Making Zen has come to an end and we are on our last week of Gratitude Junk Journal, we have had such a lovely time.
It was great to connect with some of you and see all the work produced in the retreat. I hope if you are doing the bonus session of Embellished and Stitched, you will share your take on the lesson with me on Instagram - @realityarts.
For some the 5 days of the retreat fitted their schedules, but If 24 hours of access seems like it’s just not enough, the VIP Pass, which gives you lifetime access to the workshops, as well as some other special bonuses from each of the presenting artists, is available until Monday 25th November 11.59pm AST.
If you want to join in on the fun, you can get all the details for the free ticket and for the VIP Pass HERE.
It is really great to see what you are creating too. I have been completing the projects from the other teachers as well and will be sharing soon.
Gratitude Junk Journal
My lesson went live for the Gratitude Junk journal, and I created a series of tags that can be added to the art journal. The creation of the tags is about reflecting on the time spent, in the past, present and what you would want for your life in the future. Here are the tags
You can find out further information about the course Here. I hope you are able to join us for an amazing creative journey.
Check out some of the creative papers I have created which are available on Patreon. Some are available on their respective tiers, but do check out the Free Tier and papers available for you to use each month.
You can access the current one for November and also see some behind the scene projects.
Next month I will be sharing all the papers I have produced for 2024 with some additional visual elements which you can purchase, and you will be able to download them for use in your art journals and creative projects.
Do you want a chance to win the new Art Bundles for Good #9?
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It doesn’t cost anything to enter, so don’t miss out.
The Art Bundle Giveaway only lasts for 1 week, starting today! Earn more chances to win by sharing with the link provided.
I am so looking forward to sharing my lesson, here is another sneak peek of what we will be creating to fit into your junk journal:
We will start our journey together making an altered book journal, using what we have on hand to create something wonderful and fun to hold our thoughts, our ephemera, our joy and gratitude!
Each day you'll be challenged to dig into your own gratitude with a question to answer, something to think about or do and/or something to create. You'll find a little joy in each day. You'll leave this workshop with a warm smile, some extra love and a JOY-filled heart.
In today's video I share my most recent Material Musings video, where I look to continue working on the 'Choices' Slow stitched project. If you want to see what the project looked like before you can check out the previous video below:
It is nice to have a smaller project to work on in-between larger projects as it enables you to take a breather, but still keep your hand in. I also worked on a new project known as Bargello. I had all the supplies, but had used them for other things. I check out Kiala Givehands monthly meetups and saw a presentation by Bonnie Natko and was able to create with it.
This is how the projects eventually turned out which was quite pleasing. I just have a few other things to do with the stitched project and also decide how I want to use the completed Bargello - who knows maybe try some others.
Before You Go....
Creative Gardener Today
Here is what I share in the garden today. You can check out the video below.
There has been a lot of other growth in the garden, and I will do a garden tour towards the end of the month.
Gratitude Junk Journal - Early Bird 20% Off
We have an early bird rate (until 31st October) on our Gratitude Junk Journal, which I am teaching in. If you would like to get 20% off then enter the code AMORE24 at the checkout.
I am excited to share that Monday 7th October is my day for sharing my lesson on Fodder Challenge. I am working with dried leaves, and I share how you can alter them and create mini pieces of art.
You will see how I paint, stitch, stamp and use a range of different supplies on the leaves.
Here are some of my painted leaves. I will be sharing on Instagram over the next few days the work that the students create, so be prepared to be inspired. Join us HERE or check out the #fodderchallenge
Here are leaves that have been painting and circles cut in them as decoration.
If you are not part of the Fodder challenge, why not do some experimenting on some leaves and see how you get on. I do love slow stitching on the leaves and depending on the kind of leaf you select you will find that some are thicker than others, so they are sturdier and handle better, see what you can find, there is a wide selection to choose from.
You can also check out my new course that is available at the Early Bird price, all about Leaf Arts and what you can do on them. We go into detail about working with them and I share additional techniques for working with them.
Welcome to September, and we have available in our Arts Resource Hub a set of creative papers that you can use for your craft projects and art journals.
If you are wondering what you can create with them, they can be art background pages, I create a mini art journal with mine.
In the video I share what I did with August papers.
All papers are available, so you can mix and match. Come and join us on the Arts Resource Hub and get hold of your papers for September.
Exciting News - I will be teaching in Fodder School 4!!
