Shopping Our Stash Weekly Challenge: Upcycle - My Little Inks In Use Box

Hello, Crafty Makers!

The current challenge at Shopping Our Stash is "Upcycle!"

Donna is this week's host and she is challenging us to:

  Use a non-crafty thing somewhere on your project( i.e., shiny washers you picked up off the ground, or a paperclip...or whatever).

For my make, I decided to take the "whatever" route.  The truth is that my old "In Use Box"  had become really grungy!  I use these little boxes to hold inks, water brushes, markers, that I am using a project in progress.  The content is driven by the design.  The top three drawers of my work table hold things that I need at hand for all projects (adhesives, baby wipes, rulers, etc.).  

Humble Beginnings

Empty readers.com box

How This Was Done:
I painted the corners of the box with black chalk ink.  I only needed to paint in 1/2".  I did the same on the flaps and inside of the box.  I also applied black ink on the interior corners.

Measured and cut yellow cardstock for the interior lining.  I adhered the cardstock using both Scor-tape and Glitter Glue (placing a wet glue on top of the Scor-tape allows me to move thing around a little).

Measured and cut printed scrapbook papers for the flaps and exterior of the box.  Because I wanted a cuff on the box, I cut the paper for the flaps to the size of the flap but adhered it 1/" below the flap top.

Added metal handles and black elastic cord.

                                                       Help Save The Environment

Once a month, I receive my infusion meds and my injectable meds.  These shipments come from two different pharmacies but usually arrive within a couple of days of each other and each is packed in frozen gel packs and wrapped with bubble wrap or silver thermal paper.  Hubster and I spend a lot of time trying to figure out how to recycle all that stuff.  We finally found a place that would accept the gel packs and the bubble wrap.  

Recently, one pharmacy switched packaging that allows them to use fewer frozen gel packs.  It is soft, firm fibrous material and I have found all kinds of uses for it. On this project,  rather than glue a sheet of printed paper to the bottom of my box, I used this material and just placed the paper on top.  The material is about 3/4" thick and quite absorbent.  Now, when my paper gets grungy, I can easily replace it.

Another great advantage to the removable bottom is that it allowed me to cover the interior (yellow) cardstock or to paint over it.  This will help keep the box looking pristine a long time.

Stash Items: Scrapbook Paper, Yellow Cardstock, Metal Handles.

Materials:
Small Cardboard Box
Recollections Printed Scrapbook Paper
Elastic Cord
Metal Drawer Handles

Supplies:
Scor-Tape
Glitter Glue


HUGZ!
CHANA MALKAH

Paper Crafting...A Cut Above

Hello, Crafty Peeps!

It has been a minute since I posted anything on my blog.   my husband and I volunteered to teach a few classes and do some study halls for our grandson who is being homeschooled, so,
there has been very little time for crafting.  However,  I became so inspired by self-directed learning that I decided to take a MOCC Graphic Design Course and learn a bit more about elements of design that would help me with future projects.

Our first assignment was to pick a common household item and create 10 representations of that item using different techniques and approaches to design.  Of course, the "real" graphic design students were churning out Illustrator and PS images.  Some twisted and morphed into alluring and captivating shapes.  The problem was, this was a denotative exercise and the key point was to make sure that the object was still recognizable as itself.   I chose the lowly knife and decided to stay true to my paper crafter roots and use the techniques I've learned making cards and other projects.   Well, ladies, just know, I crushed it!

Click Image for larger view.

This is my "Game of Thrones" Knife.  I cut the knife from a piece of chipboard which I then embossed and covered with Aleene's Tacky Glue.   I used the "Burned Glue" method to create a faux metal look.  The blade is accented with Inka-Gold Old Silver and the handle with Rub'n Buff Ruby Rubi metallic finish.  Three flat back crystals on the handle and I was good to go.

Here are some of my other creations.  One of the designs had to be a "blind drawing."  I will spare you that one.

This is my "Roman" Dagger.  I used lots of acrylic paint and crackle to develop the texture and then used Rub'n Buff to convey age and exposure to the elements.   This one received very positive feedback.

This was very simple...just a lot of flat back pearls and crystals in the shape of a knife.

For this design, I used chipboard, glycerine water, and Tim Holtz distress ink to create a faux leather knife.  I embossed the surface and sealed it with Glossy Accents.  This is my favorite...so cool!

The other designs are mostly conceptual and not very interesting for a paper crafting blog.  It was interesting to see how different my submission was from most others.   One thing I know for sure, I need to feel paper in my hands and get ink on my fingers.  Wish me luck!   I will continue to share any of OUR techniques I use in my submissions.  Now, I have to come up with three new images using different techniques.  They are to be connotative and deliver a message.  "We shall see," said the blind man.

Hugz,
Chana Malkah

A Cute Mason Jar Makerover

Hello, Crafty Peeps!

I recently have found myself fascinated with up-cycling bottles!  I get such a kick out of mixing crazy paint colors with crackle and glue.  I am never sure of the result but so far I have not been disappointed with any of my outcomes.

