greenpepperpressblog

Tag: cool stuff

cut and peel

I'm pre-programming this post because this week we have family visiting and tonight is Fallon's graduation. I will be back with photographic evidence of that in a few days, but for now here is more cardboard manipulation. If you are in Jersey, or nearby, you might be interested to come take my Debris Journal workshop at CREATE – NJ either Thursday, July 18th or Saturday, July 20th. That's one month away – can't wait!! I will be teaching four days plus vending on the Friday night. Hope you'll join us.

June 20, 2013
some stuff from my table

I'm still playing with cardboard. Here's something I tried this weekend. I traced the stencil onto the cardboard panel, then cut and lifted out the negative. I was so excited by the concept that I wasn't so careful about the cuts and used a chunky blade. I may have done better with a finer knife but who has time to look for one when you're ready to try something? Don't forget that stencils aren't just for paint and spackle – they are cool with pencils and knives too.

As I've mentioned, when I'm behaving, I store my stencils in page protectors in 3-ring binders. When I'm not behaving I toss them all into a large clear rubber bin. But as John Shaw once said, some of my stencil designs do not play well with others (lots of parts that can get tangled) so I do try to separate. At Barnes and Noble a few weeks ago I found this presentation portfolio. Couldn't be more perfect for my new Gothic Collections stencils and masks! Come on, HCIT?

Speaking of the new collection, I've had new customers who are asking what to do with unmounted rubber sheets. There are lots of ways to use them – temporarily mount on acrylic blocks, or if you are a grab-and-go girl, then you might like my method. I use thick foam as a mount as it provides the cushion necessary for a good impression, and it is grab-able, similar to a wood mount. Just pay attention when you are cutting the foam so you have a nice straight line where the rubber ends for aligning on your stamped surface. Here's a quick tutorial:

Gothic Collection stencils, masks, stencil/mask sets, and rubber stamps available at GreenPepperPress.com

June 17, 2013
some stuff from my table

I'm still playing with cardboard. Here's something I tried this weekend. I traced the stencil onto the cardboard panel, then cut and lifted out the negative. I was so excited by the concept that I wasn't so careful about the cuts and used a chunky blade. I may have done better with a finer knife but who has time to look for one when you're ready to try something? Don't forget that stencils aren't just for paint and spackle – they are cool with pencils and knives too.

As I've mentioned, when I'm behaving, I store my stencils in page protectors in 3-ring binders. When I'm not behaving I toss them all into a large clear rubber bin. But as John Shaw once said, some of my stencil designs do not play well with others (lots of parts that can get tangled) so I do try to separate. At Barnes and Noble a few weeks ago I found this presentation portfolio. Couldn't be more perfect for my new Gothic Collections stencils and masks! Come on, HCIT?

Speaking of the new collection, I've had new customers who are asking what to do with unmounted rubber sheets. There are lots of ways to use them – temporarily mount on acrylic blocks, or if you are a grab-and-go girl, then you might like my method. I use thick foam as a mount as it provides the cushion necessary for a good impression, and it is grab-able, similar to a wood mount. Just pay attention when you are cutting the foam so you have a nice straight line where the rubber ends for aligning on your stamped surface. Here's a quick tutorial:

Gothic Collection stencils, masks, stencil/mask sets, and rubber stamps available at GreenPepperPress.com

June 17, 2013
cool tools

I've been enjoying the slow collection of vintage tools. So many of our devices are plastic, that it's really nice to come across an old once-loved and well-used tool for my studio. The tracing wheels are terrific for rolling in paint and then frolic up a page, or better yet, poking through a corrugated cardboard surface. The newer ones aren't as pokey, with much smoother edges on the wheel. The old ones may not be safe but they can assist you to do cool stuff. The awls are so nice to hold, and they force nice holes. I am so happy to have a toolbox that is filling up with these treasures.

Inspired by Louise Nevelson's monochromatic assemblages with emphasis on shadows, I have been manipulating surfaces in cardboard as part of demo sample for the Debris Journal workshop in July. Similar to working in altered books, where I believe it is much more interesting to alter the text and minimally modify the page with subtle markings versus full-on coverage with paint and collage material, I think that starting a cardboard journal should be all about how to respect the material and then determine methods of achieving interest with clever cuts, folds, and punctures. Below you can see some examples I'm preparing – the die-cut circles and the bull-nose corners were part of a cardboard package. I can never resist unusual findings when it comes to cardboard as they make for great pages in the journal.

