Material Musings - Slow Stitched Fabric Projects

Join us for a session of Material Musings as we delve into projects that are still waiting to be finished before the year's end. While it might feel ambitious, the growing excitement for these creations keeps the momentum alive!

Here’s a peek at some projects that have been lingering in my project bag. By taking time to review them, identifying the next steps, and breaking them into manageable tasks, I’m optimistic about making progress and finally bringing them to completion.  

I also share with you some of the projects that I have done by other teachers on Making Zen, You can see the project that I taught HERE  You can also join me on my course - Embellished and Stitched and see how to create them yourself.

This is one of the projects from one of the teachers on the course -  Paula MacGregor, she showed us how she stitched her calico houses, I did mine in backing fabric and emphasized the stitches.

Stitched Houses

How do you get your projects complete then?

Here are 3 Quick Tips for Completing Your Stitched Projects:

• Set Small, Achievable Goals: Break your project into bite-sized tasks. For example, focus on completing one section, stitch, or layer at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.  I work on several projects at a time so it helps to have small tasks that you can do, and move them each along.

• Schedule Dedicated Time: Carve out specific time slots for working on your project, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day. Consistency can lead to big progress.

• Reignite Your Inspiration: If you’ve lost motivation, revisit what excited you about the project in the first place. Lay out your materials, journal about your vision, or seek inspiration from others’ work to reignite your creative spark.  I like doing this periodically and it always keeps you feeling inspired and motivated.

Let’s transform those “in-progress” projects into completed ones together, check out the video and let me know what you are working on!

Join us on Patreon for FREE and see behind the scenes content.

Early Birds and Giveaway's

 

Art Bundle for Good

Do you want a chance to win the new Art Bundles for Good #9?

Three lucky winners will have a chance to win the latest Art Bundles for Good including $4000 worth of art courses and other great resources. There are over 90 art resources from more than 80 of your favorite artists, including one of my courses.

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.

Enter the Giveaway HERE

Gratitude Art Journal

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.

Remember to unlock the EARLY BIRD SPECIAL which ends 31st October 2024 at 11:59pm Eastern:

Just enter code: AMOR24 at checkout AND GET 20% OFF HERE!

CHECK OUT THE GRATITUDE JUNK JOURNAL HERE

Before you go...

Did you get your FREE Papers - check out Octobers papers and see what you can come up with.

Get your papers here

Mixed Media Art Leaves - Fodder Challenge

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. 

Check out the Leaf Arts Course HERE

Before You Go

Get your FREE Art Papers in the Arts Resource Hub for October

Fodder Challenge Starting Soon!!

Fodder Challenge is Coming

I’m excited to share that for my session in the upcoming Fodder Challenge, I’ll be diving into a project all about creating and embellishing leaves! Using supplies you probably already have in your creative space, 

I’ll show you how to decorate these leaves in fun, unique ways. I’ve had such a great time working with them, and adding stitches and embroidery has made them even more enjoyable. I can’t wait to share these techniques with you!

The Fodder Challenge kicks off on October 1st, and I’ll be participating along with other amazing teachers. I’m looking forward to trying out their projects too and sharing what I create using their lessons. It’s always so rewarding to learn new techniques from fellow artists!

And, as if that wasn’t enough, Fodder School 4 is also just around the corner! In my lesson for the school, I’ll be showing you how to make beautiful fabric fodder. 

We’ll be painting, stamping, stenciling, and experimenting with fabric to create clusters and mini wall hangings. It’s going to be so much fun, and I can’t wait to explore these creative techniques with you.

Ready to join in the fun?
Check out the Fodder Challenge HERE and Fodder School 4 HERE.

Let’s get creative together!

Material Musings - Fabric Books

Join me for Material Musings this week.  Here are an additional 3 fabric art journals that I have been playing with. It is always nice to revisit previous journals. I did some painting in a couple and plan to do some stitching and maybe add beading.

Here are the three fabric art journals that I work on, made from recycled materials.

You will also see a page in progress and ways that you can add stenciling to a page.  I will be spending a bit more time on the pages and adding some additional embellishments.

Fodder School 4 - Exciting News!!

 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!!

Material Musings - Fabric Art Cards

 

Check out the Video

Welcome to Material Musings, In todays episode we look at ways that you can use your fabric scraps and create a series of fabric cards.  

By stitching your scraps of a base fabric, adding decoration and stitched words you can make use of the scraps and turn them into something useful.  You could also make things like placemats, coasters, covers for art journal and more.

With the addition of stitched words you can further add to your pieces.  You can also add a small woven piece to add to your fabric cards.  All of the additional fabric has either been painted, stamped, stenciled or wax resisted. 

Try and experiment and see what combinations you can come up with.

Before You Go check out - Bag Envy

Discover the best materials, tools, and tips to elevate your bag-making game with ten seasoned experts at Bag Envy on October 4th at 11 AM PST! By securing your spot, you’ll gain lifetime access to the event recordings, allowing you to watch and rewatch content at your own pace. Plus, you’ll get a digital swag bag full of goodies. Don’t miss out on the chance to score additional giveaways by joining the event live. Sign up today through Creative Spark and save $20 off at checkout with the code bag24reality.  Find out more about Bag Envy HERE

Material Musings - Fabric Art Projects

 

Welcome to today's Material Musings, I am excited to share what I have been working on and learning in my fabric adventure.

