "deer" it is coming along well and is so pretty in the sunlight.