The Land of Lost Luggage

New Website is Up!

2011-08-24T08:33:00.000-07:00

Hello! This is an old dusty blog...please stop by the new fancy place and enter to win free stuff! Set your feed to:

http://julieprichard.squarespace.com/blog/

I am there several times every week. See you then!

Editor's note:

2007-12-18T16:13:00.000-08:00

Please visit us at our new location by clicking here. If you are linking to us, please do not forget to edit your link. For the meantime, we will continue to operate our Review Blog at it's current address.

Merry Christmas!

Mark your calendars.....

2007-12-14T20:28:00.000-08:00

One more thing before I go....save the date! I'll be kicking off my new blog with lots of fun, games and the first ever Luggage Blog Sweepstakes!! We'll kick off the new year with some SWEET prizes! Come back on 12/31 for the new blog address. See you then!

Orange Crush

2007-12-12T21:53:00.001-08:00

Dear Readers,

There is big news to report today from Luggage World. As most of you know, our home has been on the market since the beginning of May. Out of the blue, we received a “nice” offer last month in which the buyers asked for 30 day escrow. We took the deal. My family and I will be moving to my home town, San Diego, California at the end of next week.

Sadly, I have had to quit the job I just started; happily, the Carry-On will be able to grow up in America’s Finest City! My husband and I have been waiting for this moment for several years. It is a miracle for it to be finally coming to fruition.

Things are pretty hectic around here, as you can imagine. We’ve lived in Orange County since 1998. I am very very happy to be moving out from under the orange curtain. San Diego is a very different city than where I live now. We’ll be moving into an apartment where we can comfortably wait for our next permanent address to become available. We’re taking our time to find a great house.

With our relocation comes the changing of not only my physical address, but my email address, and other various URL’s that make The Land of Lost Luggage what it is today. The current blog will be up and running , but things will start to look a little different as my URL’s disappear. Having said that, I am happy to report that I will be opening a new blog on December 31, 2007- New Year’s Eve. I hope that you will continue to visit me at my new Typepad address! I will post the address as soon as it is available.

This year has been amazing! Over 40,000 blog hits since February! I love you all so much and I am so happy that you visit. I’ll disappear for a few days, but I’ll be back to reading your feeds in a week or so. I hope that you will find me again!

I wish you all a very wonderful holiday!

Love,
Julie

No Relation

2007-12-12T12:28:00.000-08:00

The sister page to "four love" which I posted yeterday. Yesterday I had the pleasure of meeting Laura at the park in our neighborhood! We had a great time. Hi Laura!

See you guys tomorrow!

Four Love

2007-12-11T07:57:00.000-08:00

Somtimes the pages don't have any hand written journaling. I don't think they all need to have journaling. I don't think it takes away anything from the page....the feelings are still visible. Have a good Tuesday!

be still

2007-12-10T08:28:00.000-08:00

Well well...I am ready to mail out my "pay-it-forward" projects, just waiting for some stamps. I am not making Christmas Cards this year. I am taking a break. Please don't feel sad if you don't get a holday card from me.

I've been getting a lot of questions about my art journal. I named the book "Color Binge". Every day, while the Carry-On is eating breakfast, I hastily slop paper and paint together to make a page. I usually write the journaling later in the day or when something hits me. It's never really planned. I just go for it. I highly recommend this process...it is very liberating not to have to make something for someone else to purchase...or not towards a challenge. It is "raw Luggage". I am glad you like it! It makes me so happy to read all of your comments and it keeps me going! Afterall, there will end up being 120 pages in Color Binge once it is finished! Baby steps... have a nice Monday!

I know about fish...

2007-12-09T08:18:00.001-08:00

Andrea's journaling prompt this week was "What I know about fishing". This is what I came up with. Hope it still counts! See you tomorrow, I am off to work.

I heart Yo Gabba Gabba

2007-12-08T11:57:00.000-08:00

I've been hooked on this television show since I started to see the previews last summer. "Life Lessons With a Beat" was the catch line...I marked our calendar because I had a 'feeling" about this show.

I was so bored with the run of the mill cartoons that the Carry-On was watching...as soon as I saw the brightly orange clad DJ Lance Rock, I knew this was going to be something huge!

Fast forward- we've watched every episode over and over and the Carry-On and I activly particpate in every dance! It's Aweeeessssoommmme!

Here is a link to the Yo Gabba Gabba blog...which if you have kiddos of your own, you should totally watch! Even more inspiring the story of how the show came to be and a lesson to all about the work and dedication it takes to be great!

The minute the merchandise became available I ordered the Carry-On her faborite character "Toodee". The doll looks amazing and I can't wait to see her unwrap it!

Ignite!

2007-12-08T08:18:00.000-08:00

Inspired solely by the random page I tore out of the dictionary. I love it when that happens. Have a good Saturday!

Sarah- please contact me!

2007-12-07T19:03:00.000-08:00

If your name is "sarah" and you signed up for my pay-it-forward giveaway, please email me. I left a comment on your blog days ago and have not received your response. Fair notice, if I don't hear from you by Monday...I have to pay-it-forward to another reader!

Stay True

2007-12-07T10:04:00.000-08:00

It feels really good to be home today with nothing on the agenda. The best part is that we've got empty schedules tomorrow as well! I am looking forward to getting some painting done. I hope you have a great day too! TGIF!

Ruuuhhnnnnn Foooreessstttt...Ruuuuhhnnn!

2007-12-06T10:28:00.001-08:00

I am exhausted. The usual holiday hustle and bustle has deminished my painting time and it is making me a little cranky! I got myself some new running shoes last night. You never realize how shot your last shoes were until you get into the new ones. I need to buy them more often...my feet are also aching from work. My legs? Oh..that's how we roll in So Cal.. shorts yesterday. It was in the low 80's. No snow shovel here.

I've got some Color Binge pages partially finished...I'll post some art this weekend. Ciao.

New Recruits Announced!

2007-12-05T08:23:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to all of the talented stampers who made the new justjohanna design team!! You can find links to their beautiful artwork by clicking here.

A Secret Message?

2007-12-03T08:01:00.001-08:00

I always wonder why things happen like they do and I wonder about why things happen when they do....

Happy Monday! We're doing our usual routine today..park, groceries..blah blah, work tonight. I hope you had a great weekend! Weekends fly by really fast for me these days since I basically cut mine in half. I really appreciate the quality time I am able to spend with my family!

