sbartist : painting in the dark

Festive Paper House Decor... 12 Days of Christmas Ornaments Bloghop

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 04:59:00 +0000

Hello creative friends! Welcome to DAY FOUR of the 12 Days of Christmas Ornaments Bloghop. Pop over to Try-It, Like It for the details on all each days ornament tutorial.

Today I am sharing how to create this adorable festive birdhouse ornament. This is a fun stash-busting project and can be done using what you have on hand. All you need is a few paper scraps, buttons or metal findings and ribbons & trims, this sweet house is ready to adorn the tree!

I was inspired by the red & white checks on this 1 1/2" wide wired burlap trim - it's perfect for the rooftop of my whimsical little bird house.

PLEASE NOTE: This was put together in a free-form fashion... like one of those recipes that you throw together using a handful of pantry staples. This project came together with ease and the size was determined by the size of my paper scraps & width of ribbon trim that I selected for the roof. No precise measuring!

Let's get started!

To begin: from my stash I found and cut two matching strips of patterned paper. My paper has a distressed painted texture on both sides and I made width match the wired burlap trim I am using for the roof which is approximately 1 1/2" wide

Overlap the two strips together like a "plus sign", then glue together with white craft glue. Next cut a matching triangular peak to support roof from top and bottom of one strip. This overlapped section will be the base of house. When glue is dry, fold up the sides at edges of the base section. Punch a series of equally spaced holes along each edge. I used six – this may vary depending on your size paper. Keep in mind that an even number of holes are needed to complete stitched X shapes along each side.

Using a contrasting yarn, embroidery floss or baker's/burlap twine, stitch house walls together using a cross stitch "X" pattern and and knot off on the inside.

Completed house with all sides stitched – no glue necessary.

I cut a section of a decorative wired burlap trim, folded in half, then folded edges over twice to add extra dimension. Any kind of ribbon or even decorative paper could be used. Cut a matching size section of patterned cardstock and fold in half.

For extra stability, adhere the piece of scrap patterned cardstock using double-sided tape. For this step, I opt for a dry adhesive method as some glues may seep into and discolor ribbon. Please use your choice of adhesive based on your materials.

Create a hanger by tying a knot to form a loop with green burlap thread. Poke a small hole in center of roof with a pushpin and feed through keeping knot on the inside. To add extra detail, I strung on a bead cap.

To create a base, I mount a red cardstock rectangle on the bottom that is slightly larger and added a thin natural burlap twine around the base. I nipped the tips off the corner edges with scissors.

To add a roof overhang, I cut and adhere a piece of red cardstock below that is slightly wider on each size under burlap roof piece. To finish: I glue the roof assembly onto the house structure using white craft glue and set aside to dry.

The finishing touches are a keyhole brad embellishment glued to the front of the house and a beautiful tied bow made of burlap ribbon adhered with a heavy-duty glue-dot. This ornament is so adorable! As you can see it can fit in my hand. Fully embellished this house is about 3 1/2" tall and 2 1/2" wide.

This ornament comes together easily using a minimal amount of supplies. Grab up all the little bits and bobs and make a whole bunch in different colors and sizes! These will be my handmade ornament gifts for family this year.

I invite you to join me and subscribe to my YouTube channel where I will share a video process of this ornament in a different color and pattern range on December 8th! While you are there you can view a video on a mixed-media Junque Fairy ornament.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment and your contact information spelled out {ie: youremail at service dot com} and I will be happy to respond.

Thank you for stopping by. Check back for more fun projects! :) Sb

Trim the Tree with Handmade Holiday Ornaments...

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 17:04:00 +0000

Hello creative friends! Handmade holiday gifts are my jam – especially ornaments. It's a tradition that I share with my Grandmother which has spread to other family members too. I am also into all sorts of art & crafts, sewing and of course, I just can't resist making ALL THE THINGS!

That being said, I am excited that my creative friend Janet invited me to be a part of a special handmade event where each day brings a new craft tutorial to follow along and make some new handmade holiday ornaments... the 12 Days of Christmas Ornaments!

+ + + + +

To visit all the stops for the 12 Days of Christmas Ornaments visit Janet at https://tryit-likeit.com/12-days-of-christmas-ornaments/

Here's the list of all the Ornament Makers in this bloghop:

Day 1 – Janet Trieschman: Fabric Ball Ornament
Day 2 – Donna Wirthlin: Santa Fabric Star
Day 3 – Natalie Shaw: Waterslide Decal Ornaments
** Day 4 – Susan M. Brown {sbartist}: Festive Paper House Ornament ** YOU ARE HERE
Day 5 – Michelle James: Old World Santa Ornaments
Day 6 – Julie Nyanyo: Felt and Button Stars
Day 7 – Christie Troxell: Pinecone Flowers Wood Slice
Day 8 – Gail Griffin: Bejeweled Decorative Ornament
Day 9 – Katie Adams: 3D Laser Cut Reindeer Ornament
Day 10 – Janet Trieschman: Alcohol ink Ornament
Day 11 – Terry Ricioli: Rustic Wood Slice Ornament
Day 12 – Janet Trieschman: Christmas Tree

Thanks for stopping by – I hope you enjoy creating along. Merry Christmas and Happy Making. I'd love to hear about what type of ornaments you like to make. :) Sb

Give Your Creative Business a Gift of Growth & Community

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 05:11:00 +0000

If you are looking for DAY FOUR of the 12 Ornaments of Christmas CLICK HERE.

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I am a member of The Craft Industry Alliance – a place to strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections.

The Craft Industry Alliance is a trusted source of industry information, small business advice, and community for craft professionals. Makers, designers, suppliers, shop owners, service providers, and content creators come together to grow their businesses and support each other in this unique trade organization. Membership includes: In-depth Courses; Discounts on Business Essentials; Business Resources; Community; Expert Training; Mastermind Groups and more!

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You can also give a Craft Industry Alliance membership as a gift —choose “Is this a gift?” at checkout.

*This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Thanks for visiting! :) Sb

NO-BAKE Gingerbread DIY Holiday DECOR... Day Four of the Gingerbread Crafts Hop

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:16:00 +0000

Welcome back creative friends!. It's DAY FOUR of the Gingerbread Crafts Hop and we're halfway there! Did you enjoy Janet's festive Shrink film earring tutorial? TODAY, Christie of @ritzy_parties is up on her INSTAGRAM acct sharing her take on the viral make of the season... and it's EASY-AS-PIE!

NO-BAKE Gingerbread Holiday DECOR!