What is Fodder School?
Fodder school is a year long online mixed media event. Each month a new teacher provides a project creating collage fodder and using it.
In my Fodder School class, I will be sharing ways you can have fun playing with the supplies you have and show you how to create some unique fabric fodder that expresses your creativity.
I will share ideas and tips for writing, doodling, stamping, stenciling on your fabrics to create amazing, patterned fabric sheets which you can further cut, layer, and stitch together to create even more dynamic fabric fodder clusters.
In Use Fodder I will then show you how to combine the fabric fodder, and clusters you have created with decorative stitching and beading to create small wall hangings.
Fodder Challenge
The year kicks off on 1st October with a month of short projects from each teacher called Fodder School Challenge. I will be sharing with you some exciting ways to embellish dried leaves. Fodder Challenge gives you a taste of each teacher and their work.
You can sign up for just the Fodder Challenge or take in both and experience a full year of amazing lessons.
You can visit willawanders.com to find out more and take advantage of the early bird price!
Podcast News
Wendy recently interviewed me, you can hear it on her podcast “Show up or Shut up”
We had such a rich conversation about creative practices using art as a therapeutic tool and so much more! You can find the link to the episode HERE, or listen on your favorite podcast app.
I am so looking forward to sharing my lessons and having you join us!!
Embroidery Extravaganza starts tomorrow Thursday 8th August and it will be a day where creativity and craftsmanship come together, so gather your supplies!
This event can be attended by embroidery enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned pro, the ten expert-led workshops are designed to ignite your imagination and elevate your embroidery skills.
At Embroidery Extravaganza, you'll have the opportunity to:
Participate in workshops led by experts in the field.
Discover new techniques and creative ideas to take your embroidery to the next level.
Exclusive Student Benefits
Gain access to all event presentation recordings with no expiration date! This invaluable resource is available exclusively to students who purchase their tickets before the event date.
Giveaways during the live event
Receive a digital swag bag filled with goodies
Get Ready for a Day of Creativity
To make the most of your experience at Embroidery Extravaganza, here are a few tips:
Come Prepared: Bring your embroidery supplies, including needles, threads, hoops, and any other materials you like to use.
Stay Open-Minded: Be ready to try new techniques and experiment with different styles.
Take Notes: Keep a journal handy to jot down ideas and techniques you learn during the workshops.
Limited Space - Act Fast!
Spaces are limited, so don't wait to secure your spot at this incredible event. Plus, you can save $20 off your ticket now by using the code ee24reality at checkout.Sign up now at creativespark.ctpub.com.
Looking forward to seeing you there and stitching together a beautiful day of creativity and craftsmanship!
3 Ways to Move Forward as a Creative: Embracing Personal Growth and Innovation
Creativity is a journey, not a destination. As creatives, we constantly seek ways to push our boundaries, discover new horizons, and bring our unique visions to life. Moving forward as a creative involves a blend of reflection, resourcefulness, and the courage to venture into unknown waters. Here are three ways to move yourself forward on your creative journey:
1. Embrace What You Have and See How Far You Can Go
Often, we underestimate the potential of the resources at our disposal. Whether it's a limited set of tools, a small budget, or even time constraints, these limitations can actually foster creativity. By fully embracing what you have, you can push yourself to innovate within those confines, often leading to surprising and unique outcomes.
Practical Tip: Take inventory of your current resources—skills, tools, and time. Challenge yourself to create something using only what you already have. This helps sharpen your problem-solving skills and shows how creativity can thrive under constraints.
2. Create Things You Never Thought of Before
Stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for growth. This involves experimenting with new mediums, techniques, or even genres that you haven’t explored before, you open doors to endless possibilities and new perspectives.
Practical Tip: Set a regular time for experimentation in your creative schedule. Dedicate this time solely to trying out new ideas without worrying about the outcome.
3. Bring It All Together with a Personal Touch
Your creative journey is deeply personal. It’s shaped by your experiences, beliefs, and aspirations. Bringing your personal touch into your work not only makes it unique but also resonates more deeply with your audience. Reflect on what ‘personal’ means to you and how you want to express that in your work. Also check out post - Arts and Wellness Cafe
Practical Tip: Reflect on your personal story and values. Consider how these elements can influence your creative projects. Are there specific themes or messages you want to convey? Integrate these into your work to create pieces that are truly reflective of who you are.
