Making Collage Paper

I often use this quick and easy way to add interest to my collage projects.

I take freezer paper and top it with bits and pieces of fabric, paper, thread, dried tea bags, tea-stained dryer sheets and other ephemera.  Then using a pressing cloth placed over the items and a not too hot iron I adhere everything to the freezer paper.

This process satisfies my need to recycle, reuse, and reduce,  as well as create some interesting foundation pieces for my mixed media art.  Some folks skip the hot iron and use Gel Medium.  I prefer the ironing method because it renders the paper more flexible.

The Envelope IS the Card

  Many of us who make handmade cards also make the envelopes for the cards.  I really hate the thought of the envelope just being tossed or thrown away after it is opened because it took time for me to make it.  Personally when I receive a card I save the envelope so that I can recycle it later.  I thought it would be fun to put the focus on the envelope and make it a keepsake!

 

Inside the decorative envelope is a card with a printed message with room for the giver(s) to sign at the bottom.  I used a lot of the techniques I love: stamping, stitching, inking, distressing and layering.  I also love that I was able to incorporate a scripture from the bible and encouraging messages on the envelope flap and the signature card.  I believe baptism is the most important step a person can take in their lives so I was very happy to make a unique card for the special occasion!

INSPIRED BY NEW ORLEANS!

I recently visited New Orleans last month, and I was so inspired by the "Crescent City".
For me New Orleans is a melting pot of many things:  people, food, and architecture.  I was able to find inspiration in all these areas.  The "City" is much like the Gumbo for which it is known.  I think of my jewelry designs as gumbo sometimes.  I try to design using a multiple techniques, colors, and bead sizes in one piece in an effort to create unique details.    The piece below was designed while I was visiting New Orleans.  I used my latest obsession: Picasso beads - love them!