Creative buttons

I was working on a commission project recently; it was designed as a wall hanging and to add a little bit of creative flare I thought I would add some buttons to the appliquéd flower. The only problem is that I could not find any buttons that I liked. So I decided to make my own.

Here I used a simple bug stamp that I stamped on some plastic that I cut out of a used milk jug. I used black permanent ink and also punched a couple holes in each one for sewing the button on later. They were then baked in the oven and set aside to cool. 

When cooled I added a layer of Glossy Accents and let it dry and then added another layer and let dry. Then I glued on some lovely rhinestones to add sparkle. 

I decided on the Lady bugs in the end, and I attached them by sewing them on with Pearle cotton thread. Then a little hand embroidering and the piece is coming together very nicely, I think.

This is one of those pieces I would just love to keep for myself, but I suppose I could make another!

New painting project

I have had this project in my mind for awhile now and decided it was time to give it a try.

I brought all of my painting supplies out and started by painting the boards. Then I hand cut my papers and made some sweet little frogs and painted cattails in the background. 

I love to add words to my art. Just little quotes or phrases. With a very small curved scissors I cut my letters freehand. I think it adds to the whimsey of my art. 

After all the papers are glued in place I might add more painting. Then I just love to take my black gel pen and outline the shapes and add cross hatches and squiggly lines. Then I go in with markers for shading or maybe some of my gelatos too. I think it is about finished. The houses went to one of my daughters and my sweet frogs are now available in my Etsy shop. These works of art look beautiful hung over a door or window. My daughter hung hers on a header separating her kitchen from her dining room. She told me she wanted to hang it where she could see it all the time!