Oh, how could I forget? I went to the Paper Source again yesterday. It was every bit as magical as it was last weekend. I am planning to go there next weekend too. I found Anahata's cards there and they are magnificent! Budget permitting, I may try and pick some up next Sunday.

Ciao!

Egg Salad

2007-11-30T10:07:00.001-08:00

It's raining! It's really measurable moisture. Hooray!

Treat Yourself Today

2007-11-29T08:52:00.001-08:00

Here's completed page 19 from the Color Binge. I painted over the outside cover, but I am pretty sure that this is a 60 page book...which means 120 journal pages since I am painting on both sides of the paper! What are you gonna do...I've got time.

Thank you to everyone who has been leaving comments on my blogs! It's really amazing how everyone can network so easily. I appreciate all of your visits very much!

Expression...

2007-11-28T21:48:00.001-08:00

I love the Carry-On's expression in this picture. She's inherited her mom's sense of comedic timing.

WS: Words

2007-11-28T09:38:00.000-08:00

I could not look past my daily journal when I read the theme for this week's Wednesday Stamper. I sat down with some pens, a couple of backgroud stamps and this is what "came out". Regular readers know that I have been showing my home since May 1st. Shortly after listing, we thinned out the contents and packed a lot of stuff away...including the majority of my art supplies. This page is about what I look forward to once we move....date unknown.

So, with my shoebox full of my favorite supplies, this is what you get. I hope you like it. Thanks for stopping by!

editors note: I challenge each of you to work with whatever medium you love with only the supplies that will fit into a shoebox for a month...no cheating. Welcome to my world. Oh- I forgot to mention...you can't make a mess or leave anything out to dry. Why? Because potential buyers may come by at any minute and you have a 22 month old running amuck.

Cheers!

Nothing new...

2007-11-27T09:51:00.000-08:00

Today's Color Binge page.... Have a great Tuesday!

There was still no blue on the second day...

2007-11-26T08:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I forced myself out of the store, across the mall to a place called the Paper Source. Dear Readers, if you see a Paper Source location near you, run! don't walk. It is amazing. I purchased a couple of books, a litle paper and some mumbo jumbo. All in an hours lunch break of fun. I was glad to have been able to see their beautiful papers in person before we move...now I feel great about the possibility of ordering off their site.

I came out of the store totally inspired and renewed. The trip reminded me of how important it is to get off of the internet and into the world to look around. I had been putting off the trip to PS for some subconscious reason.....I wish I had gone in their weeks ago!

See you tomorrow!

I always think about Bono on Sundays...

2007-11-25T09:40:00.001-08:00

I've been so busy the last few days and I don't know with what. I long for the days of sitting around and doing nothing...I crave the days where I used to be able to spread out an art project and make a huge mess for a day or two or three... there will come a time for that soon I hope.

Michael deMeng has cool new rusty stuff on his shop site. I placed an order this morning. More "stuff" to add to the stockpile. I love having a stockpile of stuff that I have no idea what I need it for!

MA (one day we'll discuss my love of calling people by their initials...at work, a few call me "JP"...the Carry-On will be "KC" one day..I like the sound of certain letter combinations.. is that weird?) pointed out that she liked the blue color I have been using in the Color Binge... what? Sure enough, as I flipped back through the book, the majority of the pages were blue! That's strange.

Until tomorrow..

Pay it forward!

2007-11-23T22:46:00.000-08:00

I will send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment on my blog requesting to join this Pay it forward exchange. I don’t know what that gift will be yet and you may not receive it tomorrow or next week, but you will receive it within 365 days, that is my promise! The only thing you have to do in return is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog.So basically, if you comment and you’re on, I’ll send you something crafty that I’ll make!Once you sign up, copy and paste the above paragraph on your blog, and three other lucky people will be recipients of your handmade work. I got mine from Belinda here.

WS: Diamonds

2007-11-23T08:49:00.000-08:00

Even though my newly coveted diamond shape punch just made it's debute on the blog here, how could a gemologist pass up using actual diamonds instead of the shape in this week's project?

This lucky bird is sitting on a diamond and platinum perch from Tiffany & Co. In case you're wondering, the necklace is priced at $150,000 USD.

Happy Black Friday. A disgusting display of greed and ugliness. Is it worth it? Save your gas and money.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-22T08:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! We're going ahead with the usual suspects for lunch...dinner whatever. I am not looking forward to the impending stomach ache so I am taking it easy. I am going to make this recipe...saw it on TV and it looked easy and delicious.

Thank you to all of my friends and family who support me in life! I love you all. I am also thankful for all the bloggers who blog such beautiful inspirations every day! You're the best! And without you, the readers, we wouldn't be here at all! Have a great holiday!!

It's a happy holiday afterall!

2007-11-21T13:30:00.000-08:00

Yeah! We're excited in Luggage Land as the Yo Gabba Gabba toys launched today! I already ordered Toodee. I can't wait to give her to the Carry-On!

Today's Color Binge + Bonus

2007-11-21T08:29:00.001-08:00

For Rion

(omg...Julie put JC Superstar on her blog today. Of course she did.)

Give A Little Bit

2007-11-20T07:29:00.001-08:00

And now for something completely different.... do yourself a favor.. Stay a little bit and watch the video in the post below! (I can't figure out how to make a post containing you tube and a picture. Doh!)

(1977 is close enough to the 80's to qualify for this post!)

Super Super Super Super who

2007-11-20T07:28:00.001-08:00

A Thanksgiving esque moment...especially for the 80's Tuesday crowd... and so I don't have to listen to any of you say you don't know Supertramp... THIS is a great song. Turn it up!

The return of luggage...

2007-11-19T07:36:00.000-08:00

Hey hey! I'm back! We had an action packed weekend. I spent Saturday at my friend Anna's (holla!) house in San Diego helping with some things she needed and Sunday at my job. The weekend goes so fast now that I work on Sunday's. I had a really nice sale yesterday so that was a nice touch!

So now to catch up on my feed list and recouperate so I can get back to work tonight! See you all tomorrow!

Oh! Yes.. I did end up sanding the Color Binge pages with light sand paper. It worked a lot to help the pen tips on the page, but for some reason, I don't think the Pitt pens love gesso as much as I have on the last few pages. It's about time to paint up a new batch, so I am going to try and use white paint instead of gesso (afterall, I am a working woman now...I can splurge on a bottle of white paint) and see if that + sanding = the perfect storm for journaling.

