Why Crafted by Us? I'm not an expert on any particular craft, but rather I am an expert at jumping from one craft to another and, at times, mixing them up. I also find that I am inspired by looking at other people's work, whether it is in a magazine, on T.V., or in a podcast. So, I decided to create my own video podcast that encompasses my need for variety and my desire to share, like others have shared. I do this for free, in my free time, and with the equipment I have on hand. I hope you enjoy the shows!
    -- Michelle

Wax Art Collage

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I have a fun and colorful project for today's show. By mixing a variety of papers and assorted colors of wax, I create a bright, inspiring wax covered collage.

 

 

 

To follow along, gather these supplies: 

  • Variety of papers for background

     

  • Focal image (I used a collage sheet from Teesha Moore)
  • Wood board for foundation of collage
  • Purified beeswax
  • Pigment wax cubes
  • Hot wax art stylus
  • Melting pot
  • Heat gun
  • Scissors

     

  • Paper towels
  • Dedicated paintbrush for wax
  • Sanding block
  • Rub ons

You may already have most of these materials in your craft supplies. If you are looking for hot wax art supplies you can find a lot of them at my online store at shop.craftedby.us or at some craft stores.

Trading Cards for ArtFest

I have been trying to get some things made up for ArtFest. I finally finished and mailed off my trading cards.

I made the trading cards by printing out an image that I had drawn onto watercolor paper. Then I painted each picture with watercolor paints. It was pretty fun and very relaxing. If I had a bit more time or imagination I would have added some type of clever saying in black in around the face, kind of like a border. But, since I was short on both I decided to leave them as is. I think they turned out pretty good. I am pleased with the fact that the card is all mine. No stamped image, collaged image or anything. It's something I drew. Hurray for that. (Although I won't be giving up my stamps or collage images any time soon.)

 

I also have fat book pages made and am in the process of making charms to swap with people in person at ArtFest. I have some really great images that I bought from LandOfEnchantment on Etsy that I am using for my charms. I just love the way they are turning out! I'll share photos when I get them finished.

Experimenting with Encaustic

I have been melting a little wax lately in my studio, trying to see what I can do with it. I really love the depth and texture that are created when images and paper are covered and textured with wax. I initially thought I would spend a day working on several different boards, just experimenting. But, one thing I realized is that it takes me a lot longer to work with the wax than I thought it would. Instead of having 5 or 6 different pieces/experiments, I was only able to do two. One is very ugly. I like the other one well enough for a first try. I really love the way it feels.

 

 

I think my next podcast will be about how to make something like this. Well, about how I make something like this. I am sure there are a ton of different ways to achieve the same technique. 

Loom for Sale

Hey everyone! I have a loom for sale. I have posted the info on Craigslist, but haven't seen any interest so far. Do you know anyone who needs a loom?