Small Shots of Inspiration

While sometimes we think of hearts only at Valentines, these little "small shots" are great fun and a cool way to release your stash of accumulated ephemera into the world.

Try it:
First, cut the foundation the length and width you want for a bookmark, card, poster, wrapping paper (remember with wrapping paper, thinner is better for folding the edges).

Second, grab some paper and/or cloth and cut out altered shapes that will allow your shots to be released.
Third, arrange the main item(s) you want in your small shot of space.
Fourth, glue it down.
Fifth, draw, write, stamp, paint, color, etc. until it looks done to you.
Last, punch a hole in the top and tie ribbons, yarn, scraps of fabric, or all kinds of other top-knots.

Enjoy!

Let me know what you have done with your small shots...these are great not only as gifts, but as previews for larger works. Why not do the small version first, then spread the inspiration?

JAG

Finally, The workspace is acting like a studio

What fun for July 4th: Wonderful Husband is nearly finish with the 47 Chevy Woodie, and so he donated his work table top, and built a super-work table for me.

The studio is facing south with sister tables, my lovely re-purposed new one, and the beautiful craftsman pristine sewing and journaling table.

In celebration I made this bookmark for a friend. The picture is a transferfrom photo to cloth, then embellished with inks, sead-beads and sparkle trim. The hearts are cut out, so the inner layer can peek through.

The inspiration is from Lake Placid, on our honeymoon several years ago. It is important to re-touch these memories.

Very fun project! While the weather is hot here in California, most of us have taken to staying in during the midsection of the day. What better place to be productive than in a new re-organized and expanded studio?

"All who joy would win, must share it. Happiness was born a twin." Byron

JAG

Heartbooks as Gifts

Handmade or embellished, Heartbooks are a great way to share photos and artwork with those who have added to our lives. This example is made of hand-dyed silk with strings of seedbeads and ribbons. Each page carries a series of pictures and poetry about the treasures of one of our daughters. While away for work, and very homesick, she received this little treasure brightening her day and adding to her feelings of value.

What do you do to bring out the happy times for those who are a bit blue?

Heart of books

It is always fun to create something to use and enjoy or to give to a friend. This little bookmark hold a special view of from Lake Placid, New York recently, and was given to a dear friend as an inspiration in her new show.

Made entirely from scraps, it is fun to play in the land of transfer printing, hand stitching, and beading.

How do you recycle bits and pieces into art?

Spring inspirations

Spring is a time of rejuvenation. After our recent fires and floods, it is a sign of better times when the wild flowers begin to bloom. Spring fever in our area is celebrated by driving through the passes, along the mountain roads, or by the ocean to see the blankets of vivid color at every turn. My favorite is between LA and Bakersfield, where the hillsides look as if a giant painter dropped his buckets, spashing mile after mile of bright orange, lavender, and yellow. Contrary to fall's brown coat, this colorful time signals better times.

What spring celebrations happen in your area?