Growing Soursop - Creative Garden

 

Welcome to my Creative Garden where I am growing a Soursop tree.  It is growing quite tall and was grown from seed.

It produced two fruit last year that I was able to salvage, the rest were eaten by the monkeys.  They were even able to open a couple of bags that I had over one of the fruits I wanted to save.  They usually just take a bite, knock it down and chomp on others.  Check out the video to find out more about the fruit. 

What is Inspiring You - Join us in the Arts and Wellness Cafe

Come and join me in the Arts and Wellness Cafe as we look at the things that inspire and encourage you to be your creative self.

We reflect and ask questions, as it is important for us to be able to dive into our resources and encourage ourselves in those 'off times'.

We look at the latest Journal that I am playing with which is the Junk Journal July, having fun playing with the supplies I have and interpreting the quotes to suit my needs as a creative.

I share my stitched project and some projects that are waiting to be worked on.

Looking forward to seeing all the things that inspire you. 

Get This Months Free Papers 

when you join us as a FREE member on Patreon.

Get your FREE papers HERE

Fabric and Foam Stamps

Come and join me in Material Musings today.  I have been playing around in my fabric art journals and experimenting with my foam stamps. I had created a set of foam stamps from the last 100-day project, and really liked how some of them came out.

Here is a selection of them.  I have been working on using them on fabric and incorporating slow stitching which I will be doing in this current fabric art journal that you will see in the video. 

I really like some of the foam stamps I created and will be sharing more of them. The foam stamps digital images are going to be available as digital stamps that you can incorporate in digital art work on my Etsy Store Here.

Take a look at the video and you will also catch some information about other things that are happening in the studio and some of the FREE courses that are available on my course platform. You can check it out HERE

These bold foam stamp designs are some of my favorite and look really effective on an art journal page and can be used to decorate your art journals and create prints on fabric.

I will keep you updated with the progress.

Check us out on Patreon HERE

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

Material Musings - Mixed Media Art Dolls

 

In todays episode I share the work I did with some art dolls.  They were part of a lesson on the Making Zen art Retreat and were fun to create.

The Lesson was taught by Mirjam Glieben, you can check her out on Instragram HERE   They were a lot of fun to create and I would love to experiment with them. These pieces had been slow stitched and I added embellishments such as broken jewelry and other additions.

I also completed one of my projects that had been wax resisted and dyed with conventional dye, then I added slow stitching to it.  The final stage is adding beading to it, which you can see me add some seed and bugle beads to the project.  Both the slow stitching and beading are such a relaxing activity, check out the Info graph below which shares the benefits of slow stitching.

Check out the post HERE for more information

Before You Go

Embroidery Extravaganza - save $20 Use the code ee24reality

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

Art Journal Play - Word Plaques

 

In this video I share how I create my art journal plaques.  They are great for adding encouraging words in your journal and to decorate it as well as also being used for other creative projects.  Check out the video and let me know how you will use them.

Fathers Day Special Sale

The sale continues - get your discounted courses.  The sale finishes on the 17th June at 9am.  Use the Code FATHERS50 at the checkout.  Take a look at the courses available HERE

Stay blessed and be a blessing

Fathers Day Special - 50% Off ALL COURSES

>  Check out the Courses <

We are having a massive sale on my course platform and you can choose any course in the 50% off sale!

We thought we would do something special for Fathers Day.  What do you get the Father who have everything?? Why not treat yourself to one or more of the courses and digital products on offer and they get the joy of seeing you spend time in your creative bliss.

The Sale runs until Monday 17th June 9am EST

You have lifetime access to the all the courses and digital products. We have a creativity community and private Facebook group that you are welcome to join, and there are a great selection of FREE courses and creative resources that you can also access.

You can buy as many products as you wish and remember to use the code FATHERS50 at the checkout to apply the discount!

Buy Your Courses Now

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Before you Go..

I am also giving a whopping 25% off all my digital art dolls and background pages on my Etsy Store

Check out the Etsy Sale

Growing Aloe Vera Plants

 

Come and join me in the creative garden as we look at some of the plants that have had a growth spurt.  The Aloe Vera plants look ready to be separated, but where to put them.