It really is Friday...and I am moving at the speed of light!

2007-11-16T09:28:00.000-08:00

All of a sudden, there is so much going on! Work at my "job", work at justjohanna and company and and and.... Can you believe I was up at 5am today? I know...someone call the doctor! I'm taking the weekend off blogland..see you Monday! Have fun!!

PS- pen doesn't travel well over lumpy gesso.. maybe I should sand it first?

Feels like Friday....

2007-11-15T08:13:00.000-08:00

It feels like Friday today because it is my last day of work this week. I was lucky to sell a little ACEO in my shop yesterday and I sent this free-be tag off with the order. It's been a long time since I've made something without running it through my sewing machine....

In fact, I even crammed a few pages of "Color Binge" through my sewing machine last night. Those pages should be ready in a few days as soon as I finish them up. Here is a page I flashed a couple of days ago now with my jibber jabber on it. Time to clean the house, my friends, see you tomorrow!

Odds and Ends

2007-11-14T09:04:00.001-08:00

First, thanks to Wednesday Stamper for selecting my "leaves" project for the weekly sampler! This makes me so happy!

Second, head over to my friend Andrea's blog. She made the most amazing mixed media panel the other day. I can't stop looking at it! She's one artist you'll want to add to your feed list!

Still have not made a feed list? Some of you mentioned you could not see the magical orange button to subscribe to feeds. Try hitting "alt j" and see if that works. That key stroke should get the feed options up for you on some of the other versions of IE. More on feeds here.

That's it for now...I'm off today so I can make up some new journal pages to share later. Talk to you soon!

Garbage

2007-11-13T07:50:00.000-08:00

Here is a finished page. I am awe struck by the journal pages I read online these days! I really like doing this. Especially under the current circumstances that are my life. Going back to work again today. It is so much fun! Thank you for continuing to come by even though my project focus has shifted for the moment!! I am happy to be able to have something to post! See you tomorrow!

Commercialism

2007-11-12T13:02:00.000-08:00

Being back in the workforce isn't that bad. It's bad on the feet and cuts into my fun time, but it's nice to speak to people. Things went well. I'm going back in today. Have fun!

Grooming

2007-11-11T09:10:00.000-08:00

I'm going to work today. My first full day back not counting last week's orientation. Manicured and washed myself this morning so I am more pleasant to be around...that should be good. I am looking forward to eating one of my old time regular favorites for lunch..the tuna stuffed tomato. I think I will add pepper today. I'm in a peppery mood...

Color Binge is a good project for the holidays. The pages don't take too long to make and they don't require a lot of supplies, so the book is pretty portable. I reckon I'll be making a lot of pages the next month or so until we get out of this mess. See you tomorrow...

IF: Scale

2007-11-10T15:15:00.000-08:00

Many times I feel like I am the only person in the world carrying as heavy of a load as I do.... (Thanks for coming to my pity party....now back to our regularly scheduled programming.)

Luggage Fall Tour

2007-11-09T07:52:00.000-08:00

Some thoughts and pictures of recent happenings:

My favorite fall smell... I love the apple and cinnimon type of scents that are available at this time of year. I think they should be sold year round, but I am not a fan of this new Pier One container for my holiday favorite. I wish they would sell this scent in the plain diffuser bottles.

That's the Carry-On approaching her 2nd birthday in 2 months and rapidly growing out of all clothing! She helps me with my justjohanna book keeping.

The weather the last few days has been a little cool for Southern California standards... I like it though. It makes me feel like baking and eating.. I like eating.

See? I told you she helps me with my book keeping. There's proof!

Too cool on the patio... 59 degrees? My policy is not to go outdoors once the temperature falls below 60.

Three journal pages in progress.

Ahhh yess....bring on the fancy holiday FOOD CATALOGUES! This is one days load! I love reading these...one of these days I am going to break down and buy beef wellington. I saw it on the shopping channel today too..I've never had it, but I think I love everything about it!

Hope you enjoyed your tour. We'll be here all week. Try the clams.

WS: Leaves

2007-11-08T06:53:00.000-08:00

I bought a deck of cards called "Nature's Pharmacy" at the Somerset sidewalk clearance last summer. The deck contains 50 cards from the New York botanical garden that measure about 4.5x3". I had no idea what I was going to do with them at the time, but they sure have come in handy with the last two days projects. I altered this card to fit the Wednesday Stamper theme "Leaves" by making a packing tape transfer of a fashion model, stamping the justjohanna leaf image and painting the background with acrylic paint. To keep with the natural theme, I added a thin sheet of mica over the bottom text. I love sewing through mica...makes me feel like a rebel.

My internal clock is still out of sync for those of you keeping score...

IF: Hats

2007-11-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

A page from "Color Binge", my art journal. I don't drink coffee; it seems that having a cup in your hand is some sort of status symbol... Did you know one of those Pumpkin Creme coffees not only costs way too much, but it has 400 calories, 130 of which are fat? Not to mention the sodium seems high too..240 grams. I'm no fitness spokesmodel, but if it were me I would much rather find something better to use my 400 calories on... see you tomorrow.

I'm so out of it!

2007-11-07T08:04:00.000-08:00

I vote we cancel the time change... is it me? Crimany, I am a total wreck this week. I don't understand how this is supposed to save energy..it's dark at 5pm. I have to turn on the lights. Maybe I can start my own time zone... didn't Kramer do that? I can't remember exactly..but my time zone would save energy because I sleep in until 8am. If everyone was asleep all morning, no one would have to turn on the lights...or the heater...we could all stay under the covers. Someone get me an application for a seat in the Senate.

It's not just the falling asleep at 6:00 that's a mess...my creative mojo is gone too. I forced myself to make this altered card last night and it took forever. My eyes were doing that thing where they were glued wide open and I was not blinking...

That's mica up there...sewn to the card. A little paint, some scribble...justjohanna stamp..someone help me out of my funk!

New holiday justjohanna images are in!

2007-11-06T07:10:00.001-08:00

Yeah! There are FANTASTIC new images available from justjohanna that you must have for holiday crafting! Check out the new catalogue! It has everything I love about this stamp company! Fresh, fun and not too cute.