Below is another vintage tool – a man-made protractor for determining angles. Some person scored in these lines with precision. Amazing, don't you think? Found on ebay about ten years ago!

I love that these tools belonged to someone. I love that there must be stories about how they were used. I really wish I could rub the wood and learn the history. Since I can't do that I will just carry the artisan in my heart when I'm working with their tools.

June 12, 2013
cool tools

I've been enjoying the slow collection of vintage tools. So many of our devices are plastic, that it's really nice to come across an old once-loved and well-used tool for my studio. The tracing wheels are terrific for rolling in paint and then frolic up a page, or better yet, poking through a corrugated cardboard surface. The newer ones aren't as pokey, with much smoother edges on the wheel. The old ones may not be safe but they can assist you to do cool stuff. The awls are so nice to hold, and they force nice holes. I am so happy to have a toolbox that is filling up with these treasures.

Inspired by Louise Nevelson's monochromatic assemblages with emphasis on shadows, I have been manipulating surfaces in cardboard as part of demo sample for the Debris Journal workshop in July. Similar to working in altered books, where I believe it is much more interesting to alter the text and minimally modify the page with subtle markings versus full-on coverage with paint and collage material, I think that starting a cardboard journal should be all about how to respect the material and then determine methods of achieving interest with clever cuts, folds, and punctures. Below you can see some examples I'm preparing – the die-cut circles and the bull-nose corners were part of a cardboard package. I can never resist unusual findings when it comes to cardboard as they make for great pages in the journal.

Below is another vintage tool – a man-made protractor for determining angles. Some person scored in these lines with precision. Amazing, don't you think? Found on ebay about ten years ago!

I love that these tools belonged to someone. I love that there must be stories about how they were used. I really wish I could rub the wood and learn the history. Since I can't do that I will just carry the artisan in my heart when I'm working with their tools.

June 12, 2013
in the bag….

It's been quiet here on the blog. I've been active in the studio wrapping up the last phase of an overhaul by clearing up piles, putting things back into drawers or on shelves, and bagging lots of old stuff – unused supplies that will be donated, unwanted clutter that is clogging up the space, and unfinished projects I'm releasing by discarding. It feels good to see the bags fill up by the back door. I've accumulated a small stash of debris that will go in my journal – clippings that I can't part with because they are part of a narrative of my creative journey. While I dislike blocking off time to devote to getting organized, I love the results. More space opens up on my table and in my mind. The process allows me to experience closure. A re-evaluation takes place, and I am clear about the direction I'm heading. I can part with materials that used to hold value because they no longer fit with what I'm interested in doing.

As we wind down the final weeks of school, I'm feeling a mixture of nostalgia, completion, and pride. There are lots of activities – like tonight, where I accompanied Fallon to the Art Show at the high school. She had several pieces hanging up from her Graphic Design class and her Photographic Design class. The exhibit was amazing – I love seeing the efforts of all the students, and got to thank the teachers for encouraging my daughter's creativity. This Friday is prom, then graduation on the 20th. This precious little thing, who arrived last to complete our family, is gliding right into this milestone with grace and charm and old-soul-wisdom.

The bags below are holding the dresses she'll be wearing to the two events. It's a very special time, made even more exciting as she has registered for her first semester of college classes. I'll be back with prom pics in a few days.

June 5, 2013
in the bag….

It's been quiet here on the blog. I've been active in the studio wrapping up the last phase of an overhaul by clearing up piles, putting things back into drawers or on shelves, and bagging lots of old stuff – unused supplies that will be donated, unwanted clutter that is clogging up the space, and unfinished projects I'm releasing by discarding. It feels good to see the bags fill up by the back door. I've accumulated a small stash of debris that will go in my journal – clippings that I can't part with because they are part of a narrative of my creative journey. While I dislike blocking off time to devote to getting organized, I love the results. More space opens up on my table and in my mind. The process allows me to experience closure. A re-evaluation takes place, and I am clear about the direction I'm heading. I can part with materials that used to hold value because they no longer fit with what I'm interested in doing.