Moving Forward: This Is Not a Dress Rehearsal
Remember, this is not a dress rehearsal—this is your life, your creative journey. Every moment is an opportunity to create, learn, and grow. By focusing on utilizing what you have, exploring new creative environments, and infusing your personal essence into your work, you can move forward with confidence and purpose. Embrace the process, trust in your creativity, and watch as your artistic path unfolds in ways you never imagined. Stay Blessed and be a Blessing.
Before You Go.....
Remember to pick up your FREE digital download for the month on my free Patron Members link or CLICK HERE
Welcome to Material Musings! Check out the new video where I some of my latest slow stitching projects. These projects bring me a lot of joy, and I'd love to show you what I've been working on. Plus, I have a little technique to share on creating words with stitches that we'll get into at the end of the video.
Slow stitching is an art form that emphasizes mindfulness and creativity over speed and perfection. As I’ve worked on these projects, I’ve discovered many benefits of slow stitching. Check out the three key benefits of slow stitching projects on my Patreon Page for FREE HERE and also find out how you can add contrast to your slow stitch words
Slow stitching is not just about creating beautiful art; it’s about the journey and the joy found in each stitch. Whether you are adding fine details to a large piece or working on small, slow stitching offers a world of creative and mental benefits. I hope you’ve been inspired to start or continue your own slow stitching projects. I would love to see how you get on, so feel free to share your creations. Until next time, happy stitching!
Creativity meets craftsmanship at Embroidery Extravaganza on August 8, 2024!
Join us for ten expert-led workshops to ignite your imagination and elevate your embroidery skills. Whether you're a novice or a pro, there's something for everyone. Connect, learn, and get inspired! Students get access to all event presentation recordings with no expiration date BUT only if you get your ticket before the event date. Don’t wait! Space is limited.
Welcome June, it is the first day of the month and a great time to think about some of the creative projects that you can do. Here are a few examples of what you can do in your art journal and mixed media creative projects:
Nature-inspired Collages: Collect leaves, flowers, and other natural elements to create intricate collages in your art journal. Use different textures and colors to add depth and interest to your compositions
Watercolor Landscapes: Experiment with watercolors to paint serene landscapes or vibrant cityscapes. Let your imagination wander as you blend colors and create dreamy scenes.
Found Object Sculptures: Gather everyday objects like buttons, keys, and old jewelry to assemble unique sculptures. Combine them with clay or wire to create three-dimensional artworks that tell a story.
Remember, the beauty of mixed media and art journaling lies in the freedom to experiment and express yourself without constraints. Let your creativity flow and have fun exploring new techniques and ideas!
Making Zen online retreat is in full swing with Day 2 in progress, you have 24 hours to watch the videos before they go. So naturally you would want to make the most of it.
If you want to have more time to watch the video then getting the VIP pass is a great idea. You might have thought that the Making Zen Online Retreat from @zenstitching couldn’t get any better - after all, it’s hard to top five days packed with 20 inspiring workshops! But I’m here to tell you it can, with…
💙 Early access to all of the content
💙 Special bonuses like freebies and discounts from the presenting artists
For $97 USD, you get to re-watch those presentations to your heart’s content for years to come, and having done this retreat before it really helps to be able to watch the videos in your own time.
The extra bonuses provided by the artists are awesome, too - you couldn’t purchase some of them alone for the same price you’re getting with the VIP Pass! Totally worth it.
Join Us Today
If you can’t wait to get started, you can LEARN MORE HERE to get your pass and start Making Zen right away!
Join us in the studio and come and see what new projects we are working on in Material Musings, some new projects using faces and figures and completing some of the smaller stitched projects.
Here are some ways in which you can make the most of your stitched projects:
Display Creatively: Showcase your finished projects in unique and creative ways. Frame them, hang them on a decorative embroidery hoop, or hang them on wooden dowels or branches for a natural effect.
Personalize Gifts: You can use your stitched projects to create personalized gifts for your loved ones. Whether it's a custom-designed piece of embroidery or a hand-stitched card, adding a personal touch makes the gift extra special.
Experiment with Techniques: Don't be afraid to try new stitching techniques and explore different styles. Mix and match colors, stitches, and patterns to create one-of-a-kind projects that reflect your creativity.
Realityarts - Creativity Book Shop - Some really great titles for you to dive in
Creative Resources
Affiliate Links
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