Showing posts with label creativity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label creativity. Show all posts

Thursday 22 February 2024

Material Musings - Stay Inspired with Slow Stitching and Fabric Art

 



Welcome to this weeks Material Musings, I'll be sharing some of my projects that feature stitched faces, These pieces reminder us of the possibilities that slow stitching and fabric art offer.

As you check out the video, also take a look at 4 ways that you can paint and stitch on fabric and tell your story:

1. Embrace the Storytelling Aspect

Each face stitched onto fabric tells a unique story, capturing moments, emotions, and memories. Slow stitching and creativity allows you to express those things that words might not be able to express. Using needle and thread enables you to weave tales of love, loss, joy, and resilience. As you bring your stories to life through fabric art. let the storytelling aspect of slow stitching fuel your creativity and expression.



2. Experiment with Texture and Depth

Explore possibilities of texture and depth with wax resist hand-dyed fabric, you can get some amazing effects. This technique adds a layer interest to your fabric art. Play with different colors, patterns, and resist techniques to achieve unique effects. Experimenting with texture and depth opens up a world of creative possibilities that will keep you inspired and engaged.


3. Add Beading

The addition of beads not only adds visual interest but also infuses your creations with additional pops of color. Experiment with bead placement, size, and color to enhance the beauty of your stitched pieces and bring them to life.



4. Therapeutic effects

There is also the therapeutic effects of slow stitching and creating on fabric to consider. The repetitive motion of stitches brings about a calmness that you can dip into whenever the mood takes you.


As you step into your own fabric art journey, remember to embrace the storytelling aspect and experiment with texture and depth. Let your creativity flow freely as you explore the endless possibilities of slow stitching and fabric art and watch as your imagination takes flight. So, grab your needles, threads, and fabrics, and let's dive into a world of creativity, inspiration, and endless possibilities together.



You can check out my Fabric Fragments kit which includes a selection of fabric both hand painted, dyed and pre printed. It has also included one of my painted and stitched pieces and videos on working with your fabric. Patrons get a discount on all courses and digital products on my course platform. 

I would love to see what you create, let me know what you are working on.
Blessings!

Before You Go...

Join Patreon for FREE




Thursday 15 February 2024

Arts and Wellness Cafe - Stress Free


Welcome to the Arts and Wellness Cafe: Your Destination for Stress-Free Living

It's that time of the week again where we gather in our virtual studio for another session of the Arts and Wellness Cafe. Today, we're diving into the theme of a "Stress Free," creative environment and life.

We can feel 
frazzled and overwhelmed at the curveballs that can be thrown at us when we least expect them, and we look at different ways we can change our point of view and look at some creative practices that will help you navigate those moments with a bit of ease.  Check out the video above where I will discuss this and share some inspiring activities that you can try out.

I also have 3 additional tips for you to think about:

Tip 1: Art Journaling Joy

Art journaling is a great activity for you to try if you haven't done so yet.  Grab your favorite pens, paints, and take a therapeutic journey of self-expression. Whether you're sketching, doodling, or splashing colors onto the page, let your creativity flow freely as you release your emotions in the journal. You will find an art journal page that I have ready to add doodling and mark making.  Have some pages prepared that you can go back to when you need something quick to get on with.



In my course Filling The Creative Well, we look at ways in which we can develop our creative practice and maintain ways in which we can dip into our creative well and do activities that inspire and encourage us.

More Info HERE

Tip 2: Stitching - Material Musings

I have a number of slow-stitched projects on the go.  I am able to start working on ones depending on how I am feeling,  it is a great mindfulness practice for the busy soul. With each stitch, you are able to let your mind quieten and your worries melt away. I have prepared a Fabric Fragments bag with a selection of hand painted and preprinted fabrics with a series of videos for inspiration.  You also get a mixed media stitched piece as well.  You can check them out HERE or click on the image.


