tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22969249978093747262024-03-05T01:21:01.053-05:00Altered UndergroundMichigan Artist Lori Nowak's SiteLori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-46123648477700164042011-05-28T12:42:00.000-04:002011-05-28T12:42:33.111-04:00Paintings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I spent the last couple weeks doing some mixed-media pieces. Paint, collage, oil pastels, gel medium, mists and masks. Thought you'd enjoy looking them over. I'm struggling with deciding if a couple of them are finished or not. I think we all struggle with this one.<br />
<br />
Let me know your thoughts!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0ozPPNVntJhMtfHgfn1zJGgkZtoykBxcI5jaAQYQVR_XrYI7QLCWtMCAmS-fghUyGNZ8CBlFMJNH0zzZkeVKw3RYgBdyCAdP8nQz3ZrRiyrcq_jE4BVgnsxKg0OfkAakyOiM4ajHcl-d/s1600/P1000165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0ozPPNVntJhMtfHgfn1zJGgkZtoykBxcI5jaAQYQVR_XrYI7QLCWtMCAmS-fghUyGNZ8CBlFMJNH0zzZkeVKw3RYgBdyCAdP8nQz3ZrRiyrcq_jE4BVgnsxKg0OfkAakyOiM4ajHcl-d/s320/P1000165.JPG" width="175" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can click pics for larger image</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAOqjsUdmaZVzGobJucLvUJcR91rX3yRsLjRZmIrBCnOMPLRqIYujvCUDC8WDqgrzIA2_RBRtlGeM9AWdgkxdbIHl-yad2ZbZQBOUJK1WIhv7S8Urv3IfQ2z0JVDYj93GqFb_Kj99rxfJk/s1600/P1000166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAOqjsUdmaZVzGobJucLvUJcR91rX3yRsLjRZmIrBCnOMPLRqIYujvCUDC8WDqgrzIA2_RBRtlGeM9AWdgkxdbIHl-yad2ZbZQBOUJK1WIhv7S8Urv3IfQ2z0JVDYj93GqFb_Kj99rxfJk/s320/P1000166.JPG" width="169" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxak9YcLgyfYOY8I78h__13fawHe1jM8dX2jn0lvocqgadHg5tTEXucHcTZN2vDujsd743I6Z2VgpuDwFQuU2Rn8Qo2rN54-IH48Ff1qbl3kq52BWUO1V7ygbUF82jQ2XayUdY9edXD51/s1600/P1000163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxak9YcLgyfYOY8I78h__13fawHe1jM8dX2jn0lvocqgadHg5tTEXucHcTZN2vDujsd743I6Z2VgpuDwFQuU2Rn8Qo2rN54-IH48Ff1qbl3kq52BWUO1V7ygbUF82jQ2XayUdY9edXD51/s320/P1000163.JPG" width="242" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_J7RR7jf7Uxo8O5esNoknMbGyD9IVxAm_IoJ_vzzk-Nre82SBO3DMEGAjPzYgrWwYCpA8FhiK0X8IocQWV-Q-qFfm89J33jVpCdg755L_3nyneUrZCbfGI0826mfHjynj3MDGhzkeXJ6/s1600/P1000161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_J7RR7jf7Uxo8O5esNoknMbGyD9IVxAm_IoJ_vzzk-Nre82SBO3DMEGAjPzYgrWwYCpA8FhiK0X8IocQWV-Q-qFfm89J33jVpCdg755L_3nyneUrZCbfGI0826mfHjynj3MDGhzkeXJ6/s320/P1000161.JPG" width="252" /></a></div> I also had a new friend visit me this week. Her name is Reghan and she is truly a work of art!<br />
Congrats Rita, Adam and Chi!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBnOCPij20eKtpag8krTNKEq2jWeUE5E9uf9Ab7refcFYuDijvGqvQ_YFRjKxvZs3VvGXf6el7BI3QMtVk6f0n21bA9fFSk8G9iz2w0acmJr7EC3GUSN-DzHpaYhoVIE9HbpLVmFouiZj/s1600/P1000169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBnOCPij20eKtpag8krTNKEq2jWeUE5E9uf9Ab7refcFYuDijvGqvQ_YFRjKxvZs3VvGXf6el7BI3QMtVk6f0n21bA9fFSk8G9iz2w0acmJr7EC3GUSN-DzHpaYhoVIE9HbpLVmFouiZj/s320/P1000169.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
</div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-10605519767268807162011-05-20T21:39:00.001-04:002011-05-20T21:44:08.201-04:00What a difference a day makes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I forgot to post this after I wrote it last week. Duh.<br />
<br />
Old news but anyway, I'll share it cuz I took the time to write it. I also finished up this week a piece for a friend who is getting married. I'll share it here:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbNohu-I9WADIuoC-AVUm4C44c9tL48UjDMhO2tYv5SE_L-1M-j5GgvL0t5nvoBt4boxEqkaY3H_qaJwqirh3tT63VpbQXcGi6t3o8HEv_Piga_g1_rMgRob7dv3IJeEa9OlvnH8wit0T/s1600/P1000154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbNohu-I9WADIuoC-AVUm4C44c9tL48UjDMhO2tYv5SE_L-1M-j5GgvL0t5nvoBt4boxEqkaY3H_qaJwqirh3tT63VpbQXcGi6t3o8HEv_Piga_g1_rMgRob7dv3IJeEa9OlvnH8wit0T/s320/P1000154.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Whew! Yesterday I became ill. It hit me out of nowhere and I ended up in urgent care. I woke up at 5am with a weird neck ache, took some ibuprofin and went back to sleep. Later, I got a 101.7 fever and chills, just couldn't get warm (it was 82 degrees here yesterday). Come to find out I have a lymph node infection. They put me on some meds that they give people who have been exposed to Anthrax (not the band).<br />
I cannot remember the last time I felt that horrible. A day later, fever has been gone since last night and I feel better. Thankful!</div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-30140132764924389092011-05-01T21:29:00.001-04:002011-05-01T21:31:05.522-04:00Paper Stash - Kraft Resist Paper by Tim Holtz<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I'll admit that I broke my resolution by missing a couple weeks posting. We were out of town for the last two weekends, and I was so obsessed with my current projects that I have not allowed time for my blog. Nevertheless, I am happy to be finished with one of my projects and am going to share it with you now.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiILrwiSySUexieRt3uOM0eMGWZezJ6HC-6fg-yy0VrS3c6PYKr81MjBtw35LQm7ksuKIDNC-iVAc7zknRV8dfwj_p2IBTGaFH_sCAvKkq1IZTyqqtRw1P5PmA-sa-1TVtd7U9q_v9Hn-/s1600/P1000140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiILrwiSySUexieRt3uOM0eMGWZezJ6HC-6fg-yy0VrS3c6PYKr81MjBtw35LQm7ksuKIDNC-iVAc7zknRV8dfwj_p2IBTGaFH_sCAvKkq1IZTyqqtRw1P5PmA-sa-1TVtd7U9q_v9Hn-/s320/P1000140.JPG" width="177" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
I was chomping at the bit to play with some of my newest Tim Holtz toys, so I started working on a few tags using the Kraft Resist Paper titled "Paper Stash" from Tim's Idea-ology line.<br />
The papers are a light weight kraft (think brown paper bag) card stock with embossed images already printed over the patterns. I could not find a weight on the information, but it is heavier than scrapbook paper, but lighter than 65 lb card stock. The patterns are very vintage and cool and coordinate well with the tissue tapes, stencils and stamps in the Tim Holtz line.<br />
I began by using my Sizzix Movers and Shapers Tag and Bookplates Die. I cut several tags out on my Cuttlebug, from a variety of the Kraft Resist Papers. The die cut them very well, using two B plates to run through my machine.<br />
I wanted to try a few background techniques to see how the paper would look. I started with the Distress ink onto the craft mat technique, rubbing a few pads onto the the craft mat and spritzing the ink with a fine spray of water. Then I pressed the tag face into the ink and dried with a heat gun, repeating the process until I was satisfied with the results. At first I was disappointed because when the paper got wet you could not see the color. Once it dried you could definitely see the color as well as the cool resist patterns of the paper. I will caution you that when you get this paper wet it curls and waves. I placed the dried tags under a book overnight and this solved the dilemma.<br />
Here is a cute tag I finished that used that technique:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPCP1n50WypidGgm9pTvcLjdaxej1236ei80KEUuAte86asdHk2YD34w0EgbT_h1tj8V9SOGwm7219W7lgJN1V5hyvVyi9g5cnNKsyrWpT7pBS1ppaTwtiLLYEMXmQGJCc7Ru-D1ui5ch/s1600/P1000145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPCP1n50WypidGgm9pTvcLjdaxej1236ei80KEUuAte86asdHk2YD34w0EgbT_h1tj8V9SOGwm7219W7lgJN1V5hyvVyi9g5cnNKsyrWpT7pBS1ppaTwtiLLYEMXmQGJCc7Ru-D1ui5ch/s320/P1000145.JPG" width="173" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPCP1n50WypidGgm9pTvcLjdaxej1236ei80KEUuAte86asdHk2YD34w0EgbT_h1tj8V9SOGwm7219W7lgJN1V5hyvVyi9g5cnNKsyrWpT7pBS1ppaTwtiLLYEMXmQGJCc7Ru-D1ui5ch/s1600/P1000145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="content"></span></a></div><br />
You can really see the resist pattern behind the image of the stamped princess, and the yellows and oranges of the ink I applied to the paper. I embellished with Tim's "Cherish" Philosophy Tag, grunge shapes, a flower and a Jolie's 3d fleur dis lie sticker.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSgzbNqFk5c_0X2CYaROzQMQGHId29RPC83LQrqg1yiCJfY_I1qTyO_EMxXkTfHxkLgXBrXSejzOMQvqmk-tAjImQwKgWxU3c8wvlTKAN8B1V39LFRr9LDDxmcrulm2QilEgz0alZSlH-/s1600/P1000150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSgzbNqFk5c_0X2CYaROzQMQGHId29RPC83LQrqg1yiCJfY_I1qTyO_EMxXkTfHxkLgXBrXSejzOMQvqmk-tAjImQwKgWxU3c8wvlTKAN8B1V39LFRr9LDDxmcrulm2QilEgz0alZSlH-/s320/P1000150.JPG" width="176" /></a></div>Here is another tag with the Distress Ink technique which was finished with Tim Holtz Stampers Anonymous cling mount stamps, Salvage Sticker, Leather "W" embellishment and vintage image.<br />
<br />
I also used Tattered Angels Glimmer Mists over some of Tim Holtz' Advantus mini-masks to get a background with areas where the Kraft Paper showed through. The mists worked great on the paper, but as with the Distress technique, I had to weight the dried tags down to flatten them back out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvyTSt37WYE8wBEsi8pDKS7C_vI681HvbD8MENEAHDe8PD1vmPN2eKyfPIxwzKC6YL6x0L6FuVrSXAjGTedB70mFXSIXxlGCQIDiFBmSXIEOUt7sNz1S1J3bLTzBDR3ya_1hsVB44ajF2y/s1600/P1000143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvyTSt37WYE8wBEsi8pDKS7C_vI681HvbD8MENEAHDe8PD1vmPN2eKyfPIxwzKC6YL6x0L6FuVrSXAjGTedB70mFXSIXxlGCQIDiFBmSXIEOUt7sNz1S1J3bLTzBDR3ya_1hsVB44ajF2y/s320/P1000143.JPG" width="200" /></a></div> Tissue Tape and ribbon flowers, rubber stamps and vintage images create my "Time flies" tag.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodAYH4UZL_0RjYUTasyBXjIuc7CRSR2cpDZ-YqpVy2v2MWqbGd_gXx4HFmNgTjRwVQMquVe7vbvDLqeedNKlAcDPms8H1FuhF7C2QZOg82A476bawOOzrG4ge1tEYi10szWz5RIzmvSlq/s1600/P1000148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodAYH4UZL_0RjYUTasyBXjIuc7CRSR2cpDZ-YqpVy2v2MWqbGd_gXx4HFmNgTjRwVQMquVe7vbvDLqeedNKlAcDPms8H1FuhF7C2QZOg82A476bawOOzrG4ge1tEYi10szWz5RIzmvSlq/s320/P1000148.JPG" width="199" /></a></div>This one is adorned with Tim's Stamps, Salvage Sticker, Adage Ticket, Mini-Rosette, vintage image, Idea-ology light bulb altered with Ranger alcohol ink, Trinket Pin and Sprocket Gear.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkRuJo0dVAeNzjSkB-akWizLFT7MoY_jkvWAAs3EAfs0VJJ0-F4a7vMQvcOV8uKoeFV5qf9zToPddzpLSzQqOrOJWI1qPrM8bZfB-tutHv_0ypEsslHM1-v2u5BVoXwt-lbY8BttYkqVt/s1600/P1000146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkRuJo0dVAeNzjSkB-akWizLFT7MoY_jkvWAAs3EAfs0VJJ0-F4a7vMQvcOV8uKoeFV5qf9zToPddzpLSzQqOrOJWI1qPrM8bZfB-tutHv_0ypEsslHM1-v2u5BVoXwt-lbY8BttYkqVt/s320/P1000146.JPG" width="170" /></a></div>This is another spritzed tag but I added oil pastels to highlight the background over the dried ink. I added vintage images, Tim Holtz Salvage Sticker, mini-rosette, Tim Stamps, rub-ons and topped it off with a rhinestone, button and Crystal Accents over the heart.</div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-42513845198230249832011-04-08T22:32:00.000-04:002011-04-08T22:32:10.933-04:00Studio Tour<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">A while back I promised pics of my studio area, which is usually in one of two states. Cluttered or severely organized. I hate to admit it, but my creativity flows best in a messy room. Go figure? But I am also forced to confess that I have an organizer living inside of me and it has to come out to play every now and then, or I'm just not happy.<br />