Recycled cardboard boxes are magically transformed into a sugar coated row of holiday houses, fit for Candy Cane Lane.

The Gingerbread Crafts Hop is SIX days of crafty Christmas fun for everyone! November 10th through Saturday, November 15th myself along with my Creative Friends will share a gingerbread themed creation – every day filled with sugar, spice and EVERYthing NICE!

Follow along with us on INSTA to see some crafty inspiration! Please be sure to Like, Comment, Follow and Share the creative spirit!

Monday, November 10th – @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse
Tuesday, November 11th – @sassyeyedsusan Susan M. Brown {sbartist} **THAT'S ME**
Wednesday, November 12th – @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman
Thursday, November 13th – @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell
Friday, November 14th – @makeablecrafts Meg Daves
Saturday, November 15th — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

See you tomorrow for DAY FIVE... Meg will be sharing her Sweet Make with you tomorrow!!

;) Sb

No-Bake Holiday Earrings... Day Three of the Gingerbread Crafts Hop

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 01:00:00 +0000

Welcome to DAY THREE of the Gingerbread Crafts Hop! Did you enjoy Susan's hand-painted Gingerbread House ornament?! TODAY, Janet of @tryit2likeit is up on her INSTAGRAM acct sharing a fun & festive Shrink film gingerbread tutorial!

Make these SWEET Gingerbread Friends!

Shrink film gingerbread can be used for earrings, charms, or decoration. They are so fun to make.

The Gingerbread Crafts Hop is SIX days of crafty Christmas fun for everyone! November 10th through Saturday, November 15th myself along with my Creative Friends will share a gingerbread themed creation – every day filled with sugar, spice and EVERYthing NICE!

Follow along with us on INSTA to see some crafty inspiration! Please be sure to Like, Comment, Follow and Share the creative spirit!

Monday, November 10th – @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse
Tuesday, November 11th – @sassyeyedsusan Susan M. Brown {sbartist} **THAT'S ME**
Wednesday, November 12th – @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman
Thursday, November 13th – @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell
Friday, November 14th – @makeablecrafts Meg Daves
Saturday, November 15th — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

See you tomorrow for DAY FOUR... Christie will be sharing her Sweet Make with you tomorrow!!

;) Sb

Trimming the Tree with Handpainted Ornaments... Day 2 of the Gingerbread Crafts Hop

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 03:00:00 +0000

Welcome to DAY TWO of the Gingerbread Crafts Hop! Did you enjoy Jane's glittering Gingerbread House Cards?!

TODAY, I am sharing a tutorial over on my INSTAGRAM acct transforming a nearly vintage ceramic ornament blank found in my box of Holiday Goodness using DecoArt Glass Paints!

Handpainted Gingerbread Ornie Sneak Peek!

I'm so thrilled to have transformed this craft blank into a new ornament to hang on my tree with my collection of handmade pieces over the years. How do you decorate ceramic ornament blanks?

The Gingerbread Crafts Hop is SIX days of crafty Christmas fun for everyone! November 10th through Saturday, November 15th myself along with my Creative Friends will share a gingerbread themed creation – every day filled with sugar, spice and EVERYthing NICE!

Follow along with us on INSTA to see some crafty inspiration! Please be sure to Like, Comment, Follow and Share the creative spirit!

Monday, November 10th – @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse
Tuesday, November 11th – @sassyeyedsusan Susan M. Brown {sbartist} **THAT'S ME**
Wednesday, November 12th – @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman
Thursday, November 13th – @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell
Friday, November 14th – @makeablecrafts Meg Daves
Saturday, November 15th — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

See you tomorrow for DAY THREE... Janet will be sharing another Sweet Make with you tomorrow!!

;) Sb

All that Glitters in Gingerbread Land... Day one of Gingerbread Crafts Hop

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 01:30:00 +0000

Welcome to DAY ONE of the Gingerbread Crafts Hop! Today, Jane at @juanitascasita kicks it off the event… be sure to visit her INSTAGRAM acct to see what she's baking up in Gingerbread Land.

Glittering Gingerbread Sneak Peek!

The Gingerbread Crafts Hop is SIX days of crafty Christmas fun for everyone! November 10th through Saturday, November 15th myself along with my Creative Friends will share a gingerbread themed creation – every day filled with sugar, spice and EVERYthing NICE!

Follow along with us on INSTA to see some crafty inspiration! Please be sure to Like, Comment, Follow and Share the creative spirit!

Monday, November 10th – @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse
Tuesday, November 11th – @sassyeyedsusan Susan M. Brown {sbartist} **THAT'S ME**
Wednesday, November 12th – @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman
Thursday, November 13th – @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell
Friday, November 14th – @makeablecrafts Meg Daves
Saturday, November 15th — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

See you tomorrow for DAY TWO... I look forward to sharing a Sweet Make with you Tomorrow!!

;) Sb

A Cold Snap in November... brings Gingerbread Wishes!

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:48:00 +0000

Still enjoying all things PUMPKIN Spice?? It's time for a rare November cold snap in SOFL. It must be a daydream?!

Actually this time it's true... I'm counting the minutes and my Bumble Slippers are on standby, hot cocoa and marshmallows ready and the holiday music going because it's the most wonderful time of the year – Handmade Holidays! I love, love, LOVE making all the sparkly things and this year I am starting early thanks to my group of Creative Elves.

The Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl was so much fun – we're doing it again with Gingerbread Crafts! To get you excited for our SWEET Seasonal event I am doing with some Artsy Pals this week... enjoy this festive stamped card with a snarky twist.

YOU DO NOT want to miss

the kickoff of Crafting Season!

Our Gingerbread Crafts Hop is SIX days of crafty Christmas fun for everyone! Each day beginning Monday, November 10th through Saturday, November 15th myself along with my Creative Friends will share a gingerbread themed creation – every day filled with sugar, spice and EVERYthing NICE! My project will be revealed on DAY TWO, November 11th!

Follow along with us on INSTA to see some crafty inspiration!

Monday, November 10th – @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse
Tuesday, November 11th – @sassyeyedsusan Susan M. Brown {sbartist} **THAT'S ME**
Wednesday, November 12th – @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman
Thursday, November 13th – @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell
Friday, November 14th – @makeablecrafts Meg Daves
Saturday, November 15th — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

Monday Jane at @juanitascasita kicks it off the event… be sure to visit her INSTAGRAM acct to see what she's baking up in Gingerbread Land. I'll drop some reminders each day too!