Amour

2007-11-05T07:47:00.000-08:00

available in my etsy shop

Let's see... I don't have anything fun to say.. my flu shot arm has reutned to normal. The day I got the shot (last week) it hurt so bad!... I used up all of the blue toned collage paper, so I am going to turn to some new projects this week...I think I'll make some new wrapped canvas..stay tuned!

Sunday to Market

2007-11-04T12:00:00.001-08:00

Since I am going to be working at my job on Sunday's starting next week, I decided to get to the flea market and stock up some more. Stock up for what? Who in the hell knows... I had a good time and this collection should hold me over a while, I reckon.

Even though we are far apart...

2007-11-04T10:12:00.001-08:00

a nice project

Today was a new day...

2007-11-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

4x5" mini-painting (sold)

I am having a lot of fun with these collage pieces. You can create so many different looks on the same background paper and I don't seem to be getting tired of them at all! Another thing I am having a good time with is beeswax. A lot of the online tutorials explain that in order for you to even out your wax once it is on the piece, you should use a quilter's iron. I actually am getting great results with my heat gun. Try it some day!

HappY bIrthDay, Anna P Cont!!

2007-11-02T19:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my friend, Anna!

It's French

2007-11-01T12:49:00.000-07:00

This piece measures approx. 3x5". It is an acrylic collage background embellished with justjohanna rubber stamps, machine stitching and beeswax. It can be yours because it is available in my etsy shop. Thanks for stopping by today!

On to the next holiday....

2007-11-01T08:02:00.001-07:00

Hope you all had a good time last night! We didn't get many trick o' treaters..so stop by if you want some more candy!

Happy Halloweenie

2007-10-31T07:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone! While I am sure everyone has huge, all out plans today, we're starting the holiday off with a trip to the doctor. Seems the Carry-On has a lingering cold that we're going to get checked out.

She's thrilled about Halloween. I'm sure of it. She shows her excitement by screaming in horror when she looks at the cape I made her. On the other hand, she is very happy to yell "C A N D Y" when she wants something to eat. It was bound to happen one day sooner or later..I just thought it would be later. Now, out the window with all of the fruits and vegetables she has been eating her entire life...now she wants CANDY!! every 5 minutes. Such is life...isn't that what we all want? I knew it. My child is a genius.

So I am sure we'll have a nice time answering the door for the other kids who come by. I'm sure she'll like that better anyway. She'll probably get angry that I am giving our C A N D Y to strange kids... have a fun and safe holiday!

The City of Light

2007-10-30T07:57:00.000-07:00

available in my etsy shop

I was able to load in some new items into the shop last night.. it feels good to be able to cross that off my list. I feel anxious when I am in the process of making projects.. paint, let it dry, add this, let it dry, add this too, let that dry. I've been working on these pieces since I started the collage background last week! Done.

Special thanks to Neda and Rima for helping me with my French!!

Time to carve the pumpkins and get ready for tomorrow! See you then!

Super Sunday Sunday Sunday!

2007-10-29T07:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was one of those days that you need to take a couple of days just to digest all that took place! I went down to Stamping Details to take another Chris Cozen class with Johanna. (How's that for a bunch of links?) Not only was the class AMAZINGLY fantastic (we learned how to create special effects using Golden products) and not only was Chris the most intelligent and loveliest instructor ever, and not only was I able to pal around with the "boss" but there was great shopping as well! Someone stop me....where did this Sew Somerset come from? All I know is that my fingers have had a tingly sensation since I picked it up this afternoon...I can't wait to memorize it page by page. Oh!! Do you see what else is in that picture? The ever so elusive diamond punch! I could not believe my eyes when I saw that on the shelf!

I love painting. I love love love it. There are so many things you can do...so many!! Take a look at what I learned in my class!

See you soon!

Treat!

2007-10-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

Today she was queen

Since I creeped everyone out yesterday, I thought I would offer a nice treat for you all today! I made the painting at the top of this post with a vintage ephemera collage background. Feel free to download and use the same background in your projects today! I'm off to a painting class..see you tomorrow!

Trick

2007-10-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

Boy- if this isn't a Halloween photo, I don't know what is. I bought a big lot of ephemera a while back and while looking through the pile, this fell out onto my lap. Spooky!! What's more spooky is that we will never know who the dark figure in the foreground is, what that dog is doing and where the picture was taken.... creepy!!

From France!

2007-10-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

I received a pumpkin shaped letter from Tova! I LOVE how there is no envelope and how the art comes in nontraditional shapes and sizes! Thank you so much!! Happy Halloween!

Halloween Greetings

2007-10-26T10:23:00.001-07:00

Limited edition ACEO mounted on standard greeting card.

The theme this week for IF is "Trick or treat"...I give you my Halloween cards for this year. Signed and numbered ACEO's.

CLUELESS: Are you a mixed media artist? I want to be your "project"! Please see my "want ad" on the right of the blog and email me if you are interested in helping. Thank you!

IF: Grow

2007-10-25T15:15:00.000-07:00

Thin canvas for Illustration Friday... acrylic and charcoal. No idea where I was going with this...I've lost my mojo with all this cabin fever and smoke inhalation...maybe it will come back soon. As soon as the smoke clears as they say...

Holy Guacamole

2007-10-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

I just read that we lost 1/3 of the state's avocado crop.....

Luggage Outerwear

2007-10-25T08:04:00.000-07:00

The "cape" is finished and I must say, I am pretty proud of myself! It's hard to photograph, and of course the Carry-On runs and screams bloody murder when I put it anywhere near her, but here is a close-up. I made her vampire cape black on black..there is a wool like exterior and a nice satin lining. Fluted button detail and....the fancy part...I made the pointed collar detachable! Two reasons: one, next year when she is a magician for Halloween, she can use the cape without the collar...second, she can play fancy socialite tea party with her cape and gloves also without the collar.

Oh..I forgot to mention...next August, we'll go to the magic shop and she will fall in love with magic tricks. We'll buy her a few and then in October, I'll convince her to be a magician for Halloween..

She probably won't wear this at all..sigh...so if a cute little girl shows up at your door with black lipstick and a white shirt with black pants, please humor the mother and say, "What a cute vampire you are!" Thank you for your cooperation.

Good night....

2007-10-24T18:28:00.000-07:00

Laguna Beach with a smokey sunset.

Tomorrow will be a better day.