I will be sharing some of the fabric art journals that I have been creating and I have made a couple that have been helping me keep my smaller projects and fabric ephemera in some order.

I also finished this fabric dragonfly inspired by a class on Making Zen by Lisa Goddard You can check her out on Instagram Here 

I hope you enjoy the video and check out some of the projects, and get to create some fabric journals of your own.

Before You Go

Join in the fun at Embroidery Extravaganza

Here are the speakers

What to Expect
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.

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.

3 Reasons to Spend Time Being Creative

3 Reasons to Spend Time Being Creative

Finding moments to express our creativity can be so refreshing and rewarding especially when we are bombarded on all sides for our attention. Here are three reasons why spending time with art supplies is a great way to enhance your life:

Boosts Mental Health and Well-being

Engaging in creative activities like drawing, painting, or sculpting can significantly improve your mental health. It provides a therapeutic outlet to release stress and express emotions. Studies have shown that art can reduce anxiety and depression, promoting a sense of calm and well-being. 

Enhances Cognitive Abilities

Using art supplies stimulates the brain. Whether you're sketching a landscape or assembling a collage, the process challenges your mind to think creatively and explore new perspectives. This mental exercise can improve your overall cognitive flexibility, making you better able to tackle your everyday challenges with creative solutions.

Encourages Self-Expression and Personal Growth

Art is a powerful form of self-expression that allows you to express your thoughts, feelings, and ideas that might be difficult to articulate with words. It enables self-discovery and personal growth, helping you understand yourself better and communicate more authentically. As you experiment with different mediums and techniques, you also build confidence in your abilities and develop a unique artistic voice.

When you incorporate creative activities into your routine with your art supplies it not only enriches your life but also nurtures your mind and spirit. So, pick up those brushes, markers, or clay, and let your imagination soar!

Check out some of Artezas Art Supplies, and discounts on Amazon HERE

Arteza's Art Supplies

Join us HERE on Realityarts Academy for FREE art courses and resources. 

Creative Weekend - Starts Here

What creative activities are you planning for this weekend.

If you would like a few hints and tips, I will provide you with 5 creative activities that you can do in a weekend. You can get all the family involved, or this might be something you do for a quiet moment.

Here Are 5 Creative ideas that you can think about doing:

1. DIY Studio Decor

Spend the weekend revamping your creative space with a few DIY projects. From creating your own art mood board for inspiration or upcycling old furniture that will help with your materials/tool storage, think about projects that you can do in a couple of hours or an afternoon.

2. Nature Inspired

Cole my dog loves being in the garden

Take your creative endeavors outside and set up an easel in a nearby park or your own garden. Let the beauty of nature inspire your artwork as you paint landscapes, flowers, or any other scene that catches your eye. Take a look at the colors and the subtle differences in shade. See if you can recreate this using your art supplies.  Come and join me in the garden for additional inspiration HERE

3. Free Art Courses

Take a look at the selection of FREE courses on my course platform and why not try them out using different supplies, and see how you can vary the results.  Courses can be found HERE

4. DIY Craft Projects

Unleash your artistic side with DIY craft projects - these are small projects that you can personalize and create small batches that can be given as gifts or when you are sending out one of your art pieces. You could try making handmade cards, or creating your own jewelry. These hands-on activities are not only enjoyable but also allow you to express your creativity in unique ways.

5. Photography Expedition

Grab your camera or your phone and set out on a photography expedition in your city or a nearby scenic spot, or again wander around your garden seeing what amazing animals or plants you can capture.

These creative ideas offer a mix of artistic, culinary, and outdoor activities to make your weekend both enjoyable and creatively fulfilling. Whether you choose to work on these projects alone or involve your family, exploring your creative side can lead to a weekend full of inspiration and self-expression.

Come and check out some of the FREE Mixed Media courses on my Course platform. You can check them out HERE

Embroidery Extravaganza - Stitch your way to new skills and threads of inspiration

 

Thursday, August 8th, 2024

1-5:30 pm Pacific Time

Creativity meets Craftsmanship 

Embroidery Extravaganza, is a virtual event featuring ten expert-led immersive workshops to spark your imagination and improve your embroidery skills. 

This event offers something for everyone, whether a novice or seasoned pro.  You will be able to connect with fellow enthusiasts, gain new skills, and leave with fresh ideas for your next project.

Embroidery Extravaganza kicks off with a keynote presentation on stumpwork and the art of wireslips, which add stunning depth and texture to your projects. Following the keynote, choose from nine engaging 45-minute workshops, each focused on a unique technique or style including:

• Explore the magic of hand stitching, 
• Learn to make creative design and color choices, 
• Finish your projects like an expert, 
• Make the most of your notions and tools. 
• Several Sashiko presentations will teach you how to incorporate stitches into your quilts and upcycled projects. 
• Learn how to add embroidery to your photographs 

What you receive:

• Experience 7+ hours of instruction condensed into 4.5 hours with the magic of technology!
• You can watch the sessions live or catch the recordings
• Enjoy lifetime access to the event recordings
• Enter for a chance to win amazing giveaways during the live event.
• Receive a digital swag bag filled with goodies

Sign up and receive $20 Off using the code ee24reality at the checkout

Come and join us and take your embroidery and slow stitching to another level - be sure to make the most of your discount to the event and use the code ee24reality
at the checkout.

You can sign up for the event HERE