Thanks for dropping by today. I look forward to sharing a creative week of Sweet Makes!!

;) Sb

BLACK MOON Masquerade... Day 5 of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 23:06:00 +0000

Welcome to the day FIVE of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!! Did you snag the Haunted House TREAT from Janet yesterday? If you just arrived today, be sure to go back and see all the fun! On Wednesday was a watercolor paint-a-long with Erna, Tuesday Jane shared Glittery Glam Haunted House Cards, and Christie Smashed Halloween on Monday!

Today I have an invitation for you... pop on over to MY INSTAGRAM acct @SassyEyedSusan – don't forget your mask!

Everyone is Invited!

Meet me at 9:00pm EDT – LIVE!

You are Cordially invited

to attend a

MASQUERADE UNDER the STARS

at Nine o’Clock EDT

on the Eve of the
BLACK MOON

• Handmade Masks Requested •

Location - on IG @SassyEyedSusan

Below is a list of the creatives that are joining me for this fabulous INSTAGRAM Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl – be sure to visit each day, enjoy the fun and leave a comment that I sent you!

Monday, 8/18 — @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell

Tuesday, 8/19 — @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse

Wednesday, 8/20 — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

Thursday, 8/21 — @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman

* Friday, 8/22 — @sassyeyedsusan (ME) Susan M. Brown {sbartist}

DAY 6 -- Saturday, 8/23 @makeablecrafts Meg Daves

See you tomorrow for day SIX of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl with Meg Daves!

;) Sb

Halloween TREATS for ALL... Day 4 of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 01:13:00 +0000

Welcome to the day Four of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!! Did you enjoy relaxing mixing watercolors painting a harvest moon scene with Erna yesterday? If you just arrived today, be sure to go back and see all the fun! On Tuesday Jane shared Glittery Glam Haunted House Cards, and Christie Smashed Halloween on Monday!

Today Janet with Try It - Like It - Create It brings the Halloween TREATS for everyone! Enjoy some spooky papercrafting fun with a FREEBIE to create with... an awesome layered Haunted House Diorama SVG file, just in time for Halloween paper crafting!

Download your FREE SVG right here:

https://tryit-likeit.com/halloween-diorama/

and let the crafting begin!

No tricks... pop on over to Janet's INSTAGRAM acct to see how quick and easy this lovely layered haunted house comes together!

Enjoy a Spooktacular Sneak PEEK!

Howl at the Moon with Haunted Delight!

Below is a list of the creatives that are joining me for this fabulous INSTAGRAM Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl – be sure to visit each day, enjoy the fun and leave a comment that I sent you!

Monday, 8/18 — @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell

Tuesday, 8/19 — @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse

Wednesday, 8/20 — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

Thursday, 8/21 — @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman

* Friday, 8/22 — @sassyeyedsusan (ME) Susan M. Brown {sbartist}

Saturday, 8/23 @makeablecrafts Meg Daves

See you tomorrow for day FIVE of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl with yours truly!

;)Sb

Over the Harvest Moon... Day 3 of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 03:18:00 +0000

Welcome to the day THREE of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!! What did you think of Jane's Glittery Glam Haunted House Cards and how would you make Christie's Smashing Halloween Treats?!

Today brings something a little different... and also relaxing – make a deliciously haunted painted watercolor scene with Erna at @ernavandyk.

Go grab your paints, some paper and just one brush and visit Erna's INSTAGRAM acct to see how to paint this Glamorous Witch flying over the Harvest Moon!

Go Batty with this Sneak PEEK!

Fly over to SEE ERNA Paint this Watercolor Scene!

Below is a list of the creatives that are joining me for this fabulous INSTAGRAM Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl – be sure to visit each day, enjoy the fun and leave a comment that I sent you!

Monday, 8/18 — @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell

Tuesday, 8/19 — @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse

Wednesday, 8/20 — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

Thursday, 8/21 — @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman

* Friday, 8/22 — @sassyeyedsusan (ME) Susan M. Brown {sbartist}

Saturday, 8/23 @makeablecrafts Meg Daves

See you tomorrow for day FOUR of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!

;)Sb

Houses of Haunted Delight... Day 2 of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 03:06:00 +0000

Welcome to the day TWO of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!! How did you like Christie's Smashing Halloween Treats?! Ready for more...

Today Jane at @JuanitasCasita shares a trio of Glittery Glam Haunted House Cards... pop over and visit INSTAGRAM acct to see what mysterious make she has in store for you!

Here's a Glam Sneak PEEK!

Houses of Haunted Delight! CLICK TO SEE MORE!

Below is a list of the creatives that are joining me for this fabulous INSTAGRAM Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl – be sure to visit each day, enjoy the fun and leave a comment that I sent you!

Monday, 8/18 — @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell

Tuesday, 8/19 — @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse

Wednesday, 8/20 — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

Thursday, 8/21 — @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman

Friday, 8/22 — @sassyeyedsusan (ME) Susan M. Brown {sbartist}

Saturday, 8/23 @makeablecrafts Meg Daves

See you tomorrow for day three of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!

;)Sb

It's a Graveyard SMASH... Day 1 of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 23:38:00 +0000

Welcome to the official kick-off of FALL and all the SpO🎃Ky things! Join me and my artsy, crafty creative friends for a Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!! Each day a different creative will share something ghoulishly awesome to get you inspired for the spooky season or maybe something fabulously for Fall. My project will be revealed on Friday, August 22nd!

Below is a list of the creatives that are joining me for this fabulous INSTAGRAM Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl – be sure to visit each day, enjoy the fun and leave a comment that I sent you!

Monday, 8/18 — @ritzy_parties Christie Troxell

Tuesday, 8/19 — @juanitascasita Jane Rudolfo Shouse

Wednesday, 8/20 — @ernavandyk Erna van Dyk

Thursday, 8/21 — @tryit2likeit Janet VanLone Trieschman

Friday, 8/22 — @sassyeyedsusan (ME) Susan M. Brown {sbartist}

Saturday, 8/23 @makeablecrafts Meg Daves

Today Christie at @ritzy_parties kicks it off the event… be sure to visit her INSTAGRAM acct to see what spooky secret craft she has in store for you!

Here's a Sweet Sneak PEEK!

It's a Graveyard Smash Party! CLICK TO SEE MORE!

See you tomorrow for another installment of the Fall-o'Ween Crafty Crawl!

;)Sb

Goodbye Summer - Hello Fall-o'Ween...