Fire

2007-10-24T10:23:00.000-07:00

Well, today is a lot different from yesterday. It is still very hot outside, but the winds have almost died down to nothing. As I look outside today, it looks like a June Gloom overcast type of day..only these are not clouds. It is smoke. A lot of smoke today and the wind is not blowing it by, it is sitting here. The front and back yards are covered in ash today...a thin, brown layer of dust.. I went outside to sweep a little and gave up- it is still falling from the sky. There is a faint orange glow coming in through all of the wondows. The 5 freeway northbound is closed between the 78 and Christianitos rd.. I guess Camp Pendleton is now on fire and the smoke makes for very bad driving conditions. Day 3 of staying in doors....

Yet another map with fire information.

It's hard to think about being "artful" these days when I worry about my friends and family. I am working on the Carry-On's vampire cape..but that's about it. Not too much seems important with this disaster taking place.

Fire Map

2007-10-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

This is a very good map of the fires burning in California. We live about half way between Dana Point and Newport Beach. It's still windy, but not nearly as windy as yesterday.

100 Wishes....you should know!

2007-10-23T11:01:00.000-07:00

This is my second...third? I can't remember... purchase from Andrea Singarella's shop "100 Wishes". If you're in love with vintage goodies, you should take a peek. The shop is closed now for Andrea's maternity leave (best wishes, Andrea!), but you should totally watch her blog's feed for the re-opening!

She wraps everything up so beautifully and on this shipment, I got a delicious lolipop!

San Diego Fire Coverage

2007-10-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

(above: Picture of the wind on my street, Air quality is also horrible.)

Click here.

Click here for more news.

edit: Updated News

We are not in danger here but are thinking of our many friends in San Diego, Orange and Los Angeles counties. Stay safe.

edit: you know it's bad when the automated emergency telephone system starts calling employees... it is SO windy here. Mr. Luggage's SD based company is asking for help for families evacuated. Very scary!

It was an AMBUSH!

2007-10-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

I ambushed our meeting yesterday by interrupting the regularly scheduled programming for an impromptu make-n-take a la Somerset Workshop. We made waxed ornaments using a little stamping, acrylic and vintage ephemera. The faces of the particpants have been hidden to protect their identity.

These two enjoyed making their ornaments.

These two also enjoyed making their ornaments.

He loved making his ornament too!

Here are the ornaments I made. I like how they turned out and I'll keep my eye open for a sale on the paper mache ornaments so I can make more.

The cheesecake (pumpkin pie with ginger snap crust) came out great! I'm a dork for not taking a picture of it. Lots of stuff going on this week...I'll be back soon!

(My intention was to pixilate everyone's boobs in the photo above, lol, but I couldn't figure out how to do it.)

Flashback

2007-10-19T20:15:00.000-07:00

It comes as no surprise to me that the first few colors I learned to mix last night were shades of green. It turns out that these colors will serve as the base for mixing several different colors in the Golden line-up. I ordered my set of principal colors and have started to go through the color exercises outlined in the materials I got for free from Golden.

I like green. I like blue too. The reason I titled this post "flashback" was because seeing all of these shades of green brought me immediately back to my Gemology coursework. One of the most dreaded parts of the Graduate Gemologist course at GIA is the Gemstone Identification program. In this course, students study hundreds of different gemstones to learn their identity. To pass the course and earn a diploma, you are given an assortment of 20 stones that you have to accurately identify. Many of them are green. You are not allowed ANY errors on this test. If you miss one, you're back to square one.

While I was studying for my diploma, my friend Hiro told me that his instructor gave him 20 different green stones for his exam. Torture! Luckily, I received an assortment of colors during my test. In gemstone identification, the slightest color variation can mean the difference between an entire species of colored stone! To the untrained eye, many of the stones look exactly the same!

I was determined to pass this test. I remember the day back in 2002 vividly. I arrived at the campus, sweating, and received my stones from my instructor. The test is given in a laboratory and there were probably about 15 other students in there that day. You are allowed 4 hours to complete the test (or vomit) and I finished my test in one hour. I couldn't sit there and re-check anymore, so I gathered the stones and went to the front of the classroom.

Other students practicing their lab skills know what you are doing when you're in the lab. All eyes were on me and my knees were weak as I stood next to the teacher.

I handed him my paperwork and stood there. Frozen. The test is graded as you watch! More torture. The teacher used a red pen to make checkmarks next to each of my answers. One at a time. Correct. Correct. Correct. Correct. It was killing me! He finished the first page (ten stones per page) and moved onto page 2. At that point he turned to me and asked, "Feel pretty good about page one?" I replied, "Yes, but if you pick up that red pen one more time, I am going to throw up all over you." The class burst into hysterical laughter. Not so funny to me. To prepare for this exam takes more than one year of intense study!

On to page two. No red marks. No comments from the teacher. He looked at me, sighed, and marked a HUGE 100% on my paper! I threw my hands into the air and shouted "YES!". The class could not believe it! Here was a brand new Graduate Gemologist standing in front of the class. I felt so shiny and new! The teacher asked me in front of everyone, "How many times have you taken this test?" My reply was quick, "One time. This is my first time." Ahhhhh....I was a gemstone identification natural! That was one of the best moments of my life.

Since then, I have tutored 2 other former colleages in getting their GG diplomas. I am happy to say that both of my students also passed on the first attempt. I'll never forget this part of my life.

I'm off today to see some friends and eat the cheesecake. If you're nice, maybe I'll post some pictures Sunday! Adios!

Wednesday Stamper: Children

2007-10-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is a 4.25x4.25 "thing" I made. I scanned it with sheet music behind it which may have not been such a hot idea since now it looks like the project is stuck on a piece of sheet music. Oh well. Since the theme was Children, how could I not user a picture of my own child? Decision was easy for me. Acrylic paint background, crepe paper, machine stitching, justjohanna images and stardust. Thanks for stopping by today!

You better THINK!

2007-10-18T07:54:00.000-07:00

I love the movie "The Blues Brothers" and I love Aretha too. Here is the first page in "Color Binge". There is something magical about Caran D' Ache Neo II's.. I bought the 40 color set a while back and I am dreaming about every other available color now! They just melt onto the paper amd smell so fantastic!

So remember I told you that because I bought store made birthday cards yesterday, I would have time to make muffins? It came true! I think it's a Blogger miracle...whatever I mention in the blog comes true... I should start talking about winning the lottery more..

