Joyce's Tole Painting

Something Different

2012-01-20T20:47:00.001-05:00

As I have mentioned before I'm a member of the Craft Guild Shop of St. Mary's.
There are several artists in the guild that paint using one medium or another. But one thing I found unique is something called Intarsia. It's putting together a design with the use of different types and colors of wood. My friend Hans makes these detailed pieces with small pieces of different types of wood that all come together to make something so beautiful and different. Who says you have to use paint to paint a picture.

He also cuts these designs and puts together these wooden plaques that I really like. He does one for every branch of the military.

We have lots of talent in the Craft Guild Shop, go to our web site and check out what the others are using their talents to make. www.craftguildshop.com
We are working on opening and online store hopefully that will be up and running
in the next month or so.

A Fresh Start

2012-01-10T20:31:00.000-05:00

Here we are at the start of a new year.
The Christmas season went by way to fast but that's how it is when paint right up to the last minute. My ornaments sold very well, it's so nice to know that people like your work and want to display it in their homes. But with Christmas behind me now is the time to clean my studio and get ready to paint for the spring and summer season. I've emptied out the closet and all the drawers in here and gone through everything to organize it. It's amazing the things you'll find when you do that, surfaces you forgot you bought last winter and all the odds and ends I use for different projects. I go through all my bottles of paint to make sure I have a full stock of what I'll need when I get back to painting. There are those few go to colors that I seem to use on almost every project I paint, sometimes I get into a rut have to make myself step out of my comfort zone and dust off a few colors and incorporate them into a design.
I have a color mix chart now and that comes in very handy because it never fails you'll start to work on a design and sure enough you'll be out of a color of maybe not have it at all, that color mixing chart has saved me from making a run to the store more then once and where I live there is no craft store down on the corner.

One thing I'm working on is making my own color chart. I have some old business cards that I'm not using anymore so I'm painting the colors on the cards, I use the color straight from the bottle then I mix the color just as I would use it to highlight and paint that on one end of the the card the other end I use what I would normally shade that color with. Once the paint is dry I write the color name and highlight and shade color on the back of the card. You can store these cards in the clear baseball card protectors and keep them in a folder or you can use a hole punch and put them on a ring to keep on your work table and another thing if you have to mix a certain color for something, paint that on a card and write what you used on the back so you can refer back to it at a later date. This sounds like a lot of work but it goes pretty quick and comes in very handy if you are painting with a friend and they want to know what you mixed to get the color.
I'm finding it get harder to remember what I've mixed after a few months. You can even make a note of the project you used the color for. It's kinda like painting post-it- notes...LOL and believe me I need all the help I can get when it's time to remember something. During these dreary winter days get out some colors and brighten things up for a while, color is good for the soul.

I'm also working on the web site for the Craft Guild Shop it's starting to come together, only a few more things to do and we'll have a online store.
Check us out on Facebook don't forget to "Like" us. Or you can go to our site to meet the members and see what they make, www.craftguildshop.com .

Happy painting.

Tis the Season

2011-12-15T10:47:00.000-05:00

If you have been following my blog the last few years you know that Christmas time is my favorite time to paint, and painting has filled every day the last few months.
I've painted so much that it seems life has passed by in a blur. Some times you have to take a break and go out and reconnect with the rest of the world. So last night all of the members of the Craft Guild Shop got together for their annual Christmas diner.There was lots of good food and conversation. The shop looks so nice with all the lights and decorated trees filled with ornaments that several of us make, all though the trees are not as full of ornaments as they were and that's a good thing, that means people are buying them.
On my way home I took the time to check out all the homes decorated with the beautiful lights of the season, here's what the house at the end of my street looks like...

So my point is don't let the best season of the year pass you by without taking some time for yourself and enjoying all the beautiful sites around your neighborhood.
Now back to my painting projects, my buddy Hans is a wood worker and he always has some small leftover pieces of wood so now I'm using his scraps that he cuts for me to make word blocks. They have been fun to play with here's one of many sets for the winter season....

This year folks are watching every penny trying to make ends meet and there might not be as much money for Christmas shopping so why not paint something to give to some on your gift list. Get out your brushes and see what you have laying around the house that you can paint up cute as can be. It doesn't mater if you paint ,sew, scrapbook whatever your passion is use it to make your gifts this year.

Until next time happy painting.

My Web Site ~ www.joycespaintnplace.weebly.com

2011-11-27T21:02:00.001-05:00

Another Thanksgiving has come and gone, I hope that you had a wonderful holiday and have many blessings to count. It's been a beautiful weekend sunny and warm, usually by the time Thanksgiving rolls around the temps have dropped and it's cold, but this time it's been sunny and warm most of the weekend.
Friday evening there was the annual Tree Lighting on the Square in Leonardtown, Md.,

The Craft Guild Shop participated in this event, they had a table set up and over 500 kids stopped by during the evening to make Christmas ornaments, everyone had a good time.
We have decorated the shop for Christmas we have trees up and lights are sparkling all over the shop. I love the lights of the season.

Here's my new ornament for this year...

The background is a very dark green with just a simple pretty poinsettia.
I've been painting lots of ornaments to sell this year. I sold several at the craft show last weekend, so I've been restocking the shop and I've added some to my new web site. Yes, I have a web site now... www.joycespaintnplace.weebly.com
as I'm getting ornaments restocked I'm adding them on the site for sale, stop by and check them out.
Well now that Thanksgiving is over it's time to plan for the most special season of all Christmas, time to get out those brushes and paint something for a gift or to decorate your home.
Until next time happy painting.

Halloween

2011-10-31T14:53:00.000-04:00

It feels more like Thanksgiving then Halloween with snow over parts of the country but that's how Mother Nature has decided to celebrate this season. I sure hope this isn't a preview of what winter has in store for us. Thankfully we didn't get anything but rain in Southern Maryland.
I've been busy painting away on ornaments and lately I've been doing small signs with cute saying like "Never underestimate the power of a hissie fit" And " I'm sick of reality I want a fairy Godmother" These are some of the things that I'll be selling at the Craft Guild Shop and at my next craft show. I did a show a few weeks ago at the fairgrounds with the Guild, we participated in the Oyster Festival. We had a nice crowd turn out and people were in the mood to shop.
Also I'm selling my ornaments at a local gift shop Lola Belle Co. it's a pretty little shop that's all decorated for Christmas and ready to kick off the holiday season. We hope that everyone will come out to the local shops and support the artisans in your communities.
The Craft Guild shop has a new glass studio now, glass artists Ardith Young has set up a work space and is working at the shop three days a week.
I've been working to put together a new web site for the Guild and there you will be able to meet the artists as I'm going to do a small showcase piece on the site for each member. Check out the new site http://craftguildshop.weebly.com .

I'm also painting ice skates again here's a picture of one I just finished. I decided make them as door hangers this time. In the past I've mounted them on a base to set on a table top but I thought this would be a nice change from the normal Christmas wreath. The Christmas season is fast approaching and I hope your painting for the season. Until next time have a safe and Happy Halloween and keep those paint brushes moving.

Rain ,Rain Go To Texas, They really need you.