So this is evidence that the organized Lori recently came out to play. Soon, I'm sure, she will be off on an extended vacation and Lil' Miss Messy will happily create herself into a big pile of precious papers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9iJFrXTbT0jAcrUZe4YDn3PXdJL_BtEyEjJatNFBgC661ccH14P739-MOkm565lipR77jtaW0weAO3QM4yHrFqU6U_-jRNr3El09LypANSIDyBHIoIzxJyzvmlx1mbMj_0q_Ex4VQsnM/s1600/P1000130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9iJFrXTbT0jAcrUZe4YDn3PXdJL_BtEyEjJatNFBgC661ccH14P739-MOkm565lipR77jtaW0weAO3QM4yHrFqU6U_-jRNr3El09LypANSIDyBHIoIzxJyzvmlx1mbMj_0q_Ex4VQsnM/s400/P1000130.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> This is my fabulous and free desk. My hubby's company bought all new furniture and he was asked if I might want the reception desk. Ummmm...that was a hard decision! It was really a God thing, because we had already bought a desk for our office things which sits in the far right corner. When we got this desk home, it fit perfectly (no space left) right up against the existing desk. Not an inch to spare, but it worked! Score! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can see where I've added in some storage blocks, rolling carts etc. I like them because they can be moved around as my organizing whim takes me. The one on the left contains finished projects and UFO's. The one on the right contains my dimensional embellishments, mailing supplies and a drawer of ribbons and yarns. (They are sorted by colors in baggies).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_BUsF8IfdD9T4q3_5L5kEnMMBd6BzxHQX3ZUQtDYdB4hPG-L6uPTaxgR66QX6pjilaEAGJX1hedUmg0C1q5UqIpKrqYKcvOul9gn44sCVwsddgqGC0lZAEcqpG-_4UpYeUnKCFY3wW9mp/s1600/P1000135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_BUsF8IfdD9T4q3_5L5kEnMMBd6BzxHQX3ZUQtDYdB4hPG-L6uPTaxgR66QX6pjilaEAGJX1hedUmg0C1q5UqIpKrqYKcvOul9gn44sCVwsddgqGC0lZAEcqpG-_4UpYeUnKCFY3wW9mp/s400/P1000135.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is the area to the left of my desk, it houses my machines. Cuttlebugs, Xyrons, Zutter and Punchinator. I also have a cool ribbon rack and some XL rubber stamps stashed here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIhttLjcbrJ3fCpWL3QbDu4DppAAJNTt7FlV8CCUjsGpCek0QbePDe7LFp_Q2dOm5rRz0aVxXp8Awm8jeemzmXx99QLD29HrXcav8QQ0zFIffTim2JSvLLsXgmogZZvqlHluPPBvRfR7B/s1600/P1000136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIhttLjcbrJ3fCpWL3QbDu4DppAAJNTt7FlV8CCUjsGpCek0QbePDe7LFp_Q2dOm5rRz0aVxXp8Awm8jeemzmXx99QLD29HrXcav8QQ0zFIffTim2JSvLLsXgmogZZvqlHluPPBvRfR7B/s400/P1000136.JPG" width="238" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Next there is a closet. To the left of that sits this book case. It contains my bead and jewelry supplies, paper ephemera, assorted art papers, Canvases and sorted art supplies. I keep my paints in a glass case which I didn't include a picture of.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyixdayOxo5u3DKZ6LYuVwWe_l9Ted7cEPv4KFR21fT6dnnxW2uXZT5HX8hsHA8PvpPcIkIlRSpF0IblnHoAIy22zKmpKUUouVCjNkc_lFZBSgaeUeuwJiaa8gYnB-Jj5nEIscAYqmPEqo/s1600/P1000133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyixdayOxo5u3DKZ6LYuVwWe_l9Ted7cEPv4KFR21fT6dnnxW2uXZT5HX8hsHA8PvpPcIkIlRSpF0IblnHoAIy22zKmpKUUouVCjNkc_lFZBSgaeUeuwJiaa8gYnB-Jj5nEIscAYqmPEqo/s400/P1000133.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div>This cart contains my mounted rubber stamps. Most of them, anyway. I have a stamps in a lot of different bins and drawers, unmounteds are in a basket. Behind this is another bookcase, containing my Somerset Studio Magazines, books and my mist paints. Bins of fun things I've collected for assemblage work and some chotchkies. If you are wondering where the azure blue wall color decision came from, originally it was chosen to coordinate with a lot of sports artwork which belongs to my husband, Matt. Slowly it has migrated away as my supplies have grown. Good thing for me he is cool with it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHi-iAd26Z4xSyrnEHCBhvhEczTQKfAYQX9ikfClhS1_4pt1OjDHqIk5i0hDud5TU1YF3s18XKRXVeteZ9eK5SfcuhIyuyteFJQcHvkHwqmcNa6SlD9CU8wmxjj6CjuyNS0HdpYfli9SF/s1600/P1000134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHi-iAd26Z4xSyrnEHCBhvhEczTQKfAYQX9ikfClhS1_4pt1OjDHqIk5i0hDud5TU1YF3s18XKRXVeteZ9eK5SfcuhIyuyteFJQcHvkHwqmcNa6SlD9CU8wmxjj6CjuyNS0HdpYfli9SF/s320/P1000134.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Last but not least, we have my studio mascot, Congo. He usually pesters me while I work. The other day I put this cat cubby on this shelf, just for a few minutes while I was straightening. It usually sat on the floor. He wouldn't sit on it there, but now it's his favorite spot in the house. Cats! So much fun. Hope you enjoyed my mini tour. </div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-3496715584512961912011-04-03T19:48:00.000-04:002011-04-03T19:48:55.133-04:00Tag, you're it!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdwlTSyWWYd0X8gaa1uiIXI_hXSvf4NgWlUad6mrdq6I_BTZwPb1hyV8NZxaur8d3gLBR12Wo5eSKYCGp1Da3-Kvm7Ke_jyuiIKjX4zPSp_MPi2pAVSK91CIFd_8dU1OixKKthhLo3F_9s/s1600/P1000128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdwlTSyWWYd0X8gaa1uiIXI_hXSvf4NgWlUad6mrdq6I_BTZwPb1hyV8NZxaur8d3gLBR12Wo5eSKYCGp1Da3-Kvm7Ke_jyuiIKjX4zPSp_MPi2pAVSK91CIFd_8dU1OixKKthhLo3F_9s/s320/P1000128.JPG" width="132" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36sr3DrySpeu2v9VXY2LwyWBRnbZPbuqaHzqSWHZlGyQfSLiz5L4bzPfrPtskKOQKKPjKVMW-Mvm0Djbhd04ZQQZYwP2OWaf6dtCOTWNvDnpxS5IEaKt3RL-ygt6QV44XPlhZX9KkeSF4/s1600/P1000127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36sr3DrySpeu2v9VXY2LwyWBRnbZPbuqaHzqSWHZlGyQfSLiz5L4bzPfrPtskKOQKKPjKVMW-Mvm0Djbhd04ZQQZYwP2OWaf6dtCOTWNvDnpxS5IEaKt3RL-ygt6QV44XPlhZX9KkeSF4/s320/P1000127.JPG" width="130" /></a></div><br />
I've had a weird couple of weeks, not feeling the best and busy with a variety of things so not much artsyness has happened. In a few stolen moments, I did manage to get some art therapy in. I thought I'd share some more UFO's today, that I finally did finish. (unfinished objects)<br />
These tags were created using Ranger Color Wash Sprays, Tattered Angels Glimmer Mists and Radiant Rain sprays. I used a variety of masks for the backgrounds. Each one is finished off with a vintage image of a woman, rub-ons, German Scrap, and fun embellishments. Tags finished with a ribbon or yarn topper. The Asian one also has beaded fringe at the bottom.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvIztpI0XyquogCt9kXi5875Bx0yBqFKAM8T-XgKzdKVu5W10OGSA0eklU9iCsOQ5f8y1XUNBxKTCo75IY_nkuiQubhQiEV17wom0ZeTGBJ5pKfjQAJZDAD2Gcey8xx3pbn6hWuE8dTkLz/s1600/P1000129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvIztpI0XyquogCt9kXi5875Bx0yBqFKAM8T-XgKzdKVu5W10OGSA0eklU9iCsOQ5f8y1XUNBxKTCo75IY_nkuiQubhQiEV17wom0ZeTGBJ5pKfjQAJZDAD2Gcey8xx3pbn6hWuE8dTkLz/s320/P1000129.JPG" width="184" /></a></div>This one starts off the same, background created with spray mists and masks, vintage image of a showgirl and some Tim Holtz Tissue Tape, an Adage Ticket, a Heidi Swapp stamped image of lace, a Paula Deen Bird embellie and some Prima Flowers. Hope they remind you of spring.<br />
<br />
</div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-35910725907550050992011-03-20T15:20:00.001-04:002011-03-20T15:21:25.598-04:00Week off<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I took last week off from art. It wasn't planned, I just didn't feel inspired and I got sucked into being "relaxed". Who am I kidding, I was just lazy. I did work yesterday on some ongoing projects but I don't have much new that is finished to share. <br />
I decided that I would put up the photos of the Glass Bottle Snowmen that I made last December, but never shared. It's an homage to spring, really, since snowmen have to migrate north this week. Sorry guys, but we won't see you again until next winter. Don't forget to write!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhvLgfVFCHKG5ShCICe9PnPV6HoTJZSd-g9kme6yReNOt-7NP_1GPycMg1nlOOIwLYo1ivatQ45R6yDq5gGF0AmrsBexjKJmmSqR4gwzz2KXprNEtoU3BlTBc7vYLghL5M9_j-WvfO4Wif/s1600/P1000047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhvLgfVFCHKG5ShCICe9PnPV6HoTJZSd-g9kme6yReNOt-7NP_1GPycMg1nlOOIwLYo1ivatQ45R6yDq5gGF0AmrsBexjKJmmSqR4gwzz2KXprNEtoU3BlTBc7vYLghL5M9_j-WvfO4Wif/s320/P1000047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>These smiling fellows (and ladies) are made from glass bottles, Crayola Air dry clay, Vintage Bead noses, bead eyes, brads for smiles and assorted fillers that look wintery. I created hats from bottle caps, discarded metal findings and beads.<br />
We made these at our art club at Stamp Therapy and everyone's took a distinct look based on the builder's style. They were inspired by the December 2008 cover of Cloth, Paper, Scissors.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2e2Ee5wm1GznKfQUTVquUQvD5DG5jh9Dg3cLU04rtrp_z4a7VV8CRyqpn86AsXn5qXbTmWKmfqYD-V73YXJE735k588shD_XwkCir5oSygSzpRzeVUdgI8ohxNk5bwWG3NtVEL3D0Xzt6/s1600/P1000049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2e2Ee5wm1GznKfQUTVquUQvD5DG5jh9Dg3cLU04rtrp_z4a7VV8CRyqpn86AsXn5qXbTmWKmfqYD-V73YXJE735k588shD_XwkCir5oSygSzpRzeVUdgI8ohxNk5bwWG3NtVEL3D0Xzt6/s320/P1000049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>You can see on this close up where I added some distress ink to the cheeks to give our dapper couple some personality. Faux fur wrap gives the lady some added warmth.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpSCUYvY7v4dKwig4IkrqYsowfakNMoIjTTGgwoeRIbDhhDoIRqRDJ7Rr0V1kzTmPXFH05Krhdh_YsVVP5KaRp3yQwwIesPXtvzbDvVa35OlBLWsYAim3XhgwHmdLpffLXJ0pksI67w3l/s1600/P1000054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpSCUYvY7v4dKwig4IkrqYsowfakNMoIjTTGgwoeRIbDhhDoIRqRDJ7Rr0V1kzTmPXFH05Krhdh_YsVVP5KaRp3yQwwIesPXtvzbDvVa35OlBLWsYAim3XhgwHmdLpffLXJ0pksI67w3l/s320/P1000054.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
This photo features the tallest snow people I made. The regal lady is filled with vintage beads and sports a brooch (missing a couple stones). Her hat is made from a cork and embellished with a fancy brad. We filled the bottles with tinsel, little styro snowballs, strings of pearls, glitters and crystals. Each one a little treasure. I honestly couldn't part with a single one of them, but maybe next year....</div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-9838255790284168722011-03-13T19:24:00.000-04:002011-03-13T19:24:00.145-04:00Drum roll....winner is picked!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<dl id="comments-block"><dt id="c6064943197534562396"> <img alt="Blogger" class="comment-icon blogger-comment" src="img/blank.gif" /> <span dir="ltr"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03499516231695463094" rel="nofollow">Vic</a></span> said...</dt>
<dd>Fun! Who doesn't love a giveaway? LOL I became a follower.