The Aloe vera plant can be used in a number of ways, for beauty products, for your health - as drinks and nutritional aids, and as indoor and outdoor plants.  

Have you grown Aloe and what do you use yours for?

Here are some useful garden links for you to check out:

Grow your own aloe plant - https://amzn.to/4ekbCbt Garden tools - Chair - https://amzn.to/45mZF0P Garden hand shovel - https://amzn.to/4cbHwF6 Garden Gloves - https://amzn.to/4cfxsey

Make a Start! It is Not a Dress Rehearsal

 

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

Summer Time Art Journal Page with Amanda Trought

 

Come and check out my latest video, Summertime - Art Journal page. 

I have been creating digital downloads for quite a while now and had started creating images on these pages that I have been sharing with my $3 Tier Patrons each month.

You don't have to be a paying member to join, you can still get FREE access to the digital download papers I create each month and see where your creativity will take you, I would love you to join us on this creative adventure.  This was the last paper I produced for my FREE Patrons:

Get your FREE copy of this 4 page background pages HERE

In todays video, I share how you can alter the page and highlight the areas that you want to keep.

I then go on to show you how you can work on it an create an image.  I love working on these papers and you are also then able to do additional things with the papers that you have painted on.  You can use them in your creative projects, art journals and more.

If you would like to see the full video with the process details and access to the digital papers for June and more then check out the Free 7 Day Trial on Patreon

Benefits of Slow Stitching Projects, Words and Figures - Material Musings

 

The Benefits of Slow Stitching Projects

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

READ MORE HERE

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!

CHECK OUT THE 3 KEY BENEFITS HERE

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Before You Go - Join us for Embroidery Extravaganza - 8 August 2024

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.

Learn More 

To get $20 Off using my code: ee24reality  Sign up HERE

Welcome To the June Free Digital Papers!! VIP Pass - Making Zen and More

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.

For more ideas, join us on Patreon as a FREE member to see the remainder of the really helpful list of creative activities.  

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!

FREE Digital Downloads for June! 

New papers available - Get Yours HERE for FREE on Patreon

Each month I give away a free set of papers, you join Patreon as a FREE member and you can download it for your art journals and creative projects.

Included in the Free papers is a background sheet and tags for you to use in your creative project.

Making Zen

It is the last day to get access to the Making Zen Courses

Get the VIP Pass for Making Zen - You will get:

❤ Lifetime access to all classes, presentations and tutorials (value $1,000)

❤ Extended playback options

❤ Exclusive premium bonuses from our artists (value $554)

This exclusive offer disappears at midnight ADT on Sunday, June 2, 2024!

Get the VIP Pass HERE

Some of the bonuses include

Kawandi Style Quilting

Create a Lucious Silk Sketchbook Cover

Sashiko Hydrangea Pattern Stitch Guide

There is something for everyone, so come and check it out and Grab your VIP PASS will you are at it!

Making Zen FREE Online Retreat - 27th May - 31st May

 

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

💙 Access to the workshops for life

Check out the VIP Pass

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!

Celebrating Mother's Day: The Importance of Self-Care and Nurturing

 

Happy Mothers Day, It’s a time of reflection and appreciation for the incredible women who have shaped our lives. 

From the mothers who raised us to the maternal figures who have guided and supported us along the way, Mother's Day is an opportunity to celebrate their love, sacrifice, and unwavering presence. As we spend time honoring those in our lives, we also take time to think about our own self-care and nurturing our well-being.

Self-Care Matters

Self-care is a fundamental aspect of maintaining balance, and overall well-being in our lives. Taking time to showing ourselves love and carving out moments of solitude, indulging in a favorite hobby, or simply giving ourselves permission to rest, self-care empowers us to recharge and replenish our energy.

Sometimes prioritizing self-care can often feel like a as meeting the needs of others can leave little time or energy for self-nurturing. However, practicing self-care is essential.

Celebrating Self-Care

I encourage mothers and maternal figures to take time for themselves, engage in activities that bring them joy, and honor their own needs and desires – whatever that may be, whether it's enjoying a leisurely morning, taking a peaceful nature walk, or indulging in a creative pursuit, let's celebrate each and every day in a way that nurtures the mind, body, and soul.

For More Ideas for Self Care - Join us HERE