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 22:07:00 +0000

Summer is relentless in SOFL... seems like it never ends and this year it's blazing hot everywhere else too! Everyone is ready for cooler things like Fall + Halloween... all things pumpkin and spice. I love it! Gimme some googlie eyes, candy corn and some spooky fun crafty goodness and I am a happy camper.

I'm sharing a throwback card for Flashback Friday and to give everyone a heads up for a fun event I am doing with some Artsy Pals next week...

YOU DO NOT want to miss the OFFICIAL kickoff of Fall-o'Ween!

Thanks for dropping by today. Have creative weekend and I look forward to seeing you Monday and I'll tell you more about it!
:) Sb

12 Days of Christmas Cookies Bloghop RECAP -- Links to ALL RECIPES

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 13:07:00 +0000

SPECIAL THANKS to Janet at Try It Like It Create It for hosting this fabulously sweet bloghop! It was so fun and was just what I needed to get infused with all the feelz of the holiday spirit. We all have our 'standards' that we make every season... this fun event has given me a whole new myriad of cookies to add to the recipe box.

THANK YOU and many big virtual hugs go out to each baker for giving of you time and participation in sharing these HOLIDAY SWEET TREATS!

If you missed out on any of the days... here's a list of all the blogs linked to each days recipes. So you can refer back at your leisure. I can't wait to try them ALL! I am totally addicted to macarons from the local French Bakery – this is the recipe I will try first... so I can have a whole platter JUST FOR ME!!

WHICH RECIPE IS YOUR FAVORITE?

All the recipes in the 12 Days of Christmas Cookies 2024 Bloghop:
December 1 – Birds of a Feather: Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe
December 2 – Tales of Belle: Danish Pebernødder Cookies
December 3 – Jenron Designs: Movie Night Toffee Pretzel & Popcorn Cookies
December 4 – Sum of their Stores: Chocolate Orange Porridge Oat Cookies
December 5 – Esme Salon: Easy and Fun French Macarons Recipe!
December 6 – Our Hopeful Home: Belgian Butter Waffle Caramel Sandwich Cookies
December 7 – Purple Hues and Me: Christmas Light Bulb Cookies
December 8 – Rose Bakes: M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies
December 9 – sbartist : painting in the dark: {yours truly} Sugar Balls
December 10 – Get Inspired by Faith: No-Bake Candycane Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
December 11 – Jupiter Hadley: Chewy Lemon Cookies
December 12 – Save Money Fever: Piped Butter Cookies

I'd love to hear what you are baking for the season.
I'm having fun baking batches of sugar balls with the different nuts that I have on hand in the pantry! :) Sb

Baking Tasty Ornamental Treats... 12 Days of Christmas Cookies Bloghop

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome to my blog and to the Ninth Day of the 12 Days of Christmas Cookies Bloghop!

My name is Susan and I am thrilled that my dear creative friend Janet invited me to be a part of this special baking bloghop. I love to bake, art, craft, sew and make ALL THE THINGS (like my handmade Scoutie Elf claiming today's bake).

I'm sharing one of my favorite family Christmas Cookie recipes – Sugar Balls. Colored in glistening sugars - these bite sized treats look like ornaments! I don't know how long this recipe has been passed down in my family, I just have a cherished handwritten recipe on an index card from my grandmother (along with about a dozen others). These hand-written cards are cherished and bring back so many childhood memories each year when the holidays roll around.

These cookies are colorful, quick and easy to make and don't require eggs or dairy. Grab some extra tiny hands to help and lets get baking!

SUGAR BALLS

Cream thoroughly —
1 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup sifted, confectioners sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla

Stir in 1 tablespoon water

Add in 2 cups sifted flour & mix well

Stir in 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or your choice)

Shape dough into 1" balls & roll some in red sugar, some in green

Bake 1" apart on an ungreased cookie sheet at 300° for 20 minutes or until firm to touch.

Cool thoroughly before removing from pan

Yield - 4 dozen

This is a super easy recipe and requires little prep work. Gather ingredients and follow along...

Feel free to use your choice of nuts. For the red & green versions, I used chopped pecans. For the second batch (lime green and purple), I tried pistachios. I had to toast these first as they were raw & unsalted.

Creme confectioners sugar with butter, then combine vanilla and water.

Next add sifted flour.

Combine flour into creamed sugar mixture thoroughly.

Completed dough before adding nuts. Feel free to try with whatever nuts you prefer. I used pecans here and also tried pistachios because I happened to have some for use in crusting fish. After you make the basic dough, feel free to select your favorite nuts and colored sugar.

Mix nuts into dough. I'm added chopped toasted pistachios here.

Combine thoroughly to ensure even nut distribution. This dough can be made ahead of time and chilled.

Since I don't have any extra hands to help, I find it helpful to divide dough and roll into long 1" rolls then slice about 1" segments that easily roll into balls. The 1 inch size makes the perfect one bite cookie.

Roll some in green sugar.

Roll some in red sugar.

I also tried some rolled in this lovely vintage sugar I scored at my local "Fresh Market". I was surprised that the thicker grain of sugar held up in baking and didn't melt all over the pan.

Bake at 300º for 20 minutes or firm to touch. They keep shape very nicely. Be sure to let them cool completely before removing from pan or the cookies might crumble when you pick them up. When cooled, the sugar makes a nice crispy shell for the nutty goodness inside.

For the pistachio batch, I tried some other fun colored sugar I have in the pantry – lime green and purple.

Batch number two in the oven!

After baking. the purple sugar didn't change color or brown when baked – these are so pretty!

I gently sliced one in half just so you can see the inside. These lovelies are meant to be enjoyed in one bite.

The bottom of cookie (at top) has a bit of the colors melted together.

When cooled the cookies are ready to enjoy! I have placed each cookie in a decorative mini muffin liner ready to serve on a platter or pack into gift tins. These certainly are a treat any time of year.

Shhhhhh! The pistachio batch is staying with me! I'm looking forward to trying other combinations – leave me a comment with your suggestions!