And Vic was picked because her number was randomly drawn from a coffee cup containing all 46 followers who commented by the deadline. So Vic, send me an email or post so I can get your address and send your box of fun off to you!
I'll do this periodically because it was fun and I do love making new friends. Thanks again to everyone who supported me!
</dd></dl></div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-75651308939316966842011-02-24T21:13:00.001-05:002011-02-24T21:36:23.921-05:00Blog Giveaway!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">To celebrate my new blog counter, I'm doing my first blog giveaway! I've got a batch of fun art supplies to give away including some sparkly glitzy watercolor paints, Ranger Distress Embossing Ink and an alcohol ink blending tool, Rub ons, some Tim Holtz embellies along with some sweet surprises! <br />
To qualify, you must be a blog follower of Altered Underground. Once you've followed my blog, leave a comment after this post to let me know you want to be in the drawing! The giveaway will close on March 12 at midnight EST. I'll pick one follower at random and then post the winner. Of course, you'll have to email me your address so I can mail you your prize! Thanks for your support!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQQ5sXiR2vdRu2jdGD8QwvPqCbN4gO3wRwvSp_b_TuF_S0ea9VbsEqCY6hV3JL4yOFvoPi_BzEjk1ELH6U8oIgf1aShu1NE-KYVCaRf_nFBVEBiCGyPP0HWqYpbQVYzGk9eRPLo0riCrm/s1600/P1000104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQQ5sXiR2vdRu2jdGD8QwvPqCbN4gO3wRwvSp_b_TuF_S0ea9VbsEqCY6hV3JL4yOFvoPi_BzEjk1ELH6U8oIgf1aShu1NE-KYVCaRf_nFBVEBiCGyPP0HWqYpbQVYzGk9eRPLo0riCrm/s320/P1000104.JPG" width="155" /></a></div></div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-24452090779242616412011-02-19T19:04:00.004-05:002011-02-20T21:24:54.180-05:00Think PinkEven though Valentine's day was last Monday, I've been hung up on pink this week. Here is a fun tag I created to enter in this week's challenge on <a href="http://simonsaysstampandshow.blogspot.com/">Simon Says Stamp and Show. </a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR3dXDaespbKuNvSRFbZEUOHgeqpLoklFZyLSgUt3rw9_HsZ_aLthzLc4peIF-am87EXjCngd6MTyansD-rXI3N0l-FWQWusdZZgCxcR9ZiWupg9PBtUqLAuSJzSRqmj6usXhYPgGs3VpI/s1600/P1000101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR3dXDaespbKuNvSRFbZEUOHgeqpLoklFZyLSgUt3rw9_HsZ_aLthzLc4peIF-am87EXjCngd6MTyansD-rXI3N0l-FWQWusdZZgCxcR9ZiWupg9PBtUqLAuSJzSRqmj6usXhYPgGs3VpI/s320/P1000101.JPG" width="131" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click photo to see it larger</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I love to create hand made backgrounds, and this one was made on glossy card stock, with crayons and candles drawn across to create a resist. Then I applied re-inkers to a craft mat (a little drop will do ya), spritzed with water and pressed the paper into the wet paint. It's easy, fun and you get great effects.<br />
I added scrapbook paper at the bottom from GCD Studios Cloisonne Collection and a strip on the side of another paper scrap whose identity was long ago used and removed. Then I stamped an image of a dreamy lady by Rubber Stampede, "Suzanne Nicoll." A German Scrap Pink Daisy border hides the join of the papers. I added a stamped image by Hero Art's "a bouquet of dreams" adhered to a brown scrap. Embellished with K and Company's bird chipboard (adhered with a pop dot), Prima flowers, a butterfly transparency by Recollections and a Rhinestone flower center by Prima. Finished off with an edging of Frayed Burlap Distress Ink by Ranger and some frou-frou ribbons.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqBFs5Dg7Nd2aCQSF_33JhV4YFLoJhAXT2JyIl78Ac3Ruw35IuXOEGzmUhlCA-DewUNf3OoIsHdYXLv1HNqI96IfPW7zD0Yz1e98Pw4BQKGr9P4NqMptrVn_ARlGyAfil1Dhc0aiXV6oP/s1600/P1000103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqBFs5Dg7Nd2aCQSF_33JhV4YFLoJhAXT2JyIl78Ac3Ruw35IuXOEGzmUhlCA-DewUNf3OoIsHdYXLv1HNqI96IfPW7zD0Yz1e98Pw4BQKGr9P4NqMptrVn_ARlGyAfil1Dhc0aiXV6oP/s320/P1000103.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I also made a pink collage about L O V E on canvas board. I used glimmer mists over a heart shaped mask from Tattered Angels and sprinkled on some Schmenke powder. It's from Germany, and its metallic powder which melts when it hits wet paint. So dreamy...I collaged playing cards which spelled out love, adding glimmer glam accents, pearl and rhinestone trims, tissue tape, a couple rub and some chip-board flourishes topped with Stickles. I'm still deciding if I should add some flowers, what do you think?Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-74650641828706188852011-02-15T13:36:00.000-05:002011-02-15T13:36:31.356-05:00UFO's - My Latest CreationI made a lot of goals for 2011. I've already told you about my goal to blog at minimum once a week. Another goal I made was to tackle my drawer full of UFO's (UnFinished Objects). Yes, I have a whole drawer full. I have others that are too big to fit in that drawer. I am proud to say that I have tackled two so far this year. Here is the latest one, a book I titled FLY AWAY.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UnwgIl9CudN6HlEN4ODEHHlx_2zYUnniiPkzaOBcthRKjh16rmE0getqGmIqip-KTOwjrG4gFECwKnlarRTNK5iWciaMinOmFkc9x4Cy_ScPvrtQzTe_IopfVAtVvmRuQTTMN4eK9FGb/s1600/P1000096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UnwgIl9CudN6HlEN4ODEHHlx_2zYUnniiPkzaOBcthRKjh16rmE0getqGmIqip-KTOwjrG4gFECwKnlarRTNK5iWciaMinOmFkc9x4Cy_ScPvrtQzTe_IopfVAtVvmRuQTTMN4eK9FGb/s320/P1000096.JPG" width="229" /></a></div><br />
I belong to an Art Club called MIABA. MIABA stands for MI Altered Book Artists. There are ladies from all over the state of Michigan and some even come from Ohio. We meet once a quarter in different locations around the state, but lately it seems like most often in West Michigan. It's hard to find people who are willing to host, and have the resources to do so. If you are interested in this group of artists, you can find more info on their Yahoo group.<br />
Each time we meet, it seems like we start some really cool projects, but often don't get them finished. That's why they pile up. I'm trying to tackle them one at a time. The project I am sharing was started at our Sept. 2010 meeting, hosted by Christine. She gave us rolls of wallpaper and card-stock. My template was shaped like a half arch. At the meeting I cut out the cardstock, glued the wallpaper on both sides using Tacky Glue and called it a day.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Here's what I did to the pages:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyX_rJwYgnlb1HaJKPkMoqKGzjQMyl7QllczAbV7QgkmkYySQ87rG9-UjsQIOQo4zeF8fH2z1gPZDUy6g4eFZiO9mQkQ_4i-DO_rnw2MRf-jpNPVU_Stgn7M6UPKIjhwFjzckuoXpJyvj6/s1600/P1000091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyX_rJwYgnlb1HaJKPkMoqKGzjQMyl7QllczAbV7QgkmkYySQ87rG9-UjsQIOQo4zeF8fH2z1gPZDUy6g4eFZiO9mQkQ_4i-DO_rnw2MRf-jpNPVU_Stgn7M6UPKIjhwFjzckuoXpJyvj6/s320/P1000091.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>You can see the background starts with a taupe and cream wallpaper, it has orchid flowers and leaves on it. I used Bo-bunny Rub Ons, torn book pages spritzed with spray mists and a cool rubber stamp of arches that I colored with Ranger Distress Inks. Also, a variety of images scavanged from my collage box, scrapbook papers, some cool vintage stickers and a border. Easy! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWo28Uxuv0hvy2HNKXujiOKzv9kuWBZxwFHHJuFvNPpNvgPf_rwBF8WGotNCbWbgAR50A7KJVLimE7nkO9ofqCj_eDy1wvmnANa7n39dRQOVCuffibx8BVVyeEX62SBUUH6SutezCFqO4/s1600/P1000092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWo28Uxuv0hvy2HNKXujiOKzv9kuWBZxwFHHJuFvNPpNvgPf_rwBF8WGotNCbWbgAR50A7KJVLimE7nkO9ofqCj_eDy1wvmnANa7n39dRQOVCuffibx8BVVyeEX62SBUUH6SutezCFqO4/s320/P1000092.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This next background starts with Distress Inks rubbed over the wallpaper. You'd be suprised to learn that the ink adheres nicely to the vinyl wallpaper. More collage images, border, rub ons and a couple stickers. One thing I learned here is that Distress Crackle Paint will NOT adhere to vinyl wallpaper, it all flaked off. You can see a few remnants of white on the left page in the background.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEs1oFOdNTUy4M29Ee7ZilC5ifPN5E8mopGTSfPMO4s3QSVgbEqsJ_MRZhmF0YckcQVRRsG-cVrSQ4fhTYRSuqyA93zaEBUQgz3zy624F3wSR-Ygf_yxWE1upY-dnHPnt-_j_Op6ofal0b/s1600/P1000093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEs1oFOdNTUy4M29Ee7ZilC5ifPN5E8mopGTSfPMO4s3QSVgbEqsJ_MRZhmF0YckcQVRRsG-cVrSQ4fhTYRSuqyA93zaEBUQgz3zy624F3wSR-Ygf_yxWE1upY-dnHPnt-_j_Op6ofal0b/s320/P1000093.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>These pages have book pages, mica, stamped images, a transparency, a preserved leaf, some vintage images, a couple of stickers and more rub on's. I'm obsessed with rub ons!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxRmgEgxpY8qLxL7BrU2qnChAcO0uF3JifAHyzNk2bQZgFxmP7JfZcVzrEy3hebgW8J26K21owfSG1fW2l2LO-bf9W_Ssp20MjFs6O7yJ7NGaPRDMok3m9xfGycXy4Bh1_OQwZ1WykJrH/s1600/P1000094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxRmgEgxpY8qLxL7BrU2qnChAcO0uF3JifAHyzNk2bQZgFxmP7JfZcVzrEy3hebgW8J26K21owfSG1fW2l2LO-bf9W_Ssp20MjFs6O7yJ7NGaPRDMok3m9xfGycXy4Bh1_OQwZ1WykJrH/s320/P1000094.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The background for this set of pages was created by using a stencil and Glimmer Mists both from Tattered Angels Products. Collage images and rub ons finish it off.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6U9sHDsfD_zGq75IU3q-2DQLIz6aM-SgnlmzqYUZ8qAXEIuTeRWQ31F-A1_r_0iC4dv3yDrT9fcXUU5sO5vv-VdIVykITVgjO9R-N-zZkRCbMPsFox6J2lOdSAkbEI2VegPBFaIfGddwp/s1600/P1000095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6U9sHDsfD_zGq75IU3q-2DQLIz6aM-SgnlmzqYUZ8qAXEIuTeRWQ31F-A1_r_0iC4dv3yDrT9fcXUU5sO5vv-VdIVykITVgjO9R-N-zZkRCbMPsFox6J2lOdSAkbEI2VegPBFaIfGddwp/s320/P1000095.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Here's another set using Glimmer Mists and a mask created by a piece of radiator screening. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwwGk_ORXSNKo2dhK5ME4LnmbdoTRZimIbMyW5672SqSpqhTMP60Cv6eugp54P4oa3_BGiJJqZPGQ6tzuiOfwEkBPwaXFlrc_dqqtsqaLyKEWiNb-hndg9VSODr6Bn2jIy0mC6yn0cOEB/s1600/P1000090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwwGk_ORXSNKo2dhK5ME4LnmbdoTRZimIbMyW5672SqSpqhTMP60Cv6eugp54P4oa3_BGiJJqZPGQ6tzuiOfwEkBPwaXFlrc_dqqtsqaLyKEWiNb-hndg9VSODr6Bn2jIy0mC6yn0cOEB/s320/P1000090.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Here is the front and back cover, also created with Glimmer Mists, Tattered Angel and Crafter's Workshop Masks, rubber stamps and sticker letters. The End. Till next time.Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-68466961162508714472011-02-11T22:51:00.001-05:002011-02-11T22:54:46.121-05:00My Painted PastI belong to a variety of Yahoo Groups, mostly art related. It's a great way to see what others are creating, you get great tips and meet some nice folks. On one, rangerinklink, someone suggested we introduce ourselves. Most people talked about their lives and interests in art. After I posted mine, I thought, why not share that here? I'll throw in some pictures of art from my other decades. A nice trip down memory lane, right?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKDZnk7ebge0RmHtvW-XS0lMVlrV4asskyI1pWzk1BUSMlHc8zL6Aef12hPa713QpOhrHcF8Xe2_RwXoIysFaaTYoN9jff54j215AyFlq76nSy6eK98FOwXoCPKIsMbpcVHLDg_4Kq1a3/s1600/sc03c5de41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>My journey started at a young age. My mother taught me how to draw when I was 6 and I enjoyed art through my public education days, finally studying art and design at Western Michigan University.<br />