2011-09-06T16:20:00.000-04:00

Seriously ? More rain ? Things were just getting somewhat back to normal after Irene came through here with a vengeance. Irene dumped way too much rain and the winds were awful. Trees are down everywhere, folks around here haven't finished cleaning up behind her and now tropical storm Lee has moved right on up the coast and the rain is coming down. The craft guild shop where I'm selling my pieces has been closed for more then a week now. There is a small run that sits right beside the shop and normally it stays within it's banks but when Irene caused a flood surge of four to eight feet the calm quite little run turned into a rolling river. See......

The row of shops in the back is where the shop is located, it's up off the ground about four foot or so but obviously that's not high enough. The shop on the left side of the picture is an Antique Center, they had about a foot of water in there. Luckily for the craft guild no ones items were destroyed, but the shop didn't fair so well.
Everything has been moved , carpets have been removed and new tile will take the place of the old carpet. Every inch will have to be treated for mold. And I'm sure there will be some painting going on. So until all that is finished the shop is out of commission for a few more days.

So I suppose while all that is going on and the rain is coming down painting is as good a thing to do as any. I've been painting on ornaments and I'm going to do some fall pieces. Can't wait to do some of the table runners with the pretty fall leaves that Patty Rawlinson has done and a few other things I've seen in the Paint Works magazine.
Until next time, paint something that makes you happy.

Summer Time

2011-08-11T11:01:00.015-04:00

Here it is August already the summer is going by way to fast. I've been busy painting getting finished pieces done for the Craft Guild of St. Mary's as I'm Crafter of the Month for August.

How come with all the painting I've done this past year when I go to look for the pieces to display in the shop there's nothing left to show? I guess I've given away and sold more then I thought, but that's a good thing I suppose. I'm really enjoying doing the Oil Roughing, I just finished another Mary Owens design It's her Barn at Pine Knob.

Last weekend I attended the Beach Party On the Square in Leonardtown , Maryland.

Hans another member at the Craft Guild Shop and I set up a display on the square to promote the shop. It was a very HOT and HUMID day but it was nice to get out to see all the young and old coming out for some summer fun. There was lots of good food and good music everyone was having a good time. Mr. & Mrs. Claus came out to mingle with the folks on the square. Kids young and old really enjoyed seeing them and everyone was taking pictures with them.

Just a few more weeks and schools will be opening again and before you know it the holidays will be looming over us. So take some time and enjoy the last of the hot lazy summer days. And if you can find some time to work in a few hours to paint. It's never to early to start painting Christmas ornaments. The Paint Works Christmas Ornament Issue is available right now, they have some really cute patterns in this year's issue.

Until next time Happy Painting.

It's about Time

2011-07-02T07:36:00.004-04:00

Good Grief, it's been forever since I've taken the time to come here and update what's been happening. Things have made a change in my world. My job has ended after nine years. The owner had the business up for sale for four years but in this economy no one came up with the money that it would take to purchase the business and a franchise. So he decided to close and at the age of seventy five I can understand that. But in the mean time that has left me job hunting, no fun.

But since I couldn't find a job in the area where I want to stay I decided to make one. So I'm trying to get classes going at the local Craft Guild of St. Mary's County near by. Of course that's not very easy to do in the summer months when everyone has summer time plans. But that's ok I'm setting up some painted items to sell in the shop. Hopefully people will have some interest in the classes in the fall once the weather cools down and the kids are back in school.

Anyway I'll tell you a little about the shop....It's a nice size shop with a lot of varied artist's / crafter's everything from hand made quilts , wood crafts, beautiful jewelry, watercolor artist, fabric crafts and the list goes on and on. Each month a member or artist in the community is featured as an Artist of the Month this month the artist is Pat Troiani. Pat is a watercolor artist who has some beautiful pieces for sale in the shop. If that weren't enough Pat also makes jewelry, very pretty pieces with sea glass and beads.

I have just started to get my space set up and for right now I'm doing small signs with cute saying mostly related to the summer season. With time I'm going to be painting table runners and cookbooks that will be personalized with whatever anyone would like on the front cover.

And the ornaments, can't forget the ornaments, tons of them. So you know what I'll be doing, painting and more painting. But it's what I know and they say stick with what you know and do what you love and you can't go wrong.

Now if your traveling this summer and find yourself in Southern Maryland look on your map for the small town of Leonardtown and drop by and check out the Craft Guild.

Have a Happy and Safe July 4th weekend and until next time Happy Painting.

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T22:30:00.002-05:00

As I look back over this year I think of all the things

that I have to be grateful for. There are the friends that stick by me no matter what.

I have my home and I manage to keep my vehicle running with the help of good mechanics.

I have a job that I like. And I have my classes with the best students that keep me on my toes or they at least try to...lol.

And I still enjoy painting and learning new techniques and teaching.

And there's the fact that God and the Angels watch over me and keep me going every day.

Now really what more could a gal ask for.

I hope that you have this many blessing in your life to be grateful for every day of the New Year.

Have a Happy & Blessed New Year

Good Grief it's almost Christmas Charlie Brown

2010-12-19T08:07:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas Everyone. Can you believe it's the weekend before Christmas already. The fall season sure did go by in a hurry seems just the other day we were having Thanksgiving dinner.

I have to say this is the best holiday of the year. Not just because we buy gifts for friends and family and decorate our homes and have parties but because of the real reason for the season...For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ, the Lord.""And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the Heavenly Host praising God, and saying, "Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth peace, and good will toward men.""That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."

So while you've been making your list and checking it twice have you spent any time painting this season? I've been painting like crazy this fall. My shows went well this year, I'm so grateful to all those that come out to shop with us every year. It was great to see everyone.

And my classes are doing well, I have a great bunch of ladies that make up my classes and we do have a good time together. They have learned some new brush skills this year and have improved their painting skills and I'm so proud of them. Just another thing on my list to be grateful for.

As for me I'm learning the technique of oil roughing, and I like it. It's fun.

I'm doing the pen and ink technique then adding the oil roughing that Mary Owens teaches you have to check out her work. She has some really pretty patterns and the DVD's that teach you more then you can imagine. I haven't worked with pen and ink or oils for thirty years and a lot of things have changed over time new products are great. Who knew that you could use oils without the nasty oder and what blew my mind is I'm cleaning my brushes with soap and water not those stinky solvents of the past. Oh well who says you can't teach a old dog new tricks...lol.

Always keep your mine open to learning something different it keeps life interesting.

Well I have some baking and wrapping, painting, cleaning and laundry to do today so I better get busy. Until next time, Happy Painting.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T18:23:00.004-04:00

I hope your ready for the ghost and goblins that will be out and about tonight.
If your out tonight travel safely and watch out for those little candy snatchers.
I'll be staying put tonight,maybe doing some painting. I spent last evening with friends at a Halloween bonfire, it was a nice night not to cold but a little windy, the warmth of the fire felt really good.
I haven't done much painting for fall, I've been working on ornaments for my shows.
But I did get one fall item done. I took a black canvas handbag and painted fall leaves on the front and back. You can do this on hand bags , jackets, tote bags ,aprons or shirts the skies the limit. I transfered the leaf design with white wax free transfer paper then base coated all the leaves in with brown , two coats drying between coats. Then your ready to paint your leaves multi colors. I used some fabric medium to do the shading and highlights and paint the veins of the leaves. When your done you can lay the piece in the sun for a while and that will heat set the paint. It's just that easy, give it a try.

It's a quick easy project that you can do in a afternoon.

Until next time Happy Haunting & Happy Painting.