Contents of the kit will vary

Tip 3: Feed Your Soul with Inspiration around you

Find inspiration in the smallest of things.  I share a book called 'Treasured Notions'  which has some really inspiring projects in it.  You can have fun with fabric and paper scraps and use the creative ideas in the books that you have on your shelves.  I made these mini medals with some of my scrap fabric and some cardboard spools for my fabric ribbon and homemade washi tape. 



Learn to make your own stamps and stencils in my FREE course - Creative Habits




I hope you get to watch the video and think about how you can make your creative process stress free, what things do you need to change in your environment or your practice.


Until next time, stay creative, stay mindful, and above all, stay stress-free.

Before You Go

Come and check out over 400 inspiring posts, videos, digital downloads for your creative enjoyment!  Enjoy the 7 day FREE trial.



Saturday 27 January 2024

Material Musings: Weaving Big and Dyeing with Wax Resist

 


Welcome to Material Musings! This week, we're diving into two exciting textile adventures: a larger weaving project and wax resist dyeing with tea and clay.

Weaving in a Bigger Way

I originally created a series of smaller looms and wanted to increase the size so created a larger one from the wood from a canvas frame.  When weaving on a larger scale you can explore the possibilities that come with using a wider loom and thicker yarns. I have used the yarn I currently have and found ways to increase the size which you will see.  I hope you are inspired to try some of the techniques for yourself.


Wax Resist

I have been experimenting with wax resist techniques for a while now and I will show you an easy way to apply it to your fabric in various patterns and creates a barrier that prevents dye from reaching certain areas. You can create stunning designs, and unexpected color combinations.


Wax resist and clay dyed

We'll be using natural and readily available materials like tea and clay as our dyes! This allows you to experiment with unique color palettes and textures. from the earthy browns from the tea and clay, and shades of pink from avocado pits – the options and combinations are endless!

Join the Fun!

Come join me in this Material Musings adventure!  Be inspired, learn new skills, and create something truly unique and beautiful.

So, grab your favorite cup of tea (or maybe some clay!), and get ready to join me in Material Musings! I can't wait to share this journey with you, and don't forget to share your own textile creations with me on social media . I'd love to see what you come up with!



Saturday 20 January 2024

8 Ways to Recharge your Creativity

How have you been feeling creatively?  We can sometimes feel creatively parched and need a spark to help us 'refill the wells'.  Are you looking for ways to jumpstart your creativity and hit the ground running with new and innovative ideas? Here are some 8 tips to help you get started:


1. Set your sights. Whether it's a new creative idea, a writing challenge, or simply picking up a new skill, having a goal guides your creative compass. Try something new. There are usually quite a few online challenges for you to sink your teeth into, I will also be sharing a Free 12 week course called 'Kickstart Your Creativity Series' in a couple of weeks so sign up to my course platform to be notified. Sign up HERE

2. Make time for daydreaming. Schedule dedicated brain-sparking sessions. Brainstorm in the morning light, doodle during your lunch break, or let your mind wander after dark. In my latest Arts and Wellness Cafe I look at one of the Words for the Month - Stillness In our stillness we can find treasures.

3. Shake things up. Ditch the familiar. Try a new art form, write with a different voice, or explore a tool you've never touched. New experiences unlock hidden creative talents.


4. Find your inspiration tribe. Soak up the creative energy of others. Follow inspiring artists, attend workshops, or join a local group of fellow dreamers. Join us in the Creative Community on the course platform - Check it out HERE

5. Disconnect to reconnect. Sometimes, the best ideas bloom in the quiet. Take a digital detox, go for a nature walk, or lose yourself in a good book. Unplug and let your mind wander. Read that book that you have been promising yourself.


6. Tame the mental chatter. Mindfulness practices like meditation can help you focus and quiet your inner critic. A calm mind is a fertile ground for creativity. Take out your needles and thread and do some slow stitching - You can pick up some inspiration in Material Musings

7. Embrace the unknown. Step outside your comfort zone. Learn a new dance, travel to a new place, or take a class in something totally unfamiliar. New experiences jumpstart innovation.