As we wind down the final weeks of school, I'm feeling a mixture of nostalgia, completion, and pride. There are lots of activities – like tonight, where I accompanied Fallon to the Art Show at the high school. She had several pieces hanging up from her Graphic Design class and her Photographic Design class. The exhibit was amazing – I love seeing the efforts of all the students, and got to thank the teachers for encouraging my daughter's creativity. This Friday is prom, then graduation on the 20th. This precious little thing, who arrived last to complete our family, is gliding right into this milestone with grace and charm and old-soul-wisdom.

The bags below are holding the dresses she'll be wearing to the two events. It's a very special time, made even more exciting as she has registered for her first semester of college classes. I'll be back with prom pics in a few days.

June 5, 2013
Far Away Places ~ Second Edition

Above: two happy instructors following another wonderful weekend as we took on Far Away Places. Another enthusiastic group of artists met us in the generous studio space where we sprawled out and got messy for three full days of numerous creative projects. Some stellar work and special memories forged at our lovely venue. Oh, if we could just bottle up that energy and feed off it every day! We extend our thanks all the courageous voyagers and hope to meet you again, here or anywhere! Lynne and I had an utter blast and are already looking forward to next year, with lots of ideas for what that will entail. Stay tuned to our websites if you are interested in joining us - annoucement likely in just a few months. We need to catch our breath and soak in all the good vibes generated over these past two weekends.

Unfortunately, I never did the rounds with my camera on the first weekend, my apologies to the artists. Below are just some of the art pieces being made in the second weekend. Most students created three or more works of art – so fun to revisit the work spaces and busy hands through these photos!

Winner for the book giveaway: Diana Wilson!

Thanks to all who entered, and thanks to Julie for the generous offering.

May 13, 2013
Far Away Places ~ Second Edition

Above: two happy instructors following another wonderful weekend as we took on Far Away Places. Another enthusiastic group of artists met us in the generous studio space where we sprawled out and got messy for three full days of numerous creative projects. Some stellar work and special memories forged at our lovely venue. Oh, if we could just bottle up that energy and feed off it every day! We extend our thanks all the courageous voyagers and hope to meet you again, here or anywhere! Lynne and I had an utter blast and are already looking forward to next year, with lots of ideas for what that will entail. Stay tuned to our websites if you are interested in joining us - annoucement likely in just a few months. We need to catch our breath and soak in all the good vibes generated over these past two weekends.

Unfortunately, I never did the rounds with my camera on the first weekend, my apologies to the artists. Below are just some of the art pieces being made in the second weekend. Most students created three or more works of art – so fun to revisit the work spaces and busy hands through these photos!

Winner for the book giveaway: Diana Wilson!

Thanks to all who entered, and thanks to Julie for the generous offering.

May 13, 2013
it’s your lucky day – cool new book giveaway

Check out today's harvest of four leaf clovers. It was a beautiful day and I hit the jackpot when walking to to mailbox! They pulled through for Fallon and I as we shopped for prom dresses this afternoon. We were at the fifth store when we found a dreamy selection tonight. Whew! I think I will spread the luck around by offering a giveaway.

My talented friend Julie wrote (and photographed) this cool new book with her workshop partner Chris. They signed copy and Julie sent one for me to share with my faithful readers. How cool is that? Acrylic Solutions: Exploring Mixed Media Layer by Layer by Julie Prichard and Chris Cozen. You will love this one – super clever to have it as a spiral bound format so you can leave it open on your studio table and work through all the informative and useful chapters on creating with paint and all the juicy options for building in layers. It's one of those books that you will continue learning from as you endeavor to elevate your work. Don't you love when a book reveals lessons just when you need them? I've already put post-it notes on pages that I will return to soon. Lots of handsome visuals, and tons of great tips. If you want to see more, check out Julie's workshops. She powers out some stellar online classes, with well produced videos you can watch over and over, then get feedback and assistance as you work through the lessons. An amazing value, from the convenience of your own workspace.

LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW TO BE ENTERED IN THE BOOK GIVEAWAY. I will draw a name out of the top hat on Sunday, May 12th. It will be a Happy Mother's Day for a lucky reader, and a tip of the hat to Julie who is celebrating a birthday then too!

May 7, 2013