Fall is in the air

2010-10-16T19:33:00.013-04:00

Well good grief the summer has gone and now it's time for those leaves to start changing colors and the cooler temperatures. I know that I have neglected my blog terribly this summer all because I've been working on my house. I've painted wood work till I don't want to see another piece of wood work. Now my painting is on ornaments, I'm getting ready for the fall craft show season.

I just have two shows the weekend before Thanksgiving so I'm painting on my days off like there's no tomorrow.

Now that it's getting dark earlier in the evenings and it's getting cooler it's time to snuggle in and start getting ready for the holidays. I always look forward to the holidays, the rich warm colors of fall the smell of fireplaces in the evenings and the smell of cinnamon and apples reminds me of years past. Isn't it funny how a smell in the air can take you back to a time long ago and warm happy memories of making pies and craving pumpkins. I did take the time to pull out a few fall decorations and some scented candles.

Oh and I went to the County Fair a few weeks ago. You know how some things just never change well this county's fair hasn't changed a bit it's always been in the same place for the last 50 plus years and each year there are the same great sounds, sights and smells of good food. Check out some of the pictures I took while walking around that evening. Wouldn't you like to have one of those pretty quilts to snuggle down in. The Clydesdale horses preformed that Saturday evening , they are so pretty when they are all decked out in their harness's. They do like to struck their stuff for the crowds. We had beautiful warm weather that weekend and the place was packed with people.

Well I need to go prep for my tole painting class that's tomorrow morning so until next time enjoy the rest of your weekend and happy painting. Take care.

Feels Like Summer

2010-06-18T08:50:00.004-04:00

Are you ready for Summer? I sure am , in just a few more days it will be officially SUMMER!!!

I like the long evenings when it's light long after 7pm. These are our longest day light hours of the year. It's nice to have warm days with the windows open again.

I've been painting but not the cute decorative paintings as usual but painting my house inside. Since 1962 the woodwork in this house has always been natural wood well it's time for a face lift

and a change. So all woodwork is being painted white, it's amazing how much it brightens the rooms.

Just that little touch of white paint and the rooms look so much lighter and brighter. Also I've taken out all the carpet and I'm back the oak hardwood floors, I'm thrilled at how nice the floors look after so many years of being covered with carpet.

So you see I've been busy and a with work and yard work my decorative painting has had to take a back seat the last thing I did paint was some cupcakes with a cute saying...

Everything is Better With Frosting on It.

The cupcake design was in "Painting" magazine the designer is Linda Hollander she painted them on mugs with Folk Art Enamels check em out.

It's going to be a beautiful day so find something that you enjoy doing and make it a great day.

Until next time Happy Painting

It's been a while

2010-04-13T19:13:00.004-04:00

It's been a long time since I have taken time to update here so I think it's time to get with it. I'm so grateful that winter has moved on and things are green again, it makes my heart happy to see nice green grass and leaves back on the trees.
I've been getting a lot of spring cleaning done and trying to do some decluttering along the way.
I did do some spring time painting the watering can and tulips were part of a pattern I found in a magazine, it's a Judy Diephouse design. I'm painting the whole design from the magazine and I'll post a picture when I get it done. The azaleas are a design by Barbara Hillman the painted lace boarder was just something I added to the piece to make it stand out a little more. I've done painted lace on Christmas ornaments but I've never done it on a flat surface before I think I like the look and will try to add it in on other pieces when I can. You can find patterns for painting lace on Patty Rawlinson's site. She's very good at lace painting go check her out.

Have you tried the David Jansen Decorative Designs with the Heritage MultiMedia paints?

I have a few of the DVD's / patterns looking forward to trying them. I've been working so long trying to make everything nice and smooth for shading and dry brushing and the Jansen technique wants me to leave lines an ridges in the paint to make it look painterly. I hope I can do it...lol, seriously I'll have to work on that I'm sure.

Well until next time happy painting y'all.

Good Sunday Morning

2010-01-31T08:04:00.007-05:00

Mother Nature decided to see how much snow and ice she could dump on the southern half of the county the last few days and boy she did a good job putting down some snow here. It started yesterday about 7am and ended just about 7 last night. And now I'm stuck with a foot of snow that I really didn't need...LOL. But at least it's not ice and we still have the power on. Who knows how long in will be before those without power will be back to normal.

I guess it's a good time to work on some projects that I've had in mind.

I have a Fan page on Facebook now. Yeah little ol' me with a Fan page who would have thought it.

I'm having a good time meeting others that paint and looking at all their beautiful work.

I've added some links for sites that I buy paint supplies from and some that I've just learned about from other artist. There are a few that are having good sales right now so if you need some new brushes or your getting low on some of the DecoArt colors it's a good time to shop. The next time your on Facebook just type Joyces Tole Painting in search and become a fan. If you have a painting related Fan page I'll Fan you right back. So stop by you never know what you'll find or who you'll run into on Facebook.

Enjoy your Sunday, stay warm and Happy Painting.

2010-01-03T14:39:00.002-05:00

So here we are at the beginning of another year. Strange how the years past by so fast now. When we were kids it seemed the year dragged on forever. I think back over the year and all the things that have happened and the changes that have taken place, some not for the better it seems. I wonder what is in store for me, my friends and this country in 2010. Know that I wish you the best of everything and hope that the changes in your lives are only changes for the very best that life has to offer.

Could it get any colder??? Really this bitter cold weather is so uncalled for. I know, I know everyone says we need it cold to kill the germs. Well I would rather it be warmer and I'll use my Lysol to kill the germs...LOL I'm a summer time girl ,anything under 80 degrees is chilly. That's why I have a picture of the beach here today, Aww, warm weather and flip flops and a margarita. Now that's the good life.

Now that winter has set in the next three months are a good time to bring out the paints and find a great pattern to paint that will help pass the time during these long evenings.

Maybe you would like to have something different to hang in your kitchen well paint something yourself to decorate your surroundings. There are still some painting magazines out there with really great patterns from so many different artist I bet your sure to find something you will like. I have a few things left over from last year that I plan to finish, you know how it is your working on a piece and someone comes along needing something right now so you put what your doing on the back burner and plan to get back to it but it doesn't always happen that way. So I'll take care of a few UFO's then move on to other things I have in mind to paint.

Until next time Happy New Year and Happy Painting.

Time To Get That Tree Up

2009-12-01T18:34:00.003-05:00

My tree is up and the lights are on it and I'm worn right smack out. Getting all the parts for this tree inside from storage and getting it put together and lights on it ranks right up there with wrestling a bear....LOL. But it's so worth it when it's all done I love the soft glow of the Christmas lights. I think the lights are one of my most favorite things of the season.

This year I have a few new ornaments to add to my tree. The first pic. is a little wooden ornament that I painted white and sponged a little blue on to make it look frosty. The second one is paper mache that I got at a craft store and painted blue I added the snowman face and snow flakes to make the body. And the last one I painted the glass icicle the added texture snow and glitter, that doesn't show up very well in my pic. I'll post more ornaments later. If you have painted ornaments for this Christmas I would like to see what everyone else has come up with let me know in a comment where I can see your ornaments. Time to go rest after a long afternoon of tree wrestling...LOL

Until next time happy painting.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T21:28:00.003-05:00

What a nice day I've had, Good friends and good food to share.

