Making Your Own Molds and Molding with Paper Clay Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

One of my dreams is to learn how to make paper clay heads for goddess dolls using paper clay.  So, I can't tell you how thrilled I was to see that  Laura Carson had a wonderful tutorial on her Artfully Musing blog showing you how to make your own molds and how to mold with paper clay.  I am thrilled and can hardly wait to learn how to do this.  Have you always wanted to learn how to do this?  If so, here's your chance.

Making Your Own Molds and Molding with Paper Clay

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial:  This tutorial walks you through the steps of making a mold and then molding items using paper clay. You can make a mold from metal or plastic objects and from rubber stamps. The mold you make can be used with a variety of materials including UTEE, wax, soap, and air clay or clay requiring baking. The mold can stand up to the heat of materials such as melted wax. For the purposes of this tutorial I’m going to focus on using the paper clay with the mold because for me it is the most common use molds and it doesn’t require the use of a melting pot or oven.

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.

Tutorial: Decayed Elegance Cuff Bracelet By Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop

I have to tell you that I'm having a delightful time reading through all the tutorials Thespa McLaughlin has on her of Vintiquities Workshop.  She is an amazing mixed media artist and I LOVE all her creations.

 If anyone ever asked me if I wanted to make a decayed elegance cuff bracelet I'd probably look at them like they had two heads.  But, now that I know what it is I would definitely have to say "YES! I would."  If you're curious as to what I'm talking about you just have to check out Thespa's tutorial.  How gorgeous is that?

Tutorials: Decayed Elegance Cuff Bracelet & tattered fabric supplies

Copyright © 2010 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop.

Here's what Thespa had to say about her tutorial:  Todays tutorials are two parts of the same project. First I want to tell you how to make the supplies for the cuff bracelet and then we'll move on to making the bracelet.

Please respect Thespa's TERM OF USE: My patterns & tutorials are for personal use ONLY. Not for resale. If you want to share it online please give full credit complete with a link to Vintiquities Workshop at http://vintiquitiesworkshop.blogspot.com .

Thespa's Bio: I am a mixed media artist living with my family in the Ozarks. I love aged turquoise, faded cream, and lots of romantic layers. I dig rusty things and found objects and frequently use them in my art.

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop.

Please visit her Vintiquities Workshop at http://vintiquitiesworkshop.blogspot.com/.  You can also follow her on Pinterest here.

My Heart Has Wings Tutorial By June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Do you love making hearts? If you do June Crawford has a wonderful tutorial on her A Creative Dream blog showing you how to make a heart with wings. Enjoy!

My heart has wings...

Copyright © 2009 - All Rights Reserved - Written by June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Here's what June had to say about her tutorial:  I'm fascinated with hearts and wings lately. Well, honestly, I've been fascinated with each for a very long time, but more recently it's been them together. I'm not sure if it has any underlying meaning or not...but they have been in my dreams for a while now. Driving home from work last Thursday an idea came to me.

I tend to see things completely finished when an idea comes to me, the details all have to be worked out later, but the underlying idea begins with a mold that I have for wings, an old, old, old quilt, and is influenced by some very old linens that my grandmother embellished.

Please respect June's TERMS OF USE:  Please note, in regard to the copyright, all of the directions and photographs in my tutorials are mine, you may not copy or reproduce them without my consent. These instructions are for you to use for PERSONAL use only, not for profit.

June's Bio:  Me... a dreamer, a ponderer of big and small thoughts. A wanna-be artist, a soon to be empty-nester... wondering what the heck I am gonna do with the rest of my life...

Copyright © 2009 - All Rights Reserved - June Crawford of A Creative Dream.

Please visit  her A Creative Dream blog at http://acreativedreamer.blogspot.com/. Her A Creative Dream Flickr page is at  http://www.flickr.com/photos/creativedreamer/.

Mini Paper Heart Wreath Tutorial By June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Do you like recycling old paper and creating all sorts of decorations for your home?  If you do then you'll be pleased to know that June Crawford has a wonderful tutorial on her A Creative Dream  showing you how to make a paper heart wreath.  Have fun making yours.