+ + + + +

To visit all the stops on the hop visit Janet at https://tryit-likeit.com/12-days-of-cookies

Here's the list of all the recipes in this bloghop:
December 1 – Birds of a Feather: Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe
December 2 – Tales of Belle: Danish Pebernødder Cookies
December 3 – Jenron Designs: Movie Night Toffee Pretzel & Popcorn Cookies
December 4 – Sum of their Stores: Chocolate Orange Porridge Oat Cookies
December 5 – Esme Salon: Easy and Fun French Macarons Recipe!
December 6 – Our Hopeful Home: Belgian Butter Waffle Caramel Sandwich Cookies
December 7 – Purple Hues and Me: Christmas Light Bulb Cookies
December 8 – Rose Bakes: M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies
December 9 – sbartist : painting in the dark: {you are here} Sugar Balls
December 10 – Get Inspired by Faith: No-Bake Candycane Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
December 11 – Jupiter Hadley: Chewy Lemon Cookies
December 12 – Save Money Fever: Piped Butter Cookies

Thanks for stopping by – I hope you enjoy this recipe. Merry Christmas and Happy Baking :) Sb

And all of a sudden… it’s December

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 12:43:00 +0000

Hello creative friends! Blogging is like riding a bike, right?! Don't know where the time has gone and I can't believe its December! It's been a whirlwind of a year... and a doozie of a hurr-i-cane season. The past week was eventful, jam packed and I got ALL the things accomplished (work included).

I have lots of exciting things coming up to share! November concluded with my delivery of 14 pieces to an exhibition which is on display December 1 through January 3 at the Plunge Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale.

If you look close you can see some of my 16" x 20" framed photos lined up along the bar. A fun-fact... I cut ALL my own mats! I got myself a tool to do it back in the day when I had a studio. Cutting mats is a labor of love – yet so rewarding to have everything fit to size with a pretty beveled edge. PUH-lease don't get me started on the warped mat board I got from M-store that made this process so much more challenging to cut. I soldiered on and muscled the curved board into the frames. Everything looks beautiful!! I am especially excited to debut a NEW SERIES of photographic works using Cyanotype process. No sneak peeks yet, but I promise I will share soon.

Plunge is a low-key, laid-back seaside retreat for chic bohemians and beach lovers alike. It has a modern, open industrial style lobby that is ALL about the LOCAL artists. Every month has a new exhibition and works are for sale - at any time! The exhibitions rotate every 3-4 weeks throughout the year. I was part of a group exhibition last November with the Weston Art Guild, where I had two photos displayed. I try to get over to see each one and treat myself to lunch or dinner at their beach bar.

If you are LOCAL to me in SoFL – all are invited to the free open house reception on Wednesday, December 18th. Two artists (Tammy and Maria) are friends from the Gold Coast Watercolor Society (yes I am painting again), and I look forward to meeting and seeing the work of the other two artists.

Looking forward to the event! And if you are following me on IG { @sassyeyedsusan } I will post some pix there and if connectivity allows, I'll try to go live.

Oh... I almost forgot. It is now COOKIE SEASON! I am part of the 12 Days of Christmas Cookies Bloghop. Pop over to Try-It, Like It for the details. My recipe is on Day 9!

Happy December! :) Sb

Small things Bright and Beautiful... StencilGirl® Zine Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Hello friends! It's a new season and though it's been awhile... I'm still creating! This has been a year of putting family and home first, and getting back to painting. I have lots to catch up on in the coming days and weeks.

Today I am excited to share the "StencilGirl® Zine Challenge"... a new collaboration project in which Tina Walker posed the challenge to create a one-sheet ZINE using StencilGirl® Stencils. These collab projects are fun and really stretch my creative muscles!!

For this challenge I used things that end up in my purse and pockets... the tags with quotes from my daily cup of tea. My ZINE is fashioned from a recycled ledger paper folded to ATC size (2 1/2" x 3 1/2"), which is the perfect size and scale to properly showcase these tags. My ZINE of "Wise Words from the Tea Leaves" is made using my stash of StencilGirl® ATC stencils.

This is the inspiration we were provided for this Zine Challenge. With a simple sheet of letter size paper folded following the illustration, a mini book is created. Size it up or down, this format can be arted up in a zillion ways!

I think this will be really interesting out of a large sheet of painted up watercolor paper, but for this challenge I am working small so I can use some of my stash of StencilGirl® ATC stencils that I've never used. I love to make "Artist Trading Cards" (ATCs) for trading with artsy friends. This small art is sized at 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" and making a book using this sizing proved to be quite fun!

I let the muse rule here and she always goes for the "one touch rule"... using things that I have picked up on search for other things. My base is a sheet of ledger paper on the table leftover from an altered composition book project. An interesting choice – OK why not?!

The paper is slightly larger than letter size. I want my end result to yield ATC size pages so I do a few measurements and tear edges down to size. I want to stencil black on this greenish paper, though it is a bit thin. I'm concerned about bleed-through on this old paper. The way the paper folds to create the zine I won't be utilizing the back of sheet when folded down. I applied a light coat of black gesso to the back with an old hotel key card. Sorry no photo, I spilled my black gesso and had a mopup painting emergency. I'm happy to report that no paint went to waste! LOL!

With paper dry and reinforced, I followed the zine folding steps and went over folds with a bone folder to make them nice and sharp. Since my outer edges were torn, I also tore the center where the diagram says to cut. Fold down a quick and easy book!

Follow along as I share how I built up the layers on this spread in my Zine...

Overall I stenciled with Vicky Boutin Gold stencil paste using StencilGirl® L763 -- ATC Mixup NASSER

Wow!!! I love the shine and contrast on the ledger paper.

Next I pounce blue acrylic through this wonky squares pattern on StencilGirl® stencil L543 -- ATC MIxup 1

Now we're getting somewhere!

Loving this but I'm about to go crazy...

Grabbing what is on the table, I used a cheap office store brand glue stick through the star pattern on StencilGirl® L657 -- ATC Mixup DUBE

I am using a fun and messy technique – a glue stick resist. First, I apply glue stick through stencil, let dry. Then I apply a layer of black acrylic over the top. While wet, gently wipe paint away in a circular fashion to remove the glue stick with the excess paint to reveal the lovely layers below.

This glue stick didn't mask everything like I had expected but the effect is pretty exciting! I go back with some pens and markers to complete and add some more stars. Next time I will get out my "art project" assigned glue stick, not the cheap gooey one for sealing envelopes.

I attach the tag, finish the final details with scribbles and pens. This page is the perfect backdrop for this tea tag wisdom.

"BRIGHT and BEAUTIFUL"

Completed spread.

Detail of tea bag tag quote...
"The universe is withing you. Bright and beautiful."

An inspiration worthy of being a mantra.

I love the size and scale of my Zine and it fits nice in the pocket of my purse. I am enjoying making additional volumes of this to use more of my tea bag tag quotes. I have a whole baggie of them that need a home.