I altered a banana bread recipe to make banana cupcakes.. would you believe that I found pumpkin baking pans in my cupboard? I couldn't believe my eyes.. I have no idea where they came from..(I know..shoplifter's famous last words.)I know you can't see it in the picture, but that's actually a jack-o-lantern banana cake!

Oh...and before you ask...the answer is "no". No, I do not set my table with Tiffany china. No, I don't even set my "cakes" on plates. I usually eat them straight off the cooling rack. I only have one Tiffany & Co. bread and butter plate. I put the cake onto it to look fancy. It is rimmed in 24kt gold you know....

See you tomorrow!

I don't pay for anything....

2007-10-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

Oh Blogger Blogger…what is the trouble? I see a lot of “scheduled maintenance” taking place this week, so I hope I am just experiencing a few road bumps. I have been pretty satisfied with Blogger since I started Luggage Land…it’ll be ok. I’m not sold on Typepad…there is always a longer delay in page loading when I blurf typepad blogs. My computer and connection are crazy fast, so it’s not me.

I guess since I am not making blog specific projects anymore, you’ll get more jibber jabber. Those of you who don’t know me that well don’t know that I am not a “sugar coater” and I call it like I see it. So if you’re tuning in for cute anecdotes and drawn out posts about my “artful journey” you’ve come to the wrong place. I’m not mean…I think I’m just ‘real’.

A local mother invited me to join their “mom’s group” the other day. Sigh...I immediately asked, “Is there a fee?” Of course…$30. I curtly replied “I don’t pay for anything.” See, I’m onto these groups…I am not sure what the money is for, and frankly I don’t care, but why in the hell would I pay $30 for a “mom’s club”? I am not lonely, and the Carry-On gets to play with kids at the park every day for free. There is not a bouncer at the gate checking ID’s to get onto the playground.. If I join a group for “entertainment purposes” that would mean I would have to reduce a magazine subscription. Is your group as great as a Somerset publication? Probably not… the horror…living without those magazines.

I don’t want to be on a schedule. I don’t want to hear myself in a conversation with another mother talking about my hectic and busy week plans…meeting for this, meeting for that, lessons for that and class for this. It honestly gives me a rash when I hear this sort of talk. No wonder people go insane; no one is relaxing anymore…not even the children!

Let’s see….what else… Oh- I bought 3 store manufactured birthday cards today. And you know what? It felt GREAT! There is 3 hours I shaved off my “doing things for others until I run myself ragged” schedule. Now, I’ll send these fun cards (which incidentally all poke fun of seniors…---not Latino men..senior citizens) and I have time to make a bunch of muffins for DH to take to work AND I’ll make a cheesecake to take to my pals in Escondeal-e-o on Saturday. I’m excited about that scheduled “fun time”.

Oh!! I named my first journal “Color Binge”. What do you think?

Fall Mail Art

2007-10-16T08:26:00.000-07:00

mail art to France! I included a matching ATC with the same sentiment in French.

I love exchanging mail art with Tova! I made this envelope on glossy cardstock with alcohol ink...lots of gold mixative too. Thanks for stopping by today!

Live Earth + Blog Action Day = The Land of Foo!

2007-10-15T19:36:00.001-07:00

If there was a place where every day was a Foo Fighters concert, I would move there immediately! Did you make a difference today?

Blog Action Day

2007-10-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

Today is "Blog Action Day", a day set aside for the blogging community to raise awareness about the environment. I hope that you take time to read this link and do your part to aid in the awareness.

I made the mixed media canvas above for the event and it is being featured at Maraya Galleries. You can see the other artists who contributed to the cause by clicking here. I am honored to be a part of this exhibition.

With the topic of global warming and energy conservation on everyone's mind, I am disgusted, absolutely disgusted about Jimmy Kimmel's decision to host two shows on two coasts for one week. What an obscene waste to travel to each coast, every day. Did you think he was going to drive his Prius to work that week? What genius thought of this plan? Certainly not Al Gore. Show your support- Down with Regis and Kelly...I don't know anyone who watches Kimmel's namesake in the first place.

Do your part- spread the word about Global Warming today. Thank you!

mixed media collage featuring acrylic paint, rubber stamps, rust, wood, copper wire, and beeswax. available in my etsy shop.

Only a little color..

2007-10-14T13:30:00.000-07:00

There was a 4 mile walk this morning, I took my camera, my husband and my child. I wanted to go for 8 miles, but then I became more rational...

Southern California vegetation...I think this is wild cotton....not positive though..

These are yellow wildflowers...they grow everywhere.

The leaves on the trees are still green here... it was about 70 degrees at noon.

It's time for me to put up or shut up. I have been heeming and hawing over making an art journal. Part of the intimidation is that a lot of journals I see are so freaking fantastic, and I only make slop. I dream about making a journal like this one, or this one or this one.. Is this something you either have it or you don't? I bought this book from Blicks. The catalogue says the pages can take wet media..that's me. I didn't envision a spiral bound book, but I guess I can cover the metal once I am finished.. I would go so far as to say that I am tortured by journaling. I wonder if I am destined to be a fan of all of everyone else's journals except my own? I am also tortured doing this because now I know I won't be posting a project every day here...I've been making a new project every day almost since February for the sole purpose of posting here. It's strange to shift now to making projects to place into my etsy shop...and now this book...why do I keep putting this off??? I think another reason I put it off is because I know it's going to take a long time to finish. I mean there are 60 pages in this! Wish me luck...

Saturday

2007-10-13T20:43:00.000-07:00

Do something unexpected and nice for someone tomorrow.

With great admiration...

2007-10-12T08:17:00.000-07:00

Another ATC sized project featuring justjohanna rubber stamps, acrylic paint, beeswax, machine stitching and vintage text. Thank you for stopping by today!

Wednesday Stamper: Inchies

2007-10-11T08:24:00.000-07:00

An inchie is what it sounds like; a project measureing one inch square. The key for me on these was to make them on a sheet of paper and then cut them out after all of the embellishing took place. I used acrylic paint to make the background, added text pages, more paint, justjohanna images and then vintage text. Finally, machine stitching and beeswax finished them off. My favorite is the middle inchie. How about yours?

World Card Making Day Winners!

2007-10-10T18:42:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all of the winners! You can see the list here.

Thank you, Wednesday Stamper!