8. Just start. Perfectionism is the creativity killer. Don't overthink it, just dive in. Pick up a pen, play with some paint supplies, doodle, create with recycled materials, do some slow stitching. The act of creation itself is the magic spark that ignites imagination.

Remember, creativity is a journey, not a destination. Keep experimenting, keep exploring, and keep feeding your curiosity. The well of wonder is always waiting to be refilled, and the greatest creations start with a single step. Now go forth and create!

Check out my course Filling the Creative Well for more creative inspiration









Saturday 16 December 2023

Join us for the Artsy Meetup Marathon - See in 2024 with Us




Introducing the Artsy Meetup Marathon
December 31, 2023 - January 1, 2024


Artsy Meetup Marathon

When I think about what I want to spend time doing next year, creativity is at the top of the list. And that’s why I said YES to Kiala Givehand when she invited me to teach in the 3rd Annual New Year’s Eve Artsy Marathon.

We are going to bring in the New Year being creative with amazing people surrounded by our art supplies. 

We would love you to join us?

This year's Artsy Meetup Marathon is:

  • 24 Hours of Creative Lessons from a variety of guest teachers (names below).  You don't need to be there all 24 hours, the recordings will be available a few days after the event.
  • The Scedule will be live on the website
  • an opportunity to learn, play, and explore with other creative souls.
  • a list of techniques, tips, and tutorials for your visual journaling and documented days. 
  • There will be several GIVEAWAYS throughout the night
  • a powerfully creative way to bring in 2024 with intention.

The Teachers

Kiala Givehand - mixed media bookbinder, storyteller, printmaker, & wisdom keeper -- @kialagives
Tiffany Goff-Smith - mixed media artist -- @SouthernGals_Designs
Kristen Radden - creative divination junkie -- @otm_academy
Rachel Torda - artist, writer, seeker, & watercolor mermaid -- @thedreaminglotus
Meghann Early - intuitive art journaler & junk journler -- @meghandthemoon
Amanda Trought - mixed media artist & blogger -- @realityarts
Shemi Dixon - mixed media artist & youtuber -- @shemidixon
Leaca Young - artist & reiki practicioner -- @leacayoungart
Tina Riley - art & heART journaler -- @tinarileyimaginariums
Kristi Nazzaro - mixed media artist -- @soul_positive
Suzanne Earley - mixed media artist, quilter, and founder of strawberry moon magazine -- @suzanne_earley
Liz Constable - book artist, teacher, & author -- @bookartstudios
Dee Dee Catron - mixed media artist & mark maker -- @deedeecatron
Aly Million - mixed media artist and journaler -- @alycadabra
Brooke Henry - maker, teacher, art journaler -- @bbhenry_art
​Susanne Randers - paper lover, eco dyer, and bookbinder -- @mitkrearum
Vanessa Oliver-Lloyd - art witch & collage fanatic -- @dansmoncrane
Misty Granade - abstract mixed media artist -- @misty.granade
Cindy Gilstrap - mixed media & journaling artist -- @junqueart
Kristin Peterson - mixed media & collage artist -- @alteredstatesstudio
Joyce Van Der Lely - artist & empowerment guide -- @joycevanderlely
We are going to have so much fun at the Artsy Meetup Marathon, and you will have so many hints and creative tips to see you into the New Year.  JOIN THE PARTY!

****************************************

Before You Go

Check out Filling the Creative Well Mixed Media Course - LEARN MORE



Tuesday 5 December 2023

Creating Fabric Beads: Material Mondays

 

Creating Fabric Beads: A Sustainable and Creative Project

Ever wished you could transform your leftover fabric scraps into something beautiful and useful? Look no further than fabric beads! They are surprisingly easy to make and offer a fantastic way to recycle unwanted materials, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Scraps into Treasure:

This project starts with a simple base, like a recycled plastic tube, or check if you have any plastic drinking straws in one of those draws in the kitchen. They offer a sturdy core for your fabric bead. Wrapping thin strips of fabric around the tube with glue or stitching creates the foundation of your bead.