After graduating, I freelanced for many years, doing graphic design, pen and ink architectural drawings and watercolor paintings. This was "back in the day" of the Mall Art shows, where art groups would set up for a week and sell. As you can see from the not-so-great photos, I loved realism, detail, busyness.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlSyRBfhIOC8J-wT6hseYvOOPywFWt6sW9OxhUpSxUB1XT7oB93E_GT3-7hnSRPIJk1ZL1wEh8AuyhW9oxP92UMhzVD8zzSsngrm_JxaBDjB_Mr1ADG-ukTcU25kv-ft3LZaPZlPQBVijN/s1600/sc03c5e81d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlSyRBfhIOC8J-wT6hseYvOOPywFWt6sW9OxhUpSxUB1XT7oB93E_GT3-7hnSRPIJk1ZL1wEh8AuyhW9oxP92UMhzVD8zzSsngrm_JxaBDjB_Mr1ADG-ukTcU25kv-ft3LZaPZlPQBVijN/s320/sc03c5e81d.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKDZnk7ebge0RmHtvW-XS0lMVlrV4asskyI1pWzk1BUSMlHc8zL6Aef12hPa713QpOhrHcF8Xe2_RwXoIysFaaTYoN9jff54j215AyFlq76nSy6eK98FOwXoCPKIsMbpcVHLDg_4Kq1a3/s1600/sc03c5de41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKDZnk7ebge0RmHtvW-XS0lMVlrV4asskyI1pWzk1BUSMlHc8zL6Aef12hPa713QpOhrHcF8Xe2_RwXoIysFaaTYoN9jff54j215AyFlq76nSy6eK98FOwXoCPKIsMbpcVHLDg_4Kq1a3/s320/sc03c5de41.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Eventually I brought my work into local galleries. I began designing jewelry and painting clothes. I developed a watercolor technique on fabric which at the time was quite unique. I discovered that even though people enjoyed my realism, sales took off like crazy when I went more abstract, and free.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67XipQ0rDYxMl5XB_XZt2iPmdG0eKF_p9kqAyardun8gMUXioqkEZvJ66V0TNLew4q3TKMsk8V-NdhzW9NzG4eqrywtn16hYdS-EHmCnBFRlac5Qw4udp9x2I4o3x7ll5cWHUDAPwhy8C/s1600/sc03c5ac59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67XipQ0rDYxMl5XB_XZt2iPmdG0eKF_p9kqAyardun8gMUXioqkEZvJ66V0TNLew4q3TKMsk8V-NdhzW9NzG4eqrywtn16hYdS-EHmCnBFRlac5Qw4udp9x2I4o3x7ll5cWHUDAPwhy8C/s320/sc03c5ac59.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I sold at Art Fairs across the State of Michigan, in boutiques and eventually opened my own shop.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCM-pwj0GvK3cDI3GdWx3KscyyCyyvCnvL_LTTWuIWr20XmlXb_iUx9DOxHp71ItTtZ7yrUM-smOwiD45TmEMqCO9De9sBUeOnSE6dsscs-O1PBdOOwMH7aYGOc3PtNzHqRcHjcUvLGI1t/s1600/sc03c5c878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCM-pwj0GvK3cDI3GdWx3KscyyCyyvCnvL_LTTWuIWr20XmlXb_iUx9DOxHp71ItTtZ7yrUM-smOwiD45TmEMqCO9De9sBUeOnSE6dsscs-O1PBdOOwMH7aYGOc3PtNzHqRcHjcUvLGI1t/s320/sc03c5c878.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remember the Bat Wing tops with matching pants?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInlZchQxR4QZ_8BPqQ8AOVs1XMDEhR-2vL57aMyIKoRMsCsDgg43-rrlh6T33a42Ps2Wvqd8yJpgN6FNCQ-iLUTnMERipRymm7DUNsKrq5j9V9hRlYCQ3WsAh_SYScvr2609tCbG27pk3/s1600/sc03c59a98.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInlZchQxR4QZ_8BPqQ8AOVs1XMDEhR-2vL57aMyIKoRMsCsDgg43-rrlh6T33a42Ps2Wvqd8yJpgN6FNCQ-iLUTnMERipRymm7DUNsKrq5j9V9hRlYCQ3WsAh_SYScvr2609tCbG27pk3/s1600/sc03c59a98.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInlZchQxR4QZ_8BPqQ8AOVs1XMDEhR-2vL57aMyIKoRMsCsDgg43-rrlh6T33a42Ps2Wvqd8yJpgN6FNCQ-iLUTnMERipRymm7DUNsKrq5j9V9hRlYCQ3WsAh_SYScvr2609tCbG27pk3/s320/sc03c59a98.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Art Fair Set Up</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"></div>After two years, the sweet deal I had worked out with the landlord had disappeared and I decided to break away from art. Fairs and shows are like moving every weekend. It gets old eventually. Add in a divorce, and I decided it was time to get a real job. :-) what is that? <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhso33LCbs23hTT5CaVZVVQOcwb-J2TBQiH3JdmixVODsiSyheo8rE4Pj2xbOzyF0bYPxqtjmnIlccMYW5p_8s_5Q5z_akmqjVNVwqS-X_ETGE1AayuuA5d7VmYCrt_8u6g2SRJaXaz7fNK/s1600/sc03c5f566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhso33LCbs23hTT5CaVZVVQOcwb-J2TBQiH3JdmixVODsiSyheo8rE4Pj2xbOzyF0bYPxqtjmnIlccMYW5p_8s_5Q5z_akmqjVNVwqS-X_ETGE1AayuuA5d7VmYCrt_8u6g2SRJaXaz7fNK/s320/sc03c5f566.jpg" width="245" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watercolor cat on T-Shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>After 7 years of avoiding Art, I got engaged and decided to make my own wedding invites. After many trips to rubber stamp stores and hours of work I found myself getting sucked back into the art world….now in a completely different Medium.<br />
<br />
I still work full time for an insurance company, but many hours are spent in my home studio creating altered books, collage, assemblage and on occasion do swaps like ATC's and Fat Books. I participate in 3 Art clubs and often teach.Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-63411977781669596422011-02-02T20:39:00.000-05:002011-02-02T20:39:18.851-05:00Let's Talk TapeTissue Tape, Washi Masking Tape, Gaffer Tape...even colorful Duct Tape! Let's not forget the metal tape that is used in the heating and cooling industry. All of these tapes have a place in my artwork. Let's talk tape!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Tissue Tape </div>The idea for this discussion came about when I facilitated the Tattered Journey project last Saturday. It was recommended to cover the sides of the box or canvas with Tissue Tape, which gave the project a lovely finished look. The great thing about Tissue Tape is that you can use it to hide a variety of mistakes. I've always said, nothing in altered art isn't fixable. Use a cool vintage patterned tape to cover your oops's and it will look like you did it on purpose!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG4w5PGMLNFsLEciQROGWIb0Vcm3nLmREE86erMLq1LyrU8frIov4oiRWaCfKpNhrK1Er794P-lE22m3xS1nX7DPFJlFN80qQPDDRSG5PpsBWaqM2t7Gr0n97sMvQ1Ps6_eGHnGzASTF3p/s1600/P1000074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG4w5PGMLNFsLEciQROGWIb0Vcm3nLmREE86erMLq1LyrU8frIov4oiRWaCfKpNhrK1Er794P-lE22m3xS1nX7DPFJlFN80qQPDDRSG5PpsBWaqM2t7Gr0n97sMvQ1Ps6_eGHnGzASTF3p/s320/P1000074.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
There is a challenge with Tissue Tape, stemming from the same thing that makes it wonderful. The tapes are repositionable. This is great because you can take the tape off and replace it until it's perfectly placed. This also presents a challenge because it makes your piece more fragile while you are still working on it. I discovered while wrapping the sides of my project that the tape would catch on my hands and fold over.<br />
I decided to burnish the tape to the piece, which makes it stick better. For those of you who don't know what burnish means, it means to to make shiny or lustrous by rubbing. Now, we are not trying to make our tape shiny, but if you rub over the tape with a smooth object, like the back of a spoon or other smooth tool, and use gentle pressure (not tearing the tape) the tape edges will stay down better.<br />
<br />
Another cool thing about the tape is you can apply ink to it, to change the look. I suggest Ranger's Distress Ink, which can be applied with your finger, direct from the ink pad, or even better by using a blending foam tool.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Gaffer Tape</div>Gaffer Tape, is tape that is used in the theatre, television and movie industry to hold down cables, wires, anything that needs to be secured but will later need to be removed. It's made of fabric, usually cotton and is very strong. I don't use "real" gaffer tape, but tapes that are made by Seven Gypsies for us altered artists that are called gaffer tape. They have cool vintage patterns on them and work great for covering objects that have a dimensional surface.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf58h0QSXb7Ip_SnxKb7LxbEDkw80dif5BX1SvLWGi9OGpv914k7d5VLkKbEMsx6XO47oFNHenY7M9At373N7gKlLLut0VguF0oj5jTp2fWyb8M0mzkDC-h3VZwaBxHm7dWOZl-vnmQ-Tv/s1600/P1000075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf58h0QSXb7Ip_SnxKb7LxbEDkw80dif5BX1SvLWGi9OGpv914k7d5VLkKbEMsx6XO47oFNHenY7M9At373N7gKlLLut0VguF0oj5jTp2fWyb8M0mzkDC-h3VZwaBxHm7dWOZl-vnmQ-Tv/s320/P1000075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I used Gaffer tape to cover a small wooden frame that I put on my Tattered Journey project. These tapes also have edges that can curl up, so gentle burnishing will help keep everything down. (very gentle or you'll wear the color off) They are repositionable, but you can't move them over and over because the adhesive begins to wear thin. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Foil Tape</div>Also known as Mastic Tape, it's used in the building industry to seal gaps in heating ducts. The brand I have is made by Nashua and was purchased at my local home improvement store for under $10. The roll is huge and should last quite a while. It's very fun to use in your art, so give it a try.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir44SHHc0b5BCwTp_5O4vYOjgXCfXWbft-B-SjUd05n_q9j6gsDxWFGd6zxXLBN_Wcrj810Fx_Sz4HoHmvqeC-Zu74reERS2hT04HyItg7p8Vi54-ipcJVd1PMT21Q2BOKLPYDD4mwdpUv/s1600/P1000072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir44SHHc0b5BCwTp_5O4vYOjgXCfXWbft-B-SjUd05n_q9j6gsDxWFGd6zxXLBN_Wcrj810Fx_Sz4HoHmvqeC-Zu74reERS2hT04HyItg7p8Vi54-ipcJVd1PMT21Q2BOKLPYDD4mwdpUv/s320/P1000072.JPG" width="251" /></a></div><br />
What to do with it, you ask? <br />