StencilGirl® Stencils Used :

L763 -- ATC Mixup NASSER

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencil-ATC-Mixup-Mary-c-Nasser-p/l763.htm

L657 -- ATC Mixup DUBE

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencil-ATC-Mixup-Dube-Carolyn-Dube-p/l657.htm

L543 -- ATC MIxup 1

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencil-ATC-Mixup-1-Mary-Beth-Shaw-p/l543.htm

+ + + + + + + + +

I hope you enjoyed this project. How would you create your own ZINE? CLICK HERE to jump over to see the other zines made for the "StencilGirl® Zine Challenge".

Thanks for dropping by! :) Sb

Let your #Cre8time Fly... Gina K. Designs and Designer Crafts Connection Bloghop

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 03:08:00 +0000

Greetings everyone! Today I am joining the creatives with the Designer Crafts Connection in getting inky for a new bloghop featuring projects made with Gina K. Designs stamps and die-cut ephemera.

Gina K. Designs carries the highest quality stamps, ink, cardstock, dies, stencils and more! Everything coordinates beautifully so you can start creating right away... inspiring with great ideas for paper crafting success!

I love to customize a plain composition book and collage with lovely papers, stamps and ephemera. I was provided with these beautiful Gina K. Designs ephemera watercolor floral die-cuts and butterfly "Never Lose Hope" stamps which are perfect to decorate a new inspiration journal.

Supplies: Blank composition book; scissors, glue stick, black Staz-On ink; misc patterned paper and ledger paper; vellum paper; coordinating lace and ribbon; paintbrush; Ranger Old Paper Distress Oxide; double sided adhesive tape; Gina K. Designs butterfly "Never Lose Hope" stamps and ephemera watercolor floral die cuts.

Using Staz-On black ink, stamp many butterflies onto vellum and ledger paper.

Look at all the flowery goodness here in the ephemera watercolor floral die-cut package!

Before gluing down floral pieces, I quickly antiqued with Ranger Old Paper Distress Oxide applied with a brush.

With just a quick brushing of ink, the die cut pieces look aged with bright colors and whites toned down.

Covering a journal is really straightforward. Trace around the cover onto the back of a patterned paper which is a nice cream with some sparkle detail (pretty sure this was leftover from something Christmas themed). I cut on the traced line and apply a liberal slathering of glue stick to the cover, then press paper onto the cover. Easy-peasy!

Fussy cut out all of the butterflies. I enjoy cutting out a pile of hand-stamped images.

Now I'm ready to grab the glue stick and apply things to the prepared journal.

The combination of the black ink on ledger paper with the antiqued florals give a shabby-chic feel.

I slightly overlap floral pieces and leaves to create depth.

I finish the edge of journal with a piece of lace layered with a tri-color ribbon adhered with double-sided adhesive. This ties everything together to complete my journal redux.

Shabby-Chic Journal takes flight!

With just a few supplies, I have transformed a plain composition book to something that looks like those sold at the bookstore.

The sparkle detail on the paper adds a bit of bling to the neutral colors.

I love the neutral colors with just a pop of color in the florals. This journal is ready to be filled with creative ideas and inspiration from my daily travels.

CLICK HERE to jump over to the Designer Crafts Connection blog to view more projects using Gina K. Designs Bloghop.

For more info on Gina K. Designs Products, project inspiration and to purchase visit Gina K. Designs website HERE.

Thanks so much for visiting! What would create with Gina K. Designs? Sb :)

** This is a sponsored post. Gina K. Designs, LLC provided products for use in this project in exchange for my creative ideas, views and opinions. My ideas and opinions are my own.

Pinch Me... I'm ShamROCKin' a DIY Ribbon Rosette #NationalCraftMonth

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 12:57:00 +0000

Hello friends... March is National Crafts Month and St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner! Today I'm sharing a quick and easy ribbon rosette project that is perfect for pinning on the winning float at the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade!

For this project I gather a few supplies: gold oly*fun® metallic fabric, scrap of green cardstock, scissors, paper trimmer, hot glue, Scor-Pal®, double-sided adhesive sheets; and fun Irish themed button flair, embellishments and stickers from my fav dollar store.

I have these pins from the dollar store in my crafty stash that would be perfect to transform into ribbon rosettes using gold metallic oly*fun® -- a fun reflective fabric that adds the perfect amount sparkle & shine to cardmaking and other craft projects!!

To make fabric a bit stiffer to fold and hold shape, I mount to green cardstock.

On a scrap of 6" x 9" green cardstock, I placed a cut-to-size section of double-sided adhesive sheet, removed backing, then mounted piece gold oly*fun® and trimmed back the edges.

Following pattern for making rosettes using my Scor-Pal®, I scored both sides of the paper-backed fabric to create peaks and valleys at 1/2" increments.

I divide this scored sheet into three, 2" sections, With some double sided tape, I joined the three sections together into one long strip. Fold back and forth on score lines to make the accordions. When shaped this will make a large rosette to set off my 3" button!

Now the fun begins! Shape the according into a circle and glue in place. It seems to take about 4 hands to form and hold a rosette down to secure, but once you do it a time or two it's pretty easy. For this I apply a ring of hot glue around the edge in the center and placed a faux gold coin on top... Ta-DA! Hold coin in place until glue cools and it is secure then repeat on other side.

I fashion a ribbon tail out of another section of oly*fun® backed cardstock, a smaller section popped up on chipboard cut on my guillotine paper cutter... easy-peasy! Glue the feature button pinback onto the front of the rosette, and added some fun foamy & glittery shamrock stickers to finish things off. Place a sticky back wall hook on the back upside-down and it's ready to hang on the winning float!

I just love the shimmer and shine of the metallic oly*fun®! I can't wait to be ShamROCKin' this over to award to my favorite float at the St. Patrick's Day Parade!

A ShamROCKin' Award....

What are you creating during National Crafts Month?! I'm enjoying the art of cut paper and glue over at the Collage-Lab SPRING FLING Virtual Retreat... you can still join the fun -- all classes are accessible until December 2022.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great day! Clover on over to the Designer Crafts Connection blog for more fun craft ideas!

Happy creating! :) Sb

The Countdown is ON! Join me at #CollageLabSpringFling

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 13:10:00 +0000

Hello friends! Who's ready for a vacation?! I am so excited that we are just 14 days away from Collage-Lab's SPRING FLING Virtual Retreat where will be teaching my first virtual workshop "Fabulous FAUX Leather".