2007-10-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

My Autumn Colors card made the sampler this week! Check out the other amazing sampler picks by clicking here. Wednesday Stamper is an amazing online community...if you have not given it a try, you should!! There is SO much support and creativity there!

This week's theme is inchies.....oh boy...not my strong suit at all; but I am going to try!

Have a good Wednesday, everyone!

justjohanna rubber stamps, alcohol ink, machine stitching, vintage sheet music, doodle

In the morning light...

2007-10-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

Beeswax ACEO, available in my etsy shop

I am working on a 5x5 canvas for Blog Action Day. What are you working on? I am excited to be able to particpate. Anyone can participate! Rima over at Maraya Galleries will be having an online showing of all of the art! What are you waiting for?

World Card Making Day Blog Challenge Winners!!

2007-10-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

First- thank you all so much for particpating in my challenges! It was so much fun to see all the cards you made for each theme!! What a whirlwind of a day!

The winner of my "3 Stamp Challenge" is: LIZ!!!!

The winner of my "Paint Challenge" is: Elly!!

Each winner will receive a limited edition Flying Al on Earth rubber stamp! Congratulations!!

World Card Making Day!

2007-10-07T07:43:00.001-07:00

What's that? You missed out yesterday? There is still a lot of time left for you to enter the sweepstakes!! There are so many prizes you can win! Scroll down to the bottom of this page and check out the blog challenges around the world! The deadline is midnight tonight! (My time- when the clock on the right reaches midnight, we are closing the contest!) Good luck!

My final challenge for today!

2007-10-06T17:45:00.001-07:00

Our final challenge here in Luggage Land today is to make a card or ACEO using paint. This is in tribute to so many of my new friends who I met while learning to paint. For this challenge, you may use watercolor, acrylic, re-inkers...anything you apply with a paint brush!

In the pictures above, I use watercolor paint to make the background. I use Dr. Ph Martin Radient Concentrated Watercolors. I also applied my shimmer mist to this example.

For a different look, the sample above (and below) uses Golden Fluid Acrylic paints. I layer on a light color, let it dry completely and then add darker colors. Before the darker colors dry, I use a baby wipe to remove some color or I spray a few drops of water on the paint, let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe with a paper towel. This process makes a nice distressed, old look.

I'd love it if you could participate in this challenge!

To enter the sweepstakes, all you have to do is make a project using the guidelines above. Once your challenge is ready, please post it on your blog and post a link to your project in the comment section here on my blog! The deadline for entries is midnight my time, tomorrow, 10/7/07. One lucky winner taken randomly from my comments will win a limited edition justjohanna image created specially for this event! You may enter as many projects as you like! Each linked project will count as one entry into the drawing.

Be sure and check out the other justjohanna festivites happening today! The grand prize (one lucky winner taken from ALL the entries world wide!) is a $250 justjohanna shopping spree! Who wouldn't want that?

justjohanna and Limetart employees are not elegible to win. We're just posting examples to inspire! If you have a question about the challenge, post here and I will check in every so often to answer. Don't have a blog? You can post your project in the gallery here and link back that way!

Have fun everyone!

How's your World Card Making Day going?

2007-10-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

There are so many challenges going on today! I hope that you have time to check them out! I'll be back at 6pm with another chance for you to win!! In the meantime, check out my friends' challenges! You can enter for more chances to win!!!

Sweepstakes! Sweepstakes! World Card Making Day!!

2007-10-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you for coming by for my first World Card Making Challenge! This challenge is to submit a card or ACEO (ATC) in which you incorporate 3 or more different stamped items. You can use any brand of stamps for the challenge and any technique you would like! I made the examples above using justjohanna rubber stamps. Heck- I'll accept a carved vegetable dipped in paint if you are so inclined!

Be sure and check out the other justjohanna festivites happening today! The grand prize (one lucky winner taken from ALL the entries world wide!) is a $250 justjohanna shopping spree! Who wouldn't want that?

justjohanna and Limetart employees are not elegible to win. We're just posting examples to inspire! If you have a question about the challenge, post here and I will check in every so often to answer. Don't have a blog? You can post your project in the gallery here and link back that way!

Have a great crafting day!!

Wednesday Stamper: Autumn Colors

2007-10-05T07:56:00.000-07:00

You never know what you're going to get with alcohol ink, but the effects are awesome when you do get something good! It's hard to capture on camera, but I used a lot of gold mixative in this piece. It's hard to focus on fall and fall activities when the weather is still warm. Today we got a break and the temperature dropped 10 degress from yesterday! We didn't get over 76 degrees in the house today. No air conditioning; it felt great to have the windows open.

Are you ready for tomorrow's fun? World Card Making day has all of us at justjohanna stamps all reved up! I'll be hosting two challenges on my blog tomorrow: The first challenge will be at 8am my time (there is a clock on the right) and I will be back to host a second challenge at 6pm. You can use any stamps you like in the challenges! They are open to everyone! What a deal! All you have to do is come back before midnight on the 7th to post a link to your entry in my comments on each challenge! Did I mention the grand prize is a $250 justjohanna shopping spree???

I love you more every day..

2007-10-04T07:04:00.000-07:00

I wince every time my sewing machine needle enters one of these...will it make it? So far so good. I am obsessed with making these thick as bricks...as a matter of fact, I am sure some countries would consider this building material..it is that thick and heavy!

Where have I been? I've been here actually...pretty sick for a while. I am still on the up swing. The Carry-On is still sick, but she too is on the mend. I think we'll be ready for this Saturday's festivities..

You don't know? Oh my... Tune into my blog when that clock over there on the right says 8am. I'll be announcing a special cardmaking challenge. All you have to do is make a card with that challenge topic and link to it in my comments here. One winner will win a special limited edition justjohanna rubber stamp and everyone will be entered to win a $250 justjohanna shopping spree. If that isn't enough, I am also announcing another challenge at 6pm! Come back for more chances to win that shopping spree! As a matter of fact, there are challenges all day long! The more you play the more chances you have to win the grand prize! Check out the schedule here. (I know the schedule says I won't be here when I said I would, but, trust me, I will be.)

You can find out more information by checking out the new justjohanna forum. Registration is free!