You can color it with Alcohol Inks or Staz-on ink pads. You can emboss it in your Cuttlebug, Big Shot, Vagabond or other embossing machines. I suggest adhering it to cardstock or paper first, but it's not absolutely necessary. I used some in an altered book, and embossed it with a pencil and some other metal tools. I also placed some dimensional foam stickers underneath and got some raised designs that were cool.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Duct Tape</div>Everyone knows how creative you can be with Duct Tape. There are even contests for best prom attire made from Duct Tape.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16wE3pUvxTDZPICRwtq1WbPHn3-yy8E-5pna3kVd2DWYNlxjOrNw1zEoldYIHSDzO3fSJfh3DfDgwf0sLrc4lC0wpqT0xn-fsq1R4sKN4Fak8gaMOLnzSTKBepQk_o85kcrSY35aki3q0/s1600/P1000069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16wE3pUvxTDZPICRwtq1WbPHn3-yy8E-5pna3kVd2DWYNlxjOrNw1zEoldYIHSDzO3fSJfh3DfDgwf0sLrc4lC0wpqT0xn-fsq1R4sKN4Fak8gaMOLnzSTKBepQk_o85kcrSY35aki3q0/s320/P1000069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I took a class from Shauna Swantek and we made a purse from Duct Tape and Cards. I actually used ATC's instead of playing cards. Here I used brown Duct Tape to create the rim of the bag. Loved the results!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Washi Masking Tape</div>Alas, I do not own any of this, but have heard from crafters who reside in the Orient how fun it is. Wide variety of colors and patterns. I imagine it's similar to Tissue Tape, but don't know for sure. I'm planning on ordering some from the internet soon so I'll report back when I know more.<br />
That's all for this post, hope it wasn't to sticky for you to wade through it all! Blessings!Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-52572862256817035542011-01-27T17:17:00.002-05:002011-01-29T08:59:10.593-05:00Reflecting on Tim Holtz<div class="MsoNormal">Yes, ladies and Gents, it’s that time of year again, Winter CHA is upon us. What that means for the average stamp-a-holic, is that all things new are being released to our Local Stamp Shops, who in turn will order great gobs of goodies for you and I to own! I love how Tim Holtz previews all of his new products on his Blog, here we can see, hear and ALMOST TOUCH the new treasures that will soon await us. Now is the time to advise your stamp shop proprietor of what you can’t live without. </div><div class="MsoNormal">I’m jonesing for the <a href="http://www.coredinations.com/%20">Core’dinations</a> <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1296094434_2">card stock</span> which match the Distress Ink Colors! Conveniently packaged with one each per set of Tim’s 36 colors of Distress Ink. Secondly, Tim has a new <a href="http://www.rangerink.com/products/prod_paper_AdirondackAlcoholInkCardstock.htm%20">Adirondack Cardstock</a> made for specifically for Alcohol Inks, gotta get that too. And Santa, I also put the Mini Rosette die and new tissue tape on my wish list too.</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">Tim is our artsy hero. He thinks of everything we wished we had thought of and creates it for us. He never ceases to take things just one more step beyond cool, which makes it fun for his many aficionado’s. On Saturday, I’m facilitating a monthly project at Stamp Therapy for our Altered Art Group which is inspired by Tim’s <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/2010/10/absolutely-amazing-weekend.html">Creative Blocks.</a> Having not taken his class, I came up with my own version of the project, using of all things; a shoe box lid and foam core board. I later learned that he actually used canvases for his Creative Blocks, but ours is inspired by his and will of course be different. I’ve decided to share the process with you in case you’re interested. I'm calling my version:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">A Tattered Journey</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6cANCIo5c0Eg9UxqZeJEXqg0UXP1IqhW0rMzj-EJm19uphdn502ZAGs9m5dRF2PyrtivLy_LQ9zA23OqefxlScA03JFDOzD_42q7kLVMZlCOvxtYAnw9vcgbjHmLUrQQy1ggRfJgGtnEM/s1600/P1000058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6cANCIo5c0Eg9UxqZeJEXqg0UXP1IqhW0rMzj-EJm19uphdn502ZAGs9m5dRF2PyrtivLy_LQ9zA23OqefxlScA03JFDOzD_42q7kLVMZlCOvxtYAnw9vcgbjHmLUrQQy1ggRfJgGtnEM/s320/P1000058.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">What I did:</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">I located a shoe box with a narrow depth lid. I chose one from a pair of ladies shoes, pretty average sized shoe box. No rules, use the size you like.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQmNowN4y7ChwoVEkAymfFzptJdE5BjzEBzMBQyoQ2hTzdK9VgtWZg90_VAAAvkByJTlaRCS5uj78uE1fKuMjCZldvNHtZwr4Alca5zD9Ub1T2Jy5yib0lEql3Z6Eo37qofqVfoGBvWfC/s1600/P1000032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQmNowN4y7ChwoVEkAymfFzptJdE5BjzEBzMBQyoQ2hTzdK9VgtWZg90_VAAAvkByJTlaRCS5uj78uE1fKuMjCZldvNHtZwr4Alca5zD9Ub1T2Jy5yib0lEql3Z6Eo37qofqVfoGBvWfC/s320/P1000032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Using a screw-type <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1296094434_6">hole punch</span>, I punched two holes in the back of the lid about 1 ½” from the top and spaced about an 1 ½” from each side. I inserted a sturdy wire, which I then looped and twisted on the inside so the wire stayed in place. I then taped the loop down. This creates a hanger. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqi7Wnkzebb56IHYgu_dvjBGi43ruFqfqnqmp0yLXLNE4KZZL-eg5Owx4YPOxV8Yd3cn5hJJ2xv3eqemedOjDLszqQknCFL8xTlPWABKiPWnWEZNYFOovSTFDkHcwowi_f3XK6Q4jtwFqC/s1600/P1000034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqi7Wnkzebb56IHYgu_dvjBGi43ruFqfqnqmp0yLXLNE4KZZL-eg5Owx4YPOxV8Yd3cn5hJJ2xv3eqemedOjDLszqQknCFL8xTlPWABKiPWnWEZNYFOovSTFDkHcwowi_f3XK6Q4jtwFqC/s320/P1000034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">I used a stapler to reinforce the box lid sides. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XxT-W3I4bAIudjRbfHwWBGJo1oPeKig4kQ152yvdkcn-K2N8IUYHHGoIJT4yTMk94f7S4MEgaNK-mEG7fjw7pmHDhPutxUwxN8m2MJL0FDi-DyfbH1j_tueKTFudZfGlpFmlac1lEHN5/s1600/P1000035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XxT-W3I4bAIudjRbfHwWBGJo1oPeKig4kQ152yvdkcn-K2N8IUYHHGoIJT4yTMk94f7S4MEgaNK-mEG7fjw7pmHDhPutxUwxN8m2MJL0FDi-DyfbH1j_tueKTFudZfGlpFmlac1lEHN5/s320/P1000035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">I cut two sheets of ¼” thick foam core board the same size as the inside of the box lid. I secured the first one with red tape to make sure it stuck to the wire firmly. The second layer I glued in with <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1296094434_7">Tacky glue</span>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBN1os5FqebkWD6N8obkTltWomCd73ET_UkgyikaRRPlZWmpjYrAyUpSbdxdQYU7yd6spylaWS16UuO6iut6yau27TaMNLERdbkWwZHBglFeW80S9HARo76IZ1e4ufEjCJUlywJeATJImB/s1600/P1000036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBN1os5FqebkWD6N8obkTltWomCd73ET_UkgyikaRRPlZWmpjYrAyUpSbdxdQYU7yd6spylaWS16UuO6iut6yau27TaMNLERdbkWwZHBglFeW80S9HARo76IZ1e4ufEjCJUlywJeATJImB/s320/P1000036.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I created a template with a sheet of card stock to help me decide what size to cut the blocks. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvX87IUkzjyqtDjK0XGkQCJpWR0b4-24J356g4pIeSmNV6DOxouf2xyv8EwxSfqQ55Ju514Ny3akgZD5nEzRMZKSeodur3_fKpWYGzfnHule3XfXWfBPkxTq2ml_QU2YaLvy80vLYm7TB/s1600/P1000038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvX87IUkzjyqtDjK0XGkQCJpWR0b4-24J356g4pIeSmNV6DOxouf2xyv8EwxSfqQ55Ju514Ny3akgZD5nEzRMZKSeodur3_fKpWYGzfnHule3XfXWfBPkxTq2ml_QU2YaLvy80vLYm7TB/s320/P1000038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I then scored the template using my score pal and cut out the different sized block templates. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Cut approx 1/16” off of each top and bottom of your templates in order to save room for the thickness of the papers you will use to wrap your blocks. You can arrange your blocks in whatever way seems visually pleasing to you. I labeled each template with a letter so when cutting the foam core board to match I knew where each was to go. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ATkZsV5EwWtNkORcGBfaEvALH1ZwexdMCwyjhUMIpaKjTIP7A4dO0VDR_0diLsXOLSoMd_Rdl7zzCX2JJNFj_H5YhnllHYoH8NLFZ8S9NWeBMBFPurns-XTPPYb4T1V-iEb6h-g_W-7j/s1600/P1000039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ATkZsV5EwWtNkORcGBfaEvALH1ZwexdMCwyjhUMIpaKjTIP7A4dO0VDR_0diLsXOLSoMd_Rdl7zzCX2JJNFj_H5YhnllHYoH8NLFZ8S9NWeBMBFPurns-XTPPYb4T1V-iEb6h-g_W-7j/s320/P1000039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">Then, using each template, I cut foam core board with an Exacto Knife and a steel ruler on a self-healing mat to match each template. I cut two for every size, and three for a couple that I wanted to stand out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5bcjBCddOJsBVrtDKWwK0_DVSEFirSbUK1rG3I5UQ9IbGnzpGOsYyQfrgqzWYoq7zW82ItopcCG4-6cEjkiL1pYRbTr85dc-uh43DrBQas1V5YCnm3dQnwllJbEEF0Q4FvTHMxy23EnV/s1600/P1000040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5bcjBCddOJsBVrtDKWwK0_DVSEFirSbUK1rG3I5UQ9IbGnzpGOsYyQfrgqzWYoq7zW82ItopcCG4-6cEjkiL1pYRbTr85dc-uh43DrBQas1V5YCnm3dQnwllJbEEF0Q4FvTHMxy23EnV/s320/P1000040.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Each set of matching Foam core blocks were wrapped with tape to hold the bundle together. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MtMdfL1eIvfYB6T1qX0Q1B0gwQOQKBq8k7HkTY1z0V4xXaj0MTbzBGAzoXX4PBJCCcFNREF2E0mV-CIOmxBNLSZhaPW8VS55ZdSG350hKNXP-NFvLLGR4kDXUAsG76g4KuzvKhM2Nv52/s1600/P1000041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MtMdfL1eIvfYB6T1qX0Q1B0gwQOQKBq8k7HkTY1z0V4xXaj0MTbzBGAzoXX4PBJCCcFNREF2E0mV-CIOmxBNLSZhaPW8VS55ZdSG350hKNXP-NFvLLGR4kDXUAsG76g4KuzvKhM2Nv52/s320/P1000041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I laid out the blocks to make sure they would fit inside the shoe box lid.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF4r9LDw5GdytDAg_twwovLd4M6MfPMdfUxnXnGztKM_c0S2dnm0WgJgtTWqnblamGGCxejNlul8w42vIT3WwZNTtVxUaYs8T4jauykWv_iN_kNorDuod94DhNfs3-SH23txwJCW0H15zQ/s1600/P1000042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF4r9LDw5GdytDAg_twwovLd4M6MfPMdfUxnXnGztKM_c0S2dnm0WgJgtTWqnblamGGCxejNlul8w42vIT3WwZNTtVxUaYs8T4jauykWv_iN_kNorDuod94DhNfs3-SH23txwJCW0H15zQ/s320/P1000042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I then began covering the bundles with papers, similar to wrapping a gift and securing ends with sturdy tape. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5CGyV8Yxb6UXwdTG4qjaGXr9wD55D5W2W5VlfoCo0o40KGTTLUtN-Upq59abGOLgG59eGTyOiMIL71mXuJfrPcr5x9UHMZfKaodo0XohqCWLEJScTyrv3YT4EN8dDMeK4wcngo-rJ_GTM/s1600/P1000043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5CGyV8Yxb6UXwdTG4qjaGXr9wD55D5W2W5VlfoCo0o40KGTTLUtN-Upq59abGOLgG59eGTyOiMIL71mXuJfrPcr5x9UHMZfKaodo0XohqCWLEJScTyrv3YT4EN8dDMeK4wcngo-rJ_GTM/s320/P1000043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Once all the bundles were covered with papers, I used Tissue Tape to cover the outer edge of the box lid, making sure to overlap the tape and cover the first 1/4" of the inside rim. It took two widths of tape to cover the edges that would be seen.</div><div class="MsoNormal">I then used red tape around the inner perimeter of the lid, and glued each bundle in with Tacky Glue, making sure that the lid was tight and firm to the bundle edge.<br />