Join me on a Safari in making faux backgrounds! In my workshop, I will teach you three easy “Fabulous FAUX Leather” techniques that have really dramatic results using recycled packing paper, newsprint and a few craft supplies you have on hand… the results will amaze you! Get ready to have fun getting messy!

I invite YOU to join me for a month of COLLAGE-FUN at Collage-Lab's SPRING FLING Virtual Retreat! Grab some scissors, a glue stick and a pile of your paper scraps, magazine clippings & ephemera and join me!

The BEST part you can join from wherever you are...

EVERYONE is invited to join the fun!

Join myself and 14 artists from across the globe at

the Collage-Lab SPRING FLING Virtual Retreat!
It all begins March 1st, 2022.

Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday and focus on mixed-media collage for a bit. For the entire month of March 2022, Collage-Lab will bring you a variety of full-length recorded classes, Zoom gatherings, and a whole assortment of collage projects and techniques.

Treat yourself to a gift while supporting
your artist community... a WIN-WIN!

Limited spaces remain for only $100 – The Classroom and Private Retreat FB Group are now open to join the fun... there are even some surprise bonuses! SIGN UP TODAY to enjoy this unique Mixed Media Collage Retreat from the comfort of your own home or studio.

For all the details CLICK HERE.

Full Disclosure: the Collage-Lab SPRING FLING Virtual Retreat pays its instructors. By using my affiliate link, bit.ly/SpringFling_withSB to sign up, I will receive a small commission which goes towards continuing my efforts to bring creative inspiration to you for FREE here in webland. I am so grateful to all of you for supporting me and my creative adventures.

I hope to see you there! It will be so much fun!

Sending you all many {{ BIG Crafty HUGS }}
:) Sb

Shine... StencilGirl® Self Portrait Collaborative

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Hello friends! 2022 is underway and today I am excited to share a new StencilGirl® collaborative project -- the "StencilGirl® Self Portrait Collaboration"... a project in which we were challenged to draw/stencil/paint a self portrait using StencilGirl® Stencils.

https://www.stencilgirltalk.com/2022/01/stencilgirl-self-portrait-collaboration.html

I am inspired by so many artists and art journal styles. I recently celebrated a milestone birthday -- a perfect reason for a new spread in my Ranger art journal. I opened the book to this spread that had blue paint rubbed all over from a previous art adventure.

For my thirtieth birthday, my hubs and I traveled to NYC for a bucket list road trip. We saved up all year to attend the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Along with the parade we squeezed in as much of NYC as we could in the weekend, ending with our last night staying at the Plaza Hotel. In seeing the sights walking around Central Park, we came across an artist who was set up drawing portraits in pencil and chalk right on the sidewalk. I watched him work in amazement and sat with him to have my portrait done to document my milestone birthday.

Portraits have always been a challenge for me, and self-portraits just turn up the stress level. This project was certainly a challenge, and I am happy to have used this challenge to document this time in my life. Out of all the collab projects I have joined, this one is by far my favorite!!

Nestled in my book is this hand-cut self portrait stencil that I made many moons ago at my LSS for a "Creative Jumpstart Meetup" where we created these inspired by Natalie Kalbach's CJS episode that featured this technique.

Even in this simplified format, this was a challenge. I have never used this stencil. I find it interesting how serendipitous artful opportunities present themselves.

Follow along as I share how I built up the layers.

I get out my big bin of Grumbacher Academy Acrylic paints and apply Yellow Ochre and Thalo® Yellow Green using a recycled key card.

Then added some Turquoise Green. I love how buttery

and creamy the Grumbacher Acrylics paints are.

With a base of color, I begin stenciling. Using a triangle sponge applicator, I pounce Payne's Gray through StencilGirl® L517 Shaw -- Triangle Transitions 2 Stencil.

I continue covering the entire right side page.

On the bottom left side page I apply the Payne's Gray through my handmade self-portrait...

Then continue the Triangle Transitions stencil background around the face.

I applied StencilGirl® M058 Apter -- Stencil Square Urban Insiders Stencil over the right eye.

Now its time for adding flowing locks of hair in Dioxazine Purple pounced through the StencilGirl® S321 Stegmiller -- Whimsical Waves Stencil.

I applied some Thalo® Gold across the top of the pages to shape around the hair then pounced over a mixture of Unbleached Titanium White and Titanium White through the StencilGirl® S681 Walker -- Gaol Doorways Stencil making a repeating pattern.

Using markers and Stabilo pencils, I added some detail

to shape the edge of the curls and waves in the hair.

It's really coming along. Now to add detail and color to finish off the face.

Using pencils and some washes of paint and Stabilo pencils, I drew in the features on the left side of face, nose and lips. I drew in the word SHINE with marker within the right eye and added color with markers to bring out the rays.

"SHINE"

Completed spread.

Detail of face.

Detail of hair and hand-drawn waves.

Sprinkling of layered stars using StencilGirl® S497 Kerr -- Starlight Starbright Stencil.

I added jewels to neck using StencilGirl® S735 Walker -- Stone Statue Small Stencil with Alizarin Crimson.

I love how the background is full of texture. It brings together my favorite colors and the stenciled patterns resemble how I see things through my mind's eye.

StencilGirl® Stencils Used :

M058 Apter -- Stencil Square Urban Insiders

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencil-square-urban-insiders-seth-apter-p/m058.htm

S321 Stegmiller -- Whimsical Waves Stencil

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencil-whimsical-waves-terri-stegmiller-p/s321.htm

S681 Walker -- Gaol Doorways Stencil

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencil-Gaol-Doorways-Tina-Walker-p/s681.htm

S497 Kerr -- Starlight Starbright Stencil

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencil-starlight-starbright-cat-kerr-p/s497.htm

S735 Walker -- Stone Statue Small

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencil-Stone-Statue-Small-Tina-Walker-p/s735.htm

L517 Shaw -- Triangle Transitions 2 Stencil

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencil-triangle-transitions-2-mary-beth-shaw-p/l517.htm

+ + + + + + + + +

I hope you enjoyed this project. How would you use stencils to create your self portrait? CLICK HERE to jump over to see the other portraits made for the "StencilGirl® Self Portrait Collaboration".

+ + + + + + + + +

Have you heard?! I'm teaching at Collage-Lab's SPRING FLING Virtual Retreat! Join myself and 14 artists from across the globe, for 20 hours of instruction, Zoom gatherings, and an assortment of collage projects and techniques. Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday and focus on mixed media collage techniques from the comfort of your home studio! The fun begins March 1st, 2022. For all the details visit: bit.ly/SpringFling_withSB.

