I'm always on the lookout for unconventional tools to use in artmaking. Do you do that too? Keep an open eye and open mind with every visual that you encounter...wondering how to take an item and use it to make a texture or pattern. Like when you drive by a yard sale and you spy a cheesy-plastic-cut-lace tablecover, and you slam on the brakes because you see the potential of spending 25 cents for a new spray paint stencil!
I'm not hip to the latest products but when I pop into Michael's I will do a quick scout around to see if there is something new I might need. Yesterday I stumbled upon these embossing folders for Cuttlebug. I don't even know what that device is or does, but I was attracted to the pattern. If you could see the conversation bubble over my head it would have said "Squeee! Love this....could be used for rubbing, casting paper, pressing into clay, maybe even monoprinting....grab it!" And I did. *note to self - go back for more*
So I tried a few things with my new toy ($4.99). Since it is meant as an embossing tool I thought "a-ha! pull out the pasta machine!" Originally used to roll out polymer clay, it now doubles as an embosser when adjusted for the plastic folders.
I'm in full blown circle mode now. Grabbed some of my new stamps. Next, I will drag out my circle punches. I feel some circle art coming on.
Lots of rain only means lots of roses.....look at all those buds! I've already been cutting full roses off the bushes. Don't forget, the more you cut the more you will get. The bush below is the first one we planted in July 2008. It is a glorious monstrosity! It's crazy how big it is. I was worried about the six new ones from last year because I never covered them - but they are back, fuller and thicker, and oozing with enthusiasm. To think I might have missed the rewards of keeping a rose garden....