Fall

2007-09-28T11:14:00.000-07:00

This is something called a MOO...Wednesday Stamper's challenge this week..not sure why, but it is small.. something like 1.1x2.8". I couldn't figure out anything to put in that small space, it was difficult for me. So I chose one of justjohanna's new fall images. I know it looks simple, but if it's any consolation, there are 3 layers of Golden acrylic paint there and I colored the pumpkin with prismacolor pencils..lots of color layers.

I am burnt out. It's been a rough week here. Luggage World is taking a break to re-group. We'll be back sometime next week. Have fun!

I am in L O V E again!!

2007-09-27T16:52:00.001-07:00

I was at the Wild Animal Park today. This is a close-up of the toy the Carry-On selected on the way out..she is in love with him!

I am in love with a macro camera lens I borrowed for the weekend! Take a look at my broom! (This isn't the broom I use to get around town..that one is in better shape.)

Take a look at my doggie!

This is a flower on my porch...

Look at the innards of the flower! The flower feels violated... You can see its nose hairs!!

World Card Making Day!!

2007-09-26T22:19:00.000-07:00

I could not believe my eyes when I saw the details for this sweepstakes! A grand prize worth $250??!! You guys always tell me how much you love the images I use (over and over I use them...lol), now you can have your own for FREE!! This is one day you won't want to miss!!

CLICK HERE!!!

IF: juggle

2007-09-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

I never said I could draw...

Golden Acrylic background with stitching, Caran D'Ache Neocolor II's and Pitt.

Vintage Kitty and a treat!

2007-09-26T11:15:00.000-07:00

Thank you all so much for your comments on yesterday's collage! I am having fun playing with all of the ephemera I have been collecting over the last year! So much so in fact that I have made an other journal page with vintage finds and justjohanna images. Do you like it?

Here is a blank copy you can download and use in your personal artwork! If you decide to use it, please link back here so I can see! You can make a journal page or crop it up to use it as a background on a greeting card. Have fun!

Collage

2007-09-25T03:19:00.000-07:00

I guess when you have a daughter, and you make things, it's kind of hard not to make things with your daughter in mind. I made this for my daughter because it says "Shower Luncheon". Just kidding... My daughter is only 20 months old. I guess she'll have a shower one day, but hopefully not until she's 45.

I am working on a fabulous challenge for you all! As soon as I figure out the technical details, you'll be the first to know!

vintage ephemera, justjohanna rubber stamps, Golden fluid acrylics, sharpie paint pen.

Ask a male guest to...

2007-09-24T08:21:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. I am still soldering. This is attempt number 3. This is my best attempt yet, probably because the edges on a domino are not as squared off as on glass. I am happy to see progress because this takes a long time! The edges here look terrible in the scan, but I assure you in person, there is great improvement. I will keep trying!

The text in the domino project came from a Better Homes and Garden Entertaining book written in 1969. It's a fantastic read! Don't you just love the serving suggestion above for holiday breakfast? I was glancing through the book and looking at text to use when I read something about asking a "male" guest to help pass food trays around...hehehe..oh, and in case you're planning some entertaining soon, don't forget to place a tray of commonly used personal items on your bathroom vanity: hairspray, a new comb, a pretty box of facial tissue and a light cologne!

Silvergleem and Johnny Cash

2007-09-23T09:02:00.000-07:00

I am going to talk about music again, and I would appreciate it if you, readers, would refrain from telling me about the drug using, crime ridden, womanizing ways of Johnny Cash. I like him and I don't care what you all say. I'll watch the movie "Walk the Line" any time it comes on and I listen to the soundtrack and Johnny's greatest hits every time I sit here. While I was making these, I was listening to "Hurt"- his cover of the great NIN hit. I am mesmerized by his voice in that song and I can't stop thinking about "...everyone I know goes away in the end.."

Now- what they don't tell you about soldering. It smells. Thankfully it doesn't stink up your room and stay in there, but it surely emits an unpleasant odor while the process is underway. These are my first two attempts- 1.5x1.5" mini-collages a la Sally Jean. The winged dude was my first attempt, the K followed this morning. They're ok...not fantastic, but I am learning. I used some random solder on the first one to get started and then the Silvergleem on number two. I need to buy some metal polish this afternoon and see what happens. If you're keeping score, I still have 9 fingertips left and only a small hole in my pant leg.

Cheers!

Untitled

2007-09-22T17:35:00.000-07:00

Artword: Water

2007-09-22T07:20:00.000-07:00

5x5" original canvas

I am wondering...if you've already been there and done that is that all that there is?

Here we are in the deep...

2007-09-21T07:29:00.000-07:00

Ha! This was one of those field guides to identify fish. The text read "Know your fish", but I like my version much better. Three lipstick wearing fish know what you did... I love the eeriness of this canvas if I do say so myself..

justjohanna stamped scroll, acrylic paint background and lipstick fish. See you tomorrow. (I think I've been watching too much Sponge Bob!)

You are tres sweet!

2007-09-20T06:28:00.000-07:00

It is hard to find someone that isn't on a diet...or that will admit to it anyway..so I thought you could pass little cupcake cards out to your dear friends just to tell them how sweet they are without the extra guilt!

justjohanna cupcake image- available in my etsy shop.

Remember me?

2007-09-18T19:09:00.001-07:00

I dug out my alcohol inks yesterday to make this card. justjohanna image and machine stitching. I also took the plunge and opened up an etsy shop! It feels nice to be making things in order to attempt to make some moolah...

See you tomorrow! Thanks for stopping by..

Gothic Arch: Gold

2007-09-18T09:45:00.001-07:00

Je laisserais tomber une averse de roses.
Je dépenserais mon paradis en faisant du bien sur Terre.

Thank you, Rima!! Thank you for your help with my French!!

For my St. Therese shrine, I started with two arch cut outs made with pearlescent champagne cardstock. I covered each with a wash of gold acrylic paint and then stamped on the text. I cut an opening in the top layer for the St. Therese transparency. Next, I folded little fans of peach colored tissue and machine stitched them around the arch. Once the stitching was in place, I opened each of the fans to make the flowers. I added a little gold paint to the tips of each flower. The French text is printed on gold metallic paper and aged with graphite pencil. A little charcoal and artist crayon surround the arch. I joined the two sheets together with pop dots for a little dimension.

Making these arch projects is new to me and very enjoyable! You should check out the Gothic Arch blog and try your hand at one today!

See you tomorrow! It was a great day for trash today..I've got a lot of new cardboard to alter!