I took some time to add some of my favorite Christmas music here for everyone to enjoy.

I didn't get to paint today but that's OK I'll get back to that on Sunday. I hope that you have had a special day as well and added to the good memories that you will think back on in the years to come and remember fondly.

I've been noticing that when people find their way to this blog most of the time they are searching for Snowman paintings so I'll show you one I finished last week. This is a Jamie Mills Price pattern. I've have the book for some time now but just got around to painting this cutie.

Her snowmen have the sweetest faces and the softest look.

If you want to paint a cute snowman give this one a try you won't be disappointed. Would be a great piece to paint for someone who collects snowmen.

Until next time happy painting.

My Craft Show Weekend 2009

2009-11-23T06:20:00.004-05:00

Every year I do two craft shows at two different locations and they happen to fall on the same weekend. You know that saying what doesn't Kill you will make you Stronger well it must be true.

Cause I'm still here after a very long two days.

I've been reading reports from other crafters for the last two months and lets just say most of the reports didn't sound promising. So I went out this year with low expectations. But it turned out not to be so bad after all. The show on Saturday was pretty good. Yesterday's show the sales were down but with this economy it was no surprise. But I'll say I'm grateful for the sales I had and want to thank all those that came out to shop with us. It's so great to get to see everyone from year to year and visit with other crafters that I've known for many years.

My ornaments made a big hit this year. I spend many hours making dozens of each style of ornament so I'll have enough for the two days.

There were so many nice items sold at this years show, my friend Mary makes floral arrangements and wreaths and she did very well this weekend to. There are a few fine artist Mary Lou Troutman and Alan Paganhardt that feature their work at these shows every year and they had a good weekend as well. So if you have a good product that the people want you can still make money out there.

Now that the shows are behind me it's time to get myself ready for Thanksgiving. Yes I have to put the boxes away and prep my house and shop for all the trimmings for Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is such a nice day that's if you don't let yourself get caught up in all the black Friday frenzy that makes people crazy every year.

I plan on making a nice dinner to share with friends and relaxing and thanking God for His Grace and Favor in my life. Than because I work retail I'll be going to work nice and early Friday morning, OH Yipeeeee ;)

Remember while your out there shopping for that perfect gift over the weekend be kind to the folks behind the counter, we are not the ones that buy the stock that goes on the shelfs and we have no control over what the stores have or in most cases don't have.

And pay attention to your surroundings and be safe on the roads and in the malls. I hope you find that perfect gift you have in mind for the special person. Happy Shopping.

2009-11-09T09:12:00.003-05:00

We painted pears in class yesterday and they turned out really nice. I really need to remember to take a camera with me so I can post pic's of what my wonderful students paint.

This is a Debbie Cole pattern and I enjoyed painting it , love the colors.

I know it's November but the weather has been so nice, yesterday it was 78 degrees in Southern MD. and today looks like a repeat of the same.

I think it will be a good day to get the boxes out and start pricing and packing up everything for my craft shows. Only two weeks left before the shows, and with work days that leaves very few days to get it all done. I'm still working on ornaments and a few last minute things to add to my display. I do two shows back to back in one weekend, take it from me that's a lot of packing and setting up and repacking and work for two days and on Monday I can't even move...LOL. But I do enjoy the shows and getting to see the other crafter's and my regular customers from year to year.

I'm seeing more decorative painter blogs and that makes me happy I always like to see what others are painting, lots of times I'll see something that someone else has done and it will inspire me go back and look through my patterns and find something similar to paint. Or challenge me to paint on a different surface that I had not thought about.

If you have a decorative painting blog don't be shy bring it to my attention so I can check it out.

I don't always have the time to sit here and search blogs to find them but I really do like seeing what everyone is doing. Also if your doing craft shows leave a comment I'd like to know what everyone is selling and how they set up their displays. Good luck to those doing the shows I hope you sell out everything.

2009-10-12T09:13:00.004-04:00

Yes It's hard to believe it's October already and it will soon be time for the spooky ghouls of Halloween to be out and about. We painted this cute spooked cat and pumpkin in class yesterday. Kim Christmas designed it, very cute.
It's starting to feel like fall here I even turned my heat on for the first time today, it's gray and dreary here and a light breeze. The leaves are starting to change colors. Before long they will be floating down to the ground and the trees will go to sleep for the long winter. Halloween is the kick off to all the great holidays that I look forward to.

Also October is the month I was born so I have a birthday coming up, not something that I look forward to but it's coming no matter what....LOL

Now that the weather is getting colder and it gets dark so early in the evenings I hope you'll have time to find a great pattern and sit with you paints and brushes and enjoy some painting time. Hey, instead of carving a pumpkin why not paint one to display on your front steps. Not only pumpkins but you can paint gourds to, just use your imagination. All the little goblins that come to your house this Halloween will be impressed.

Until next time Happy Painting everyone.

Lighthouse

2009-08-10T09:06:00.003-04:00

It's been a while since I've been here, I hope your having a great summer. It's really going to be hot on the east coast so I look at it as a good time to stay inside and paint.

I'm starting to get back to painting, gotta really stop playing around and start getting ready for the fall craft show season. Classes are doing well this is the lighthouse piece the students started yesterday. The designer is Linda Lover and you can find this pattern as a free download at Artist Club. Now who doesn't like free, go check it out.

Crank up the AC, get a cold drink and spend some time with those brushes.

Happy painting.

Sad Day in the Music World

2009-06-25T23:42:00.002-04:00

The world lost a one of a kind performer Michael Jackson passed away today.

Growing up in the seventies I grew up with the whole Motown sound. The Jacksons where a big part of the music that I listened to every day. I bought Michael's music each time an album was released and still have it today. His music and videos will live on forever.

Rest in Peace Michael.

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-25T10:42:00.006-04:00

I'm guilty of neglect, yep that's right I've neglected my blog. Shame on me. But in my own defence I've been busy doing all the spring things that everyone does each year. Spring cleaning and getting the yard in shape here are some of the pretty flowers from my yard this season.

So painting has been on the back burner for a while. Once everything around the house is done I'll be back in my studio painting away getting ready for the shows again this year. In the mean time I keep notes of the things that I plan to paint and always stay alert looking for new things to paint or paint on.

If you have any suggestions feel free to leave a comment here for me. And it would be nice to hear what everyone is painting or plans to paint this summer.

I hope you have your flag out front and center today. In remembrance of all the men and women that have given their lives for the freedom of our country.

God Bless This Country Land of the Free Because of the Brave.

Spring Time Bunnies

2009-04-07T10:01:00.005-04:00

Once in a while I do a trash to treasure project and this is one of them. Old blown light bulbs some felt for ears and some hats make the cutest Easter bunnies. If you have a spring time tree these would be so cute hanging from a tree.

To make these you'll need your acrylic paints and a sponge brush. Make sure the bulb is clean I use alcohol and wipe them till dry. Then you use your sponge brush to pounce the paint onto the bulb this way you won't have a streaky base coat. I do 2 to 3 coats drying between coats until they are well covered. Then you paint on the bunnies muzzle and eyes. Cut some oval shapes for the ears and hot glue them to the metal part of the bulb. Then make a hanger for your hat I used ribbon. Now you can decorate your hats with all kinds of little things like the tiny eggs I used or bows, flowers I bet you can come up with all kinds of ideas. These make cute hostess gifts. Just remember they are glass and not for the little ones to play with.
Now are you going to make some light bulb bunnies? If you do send me a picture and I'll post them here through Easter. Email your bunnies to thefurbandi@msn.com And we'll show them off.