<br />
Now it's time to embellish.</div><div class="MsoNormal">I used a couple of rubber stamps; purchased ephemera including a clock face, medallion, Tattered Angels Glimmer Chips and Key; Tim Holtz Ideology gears, stickers, memo pins, keyholes, German Scrap, mini canvas altered with 7 Gypsies Gaffer Tape, Jenni Bowlin Butterfly and some old costume jewelry. Whenever possible, I distressed with Tim Holtz Distress ink. Let me know what you think!<br />
<br />
</div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-19995428167226352822011-01-17T16:03:00.000-05:002011-01-17T16:03:00.523-05:00Cricut ExpressionI’m a day behind in my goal to post weekly, but we had family in this weekend and I didn’t get the time. My Sister-In-law Amy and niece Madeline came in for a “Girls Only” weekend. We scrapbooked and made Valentines for Madeline to give her class. Amy also brought me my newest toy, a Cricut Expression. Her husband Chris (who is so like me, in sniffing out great deals) found one on Black Friday for $148.00. They regularly sell for $299 and I have seen them as low as $189 but never under $150. When they asked if I would like one, I was not sure if I would use it. Matt (hubster) said “go for it!” So I now have the Cricut to play with.<br />
<br />
<br />
The first thing I observed is how much space this system needs. It’s pretty large and the instructions stated you must have at least a foot behind and in front of free space for the machine to run safely. This is something I should have known before making my decision. My art room has space at a premium, so this proved a bit of a stressor for me at first.<br />
<br />
Matt urged me to go ahead and use it, make sure it works. It did, and worked quite well I might add. It’s really fun and with the right cartridges, you can cut out multiples of just about anything, in whatever size you’d like. I’m going to try to keep my cartridge purchases at a minimum, since I have a Cuttlebug and loads of Nestabilities Spellbinder dies, as well as Tim Holtz dies, I have to be careful not to overdo. Let’s see how that one goes….Happy crafting!Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-54702934782431679612011-01-08T11:15:00.000-05:002011-01-08T11:15:31.376-05:00January - A Time to OrganizeEach year, January rolls around and I get the urge to purge. Also to sort, reorganize and rethink how I can make my studio space more efficient for me. This year, I couldn't even wait til January. I started this two weeks before Christmas! This should tell you that it was really bad!<br />
On Black Friday, I bought two organizing pieces, which motivated the early start for me.<br />
I got a rolling storage cart from Joann's, which has been designated for my wood mounted rubber stamps.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3jMuCW6o0uOf2-H7kzjHMTIJKeJcuiEjc1MSut5FBI6-ObsHwqC80fMSNlwB3-QhsxnIuTidkNSNxAFImPagd0jeTvNefCsj6T-Gt_L-aQf8OxP0KUNbL8omF2guiPogyxj24qoc8Oqw/s1600/P1000046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3jMuCW6o0uOf2-H7kzjHMTIJKeJcuiEjc1MSut5FBI6-ObsHwqC80fMSNlwB3-QhsxnIuTidkNSNxAFImPagd0jeTvNefCsj6T-Gt_L-aQf8OxP0KUNbL8omF2guiPogyxj24qoc8Oqw/s320/P1000046.JPG" width="210" /></a></div><br />
Oh, if only they all would have fit! I sorted through them and have two boxes of stamps which I will be selling. I was left with enough to fill one three drawer Iris box. Not too bad. Why can't I let go?<br />
The second item I bought was a Ribbon storage rack. Again, from Joann's. Love it! It's full! My sign that I can't buy anymore. Hmmmm.. will I obey my inner limiter? <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLYMnS31_5RiFj1fC2DwefJ0hS79D_J2B5ffnDyxFeZA0vzSNmhhdjs-HulHW7sE0x8SANaXVT8nTP57hHwQNoEM0TOT-jLFjEQZ2zvpGnIiLDL1Khm0qIe6abZJtP7KxMyzEpBQ0kg8u/s1600/P1000045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLYMnS31_5RiFj1fC2DwefJ0hS79D_J2B5ffnDyxFeZA0vzSNmhhdjs-HulHW7sE0x8SANaXVT8nTP57hHwQNoEM0TOT-jLFjEQZ2zvpGnIiLDL1Khm0qIe6abZJtP7KxMyzEpBQ0kg8u/s320/P1000045.JPG" width="226" /></a></div><br />
My husband thinks that this room should be for whatever we need to hide for a while, so I had to start hauling things out. You know cleaning one room always forces all the others to be cleaned. Otherwise clutter just moves from room to room!<br />
I have some things to use for my used craft sale piling up, but will need to go through more before I hold it. As soon as this is done, you will get to see the after pictures. Happy organizing, fellow pack-rats!Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-56659266017994090692010-12-30T21:44:00.001-05:002010-12-30T21:45:18.898-05:00Tutorial: Tie Dyed Paper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLKmzNP200Uh5jJpQkld4xakzZv2WkFLv9L7RZWSjgPUPxd_XUHOFTfcFkc2L_wkswEla66So0vehpi-dPk7o3ZeKzPzYWbv8jgN-K5He_jptzEjP03hpEupPGQsBDfflCXwUI72-RGXi/s1600/P1000029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLKmzNP200Uh5jJpQkld4xakzZv2WkFLv9L7RZWSjgPUPxd_XUHOFTfcFkc2L_wkswEla66So0vehpi-dPk7o3ZeKzPzYWbv8jgN-K5He_jptzEjP03hpEupPGQsBDfflCXwUI72-RGXi/s320/P1000029.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>All we are saying, is give peace a chance! Whether you remember the 60's or not, tie-dye is an art form that lives on today. The other day I wondered if I could replicate the same effect on paper. I used to teach tie-dye to children in a community ed class, and we used big buckets with different colors of dye. I certainly didn't want to go that extreme, what a waste of materials. Here is what I came up with:<br />
<br />
What you need:<br />
* Dr. PH Martin's Radiant Concentrated Watercolors<br />
OR Re-inkers (Like Ranger Adirondack inks) and eye droppers<br />
* Fine Mist water spritzer<br />
* A spritzing box to protect your work surface. Any corrugated box that is big enough will do. Mine was a flat box that can food cans came in.<br />
* Pliable Paper - I used paper that a breakable item was wrapped in that I purchased at Hobby Lobby, it's not tissue paper but more like industrial weight paper towel. You could use any paper towel, napkins or preferably the kind you find on a roll in a rest-room (no stealing!)<br />
* Rubber Bands<br />
* Rubber gloves, if desired<br />
<br />
I found that using a double thickness of the paper (two sheets together) worked best, you get more bang for your ink buck.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zrZw94KKs9YX9aVpUaxFSc2saaS7bdvSFdfQH3gDvqB2Zs5IZFr6XJJMpqW13IMcFtHEsUqqprCbm0r4VlbH_Te6Wk5iKEwmHqHiGPVtwFGIeb4V1R_JtrK7DmK3lgyHonkiYqXW7S1o/s1600/P1000020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zrZw94KKs9YX9aVpUaxFSc2saaS7bdvSFdfQH3gDvqB2Zs5IZFr6XJJMpqW13IMcFtHEsUqqprCbm0r4VlbH_Te6Wk5iKEwmHqHiGPVtwFGIeb4V1R_JtrK7DmK3lgyHonkiYqXW7S1o/s320/P1000020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>To begin, prepare your paper by bunching the paper into finger-shaped sections, and secure randomly with rubber bands.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNi8tKAnfUog5n29Hs-_rRHtk0CKKKcg82wL7M12cl71cnMfB4eJcUB0gjJks-HY4IJKlYN9YmEPS7wUDEUb8N9A4Eg_yEtGTHyLeYkaHgZCZY4vhIskVpdbN3EyRdYfAjp3Iae1UkhetK/s1600/P1000021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNi8tKAnfUog5n29Hs-_rRHtk0CKKKcg82wL7M12cl71cnMfB4eJcUB0gjJks-HY4IJKlYN9YmEPS7wUDEUb8N9A4Eg_yEtGTHyLeYkaHgZCZY4vhIskVpdbN3EyRdYfAjp3Iae1UkhetK/s320/P1000021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>They should resemble this. You'll want to leave some of the paper showing between the rubber bands where your color can seep in. Repeat this process until you have covered the majority of the paper with rubber band secured bunches.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMUOfiXJ1DQSC9KfyZqtXVZA6jm0_s9ZZwUAXvbR5q2cNfQeFJntVtiskt9j84pabNUoAJLG0BtdYBurH5qOUzimkSDAO4l8A02qvIIwMcJ2rLqwP_G0FBJIofr5IHenRz8LvUu6QfZDqa/s1600/P1000019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMUOfiXJ1DQSC9KfyZqtXVZA6jm0_s9ZZwUAXvbR5q2cNfQeFJntVtiskt9j84pabNUoAJLG0BtdYBurH5qOUzimkSDAO4l8A02qvIIwMcJ2rLqwP_G0FBJIofr5IHenRz8LvUu6QfZDqa/s320/P1000019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Next, it's time to apply the color. I used Dr. PH Martin's Watercolors, they need to be shaken up to distribute the pigment. You won't need to do that if you use re-inkers. The eye dropper tip is a great way to apply the color without getting your hands messy. I recommend using rubber gloves or you'll have colorful hands if your not careful.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolt5Czft6jaUg7c7MvoDKxVwPVtLrZuH2bf_xQq2Oa5DqLPzUjP5KUkntTvdnPTJDgaCxNR4IVWghGWTAhHrNhyphenhyphenoO7TYWIGG3tn-1uYxGb-mbtMq6wSjPY93FtFcbiNU_5VVls86k1_OP/s1600/P1000023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolt5Czft6jaUg7c7MvoDKxVwPVtLrZuH2bf_xQq2Oa5DqLPzUjP5KUkntTvdnPTJDgaCxNR4IVWghGWTAhHrNhyphenhyphenoO7TYWIGG3tn-1uYxGb-mbtMq6wSjPY93FtFcbiNU_5VVls86k1_OP/s320/P1000023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>As you apply the droppers of color to each bunched section, spritz the area with water using your fine-mist spritz bottle. The colors will run into each other, but because the colors are so concentrated using the Dr. PH Martin's, or Ranger Re-inkers, they retain their color quality.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijuFvKUr1uOoMlcfZ4yAe4gvxIXaavi7suJGkpE2-H0h11I9tVsU7qsMRRyiBp2Rl0tyFB52D9mRLV9F1DFLg8_sPQ3gNUExs96tl4SBiD86QlhsIpkge43rTTOJJ4EJ9sTYBhe1zZHlhZ/s1600/P1000025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijuFvKUr1uOoMlcfZ4yAe4gvxIXaavi7suJGkpE2-H0h11I9tVsU7qsMRRyiBp2Rl0tyFB52D9mRLV9F1DFLg8_sPQ3gNUExs96tl4SBiD86QlhsIpkge43rTTOJJ4EJ9sTYBhe1zZHlhZ/s320/P1000025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>It's really fun to see how wild you can get the color combinations. Keep adding and spritzing. The more water you add, the farther the colors will spread. Once you get the amount of color you want applied, set the paper aside until it is half-dry. Inside, in heated conditions, this took about an hour for me. