DIY: Nebraska String Art

 I couldn't wait to start this project since I saw it on Pinterest....thought about ordering it via Etsy, but realized it was a simple technique to do.  So while on vacation, I completed one of my parents' Christmas present (yes they have already seen it)

Using a wood canvas board, I applied 3 coats with a red Glossy Craft Paint (going for the red/white Husker colors) + printed out a state map for a guideline.

I then placed the outline on top the wood, and started nailing around the perimeter...and nailing...and nailing.  As you can see the edge has a lot more nails due to all the movement.

 

I then began to trace a heart around Douglas county.  I debated about placing it partially outside the main outline, but realized the heart would not have the same effect when stringing.

 

And then....RIPPPPPP...the paper came off (with a few tweaks with some tweezers to remove all paper scraps)

As you can see, parts of the nails went through the wood, I didn't mind this aspect as it was lower than the edges.  My mom suggested placing cardboard on the back for padding..great idea!!

Then the stringing began by tying a knot in the lower right hand corner and working clockwise around, looping each string around the heart. 

Due to some nails being to close together, I grouped them together.

I did have to restart a few times as the string broke.:(

 

I love the final outlook, and I hope they do too.  I think maybe some script or a quote on top or bottom would complete it such as home (sweet) home.

30 DAYS OF THANKFUL: 2013

Each day I am thankful for many things, but in November, I decided to document it using a digital template by Cathy Zielske which I will also use in my Project Life folder (adding embellishments of course).  Enjoy!

 

 

2013 AUTUMN JOURNAL: Watercolor Leaves

Last year, I created a Nature Journal for Junelle Jacobsen's online class.  It was so much fun, I decided to add a page with big leaves.  This page started out with gesso over a leaf texture plate.  It gave the basical outline to start.

I added small photo images and then started to color away with the Neocolor II.  Such fun....and you don't have to stay in the lines.  I usually just randomly apply colors in various spots...some highlights some lowlights.  And just blend the color.

When using the watercolor brush, I start with the light colors and gradually blend in the darker ones. This way, the dark doesn't over power the light. 

Added a few splotches.

Coated it with a gel medium.  I used Fluid Matte Medium, but last year, I did use Modge Podge and seemed to like it better as it gave it a bit of shine.  You need to wait a day before genly apply any medium to avoid major color runs.

Then I doodled away and of course, added my favorite little hearts near the pictures.