Happy Spring

2009-03-26T14:03:00.004-04:00

Well the calendar says it's spring but it still feels pretty darn cold to me. But surely it will be warming up soon. I've been very neglectful of my blog lately I've been sick for what seems like forever. But I'm feeling so much better now and raring to go.
I haven't done a lot of painting so this piece was from a while back the Iris is one of my favorite spring flowers. I did this for my front porch. I used Delta Crackle Medium on the background of this piece. Some people have a hard time using crackle medium but once you get the hang of it it's worth taking the time to learn how to use it.
First you base coat your background color on, once dry you you apply the coat of crackle medium. The directions say you can start when the crackle is still tacky to the touch. I like to let mine dry for a few hours or even over night. Now the fun part. For the top coat on this piece I used Light Ivory, pour the paint out on a pallet if your doing a large piece you'll need a lot of paint. With a large base coat brush fill that brush full of paint now start base coating as quickly as possible the paint your putting on will start to crackle right away. You don't want to work the paint on the surface to much because the it will mess up the crackle. Play around with this medium you'll like the look of it.

There are so many beautiful patterns for spring flowers make sure you check out the painting magazines they always have such cute things for Easter that you can paint to decorate your home with. http://paintingmagazine.net/

While I took a break from painting I was invited to the world of Face Book, so now I have a Face Book page. And for even more fun I just had to check out Twitter. LOVE IT!!!
Yes I'm a Tweep ( LOL... I think that's the right lingo ) I tweet on Twitter.
OMG Do you know how many interesting people there are that you can follow around the world, what really cracks me up is there are people following me.
So come Tweet with me look for furbycat , yeah that's me...lol.

Happy painting till next time.

Hen & Baby Chicks

2009-03-02T20:38:00.004-05:00

I finally got my little hen and chicks done to go with my rooster. This is another pattern from Trish McMurry. I really like the little baby chicks. The one standing alone looks as if he's saying to the others " Aren't you going to come out and play" lol.

I live in a area that almost never gets a lot of snow usually only two to five inches for the whole winter. Well it started snowing yesterday afternoon and it didn't know when to quit. By 11pm last night is was snowing really hard then the winds started to howl at 50 + MPH. It sounded like a train coming through. Trees went down across power lines I'm lucky my power was only out for a few hours but there are others that still don't have their power back on yet.

When it was all said and done we got 12 inches of snow. I'm not a snow lover at all so it can't warm up and melt this mess soon enough for me. I just kept telling myself spring is coming.

For those to the north that might be getting that storm tonight stay in, stay warm and stay safe.

2009-02-23T07:32:00.005-05:00

Good Morning I hope you had a good weekend. I haven't been painting in the past week because I have a nasty cold. Another reason I don't like winter...lol. Just 25 days till SPRING I've been counting down forever, looking forward to some green leaves on the trees again.

Yesterday I joined Facebook come on over and join me, also I'm now a Twitter so you might as well come tweet with me to.

If your painting today I hope all your base coats are smooth and all your brushes side load perfectly every time. Keep those brushes wiggling, until next time have a good day.

My inquiring mind wants to know.

2009-02-10T11:47:00.003-05:00

I'm a curious person, I want to know something about all the people that show up at my blog.
I'd like to know what's your interest in painting, you know all these things about me by just reading my blog. Yes I'm being nosey...lol . Now it's time to get to know you.

Are you a beginning painter or have you been painting for years?
Are you self taught?
Do you go to classes?
Do you get together with friends and paint?
What's your favorite thing to paint?

Alright now Don't be Shy, no body bites around here.... lol. It's your turn to share.

2009-02-02T20:29:00.003-05:00

When I first saw the piece in "Painting" magazine I just had to paint it. I much rather have pie over cake any time so this cherry pie was fun to do. This piece was designed by Lynne Deptula. Her piece in the magazine was painted on a table runner made of canvas. But since I have a round table that didn't appeal to me. So I just cut a piece of wood to paint on and now this can be hung in the kitchen. That's one of the really cool things about painting you can always take a pattern and change the surface to get just the right thing to fit your decor.
Her saying that goes around the border says,,, Take a heaping cup of patience, a heart that's always true... add a dash of laughter, just a drop of tears well do. Sprinkle well with kindness, faith, and joy and serve to those who are dear to you.

Once I finished this one I painted a smaller piece with just a pie and the stack of bowls.
I thought if would look cute with other items as a wall grouping. This piece has inspired me to paint more piece's for the kitchen.

2009-01-20T08:42:00.002-05:00

Just wondering now that the holidays are over are you painting?
What are you painting? Me ??? Well I've done one little piece.
This is the time of year I like to go through and organize my
painting books and patterns. Straighten up my surfaces and put
away all the extra ornaments that I bought after Christmas when
you can get them at 50% to 80% off. I have to keep things in order
and everything in it's place because it's a tiny little room that I paint
in. Trust me there's hardly room in there to change your mind, but it
is nice to have a place with everything in it ( even though it is tiny )
so that's it's not all over the house. Being organized makes life easier
I really don't like having to spend time hunting for something.
That's no fun and it takes time away from painting and it's
stressful. Painting is supposed to be relaxing and good therapy not
something that makes you wanna pull your hair out...lol.

Oh the little Hen is a design by Roxanne Puchalski.

The Peace Of Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T07:55:00.003-05:00

It's here, finally it's Christmas. Remember when you were a little kid you didn't think Christmas would ever come.
There was so much to do leading up to the big day then all of a sudden it's Christmas Eve. All the shopping is done and the gifts are wrapped. Cards have been sent and received. There will be those waiting at home for family and friends traveling for miles to get there. Little kids are getting so excited because they know Santa will make his rounds tonight. The tree is up and the lights make a soft peaceful glow that makes everything look so pretty. It's Christmas eve and something happens as the day wears on, things seemed to slow down. Take some time this evening to appreciate the quite peaceful time of Christmas and remember the reason for the Season.

(2:8-14) "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

I wish you all the peace of the season now and all through the coming year. Merry Christmas Everyone.

The 1st Day Of Winter

2008-12-21T11:43:00.006-05:00

Yes it's the first day of winter but I think Mother Nature got a head start on snow this time. This morning everything was covered in ice thankfully a lot of it has melted. I hope you have gotten most of your Holiday shopping done so you can stay in and snuggle down.

Tis' The Season

2008-12-11T17:28:00.003-05:00

Tis The Season.
Yes it will soon be Christmas. I have always loved Christmas. When I was a little kid Christmas was like magic. The beautiful lights that all of a sudden just appeared out of no where and my mom would make the most amazing things just for the holiday. My dad would go out in the woods and come back a few hours later with a big tree. He would go up in the attic and bring down the lights and ornaments we would decorate the tree and the whole house. And nothing smelled as good as that tree.
I'm so blessed to have such great memories. So think about it for just a minute ,,,, what is your favorite memory of Christmas?

As your going through daily routine this Christmas season. Take the time to make a special memory that will stay with someone through their life time. When it's all said and done it's not the expensive gifts or how perfectly clean your house was that will stay in some one's heart. The things that people will remember will be the warm invitation to your home. A special card that lets someone know your thinking of them from across the miles or just down the street. Or pick up the phone and give someone a call just to say hi.