Mini paper heart wreath... part 1

Mini paper heart wreath... part 2

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Here's what June had to say about her tutorial:    It seems that wreaths made of cones of paper are enjoying a resurgence. We have one at the office that we bring out during the holidays that Charlene made 30 or so years ago... she used some of that great perforated computer paper that is probably no longer in existence, glued the cones onto a cardboard wreath shape, added some embellishments, and voila... an interesting wreath. We have a local artist who makes them from books that are falling apart, and I've seen them done in various papers all across the web.

Well, if these are going to be a hit again, I want to get in on it too... with a little twist of course. I decided they might make some lovely small wreaths, and, since it is February... why not make them heart shaped too? And, maybe a tad smaller than the regular size wreath so they can hang on door handles, or maybe in a window pane, or be added to packages, or put on the windshields of cars in parking lots to surprise the random stranger... the possibilities just keep coming. Mine didn't turn out exactly as I had seen them in my head, but I thought I'd share the process with you anyway.

Please respect June's TERMS OF USE:  Please note, in regard to the copyright, all of the directions and photographs in my tutorials are mine, you may not copy or reproduce them without my consent. These instructions are for you to use for PERSONAL use only, not for profit.

June's Bio:  Me... a dreamer, a ponderer of big and small thoughts. A wanna-be artist, a soon to be empty-nester... wondering what the heck I am gonna do with the rest of my life...

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - June Crawford of A Creative Dream.

Please visit  her A Creative Dream blog at http://acreativedreamer.blogspot.com/. Her A Creative Dream Flickr page is at  http://www.flickr.com/photos/creativedreamer/.

Making a Paper ATC Fan Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

I LOVE ATC's and love the idea of making a beautiful paper fan out of ATC's. So, I was pleased to see that Laura Carson had a wonderful tutorial on her Artfully Musing blog showing you how to do this. How cool is that? I know I'm going to enjoy trying this. I hope you do, too.

Making a Paper ATC Fan

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial:  My favorite size art piece to work with is the standard ATC size. But being a cluttered person (which I think is reflected in my art), I’m always looking for ways to cram more stuff on to the standard 2 1/2'” by 3 ½” space. If you are familiar with my work you know that I’m always going off the edges. I also like working with different shapes. I love fans and use fan images frequently in my art and I enjoy making paper fans. A while back I decided to marry the two; fans and ATCs. The result is in the pictures below. When the fan is closed the base dimension of a single blade is 2 ½” x 3 1/2”. But when open, the fan expands to a five blades – lots more room for stuff!

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.

Altered Book Frame Tutorial By June Crawford of A Creative Dream

I am a book lover and book collector and just hate throwing a good book away. Well, you can imagine how pleased I was to see that June Crawford had a wonderful tutorial on her A Creative Dream blog showing you how to make an altered photo frame from an old book. I just love this idea.

Altered book photo frame

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Here's what June had to say about her tutorial:   Let's alter a book.... Not like I haven't done that pretty often, eh? I am somewhat obsessed with it aren't I? This time I have a twist though... instead of making another journal, how about we turn a book into my current fancy... a frame?

I seem to have caught this particular bug (for making frames) while I was working on the woven photo frame. (You know... the one that I've got up for grabs as the current give away...over there on the left).  Since you can alter books into so many other things, surely I can alter a book into a frame, right?

First is the deconstruction phase. One of the most interesting things I have found since I started altering books is how very simple it is to deconstruct one. I have always thought of a book as something that is rock solid, but all it takes is two carefully created incisions and you have a book cover separated from the book pages. My only caution here is that you be very careful (if you follow along and create your own) not to puncture the spine of the book while you make the incisions.

Please respect June's TERMS OF USE:  Please note, in regard to the copyright, all of the directions and photographs in my tutorials are mine, you may not copy or reproduce them without my consent. These instructions are for you to use for PERSONAL use only, not for profit.