Thanks for dropping by! :) Sb

Join me for some #Cre8time Playtime...

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Sun, 16 Jan 2022 14:47:00 +0000

Hello creative friends! Monday is MLK Observed Holiday for us here in the US. If you are home for the day and looking for some creative fun – grab some scissors, glue and a pile of your fav paper scraps and join me Monday, January 17th at 1pm CDT (Chicago time) for a FREE Collage-Lab Play Date!

This is held via ZOOM so head over and register here...

please tell them Susan sent you ;)

https://www.collage-lab.com/product/collage-play-date-january-17-spring-fling-bonus/

See you tomorrow! Sb :)

Fit to be TAGGED... Artesprix® Sublimation Bloghop

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Greetings everyone! Today I am here to answer the age-old question... CLEAN or DIRTY?! Today I am joining the creatives with the Designer Crafts Connection for a new fun bloghop featuring projects made with Artesprix® Sublimation Markers and blanks.

I shared a bookmark project using Artesprix® back in October... and I am so excited to share how I use these tags with iron-on-inks to creatively solve a problem presented by my husband!

What are Artesprix® Sublimation markers? Artesprix® markers have a specially formulated ink that transforms anything colored on plain copy paper into a heat-transferrable iron-on design onto polyester items. With the magical Artesprix® Sublimation Markers and plain paper and some fun type I reversed on the computer I am making a custom tag for my dishwasher.

Materials used: Plain Copy Paper; Pencil; Artesprix® Sublimation Markers; Artesprix® Heat Tape; Artesprix® Protective Paper Roll; Artesprix® Project Mat; Artesprix® Plastic Bag Tags 2ct; Graphite tracing sheet; reversed computer text; Artesprix® Sublimation Stamp ink refill; clear self adhesive hanger; and a Heat source -- Cricut Easy-Press.

First thing I make some reversed type to spell out "clean" and "dirty" using some fun fonts to size and scale of the tag blank and print onto plain paper.

I place tag blank into center of a half sheet of plain copy paper and trace around tag blank using a pencil. This will be for the "clean" side artwork.

For the "clean" art, I made a cloud bubble around the word and lines to make rays. I could have free-handed drawn these, but since I was using the computer, I added them to the text. I placed reverse text over a sheet of graphite tracing paper (same as pencil lead) and transferred the design to prepared sheet with blank outlined. Pencil will not transfer onto Artespix® blanks.

I have fun coloring in the design with Artesprix® Sublimation Markers. I selected a couple of blue colors.

The complete colored design. Inside the cloud I used a watercolor technique to apply the pen ink with a water brush to soften color and add a bit of dimension. I can't wait to see how the color POPs when this is heat transferred!

I followed the same process to trace the word "dirty" onto a pre-prepared colored paper.

This background took a bit of experimentation and I did not know how this would come out so I did not capture the process. I promise will share process of this in another project post. With some time and patience, I did get a couple papers that looked promising and I traced the tag shape onto one and centered the word within the lines.

Outline and fill in the letters using the Black fine tip Sublimation marker.

Now I'm ready to heat things up and make some magic!

I select a clear plastic hook that works with the size of the hole of the tag and set aside for later.

Set my Cricut Easy Press to 400º for sixty seconds following the Artesprix® directions for tag blanks.

Place tag blank face down onto artwork and secure with Artesprix® heat tape.

Tear two sheets of Artesprix® Protective Paper, prepare a sublimation sandwich on top of the Artesprix® Project Mat. The blank with artwork taped in place are sandwiched between protective paper on top and bottom.

Heat for 60 seconds and then take a peek test to see if transfer is complete. Good to go!

Full reveal of "Dirty" side of tag! I LOVE IT!! I let this cool completely, then repeat the process to transfer "CLEAN" art on the other side.

I place the backside of tag down over the "clean" art, tape in place and repeat the heat transfer process.

After applying heat - take a peek before removing tape.

VOILA!! Look at that - so cool. I've transferred a completely different design onto the backside using the same products and process – just changing up the design and colors.

I place the a clear self-adhesive hook in the center of the dishwasher door. Its the perfect size to hold the sign!

I turn the tag sideways to loop the hook... easy-peasy!

TA-DA!!

This is going to work GREAT! No more accidental double washing LOL!

Now to solve the next burning question... utensils UP or utensils down?! I like my utensils clean so I put them UP.

This is totally FUNctional – my husband and I will now be able to remember if we turned the dishes on or not.

CLICK HERE to jump over to the beginning of the Artesprix® Sublimation Bloghop at the Designer Crafts Connection blog to view more projects using Artesprix®.

For more info on Artesprix® Products, project inspiration and to purchase these magical iron-on-ink pens, visit Artesprix® website HERE.

Thanks so much for visiting! What would create with Artesprix® Sublimation Markers? Sb :)

** This is a sponsored post. Artesprix® provided products for use in this project in exchange for my creative ideas, views and opinions. My ideas and opinions are my own.

Great News!!! I'm TEACHING at the #collagelabspringfling

noreply@blogger.com (Susan M. Brown {sbartist}) — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 00:19:00 +0000

Keep calm and put the bacon on! Hello friends! The time is finally here and I am so excited and thrilled to tell you the NEWS!! I've kept this post brief, so please read to the end. This is my first EVER announcement of this kind and I am bringing it to YOU, my blog readers first. XOXOXO

It's a rare occurrence that someone catches me in a photo. This one surely speaks for itself! I have a new workshop that I am teaching... and I invite YOU. Grab some scissors, a glue stick and a pile of your paper scraps, magazine clippings & ephemera and join me!

While in-person engagements are still limited, the magic of technology has made it possible for me to teach online -- and I have been invited to teach at Collage-Lab's SPRING FLING Virtual Retreat!

The BEST part is EVERYONE is invited to join the fun!

Join myself and 14 artists from across the globe at

the Collage-Lab SPRING FLING Virtual Retreat!
It all begins March 1st, 2022.

Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday and focus on mixed media collage for a bit. For the entire month of March 2022, Collage-Lab will bring you a variety of online classes, Zoom gatherings, and a whole assortment of collage projects and techniques.

Treat yourself to a gift while supporting
your artist community... a WIN-WIN!

SIGN UP TODAY for the low Early Bird Price of $100 and unlock all of the adventures of this unique Mixed Media Collage Retreat from the comfort of your own home or studio.

For all the details CLICK HERE.

I hope you will sign up and join me! It will be the best gift ever!

Sending you all many {{ BIG Crafty HUGS }}
:) Sb