Just try not to get so busy that you forget the reason for the season. Make some time to be kind to someone.

Now get busy that tree is needs to be decorated, there are cookies waiting to be baked and the cards still have to be signed and mailed out.

This and That

2008-11-24T17:47:00.000-05:00

I've added a link to my sidebar for everyone to use to send a card to our Troops. Now that Thanksgiving is just a few days away please take a minute to let the Troops know your thinking about them and say Thank You. Really it only takes a minute I promise.

Now my shows were this past weekend, I think I've been talking getting ready for the shows since June. I would like to say Thank You to all the shoppers that came out in the cold to shop and spend their hard earned money with all of the crafter's.
All crafter's have been so concerned with the economy like it is right now and wondering would the people come out to shop for the Christmas season. Well the numbers were down a little bit this year and thats understandable.
I enjoy the shows, yes it's a lot of work but well worth it. You meet so many nice people and you get to see your regular customers from year to year. They are the best.
If your wondering what sold well for me this year, What else, ORNAMENTS!!!
Everyone loves the ornaments.

Now it's time to get ready for the big weekend. I know everyone is sorting through those old recipes handed down through the family over the years. There's probably a lot of cleaning and making everything nice for the family and friends coming in from out of town.
But don't forget to take some time for yourself. Don't run yourself ragged to the point of getting sick. That's no fun, trust me I know from years of experience. Your family is not coming to visit your house they are coming to spend time with you.
You know there is nothing better then everyone sitting around the table telling stories from the past that makes you laugh till your in tears, and just catching up with whats going on in one another's lives.

And if your a painter like me find yourself a pretty Christmas pattern and a turn on the Christmas music and enjoy a warm evening at home painting to your hearts content.
Home is where your heart is.

New Etsy Shop

2008-11-08T21:31:00.009-05:00

It's been a while since I've been here, I've been getting ready for my shows and yes I am now the proud owner of a new Etsy Shop. It's brand new just listed my first items last night. If you have a minute go check it out http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6424813

Right now I only have some ornaments listed but once my shows are over I'll be adding more items. The Santa Bells and a few of the Snowball face ornaments that you see in my slide show are listed there. This is a new learning experience for me I've never had an online shop so there are still some kinks to work out and some tweaking to be done. But I'll learn as I go. They have a very nice site and the Etsy people try to provide you with a lot of information to help you get set up.

Country Church

2008-10-21T09:19:00.002-04:00

This picture reminds me of the pretty glittery Christmas cards and the song Silent Night, it just looks so peaceful.

This is another of Betty Caithness's patterns done on a old silver plated tray. If you've never painted any of her patterns this would be a good one to start with. Most of her works have a lot of detail that can get over whelming for someone just starting out. This one took me a day to do between loads of laundry and a few other things I did around the house yesterday.

Ho, Ho, Ho Time for Santa

2008-10-14T11:26:00.002-04:00

Trash To Treasure

2008-10-12T20:18:00.002-04:00

This proves you can paint on anything. This piece is an old silver plated tray. I really like the look of the pretty edge around the tray. It looks like you have a framed piece. It's almost impossible to find trays with a smooth surface to paint on so I had to come up with a way to go around that. This tray had a pretty flower and leaf design in the bottom and I knew I had to fill that in so I would be able to dry brush my highlights on. So I put several coats of sealer. Still you could feel the etched design in the bottom. Then one day while out in my work room I saw a can of wall Spackle. I thought what the heck give it a try. So I put a thin coat over the bottom of the tray, let it dry and did a light sanding.
Then a few more coats of sealer and a few coats of base coat and it was as smooth as a babies behind...LOL,,,ready for painting.
I have gotten my hands on a few more trays so I plan to get a few more of these done with different designs. I've seen other trays and even bowls done, they work up really pretty. So the next time your cleaning out the basement or the hall closet take a second look at what your about to throw out. Because with a little time and your paints you can have a heirloom piece that will be enjoyed for many years to come.

Christmas Stars

2008-10-02T10:33:00.003-04:00

Yikes it's October and I'm painting Ornaments like crazy right now.

I gotta share these stars with you.

This pattern you will find in the Winter 2009 of Quick & Easy Painting magazine.

I just thought they were so cute. You can buy the rusty tin stars from Cabin Crafters.

They work up really cute.

I'll be back with more ornaments later.

Cheaper Then a Therapist!

2008-09-27T19:01:00.004-04:00

That's the joke around here, each week when the gals show up for class. It's not just coming to paint but it's their therapy. When I think of all the stories that have been shared around the table while everyone paints. There have been some crazy stories and jokes that have made us laugh till we cried. And then there have been heart breaking experiences that we've all shared. So I guess it is kinda like therapy. But what better way to spend an evening then with friends and a cute design and your paints. With all the bad news and stresses of the world we live in I find that's my way of getting away from it all without leaving home. When things are weighing heavy on your mind try getting out your paints, brushes and a design that maybe a friend would like and painting something for someone else. It's a good way to relieve the stress of the day and clear your head, it just good for the soul. With the economy like it is right now painting is still one of the crafts that's affordable. You need to invest in three or four good brushes that you can use coupons to get an even better price on. And the paints are are still a good deal even though the prices have gone up some. Those little bottles of paint last forever less you painting something huge. Right now you can find lots of pre-cut ornaments to paint on. Look around for some painting magazines like Quick & Easy Painting or Painting, or Paint Works you can order then online and you'll find all kinds of patterns for some really cool things to paint for the holidays. So my challenge for you is to get a surface to paint on and spend some time relaxing and clearing your mind and see what you come up with. It's a nice way to spend an afternoon and you might even end up with some cute gifts for family and friends.

A Sign of the Times

2008-09-20T21:35:00.004-04:00

I've been doing these signs for house warming gifts for friends and for a Realtor, she has me paint one for home buyers as a thank you gift. Everyone seems to really like them.

So I thought I would post one here and if anyone is interested you can contact me for more info.

thefurbandi@msn.com

They are painted with a good exterior paint and then several coats of varnish on top of the design. Some folks like their names on them and others prefer just to have their house number and a design.

Summer Harvest

2008-09-18T09:26:00.004-04:00

I've been working on this piece for some time now, didn't think I'd ever finish all those leaves...LOL. I thought this would look nice in a big country kitchen or in a dinning room. This pattern is by Veda Parsley I just love all the colors. In the book it was painted on a large tray, well I didn't have a tray that big so I just cut a piece of wood 14 x 24 that it would fit on. I did lots of dry brushing on this one, still haven't done the crackle effect on it yet. I think that will add some character to it.

Snowman Ornaments

2008-09-17T08:34:00.004-04:00

It's getting to be that time of the year when you can feel summer slipping slipping away. The nights are getting a little cooler and the days are getting shorter. The air has a different smell and feel. So it's time for me to settle in and paint a lot more then usual to be ready for my shows in a few months. Ornaments still get the most attention at the shows for me and the Snowman faces are popular. Here's a few that I've done in past years. To do these I've used the large clear glass ornaments.

Frosted them like I would to paint anything else ( see Tricks of the Trade for Glass Prep ) and then the messy part. I pounce on two or three coats of white paint the last coat I pounce on I add a touch of blue to make him look cold. Then he's ready to add your features.