Working with Embellishments

Here's where you can go to town in your art supplies! Grab those forgotten seed beads, ribbons, and any other embellishments you have lying around. Each bead becomes a canvas, waiting to be shaped with contrasting threads, seed beads, or even bits of wool, the possibilities are endless!

Benefits of Creating your Beads:
  • Creating fabric beads offers more than just artistic satisfaction. It's a fantastic way to:Reduce waste: By repurposing scraps, you give new life to materials that might otherwise end up in landfills.
  • Develop crafting skills: Learn basic sewing and beading techniques, perfect for future projects.
  • Enjoy a mindful activity: The repetitive nature of beading can be quite therapeutic, offering a moment of calm.
  • Create unique pieces: With endless combinations of fabrics and embellishments, every bead is a one-of-a-kind treasure.

Getting Started: Check out the video to see how I created them.  Here are some of the supplies that you will need.
  • Fabric scraps: Any fabric will do, from cotton to silk.
  • Embellishments: Beads, buttons, yarn, ribbons, the possibilities are endless!
  • Needle and thread: For stitching the fabric and securing embellishments.
  • Glue gun (optional): Offers a quicker alternative to stitching for some steps.
  • Recycled base: Plastic tubes, paper or plastic straws

Your finished fabric beads can be used in countless ways stringing them together to create necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.  You can also use them as embellishments and sew them onto clothing, bags, or pillows for a unique and personalized touch.

Creating fabric beads is a fun, sustainable, and rewarding activity, it is a great time to express your creativity, so, gather your materials, unleash your imagination, and let the joy of fabric bead making take over!

Stay blessed and be a blessing.

Before You Go



Saturday 4 November 2023

Only 2 more days to get Art Bundles for Good #8

 


The all new Art Bundles for Good #8 is only here for 2 more days, finishing on Monday 6th November!.

There are over $5400 worth of courses and resources on on topics like watercolour painting, art journaling, sketching, mixed media, drawing, abstract art, acrylic painting, collage, pastel pencils, colored pencils, creativity and much more all bundled together for one low price. There are over 100 products this year!

You’re not going to want to miss this fantastic deal. The sale will end on Monday at midnight, New York Time, so don’t miss out.


If you decide to purchase the course bundle, I thought I would share some tips for getting the most out of it, with so many classes and resources, it can get overwhelming, and you want to make the most out of it.


7 TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF THE COURSE BUNDLE

If you like taking different art courses then you will love this bundle, there are so many great lessons by some of your favorite artists. One thing you do have to remember to do is pace yourself. And this goes for any course that you do. For all of the courses you will have access for about a year, so you could get through all of them if you do approximately 2 courses each week - or sign up and go at your own pace. I would go through as follows:

  1. Think about the skills that you want to learn first and foremost and do those sessions
  2. Identify which ones that jump out at you immediately - could be what you will be creating.
  3. Classes by teachers you have heard
  4. Classes that are then left
  5. Try to sign up at least so that you get your money's worth, then at least after that at least you can then do the class at your own pace after the year sign up access.
  6. If there are any classes that you think ‘no not interested’ at least check it out, you may find that there are techniques that you would be interested in learning.
  7. Make notes of what you learnt, what you liked about the class and transferable skills or techniques you can use again.

25% to Charity

25% of the Art Bundle profits are going to support Courageous Kitchen, a Bangkok-based charity helping refugees. Get over 100 top art learning resources from more than 85 artists AND do some good at the same time. We’ve raised US$ 118,950 for charity so far.






The Art Bundle is backed by a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. Try out the courses for a couple of weeks. If you are not happy, John, from BundlesforGood, will refund your money.



Thursday 26 October 2023

Art Bundle Giveaway Starts today - Win over $5400 of Art Classes

 

Do you want a chance to win the all-new Art Bundles for Good #8? 