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9euueZO_maKW3bsG2Ao38KHiB0hMGYUF1M88foWMs5JGpPhwBwDpht8gsx5Q2Q1tjEk9xdjLfLFlq2cyo7QJIfQXZfzhDKL_PllGu0ajOgeSFRKPqlB87Ib6jAPMGL7YKaVYeUNmrx7gB/s1600/P1000026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9euueZO_maKW3bsG2Ao38KHiB0hMGYUF1M88foWMs5JGpPhwBwDpht8gsx5Q2Q1tjEk9xdjLfLFlq2cyo7QJIfQXZfzhDKL_PllGu0ajOgeSFRKPqlB87Ib6jAPMGL7YKaVYeUNmrx7gB/s320/P1000026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>It's wise to remove the rubber bands before the project is completely dry. This part can be tricky, I suggest removing them carefully to avoid tearing the paper. This is another reason that using a double thickness of paper works best, you have a stronger product. I ended up using some small, sharp scissors to cut the rubber bands off of some areas, by pulling the band away from the paper before snipping the rubber. After all the bands are removed, smooth the paper out and hang it with clothespins to dry completely.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlBmsnva0E7kzVcpHPDo7oUK5Cbm1eUAmL-yKPnB5cR-Eb24JWW5deC68R0yQTj4Q5kIu2I5HVzY3gU1dBEubP3kPC_QqdkRaBDvUdAsyhGYmkgTOflYNzlqkxwhUONf8L-mt8Lk6adug/s1600/P1000027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlBmsnva0E7kzVcpHPDo7oUK5Cbm1eUAmL-yKPnB5cR-Eb24JWW5deC68R0yQTj4Q5kIu2I5HVzY3gU1dBEubP3kPC_QqdkRaBDvUdAsyhGYmkgTOflYNzlqkxwhUONf8L-mt8Lk6adug/s320/P1000027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>You will want to iron the paper once it's dry. Use a low heat setting, being careful not to tear the paper. I really didn't have a lot of trouble with that, but if you had any previous tears you might make them bigger.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1kNrZsnWYPCjHV1bSv7Q4xyuGwLmPWbczcNrMeVSGic91KjA6kJh-eM_i6Qt9aV_a-E9mVMWdjfgIXBQQ9z-UL2xoK3BdzWe7f1W97vxRBg-CoVy3Mh9iUILDnUT-uFOEwNUdCrMP2g9/s1600/P1000028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1kNrZsnWYPCjHV1bSv7Q4xyuGwLmPWbczcNrMeVSGic91KjA6kJh-eM_i6Qt9aV_a-E9mVMWdjfgIXBQQ9z-UL2xoK3BdzWe7f1W97vxRBg-CoVy3Mh9iUILDnUT-uFOEwNUdCrMP2g9/s320/P1000028.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is another example of the finished product. This example is the one I tried in single thickness, which did have some tears in it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DM9vzZpwXnM2yZkRP8HJATy5ljVnrgQ5W2XrFk8HAEq_VC5IEhFZBhsGVShpjjUBgTZ54E06iowtfeWmHcDHhLIeA6YuxtVCpF7Ub3-L9XPnr5WCI6r5FU6S0K6FoWvLGuQZLPv8PENM/s1600/P1000030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DM9vzZpwXnM2yZkRP8HJATy5ljVnrgQ5W2XrFk8HAEq_VC5IEhFZBhsGVShpjjUBgTZ54E06iowtfeWmHcDHhLIeA6YuxtVCpF7Ub3-L9XPnr5WCI6r5FU6S0K6FoWvLGuQZLPv8PENM/s320/P1000030.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I applied sections of the paper to card-stock, using a glue-stick and a brayer to smooth it down. Now I can use it in my art work! This one reminds me of a Monet painting.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCLuagUy6RbE__Oui2oKgm6ywiTrM5A0HnY5mPqsvNMo0O4ujutXDNCi23nmndrEheSnxWhJjHe1Bb4G_xVdPlixm_NjAl5uMGe_woaGnVtduFIsbOpGTmTQ-Upst3-kzNkUy-IPs9pkcw/s1600/sc00a4a914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCLuagUy6RbE__Oui2oKgm6ywiTrM5A0HnY5mPqsvNMo0O4ujutXDNCi23nmndrEheSnxWhJjHe1Bb4G_xVdPlixm_NjAl5uMGe_woaGnVtduFIsbOpGTmTQ-Upst3-kzNkUy-IPs9pkcw/s320/sc00a4a914.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thank's for checking out my very first tutorial. Leave me a comment if you have any questions. Blessings!</div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-81368466907463740312010-12-26T19:33:00.000-05:002010-12-26T19:33:37.801-05:00Had Yourself a Merry Little Christmas?I hope you had a Merry Christmas, whether big or small. I had one of the best Christmas's in a long time. Why? Because it was fairly stress-free. Hurrah! I decided to scale a lot of things back this year. I planned a quick and easy meal instead of feeling like I had to cook like Emeril. I made my scheduling plans around what was easier instead of trying to pack a lot in. I said no to a lot of activities that I would really have liked to attend, but decided to keep things more relaxed. It paid off. I feel really good about it (except for my tummy, I ate too much!)<br />
<br />
Past Promises<br />
I had said I would post some recent art and then it never showed up. Part was because I wasn't happy with my camera and part was because I wanted my website to look different. So here is my first attempt:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIipLXcTjhGBtL7wx9CrcsXlsV3rfYoM70LsbZPck1BgNuNwkRRbiweXhoEzTp4QlxuDatGQiBpSlSEHkikJijnZ_RmHZ2jXctuvKQGr13yKyIoJ1VZICJzq7LZ_-CNUnmDyJaF7MCXY9/s1600/sc03264644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIipLXcTjhGBtL7wx9CrcsXlsV3rfYoM70LsbZPck1BgNuNwkRRbiweXhoEzTp4QlxuDatGQiBpSlSEHkikJijnZ_RmHZ2jXctuvKQGr13yKyIoJ1VZICJzq7LZ_-CNUnmDyJaF7MCXY9/s320/sc03264644.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>It's an altered file folder. I've been playing with mists and masks lately, using Ranger Adirondack sprays, Tattered Angel's mists, and some other glimmer mists. I also made this fun tag:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNH2RbhvIxatbbwLBCwdCfH0oWwbeDO4jJtHdoH5PZFwgy4CVCGrMZbpCpuvub3qiWlwEQV1rOM00btMPDGN2OOToZalgr3j-VOyq7jHQ-HxjbrfzV9ZvQjcpZtbJnusKay-pizVjTt4Lr/s1600/sc03260446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNH2RbhvIxatbbwLBCwdCfH0oWwbeDO4jJtHdoH5PZFwgy4CVCGrMZbpCpuvub3qiWlwEQV1rOM00btMPDGN2OOToZalgr3j-VOyq7jHQ-HxjbrfzV9ZvQjcpZtbJnusKay-pizVjTt4Lr/s320/sc03260446.jpg" width="140" /></a></div>And this card of a bird on a branch, using glossy card stock and some dimensional embellishments.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6snm_aBABR5ti0z4lYsvp6UgtKbdWNKPoVURjCJXIBMPkL4jKuP0Znhdk8tDCqIUjm9-VC9R3pHMJWiE5VnV8yg6rcc1Q1Lzyuer528yOBpLGptTpuOWYYl1DlETvVC0leQR0H18BxLpp/s1600/sc0329790e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6snm_aBABR5ti0z4lYsvp6UgtKbdWNKPoVURjCJXIBMPkL4jKuP0Znhdk8tDCqIUjm9-VC9R3pHMJWiE5VnV8yg6rcc1Q1Lzyuer528yOBpLGptTpuOWYYl1DlETvVC0leQR0H18BxLpp/s320/sc0329790e.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>I'll post more pictures soon, ta-ta for now! Be Blessed!Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-30071444105136465062010-11-21T14:57:00.000-05:002010-11-21T14:57:01.123-05:00Giving Thanks!We were reminded at church that being thankful for what you do have, and not feeling down about what you wish you had, is the real secret to emotional health. A good reminder, as was suggested we should make a list of all the things we are thankful for. I'm going to start my list right here, but am mulling over the idea of turning this challenge into some kind of an art project. Until I can see that idea come to reality, here are some of the many things I am thankful for.<br />
<br />
1. A God who loves and cares for me<br />
2. An awesome husband and family<br />
3. A place to live in comfort, that has heat, electricity and running water<br />
4. A great job<br />
5. The internet (connecting me to people I would not have in my life if I could not find them here)<br />
6. My pets<br />
7. My health<br />
8. A car that runs well<br />
9. Friends in Christ<br />
10. The Word of God<br />
11. The Holy Spirit<br />
12. Salvation through Christ's Sacrifice<br />
13. To live in the USA<br />
14. Freedom<br />
15. Abundance<br />
16. God's Protection and Favor<br />
17. Opportunities to serve<br />
18. My creativity<br />
19. A place to enjoy my hobbies<br />
20. Insurance<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking, What are you thankful for?Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-23295647822635955792010-10-20T21:10:00.001-04:002010-11-20T15:47:00.591-05:00Crazy Times<div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">This last month has been a bit stressful. I got the news near the end of September that my mammogram came back suspicious. Off to the hospital for a re-check, where the radiologist confirmed that there was “something there” called calcifications. I would need to have a biopsy on my left breast. 85% of them are not cancer, but because mammography can find things so small nowadays, it’s best to get things checked.</div><div class="MsoNormal">My first instinct is always to pray, and to rally the teams of <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1287622157_0">prayer warriors</span> in my life. I believe strongly in the power of prayer and I’m not shy about asking for it. It works! Even when an answer to prayer is not necessarily one you were hoping for, you will find in the asking so many doors open. God uses us to counsel one another and bless each other with our experience and wisdom. </div><div class="MsoNormal">I am fortunate to have an amazing church family who is super supportive. Family and friends who are good to me, caring and full of love. </div><div class="MsoNormal">So off to the Lemmen Holton Cancer Center I go, to meet with Dr. Melnik, <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1287622157_1">Oncologist</span>. Dr. Melnik decides to biopsy both breasts, the radiologist saw something on each side but only one was suspicious. I agreed. Why go through it all again if you don’t have to.</div><div class="MsoNormal"> Ladies:, I’m here to tell you that even if the THOUGHT of having a biopsy is scary, it was not as bad as one would think. Aside from climbing onto a table which resembled a giant toilet hole from a third world country, the actual procedure, (once numbed up) was painless. Even the numbing with Lidocaine was less painful than Novacaine administered at the dentist. Once I realized that it was not hurting me, I relaxed and joked through the procedure. (Those poor woman at the Betty Ford Breast clinic must think I am a goof) </div><div class="MsoNormal">Being told that you might have <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1287622157_2" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">breast cancer</span> during “Breast Cancer Awareness Month” has not been easy. While it’s awesome to see how much support there is for the charitable side of things, I could not pick up a pizza ad without being reminded I might have breast cancer. Pink garbage cans on the curb stand out like a flashing light – look at me! You might want one for your house too!</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">Even knowing that strong faith is the best coping mechanism I have, I admit to letting the final outcome get to me. The day I was supposed to “know” came and my usual calm and cool self started to melt down. After crying in front of a co-worker, being assured it’s ok, normal and human to feel this way, I still have a hard time not believing I should be STRONG enough to handle this. Of course, not alone, only with God’s help. Thankfully, it was benign, simply “fibronomotoid” due to being a woman over 50. I give God the Glory for the things he has done.If you ever need prayer, please ask me. I'd love to support you in that.</div>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-88007118290482260232010-09-30T23:29:00.000-04:002010-09-30T23:29:59.617-04:00I live in a cool cityArtPrize has rocked my world. If you don't live close enough to pay Grand Rapids MI a visit before Oct. 10, I'm sorry but you may need to weep.<br />