If anyone is interested in placing an order for ornaments or any of the pieces shown here you can contact me at thefurbandi@msn.com for prices and other info.

I'll except money orders or checks once they have cleared I'll ship to anywhere in the US.

My Latest Project

2008-08-28T16:27:00.002-04:00

I've been bad, it's been a while since I've been here to update and add anything. But today I'm here to knock down the cobwebs...LOL and add something new.

I just finished this piece. It's a Karen Rideout design. She has some really nice pieces that show the old stoneware jars that I remember from back when I was a kid. My Mom and Grannie Kate had these stone crocks in their kitchens.

The goose and the apples are carved from wood. I'm thinking if I do this piece again I might use a crackle effect on the goose. I put cherries in the stone jar instead of apples.

Joyce's Tole Painting

2008-08-11T21:00:00.001-04:00

Lots of Little Detail Work

2008-08-07T08:43:00.003-04:00

I have been working on this piece for what seems like forever. And I'm pleased with the way it turned out. It's a 50th Anniversary gift for a couple in New Hampshire. Wow, married for fifty years, that's as long as I've been alive.
Any back to the piece, this is a Betty Caithness design. She has some of the most beautiful scenery patterns out there. Lots of little details that will keep you looking at her work for hours just to make sure you didn't miss anything. When you have time you really should check out her work.

This Rooster Rules the Roost

2008-08-05T10:29:00.004-04:00

I finished this piece last night. I like this Rooster he was designed by Trish McMurry. She has several beautiful pieces with Hens and Roosters. This is a good piece to practice with your script liner brush on. Also all those tail feathers are great to practice floating color. That seems to be the one thing everyone struggles with. So if your having a hard time with side loading your brush to get those nice shades and highlights don't worry it's NOT just you. Everyone has to work at it to find just the right brush and right amount of water or floating medium to leave in their brush. The best advise I can give is if you have some time during your day take 30 minutes to practice, that's the best way you'll ever figure it out. Once you do get the hang of it, you'll be able to do it with out even thinking about.
So Practice, practice, practice and when you think you got it, go practice SOME MORE...LOL.
That's how we all learn. Believe me when I say I didn't just wake up one morning and think I'll go paint something and float in my shades and highlights. I worked at it every day to learn.

I truly believe every piece you do is a learning experience the ones that come out nice, that you can show your family & friends are a plus. But even the ones that get hidden way way back on that back shelf in your craft closet have been a learning experience to. We learn from our mistakes, I have a few of those stored away for a good laugh every once in a while. Some of them were just sad and were filed away in the trash.

Now if painting really is your passion then you won't mind putting in the time to practice. Don't take it so seriously play with it and have a good time. When a friend calls and ask what I'm doing I tell them I'm playing. That's how little kids learn to do things they play. So pick up your brushes and find a pattern that you like and PLAY it's good for the soul.

Summer Time

2008-07-28T17:08:00.003-04:00

And the living's easy,,, at least that's how the song goes.

I should be settling to paint but find it hard to go in my work room and turn off the thoughts of being outside enjoying the warm beautiful weather.
I know full well there are things in that room that have to be done by a certain date. And what am I doing,,, everything but what I'm supposed to be doing...LOL

When I think of it I do my best painting when I'm under the gun. You know the time when you put your mind to the job and get started begrudgingly and the next thing you know you've lost all track of time and one thing leads you down the path to another and before you know it the piece is done.

Now I don't know if anyone else's has this problem but I have a terrible time deciding what design to paint. Especially if it's for someone or even a class, I don't know why that is but it keeps me awake some nights, yeah weird I know.

But when I figure out what I'm going to paint doing it is a breeze, it's like second nature and it's as easy as breathing. I am one of those that only wants to paint what I want to paint not what someone or something dictates. So what's the reason for telling you all this you ask. Because I thought I was the only one that felt this way,,,, wrong there are many painters who have the same feelings. So if your supposed to be painting for those fall craft shows and your doing everything BUT. Don't beat yourself up over it. Lets face it we go through this all the time and everything gets done. It always does .....Right? ....LOL Well almost always. So kick back mix a cold drink and enjoy the lazy day's of summer. After all this summer will never come again.

Slideshow

2008-07-28T09:44:00.001-04:00

Chillin'

2008-07-21T07:30:00.005-04:00

It's been pretty hot in these parts the last week. So what better time to chill out with this little guy. Snowmen are one of my favorite things to paint and they seem to bring a smile to every one's face. I guess because they look so cute and cuddly...LOL.

This design is from a Sandra Malone book, Season's Best 3. Over the years she has come up with some of the cutest snowmen and gingerbread designs. Sandra makes it easy to give all the millions of Snowman collectors something to Oooooo and Awwww over.
So if you want to chill out for a while crank up the A C and paint a snowman.

Dry Brushing

2008-07-09T22:42:00.002-04:00

When I first learned to dry brush it was on ceramic's. And it worked like a charm on that textured surface so I was kinda surprised that I could dry brush on a flat wooden surface. But it's true it really works and gives you a nice highlight or soft little touches of color where ever you need them.
Once I've base coated the design I usually like to float my shading in first then I start doing the highlights and dry brushing works so well for this. Especially if you dry brush one color over another.

For dry brushing I use old worn out taklon brushes that I've been using for base coating and floating. After a while brushes normally start to wear, the ends start to frizz out a little and they're not so nice to use for base coating but they work great for dry brushing.

To start the bristles are dry do not use water.
Dip the end of the bristles in your paint.
On a paper towel start to scrub the paint out of the bristles, remove as much of the paint as possible. Note this is why you use your old brushes because scrubbing the paint out of a new brush will ruin it quick. I like to wipe the brush across the back of my hand to make sure there are no blobs of paint left in my brush.
Now when you go to your surface to paint the best advise I can give is to use a light touch. I usually use a circular motion for large section or a left to right or back and forth motion when painting small narrow sections. Just like anything else this takes some practice to get used to it but it is well worth the practice to learn to do it right.

Notice the highlight and the green moss on the pot also the magenta color on the petals and down the center on the leaves was all dry brushed.
So don't throw out those worn brushes because they come in real handy.

A sign of Welcome

2008-07-07T08:33:00.004-04:00

This is the next project for the class on July 13th.

I really like this piece, did you know that the Pineapple is the sign of hospitality and friendship?
Yes that's true, here you can read all about it http://www.levins.com/pineapple.html

Anyway I have looked for the longest time for a pattern with a pretty pineapple and I was happy when Patricia Rawlinson offered this pretty pattern on her site.
I used canvas to paint this piece and I like the look, the dry brush technique gives it a look of very fine needle work.
This looks so nice out in the yard or hung by the front door to welcome your friends and family. I'm thinking I might like to do this design on a wooden sign to put out front with my house numbers on it. Well one of these days I'll get to it...LOL

Yesterday's Class

2008-07-07T08:03:00.001-04:00

We had our first class yesterday in our new location and I think this new spot is going to work well for us. I had three new students join in and they seemed to enjoy themselves. That's what it's all about having a good time as you learn.
Everyone did a good job on their project. And as they paint more they will get more comfortable with handling their brushes and they will improve a little more with each class. It's just like anything else your learning to do for the first time rather it's sewing or floral arranging it takes patients and practice to pick up the skill.

