Creative Chemistry 101- Brushless Watercolor Technique

Still trying to catch up on posting my homework practices for my Creative Chemistry 101 class with Tim Holtz.  This technique was a little harder for me.  I'm too much of a perfectionist.  I obsessively, precisely stamp images, often making them uneven in my zeal.  So, this technique challenged me.  I think you are seeing the product of my 8th attempt.  I think I finally made something and I really like the idea.  I guess that means I'll need to do more practicing.

 The technique involves applying different colors of Distress Ink to the stamp.  After that, you spritz the stamp (holding it flat so the ink doesn't run) with water.  The trick for me involved using more water and then

lightly placing the stamp onto the watercolor paper.  I mostly applied too little water (I don't want to ruin the stamp effect ?!?) and too much pressure (see comment above, anxiety driven need for the perfect stamped image!!!).  Patience was the key and after several (8) attempts, I found just the right combination.  The finishing touches included applying some Distress Ink around the edges and tearing the bottom paper.  I don't want to take any credit for the techniques in my practice samples.  Remember, I've just followed Tim's instructions.  Even using his suggestion to pick up water on the torn edge and let the water wick along the paper to create the cool water color effect for the "ground" in my image.  The watercolor paper was mounted to a Kraft paper tag cut using the Cricut and Picturesque cart.  This is a technique I will need to spend more time with to perfect my skill.  Still, the learning was fun and will definately be added to the repretoire.

Andie

Creative Chemistry- Blend and Spritz Technique

Well, here I am trying to squeeze into this Thursday a post of the work I've accomplished during my designated class time for Creative Chemistry 101 online card class.  I've been thoroughly enjoying myself and, though the results are currently very plain, I am pleased with the results of my practicing.  Today I thought to share Tuesday class homework- the blend and spritz technique using Distress Ink and the Ink Blending Tool. 

The technique involves multiple Distress Ink pads and using the blending foam on the Ink Blending Tool.  Multiple colors of ink are applied in a circular motion on the tag, layering the colors to blend and create the visual effect you see.  After the desired color combination is acheived, water is flicked onto the surface creating the water drop effect.  I do have a limited selection of Distress Inks, so my color combinations are somewhat limited.  Here's some close ups:





This tag was cut from Kraft paper using the Picturesque cart on my Cricut.  The effect creates a darker look since the start is a darker paper.

The next two cards were made on a basic office supply manila tag.  You can see where the effect creates a different backdrop for those water droplets.

Either way, I'm pleased.  It sure takes little to please me, just carving out the time to spend with my stash and some online card class videos.  If you haven't tried it, I would suggest you do.  Check them out at Online Card Classes. 

Andie

Tim Holtz- The Paper Crafting Rockstar!

I've signed up for Tim Holtz's Creative Chemistry 101 online paper crafting class.  This class is being hosted by Online Card Classes. You might remember last June, I participated in the Summer Card Class hosted by these same folks.  It was so much fun, but honestly doesn't hold a candle to premium online access to Tim Holtz's creative genius.  Stay tuned to view the productive results of my endeavor.  Maybe this will give me the creative shot-in-the-arm I need to get busy again.

Valentine's Day Treats

I am much delayed in posting my Valentine's Day wishes.  Maybe in part because my hubby's Valentine, though homemade, was scrap-lifted from the recent issue of Paper Crafts magazine.  The look and sentiment was just right.

The wordsearch was made with an online tool.  I added other words- my name, our kids names (Tim and Katie), joy, happiness, etc.  It just worked out that Dan's name was featured in the bottom corner.  Perfect place to add the simple swirl as a highlight.  I thought that the card was sufficiently 'manly' but still with a touch of Andie craftiness thrown in. Dan said he liked it.  I think he meant it.












So as not to leave anyone out, I made these Valentine's treats for the folks at work.

The idea came from a link posted on notmartha.   The adorable homemade flowers demonstrated by Jordan at Oh Happy Day were too cute/easy to pass up.  The link provides the instructions for making the flowers and the wax paper bags.  The wax paper envelopes went together in a snap, the sentiment was printed from the computer on white cardstock.  A couple of trims of paper, slide a paper flower pin in it and we're done.  Everyone was particularly festive at work this Valentine's Day.  Maybe the extra chocolate had something to do with it.  I hope you enjoyed your Valentine's Day (belated though this wish is).

Andie

Happy Valentine's Day

Brandy made this adorable little treat for her co-workers for Valentine's Day.

We both wish you a very Happy Valentine's Day!

Brandy and Andie