June's Bio:  Me... a dreamer, a ponderer of big and small thoughts. A wanna-be artist, a soon to be empty-nester... wondering what the heck I am gonna do with the rest of my life...

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - June Crawford of A Creative Dream.

Please visit  her A Creative Dream blog at http://acreativedreamer.blogspot.com/. Her A Creative Dream Flickr page is at  http://www.flickr.com/photos/creativedreamer/ .

Altoid's Tin Book Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

If you love mixed media vintage creations and working with altoid tin's then you're going to love the "Altoid's Tin Book" tutorial that Laura Carson has on her Artfully Musing blog. I'm definitely going to make one. How about you?

Altoid's Tin Book

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial:  In this tutorial I’ll walk you through creating a vintage Altoid’s Tin book using chipboard and two Altoid’s tins. The fun part of this project is that by hinging two tins together it creates niches that you can load up with all kinds of embellishments.

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.

Santa and Tree Tutorials By June Crawford of A Creative Dream

I just love adorable and colorful Santa's - especially if they are tall and skinny. If you do, too then you'll be happy to know that June Crawford has a wonderful tutorial on her A Creative Dream blog showing you how to make a Santa and tree. He'll make a nice addition to my skinny Santa's collection.

Santa!

Santa part 1

Santa part 2

Santa part 3

The pattern

Ahh... Santa... let's finish him up...

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Here's what June had to say about her Santa tutorial:  Look... it's Santa... Trying so hard to get a jump on Christmas here. I made my list, and checked it twice... decided that most had been naughty... but I'm still gonna get going on the holiday anyway. Naughty or nice, it's a long list. And, since I'm working on it, I'm gonna drag all of you into it too...

A tree to go with the Santas

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Here's what June had to say about her tree tutorial:  Like I promised... you remember this pile of muslin shapes... right?  I'd sewn them a few years ago and had tucked them away, as I often do, to get back to at some point. And, I did get back to them. The first one turned into Santa. But, of course, you know I'm not finished there...  With one little change to the directions, you can create a whole 'nother thing... Let me show you ..

Please respect June's TERMS OF USE:  Please note, in regard to the copyright, all of the directions and photographs in my tutorials are mine, you may not copy or reproduce them without my consent. These instructions are for you to use for PERSONAL use only, not for profit.

June's Bio:  Me... a dreamer, a ponderer of big and small thoughts. A wanna-be artist, a soon to be empty-nester... wondering what the heck I am gonna do with the rest of my life...

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - June Crawford of A Creative Dream.

Please visit  her A Creative Dream blog at http://acreativedreamer.blogspot.com/. Her A Creative Dream Flickr page is at  http://www.flickr.com/photos/creativedreamer/ .

Skinny Stocking Tutorial By Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop

I just love decorations that you can display at the holidays and also display year round - if you want to. Don't you? If you do then you'll be pleased to know that Thespa McLaughlin has a wonderful tutorial and pattern on her of Vintiquities Workshop showing you how to make skinny stockings. I just LOVE them.

Skinny Stocking Tutorial 

Copyright © 2010 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop.

Here's what Thespa had to say about her tutorial:   As promised today I'm sharing my skinny stocking pattern, just a quick one I drew up for a small skinny stocking this week.

Please respect Thespa's TERM OF USE: My patterns & tutorials are for personal use ONLY. Not for resale. If you want to share it online please give full credit complete with a link to Vintiquities Workshop at http://vintiquitiesworkshop.blogspot.com .

Thespa's Bio: I am a mixed media artist living with my family in the Ozarks. I love aged turquoise, faded cream, and lots of romantic layers. I dig rusty things and found objects and frequently use them in my art.

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop.

Please visit her Vintiquities Workshop at http://vintiquitiesworkshop.blogspot.com/.  You can also follow her on Pinterest here.

Adding Snow and Icicles to Your Projects Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

What would a mixed media winter creation be without icicles?   If you've always wanted to learn how to create icicles then you'll be happy to know that Laura Carson has a wonderful tutorial on her Artfully Musing blog showing you how.  I hope you enjoy her tutorial.  