I'm looking forward to many more classes and watching everyone learn and have a good time.

Brushes, The Good the Bad & the Ugly

2008-07-03T17:40:00.008-04:00

I think your brushes are your most important tools. A good brush is a real treasure. I know they sell all kinds of brushes at very cheap prices. But in this case the old saying "you pay for what you get ,and you get what you pay for" really comes into play here.
The cheap price is not always a good deal. A cheap brush can cause you nothing but grief and frustration and take all the fun out of your hobby.

Those nice fluffy brushes won't do the trick. Those are called mops and they are intended to do just that, mop.

What your looking for are nice Golden Taklon brushes that look like this. They have a nice springy bristle and they hold up well when your working your brush back and forth to side load your paint. I prefer Loew Cornell 7000 series brushes. They do cost a little more usually in the $5.00 to $6.00 range. So what you have to do is shop smart. Break out those Sunday Papers and use those coupons. Michael's will except AC Moore coupons or vice versa also they except Joann's coupons. And remember you don't need a million brushes. All you'll need are the very basic sizes of a #2 , #4, #6 square shader that you see here with the black handle.

You'll need a 10/0 liner brush LC7050 this is what I like to use for all my small detail work. And that's it, you can paint anything you want with those four brushes.

Now I'm not going to tell you these brushes won't wear out because they do, when they start to look like this...

you'll want to throw them out. STOP don't do that. They still serve a propose, no I'm not kidding. Now they will be used for dry brushing.
Now you need to know how to take care of those brushes so you'll be able to paint lots of different projects without a lot of hassles.
First thing I tell everyone when your painting you'll be tempted to leave a brush sit in the water basin. Or lay a brush down with paint still in the bristles, that's a Big No, No.

That's the two worst things you can do to your brushes. Why? Well if you leave it standing in water that will cause the bristles to bend so instead of nice straight bristles you'll have a nice C shaped bristled brush. Take it from me they don't even go around corners well ...LOL. Also the water will loosen the ferrule of the brush. I know your thinking what's a Ferrule? The ferrule is that shiny metal thingy that holds the bristles onto the wooden handle. So be sure to rinse the paint from your brushes as you use them and never ever ,ever leave them lay in water.
To clean my brushes I rinse them continuously as I'm working so paint doesn't have a chance to build up and dry around the ferrule aka that shinny metal thingy. When paint builds up around the ferrule and hardens it causes the bristles to separate and spread and that's no good.
So before I leave the table I pounce my brushes around in a small glass jar of alcohol that will remove any paint hiding up in there that will cause trouble later. Then I either leave the brushes laying flat on the table or stand them handle end down in a jar. And that's about it. Everyone has their own way of taking care of their brushes that works for them, with all the fancy cream cleaners and soaps. This just seems to work well for me and at a low cost. Besides the money you spend on those fancy soaps and cleaners you could use for more paint or brushes. Happy Painting.

Some Tricks of the Trade

2008-07-03T08:42:00.001-04:00

Surface Preparation
Most of the time I paint on wood ,tin or glass surfaces. To have the best look to your finished piece it's best to prep these items before you start to paint your design. For wood I always check for holes, cracks, scratches or gouges. If you find any and usually you do just use a good wood filler. Let dry, once it's dry it's time to sand. Always sand with the grain of the wood.
Caution if your using an electric sander, please use safety equipment.
Wipe with a tack cloth or I'll use a paper towel that I spray with Alcohol. Just do a light wipe to remove the dust from sanding. I like to seal wood with a water based wood sealer. Wood is a porous material so without sealing the wood the grain raises giving you a rough surface. After using a sealer it's time to sand again. I use a very light weigh sand paper or some times the unprinted side of a paper bag will do the trick.
Now I do buy prepped wooden pieces from craft stores you know the nice ones that are wrapped in cellophane, most times I don't have to do anything but unwrap those pieces seal then and start to paint. You pay a little more for them but they are worth it.
To paint a Tin surface again you have to make sure it's nice and clean.
If there are rust spots on a older piece used a metal brush or a light weight sandpaper to remove the rust. Now go wash it with soap and water. Then you can use white vinegar or most times I use alcohol to wipe over the piece to remove any soap residue. Now make sure the piece is good and dry. If this is a new piece of metal I just spray it with alcohol and it wipe dry. I use a water based metal primer, one or two good coats, nice and smooth. Once this is dry your ready to paint.
Now for Glass Prep. Most of the time I buy clear glass items. To use my regular acrylic paints on these pieces I begin with a quick clean again with the alcohol. This will remove any dust or oils from our hands so the frost will stick to the glass evenly. Once it's clean and dry it's time to spray on a glass frost that you can find at most hardware and craft stores. It's important not to get to heavy handed with this spray you'll end up with nasty spots or discolorations that you won't like. Now that the frost is dry you have to spray again with one light coat of matt sealer. If you skip this step you'll be sorry. Been there done that...LOL. Leave to dry for an hour or so and now your ready to paint.
These are just basic steps that will give you a good start to a very nice finished piece.

New Tole Painting Classes

2008-07-01T20:16:00.006-04:00

It's July 1st. and that means my Tole Painting Classes will start back again.

I used to teach Tole painting at Michael's but the powers that be there decided to cancel all craft and art classes. Oh well everything changes, nothing stays the same.

I thought this little guy would be an easy design to start with. This is a Renee' Mullins pattern and he's fun to do. You'll learn to base coat the design in and how to side load your shades and highlights. Also we'll get a little practice with a liner brush and I'll show you how to dry brush. This piece just looks like summer to me. As the seasons change the designs that we'll paint will change with the season. I know, I know some think that's impossible but we've been doing it for some time now and my students are learning as they go. With each piece I see their improvement.

Have a safe and Happy July Forth.

Christmas Ornaments

2008-06-17T21:20:00.000-04:00

Now I know it's only June but for those of us that do craft shows that means the show season is only five months away. Yikes ONLY FIVE MONTHS, that's scary.

Anyway it's time to stock pile all the different designs that I plan to have for the season.

This is a new one for me it's an Ann Lalonde design.

I started out frosting the ornament with a spray on glass frost that you buy at the hardware store. Then paint a circle with a light blue acrylic paint. Then I transfered the pattern on with Graphic paper. Now they are ready for the pen and ink to draw the details of the design.

Once that's done I sprayed with a matt finish. Okay now the fun part.

The colors are done with oil paints and a transparent gel. I haven't worked with oils for more then thirty years, but as I worked on this I remembered a little of what I learned way back when...LOL

There are so many more colors available now it the stores and different mediums that I have never used but I'm going to play around with some of these things just to see what I can come up with.

I added a little glitter and used acrylics to add a little border around the design.

Joyces tole painting

2008-06-12T15:42:00.001-04:00

2008-06-12T15:38:00.001-04:00

One day I was in a craft store looking at some books and something caught my eye. I picked up one of Laurie Speltz's books to look through it, I saw a project that I liked. I bought the supplies that were listed for that project and the rest as they say is history. I was hooked, I've never taken a class everything I've learned has come from books. Books are written by such a wide variety of wonderful artist that cover everything you could possibly want to know. So if you have ever thought you might like to paint and there are no classes available in your area head to the nearest craft store and check out their books.

Painting is good for the soul.