Three lucky winners will have a chance to win the entire Art Bundles for Good #8 including $5400 worth of art courses and other great resources. There are over 100 art resources from more than 85 of your favorite artists this year.  I am contributing one of my courses - Mixed Media Art Bundle





It doesn’t cost anything to enter the giveaway, so don’t miss out. and see if you can be one of the ones who win the whole bundle. The Art Bundle Giveaway only lasts for 1 week, starting today! The more you share, the more chances you have to win. 



GO TO THE ART BUNDLE GIVEAWAY



Art Bundle #8 Sale is Coming on November 2nd for 5 Days!

The all new Art Bundles of Good #8 is coming next week. This is the best deal in online art classes you will find. There are more than 85 artists contributing 100+ art courses and resources with a value of over $5400 at a low price, a great time to treat yourself for Christmas!


25% of the profits from the sale are going to Courageous Kitchen, a Bangkok based charity helping refugees. We’ve raised US$118,950 for charity so far.


Visit the website to enter the Art Giveaway. Three lucky people will win the entire bundle of art resources!




Good luck to all that enter for the giveaway!


Check out some courses while you are at it!

Tuesday 26 September 2023

Free Taster Classes on Now!

 


You can find out more information HERE  

Come and join in the fun for Life Book 2024 Taster Sessions, where art meets well-being! Tamara and her team have put together an impressive lineup, taking you on a journey that can positively impact your health and overall sense of well-being.

Over the next two weeks, you will immerse yourselves in the world of art as the Life Book 2024 Teaching Team introduces you to a fantastic range of soul-nurturing experiences. These sessions will ignite your creative spirits.


The Taster Sessions will be available from September 25th, 2023, to October 8th, 2023, You can have continued access to the sessions if you join Life Book 2024, commencing on January 1st, 2024.  Gaining access to over 80 enriching mixed media art sessions, each session is designed to not only awaken your artistic talents but also to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and foster mindfulness.

If you already feel the excitement, you can take the first step by pre-ordering Life Book now or delving deeper into what awaits you here. Prepare to embark on a transformative voyage that will enrich not only your artistic skills but also your life. Welcome to a world where art and well-being converge in a symphony of self-discovery and joy.

**********************************************************************************

Making Zen



The other free course for you to try at the moment is the Making Zen course free to access until 29th September.  You will be shown how to:

Make a time for yourself to create
Overcome procrastination with a variety of creative projects
Learn new techniques and more!



Before you go....


Sign up to my Patreon platform where you will unlock over 400 patron only videos, digital products and more!  You can sign up for 7 day for FREE to get a flavor for what is on offer!

Saturday 1 July 2023

Transforming Tetra Pak Cartons into Art Journals: Embracing Recycling and Creativity

In today's art journal video, I am thrilled to share with you a unique and eco-friendly approach to creating art journals using recycled materials, specifically Tetra Pak cartons. These cartons, commonly used for packaging beverages, pose a recycling challenge in many areas. However, instead of letting them go to waste, we can repurpose them into beautiful and functional art journals that provide endless creative fun.

The Need for Recycling and Repurposing

Recycling has become increasingly important in our efforts to protect the environment and preserve valuable resources. By recycling and repurposing, we can reduce waste, conserve energy, and reduce the harmful effects of pollution. Tetra Pak cartons, due to their complex composition, often present a challenge for local recycling centers, and this led me to explore alternative ways to reuse these cartons and turn them into something meaningful.

Creating Art Journals

Art journals are a great way to express our creativity, capture our thoughts, and document our experiences. They serve as a personal sanctuary for self-expression and reflection. By repurposing Tetra Pak cartons into art journals, we not only divert them from landfills but also breathe new life into these everyday objects.

The Creative Process:

In future videos, I will be sharing the step-by-step process of creating these art journals with my patrons. From preparing the cartons to binding the pages, each stage offers opportunities for customization and personalization. You can choose to leave the carton's original design intact or transform it with paints, collages, or other mixed-media techniques. I have also reused the cartons as temporary plant pots in the garden and there are a range of other creative projects that you can use them for.


I would love to know how you use yours, and whether you have tried using them for a creative project, by transforming Tetra Pak cartons into art journals it provides a unique way to express your creativity while making a positive impact on the environment.