Adding Snow and Icicles to Your Projects

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial:  A great way to add an extra touch to winter themed art is with snow and icicles. You can achieve the look of ice and snow using White Flocking Powder and Twinklets Diamond Dust Glitter Sugar Crystal. Both products are available at some craft stores, art supply stores, and on the Internet. To give this Christmas Toy Shop a touch of winter I added snow and icicles to the bay windows.

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.

The Spiky Ball Tutorial By June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Are you looking for an adorable and different ornament for your tree this year? If you are then you'll be happy to know that June Crawford has a wonderful tutorial on her A Creative Dream blog showing you how to make a spiky ball ornament. I'll be making plenty of these. &Have fun making yours.

The spiky ball...

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Written by June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Here's what June had to say about her tutorial:  Wow... a new year...  I was wondering what in the world I would share with everyone to start the new year off right, and then I opened my email. Y'all seem to really like my spikey balls... at least judging by the number of emails asking how I made them and requesting a tute. Honestly, I didn't share these earlier because I thought everyone knew how to make them. I remember doing them with my grandmother when I was little, so they're not something new. I was wrong... who knew? Always one who likes to give my readers what you want, seems the perfect thing to share to begin this new year. So here we go... the first tutorial of 2012...

Please respect June's TERMS OF USE:  Please note, in regard to the copyright, all of the directions and photographs in my tutorials are mine, you may not copy or reproduce them without my consent. These instructions are for you to use for PERSONAL use only, not for profit.

June's Bio:  Me... a dreamer, a ponderer of big and small thoughts. A wanna-be artist, a soon to be empty-nester... wondering what the heck I am gonna do with the rest of my life...

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - June Crawford of A Creative Dream.

Please visit  her A Creative Dream blog at http://acreativedreamer.blogspot.com/. Her A Creative Dream Flickr page is at  http://www.flickr.com/photos/creativedreamer/ .

Snowman Ornament Tutorial By June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Are you looking for an adorable and different baby gift or ornament for your home? If you are then you'll be happy to know that June Crawford has a wonderful tutorial on her A Creative Dream blog showing you how to make an adorable snowman ornament.

Snowman Ornament

Copyright © 2009 - All Rights Reserved - Written by June Crawford of A Creative Dream

Here's what June had to say about her tutorial:  A new baby is coming (thank goodness it isn't mine!)!!!   We have a new mommy to be at work. This is Kristen's first baby, it's a little boy, and she's due in August. I really don't know Kristen more than to say hi and ask her how it's all going in the hallway, but I sure am excited for her. I don't have a first clue about what the nursery is done in, or really what she's interested in, or what she has for the baby...but, because I think First Christmas ornaments are always a great gift, I'm going to make one for the baby. I asked several people in her department what the baby's name is going to be, and not a single one could remember, but they promised to find out for me so I could make it more personal. After considering all of my options, I've decided to go with a snowman (mostly because I think they are so darned cute!). I'm going to share the making of it with you, so on to the snowman! (Many thanks to my daughter, Kate, for taking pics for me!)

Please respect June's TERMS OF USE:  Please note, in regard to the copyright, all of the directions and photographs in my tutorials are mine, you may not copy or reproduce them without my consent. These instructions are for you to use for PERSONAL use only, not for profit.

June's Bio:  Me... a dreamer, a ponderer of big and small thoughts. A wanna-be artist, a soon to be empty-nester... wondering what the heck I am gonna do with the rest of my life...

Copyright © 2009 - All Rights Reserved - June Crawford of A Creative Dream.

Please visit  her A Creative Dream blog at http://acreativedreamer.blogspot.com/. Her A Creative Dream Flickr page is at  http://www.flickr.com/photos/creativedreamer/ .

Tutorial: Layered Fabric Flowers with Free Pattern By Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop

I know what you're going to say - another flower tutorial?  Well, yes - but, this is a terrific mixed media fabric floral that I know you're going to LOVE.   I know that I do.   If I've piqued your curiosity check out the wonderful layered fabric flowers tutorial and pattern that Thespa McLaughlin has on her of Vintiquities Workshop.  They're just beautiful.