<br />
Over 1700 pieces of art from living and working artists from all over the world have converged in one place to celebrate God's mighty gift of creativity. Creativity, the only real evidence that we were created in His own image, as far as I can see. God has endowed mankind with the urge to create. The massive differences between how we each choose to express those urges is what makes each one of us unique.<br />
<br />
I've seen an udderly cool cow created from all kinds of tiny cows, a fountain of light, a flower mosaic made of trash, and an entire church space covered with some of the most beautiful art pieces honoring God. That was just a fraction of what I saw tonight. And we've been down to view 5 days so far. We haven't even scratched the surface!<br />
<br />
We've had lovely talks with artists on the street who have come from far away to share their vision with the people. We saw people hanging out on bridges, playing music, singing and enjoying the crisp nights. I've struck up conversations with other patrons over pieces...and everyone is smiling. You'd think someone put Prozac in the city water system. Ok, so that's another conversation. <br />
<br />
How does one turn an entire city into an Art gallery? I'm just blown away by how many venues have been willing to let total strangers come in, alter their spaces and willingly staff and stay open often past normal business hours. I get that there is money involved, but deep in my heart I think people would participate in ArtPrize, even if money wasn't a factor. The real prize is how alive my city is. Thanks to all who made it possible!Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-6124238149388035342010-09-09T21:07:00.000-04:002010-09-09T21:07:59.675-04:00Dag Blame It!<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><div><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif;"></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Or some other colloquialism that means I wish I hadn’t… I just forgot about my blog again. And honestly, the last time I went to log in I forgot my password. So after all of that, here I am - back again. Since last post we have attended two weddings and two funerals. Matt’s dad passed away in March and his Aunt Mag passed away Aug. 1. Janine and Curt celebrated their nuptials in June and Amy and Robert in July.</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This summer has been busy busy! We had <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1284080689_0">two family reunions</span> in August for my family and one In July for Matt’s – in honor of his <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1284080689_1">Grandma</span> Margarita’s <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1284080689_2">100<sup>th</sup> birthday</span>! </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I created a cool scrapbook in her honor, filled with pictures dating back to 1911! What a BIG life she has lived. Hat’s off to you Grandma Marge (or <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1284080689_3" style="-moz-background-clip: border; -moz-background-inline-policy: continuous; -moz-background-origin: padding; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">Marge Simpson</span> as she is known). </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We went up North (or northern Mi for those of you who don’t inhabit the Great Lakes State) and visited friends Beth and Jeff. We also went to Frankenmuth and ended our journey in <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1284080689_4" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">Rochester Hills</span>, where I used to live. We met Linda (haven’t seen her in 15 years) for lunch. We got to visit with my grand-God child, who will be a year old in Sept.! Mackenzie, what a little doll! Her mom Kristen, dad Paul, Grandma Leslie and <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1284080689_5">Grandpa</span> Tom. We enjoyed a show of a tornado just missing our outdoor picnic by a couple of miles. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">With all that business there has been little time for art, but lately I have found some. I made some fun <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1284080689_6">wall art</span> assemblages and collages. Will post some as soon as I get them photographed. Working on some Halloween art as well, tis the season after all. Love those black cats!</span></div></span>Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-40986103596170287422010-03-06T17:37:00.000-05:002010-03-06T17:37:39.985-05:00FamilyMy husband's dad, Martin had a massive stroke this week, in FL. The kids had a hard time reaching him. (unusual). Matt decided to call the police and they found him lying on the floor, non-responsive but still breathing.<br />
That same night the hospital performed surgery on him and removed a clot which had formed from the hemmoragiac stroke. He is still on a ventilator, although his breathing is getting stronger.<br />
<br />
No one but God knows what lies ahead for Martin, but he is holding his own for now. While family takes turn being at his side, we know he can hear us but can not speak. Many thanks to the warriors who are praying for Martin to recover.<br />
<br />
Expect a miracle.Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-12753022725144524292010-02-27T23:19:00.001-05:002010-02-28T22:08:59.685-05:00Some New WorkIt's been a long while since I have added new work to the site, so I thought it was about time. I've been motivated to make some tiny collages from Paint Sample Chips and Masonite counter top samples that I had left over.<br />
I scanned a couple of the fun ones in, you will find them here - titled "Madamoiselle" and "Exploring the Ruins". Thanks to Itkupilli for the cool image of the man with a cane. Some other elements were purchased from Artchix.Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-14493557188155309082010-02-26T19:26:00.000-05:002010-02-26T19:26:23.395-05:00Somerset Apprentice - I'm Published!I was having a bad day, had just spent an hour on the phone with the phone company, (not getting my way, I might add...) My husband came home to find me dramatically compaining about this less than satisfactory experience when my eye hit the mail he had just brought in. A mysterious publication was lying there. I knew what it had to be, an advance copy of Somerset Apprentice, due to hit the newstands on March 1.<br />
Somerset publishes a lot of wonderful art magazines, and it's always a pleasure and an inspiration for me to cruise through the pages filled with artistic eye candy. I'm excited to report that the article containing my artwork was in there! I had announced this same thing a year ago, but was then told the article had to be cut due to too much content. They generously advised that I would be in the next issue.<br />
A 6 page spread with instructions on how to create the house ATC's (Artist Trading Cards) using a Teesha Moore stamp. I'm honored and thrilled. I feel encouraged now to submit more work. Who knows what's next? You can find their great publications at www.stampington.comLori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2296924997809374726.post-21608013388078190582010-02-21T15:00:00.001-05:002010-02-26T19:28:54.359-05:00Get Yourself "Gungored". Its' a Beautiful Thing!I'll admit that I've been a fan of Michael Gungor, his wife Lisa and their original Band, Michael Gungor band for a long time. I was fortunate enough to be a miniscule, lowly, supporting cast member in the choir which worked behind Michael and Lisa while they served as Worship Leaders at Resurrection Life Church. It was always a blessing to bask in the light of their brilliance.<br />
They return to Grand Rapids from time to time, and came last week to share the release of their newest Album "Beautiful Things" with the Grand Rapids community (who, by the way have never embraced them as they should have been, how about a little air-play, GR area Christian Radio stations?)<br />
Those of us who had the good sense to attend the amazing, intensely brilliant and spiritually mind-blowing event, - "Beautiful Things" were awestruck at the experience. I expected we'd be on our feet all the way through, swaying, hands-raised and worshiping along as they played and sang. Once the experience started (it's definitely an experience, not just a concert) the audience sat mesmerized as the songs were accompanied by spoken word, animation, photography, a trio of string instruments, and a wide variety of instruments, while diverse styles and moods emerged throughout the event.<br />
I still struggle to find words to match how I really felt while being there. One word would be lucky. Another one, blessed. To see what is truly God-inspired brilliance, artistic talent and musical genius that is wrapped up in a band called Gungor.<br />
<br />
While I admit that we miss them intensely, its wonderful that they have flown off to share their message of Christ's Love with the whole world. If you ever get to see them in person, don't miss it. I repeat... don't miss it. In the mean time, buy their cd "Beautiful Things". You can find them at www.gungormusic.com , I-Tunes or at any intelligent Christian Music store.Lori Nowak - aka Mirrorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01471069778163244514noreply@blogger.com0