Join us on Patreon if you would like to see how I put the art journal together, and remember you can sign up for a 7 day FREE trial and view over 90 Patron only posts.

Thursday 22 June 2023

Material Mondays - Dragonfly Slow Stitching and Beading Project


I have a stitched project from my last Material Mondays to complete and in the video that I share I show you how I would continue to work on this project.

I share with you how I would continue to work on this project by adding beading to the surface. I love incorporating beads into my stitched projects and I have managed to gather quite a collection over the years. Beading enhances your project and enables you to tell your story, there is also a therapeutic experience that goes hand in hand with slow stitching and quite a satisfying feeling on completion of the project.

Check out the video below to see how I go through the process of selecting the right beads for the project.



Here are some additional ways that incorporating beading to your project will impact in a positive way to your overall health and wellbeing.

Bead Selection

Choosing beads for your slow stitching projects can be a sensory journey in itself, carefully examining their colors, textures, and shapes, allows you to indulge in the pleasure of selection - deciding what looks best for your project. Each bead holds the potential to enhance your project and become a tiny work of art in its own right. As you take your time to select the right beads, you tap into your intuition and creative vision, creating a connection between your stitched design and the chosen embellishments.

A Meditative Process:

Incorporating beads into your slow stitching projects invites you to enter a state of mindfulness. As you thread each bead onto your needle and place it within the fabric, you focus and the repetitive motion of beading becomes a form of meditation.


Visual Delight:

Whatever type of beads you choose, each bead carries its unique color and sparkle. You spend time looking over your selection of beads and additional uses for projects come to mind. 


Completing a Project

Completing a slow stitching project already brings immense satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. When beads are incorporated, this feeling is magnified. The process of threading and securing each bead adds an extra layer of dedication and attention to detail. It serves as a testament to your creativity, patience, and the story that is told through your work.



Personal Style and Storytelling: 

Beaded embellishments offer a unique opportunity to infuse your slow stitching projects with personal style and narrative. With each bead, you have the power to tell a story, evoke emotions, or be reminded of a memory. The selection and placement of beads enable you to create a deeply meaningful connection between your stitched art and your own personal journey.

Incorporating beading into your slow stitching projects comes a transformational experience, intertwining creativity, mindfulness, and personal expression. The therapeutic effects of selecting the right beads, mindfully adding them to your stitches, and seeing the project completed is so satisfying.


So, embrace the magic of beading in your slow stitching journey, and witness how each tiny bead adds a touch of sparkle and soul to your stitched masterpieces.

Before you go...



Sunday 18 June 2023

1000 Dog Portraits - Work Published



In keeping with the post I shared a while back about celebrating your achievements, I thought I would share some of my artwork that got published in a book some time ago, but we can still celebrate!  In fact I have a journal dedicated for things that I have achieved, so that I can look back as a reminder and see how far I have come.  It is important that you write down all your achievements, not matter how small.

The Book that my work was published in was published in 2014 and is called 1000 Dog portraits, curated by Robynne Raye. I created 2 playful paintings which were selected.  It was a reminder to me to 'go for it' and not hold back and allow the critic to voice their untruths.

On the Run - Amanda Trought, 1000 Dog Portraits

My main focus was to have fun and bring out the colors in each of the paintings, and I like the cartoon like feel of my dogs, and they may one day feature in a children's book of their own.

Amanda Trought Art - Dog Portraits




It was great to see the diversity of work from both artists and designers from around the world, and to have my work published alongside them.

I think I might spend some more time playing about with colors and shapes, and see what other playful characters that I can come up with
Why not try it out yourself.

Cole my dog is wondering when I am going to do a painting of him, he loves posing for the camera, and makes sure we only get his best side!

Cole, Such a majestic looking dog


Hanging out with Cole

Stay blessed and be a blessing and keep your eyes out for many other creative goodies that will be coming your way.

You can check out the book  HERE on Amazon 

*****************************************

Free Trial on Patreon - Join Us
















Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...