Tutorial: Layered Fabric Flowers with Free Pattern!

Copyright © 2010 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop.

Here's what Thespa had to say about her tutorial:  I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and that it has inspired you in some way.

Please respect Thespa's TERM OF USE: My patterns & tutorials are for personal use ONLY. Not for resale. If you want to share it online please give full credit complete with a link to Vintiquities Workshop at http://vintiquitiesworkshop.blogspot.com .

Thespa's Bio: I am a mixed media artist living with my family in the Ozarks. I love aged turquoise, faded cream, and lots of romantic layers. I dig rusty things and found objects and frequently use them in my art.

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop.

Please visit her Vintiquities Workshop at http://vintiquitiesworkshop.blogspot.com/.  You can also follow her on Pinterest here.

Bird Ornament Tutorial By Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop

I just LOVE mixed media creations and I'm always in awe at the creativity involved with them.  If you like mixed media ornaments then you're going to love the bird ornament tutorial that Thespa McLaughlin has on her of Vintiquities Workshop.  Aren't they beautiful?

Bird Ornament Tutorial - New PDF pattern UPDATE!

Copyright © 2010 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop.

Here's what Thespa had to say about her tutorial:  Today I'm going to share a pattern and how-to for my bird ornaments.

Please respect Thespa's TERM OF USE: My patterns & tutorials are for personal use ONLY. Not for resale. If you want to share it online please give full credit complete with a link to Vintiquities Workshop at http://vintiquitiesworkshop.blogspot.com .

Thespa's Bio: I am a mixed media artist living with my family in the Ozarks. I love aged turquoise, faded cream, and lots of romantic layers. I dig rusty things and found objects and frequently use them in my art.

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Thespoena McLaughlin of Vintiquities Workshop.

Please visit her Vintiquities Workshop at http://vintiquitiesworkshop.blogspot.com/.  You can also follow her on Pinterest here.

Making a Chipboard Shoe Picture Stand Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

I just LOVE shoes and any creation revolving around shoes.  So, I was thrilled to see that Laura Carson had a wonderful tutorial on her Artfully Musing blog showing you how to make a shoe picture stand out of chipboard.  This is going to the top of my "to do" list.  I just LOVE shoes.

Making a Chipboard Shoe Picture Stand – Designed for Alpha Stamps

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial:  In this tutorial I’ll cover how to construct a picture stand using chipboard shoes and a chipboard name tag. These stands are simple to make with endless style and theme possibilities.

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.

Romance of Perfume Chipboard Fan Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

I am just in awe of some of the unbelievable things that Laura Carson creates.    She created an amazing  tutorial on her Artfully Musing blog showing you how to make the most incredible chipboard fan.  All I can say is "WOW!"    I hope you enjoy her tutorial.  

Romance of Perfume Chipboard Fan

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial:  I’m so in love with these fabulous shell shaped fan blades from Alpha Stamps. They are hosting a themed fan blade swap named “The Romance of Perfume”. I used several of their collage sheet to create the art deco styled fan pictured above. In this tutorial I’ll be giving you some tips on making your fan and walking you through assembling a fan. At the end of the tutorial is a complete list of the Alpha Stamps product I used to make this fan.

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2012 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.

Aging and Crackling an Image Using Grafix Rub-Onz Transfer Film and Ranger Distress Crackle Paint Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

Have you always wanted to learn how to age and crackle an image?   If you have, then you'll be happy to know that Laura Carson has a wonderful tutorial on her Artfully Musing blog showing you how to age and crackle an image using Grafix Rub-Onz transfer film and Ranger Distress crackle paint.  I hope you enjoy her tutorial.

Aging and Crackling an Image Using Grafix Rub-Onz Transfer Film and Ranger Distress Crackle Paint

Copyright © 2010 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial: When I was designing the ATC below I wanted the image of Botticelli’s Venus to have the look of an aged crackle painting. The problem is that the crackle techniques and products, with which I’m familiar, would cover the image when painted over with crackle medium and paint or crackle paint. I had been working with Grafix Rub-Onz for a while and I got the idea that maybe I could achieve the effect I wanted by first crackling paper and then applying a rub-on over the crackled paper. It worked! Not only does is look aged but also has a worn texture.

