To welcome Summer, I have a couple of new articles to share with you. In the current issue of Somerset Studio Gallery…
…you’ll see some watercolor painted doors in my article, “The Fluid World of Translucent Color & Beeswax.”
And in the new issue of Sew Somerset…
…you’ll see some felted wool pieces in my article, “Cup of Joy.”
Here’s a little something special that I made for Brook.
And here’s a cute way to share your crafting supplies.
I used recycled dryer sheets to make my own tea-bag bookmarks (seen below.) The dryer sheet that I used was previously dyed in a batch of real tea for some cozy color.
In case you’re interested in making your own versions of either project shown above, I included the specific how-to instructions in both of the articles. And to answer Julie’s question (a request from a prior Giveaway post ) regarding tips on using beeswax: be sure your brush (I like to use a 1″ wide bristle brush) is evenly coated with beeswax before applying it on top of the canvas or collage. Also, work quickly as you brush on the beeswax (it solidifies quickly.) And if you don’t like the way it looks as is, then use a quilting iron to smooth out and adjust the areas that don’t appeal to you. Also, I like to use a very light hand when applying the beeswax (to me, too much layering or build-up takes away from the images below.)
In addition to doing a lot of reading this Summer, I’m also wanting to dive deeper into watercolor painting. What about you…what are you looking forward to doing these next few months?
22 Comments, Comment or Ping
Beautiful pieces and articles you highlight for us. I do not get that magazine in Germany…well it is available but I have cut down tremendously on magazine purchasing,,,I might have to break down and get this issue though as I find the sneak peeks very interesting. I paint watercolor doors quite often and have done a post about German doors on my blog. I am working on a project as guest designer for Quiet Fire Design with doors.
Sometimes I feel I am obsessed with doors and windows:) I have big plans for this summer….besides lots and lots more watercolor painting.
May 31st, 2011
Becky your recent feather creations are just beautiful! I always enjoy reading your blog posts with my cup of coffee in hand.. you are so wonderful with words my friend.
I thought after work today I would treat myself to a new magazine.. after seeing this post, Sew Somerset is at the top of my list. Thank-you for sharing with us.
May 31st, 2011
I love the effect that beeswax gives to the project. Can’t wait to get my hands on the Gallery issue.
May 31st, 2011
thank you for a beautiful post! i, too, love working with beeswax and agree that a light hand makes for a better finish. I especially love the idea of the felted pocket for gifting craft supplies. I’m always looking for new “vessels!”
thank you, Becky, I so enjoy your blog!
xo
karen
http://karensmondaymusings.blogspot.com
May 31st, 2011
Oh Becky, these are lovely. I have been wanting to try that beeswax. And you know how much I love your tags …. gorgeous!
May 31st, 2011
the felt pieces do look so cozy. i’ll make sure to check out the articles.
May 31st, 2011
Hi Becky,
Thanks so much for contributing to the Summer issue of Somerset Studio. As always, it was a great pleasure working with you. I absolutely adored your watercolor/beeswax project that was featured.
Cheers,
Jennifer
May 31st, 2011
I’m in that issue of Somerset Gallery too! I saw your article – love the beeswax! I can’t wait to get my hands on the new issue of Somerset Sew. I have to wait until the plumber leaves first!
xo
jeanne
May 31st, 2011
Jeanne, thanks for sharing your great news…I’m off to check out your piece now.
May 31st, 2011
Great job, Becky.
I sure love the effect of that beeswax. Beautifully soft and gentle. I am down with a bad respiratory infection and craving that Gallery issue!
Hugs,
Suz
May 31st, 2011
Congrats on your articles Becky! I always look forward to reading them. Funny you answer a question about beeswax here. I been wanting to experiment with either beeswax or encaustics on my photographs but have no idea where to begin. Wondering if the wax or encaustic materials will interfere with the chemicals in the photograph?
May 31st, 2011
Kelly, try applying a light layer of gel medium (Golden – regular matte finish) on top of your photo and let dry. Then apply a layer of beeswax on top. I haven’t tried out this technique yet, but I have a feeling that it might work (the gel medium should act as a protecting layer…maybe.) This should be a fun experiment…please let me know if you end up trying it and if it ends up working.
May 31st, 2011
oops! just noticed that I cut off my blog address! 🙂
May 31st, 2011
Double Congratulations on your published articles and pieces. I am loving your watercolor doors with the beeswax technique. I must get this mag to read it fully. Your cups of love are very sweet. Wonderful week to you…
May 31st, 2011
I just LOVE everything you do Becky! So beautiful!
I am currently mad about purses, I make them with my handwoven cloth, so that’s probably going to continue throughout the summer.
June 1st, 2011
I can’t wait to pick up these issues Becky! Looking forward to reading your article on the beeswax art. I have the supplies, but have never tried it yet, now I will. I too have dabbled in watercolor…there is just something about the softness in the colors I like. I always enjoy coming over here to see your creations! Happy day to you.
June 1st, 2011
I’ll have to check out that article. I love the cups with tags.
Thanks for your comment and the nice idea for a banner.
Angela
June 1st, 2011
Beautiful pieces and articles you highlight for us. I do not get that magazine in Germany…well it is available but I have cut down tremendously on magazine purchasing,,,I might have to break down and get this issue though as I find the sneak peeks very interesting. I paint watercolor doors quite often and have done a post about German doors on my blog. I am working on a project as guest designer for Quiet Fire Design with doors.Sometimes I feel I am obsessed with doors and windows:) I have big plans for this summer….besides lots and lots more watercolor painting.
+1
June 1st, 2011
i’m going to have to expand my summer reading list. you are so talented Becky. love that you use so many different medias. you rock. i’m sure Brook loved her little gift.
June 1st, 2011
Congrats on your featured work, though I’m not surprised! Your work is truly inspiring . I am waiting for my order of the current Sew Somerset issue and can’t wait to see your piece. BTW, thanks so much for your visit over at my blog, it means a lot:)
xo,
Abby
June 1st, 2011
Congrats on the publications! I can’t wait to read the articles 🙂
June 2nd, 2011
Lovely work as always! Really love the beeswax on your door pieces. That is something I have not ever tried but it has such a beautiful look! This summer is stay-cation. I’m taking three graduate classes, writing my masters thesis, swim lessons with the kiddos, and squeezing in time to paint. Heather Smith Jones book on water color is a very good place to learn about exploring watercolor!
June 4th, 2011
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