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2010 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.

How to Rust Just about Any Surface Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

Have you always wanted to learn how to rust some of your creations? If you have then you'll be happy to know that Laura Carson has a wonderful tutorial on her Artfully Musing blog showing you how to do this.  I hope you enjoy her tutorial.

How to Rust Just about Any Surface

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial:  The Metal Effects product is a two-step rusting process. The process involves applying paint containing iron flakes to your project surface, then applying an acid to rust the iron in the paint. The end result is a real rusted surface not a faux paint treatment. It’s very simple and can be used on any surface to which the paint sticks. I’ve used this product on metal, glass, clay and paper. I liked the result so much I even rusted a wall in my house.

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.

Creating Backgrounds and Embellishments Using Paper Clay and Rubber Stamps Free Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

Have you always wanted to work with paper clay and create all sorts of amazing creations?  If you have then you'll be happy to know that Laura Carson has a wonderful tutorial on her Artfully Musing blog showing you how to create amazing backgrounds and embellishments using paper clay and rubber stamps.  This is another tutorial of Laura's that I absolutely must try.  How about you?

Creating Backgrounds and Embellishments Using Paper Clay and Rubber Stamps

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial:  Stamping in paper clay is a great way of creating all kinds of dimensional embellishments and backgrounds and gives you another way to use your stamps. The background of the collage piece below is paper clay that has been pressed with a rubber stamp and painted with alcohol inks. In this tutorial I’ll take you through the steps of creating backgrounds and other embellishments using paper clay and rubber stamps

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.

Creating a Stained Glass Look by Embossing Transparency Film Free Tutorial By Laura Carson of Artfully Musing Blog

I just love stained glass and would like to learn how to create beautiful stained glass creations. That's not going to happen anytime soon, but in the meantime I can learn how to create stain glass looking mixed media creations using transparency film. With this in mind I was happy to see that Laura Carson had a wonderful tutorial on her Artfully Musing blog showing you how to create a beautiful stained glass look by embossing transparency film. How beautiful is Laura's creation?  I'm looking forward to learning how to do this.  How about you?

Creating a Stained Glass Look by Embossing Transparency Film

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Written by Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Here's what Laura had to say about her tutorial:  In November I posted a tutorial on “Creating a Stained Glass Look Using a Glass Slide”. Embossing transparency film is another option to creating the look of stained glass although I don’t think is sparkles quite as nicely as real glass. But with transparency film, you can print and emboss any digital image, whereas with glass, you are limited to rubber stamps.

The base of the ATC below is an image of an art nouveau stained glass window that I printed on transparency film and embossed. So that you could better see the colors on the transparency, the first image of the piece is photographed on white paper. The second image is photographed with the light behind the piece. Be sure to click on the image to see all the details.

Please respect Laura's TERMS OF USE:  My tutorials are protected by U.S. & International copyright laws.  Do not copy, duplicate, alter or reproduce in anyway.  Please use for inspiration only. ALL NAMES, LOGOS AND DESIGNS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ©2012 Laura Carson (Artfully Musing), All Rights Reserved

Laura's Bio: After retiring from the computer software industry where I spent my career designing, building and marketing software, I needed a creative outlet. A few years ago I discovered Mixed Media Art and have had a love affair ever since. I’ve taught classes in Altered Books, Handmade Books, Collage Art and Mix Media Art. I currently design for Alpha Stamps and I enjoy trading in various art groups. Starting this blog is a way of sharing my art and the wonderful art I have received from others. I specialize in very detailed multi-layered and textured pieces. I live in Anthem Arizona with my husband Kevin, dog Sandy, and cat Tigger.

Copyright © 2011 - All Rights Reserved - Laura Carson of Artfully Musing.

Please visit her Artfully Musing blog at  http://artfullymusing.blogspot.com/.