For this little mason jar makeover, I decided to just do something simple for my SIL's fabulous blue and white kitchen.  We will fill the jar with more of her brother's "family&friends" famous J.R.'s All Purpose Rub!

I wish the photo showed the sparkle of the glass beads around the cuff of the jar.  The matte finish of the Paint gives the jar a real vintage look and feel!

I totally forgot that the color of my lid insert would alter the color of the glass bead on top.    I used Rub n' Buff® wax "Pewter" to alter the color of the mason jar lid.  Around the top of the cap, I used Inka Gold Hematite for more contrast between the lid lip and the lid insert.

This was a fast, fun, and simple project!  Hope you will make your own Mason Jar project and share with me at "A Place To Start" and/or my monthly challenge blog 613 Avenue Create!

THANKS FOR VISITING!

HUGZ

CHANA MALKAH!

Altered Eclectics - Dressmaker's Closet - Altered Altoids Tin

Hello, Crafty Peeples!

Welcome to the July Challenge at Altered Eclectics!  

As always, our challenge is Anything Goes.  Remember, projects should be:

Mixed Media, Altered Art, Upcycling, Recycling, Repurposing .

Please, no ATC's and no Cards.

My Dressmaker's Closet

For a long while now, I have toyed with the idea of altering an Altoids tin. Many fabulous projects have been created using these little tins so the true challenge becomes thinking of a design that has not been shown.  

I was my intention to add a sewing machine, but all my dies were  too big.  

I really like making my own "rust."   

The Hubster says my altered tin looks like it has been hanging out in some old barn for years!   Lovely, that is just the look I was going for. 

I have begun work on another idea using a tin and hope to be able to share it by the end of July!  We shall see, you know our muses can nut up sometimes.

Please check out the fabulous creations presented by my Eclectic teammates.  You will be inspired!

Hugz,

Chana

DIY Organic Serving Tray - A Natural Approach to Fun Summer Dining

Hello, Crafty Peeps!

I can't believe I am already at the end of my first month as a Guest Blogger for ClearSnap®.   I am having a blast working with their amazing products and enjoying the opportunity to participate in cross promotions with great companies like CardMaker® Magazine and this week with Basswood®.   What a boost for my creative soul!

DIY Organic Serving Tray - Using Ink Like Paint

This is a delightful way to enjoy a snack in the backyard.  I have used my tray twice since it's completion.  There is a brocade-like design in the tray that plays well against the light.

It feels good to work with Pigment Inks again.   ClearSnap® has an array of fabulous in-house Pigment Ink Products as well as Teresa Collins and Ann Butler.

 Another "The Hubster" Story. 

When I received my products for the ClearSnap® and Basswood® Cross Promotion, The Hubster picked up my Basswood Country Round and asked: 

Hubster:  "What are you supposed to do with a big hunk of wood?

Me:          "It is not a hunk of wood, it is a tree slice and you know that."

Hubster:  "Yeah, well, maybe, but it isn't even big enough for your buddy, Tom, 
                  to use to make one his crazy tables."  

Me:          "Tom's tables are very pretty," I replied. " And I have to fabricate the
                  project on my own so Tom would be of no help! You know that, too."

Hubster:  "Well, I'll tell you what I don't know."

Me:           (with attitude)"What?"

Hubster:  "I don't know what the hell you are going to do with that big hunk of wood."

I wonder, sometimes, if  The Hubster understands the meaning of "Blunt Force Trauma!"

Find more details, pics, and a brief tutorial on the ClearSnap® Blog.   

While you are there, check out  Rose's fabulous "Welcome" plaque.  

HUGZ,

Disclosure Statement

EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1, 2009, FTC GUIDELINES REQUIRE BLOGGERS TO DISCLOSE ANY TIME THEY ARE COMPENSATED FOR ENDORSING OR REVIEWING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES.

The Project that is demonstrated below contains components I received for free from ClearSnap® in return for my services as a Guest Designer and for posts on my blog. I affirm that I have not made, nor would I ever make or endorse, misleading statements regarding any product or service used in the operation of this blog.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE USED ON MY BLOG, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT CMALKAH@YAHOO.COM.

Earth Safe Finishes - Altered Primitive Lap Desk

Hello, Crafty Peeples!

I am so excited to share my monthly project for Earth Safe Finishes™!  It seems as though time has flown by and I can't believe that the 2015 Team year will end in May.  The products are wonderful to work with and they are VOC free.  The range of colors and selection of products is diverse and the price points are reasonable and comparable with the marketplace.

I remain in the throes of my love affair with ESF Chalk It Up™ Licorice and Blood Orange Sorbet

Last month, I created the "Artsy" Chalkboard.  This month, I finally worked up the nerve to paint my Primitive Lap Desk.  I have held on to this desk for over six years until my artistic ego overruled my sense of preservation.  The Hubster loves it and that makes everything just perfect

Hope you like it as well.

Information on the supplies used in this project can be found at:

EARTH SAFE FINISHES ARTISTS BLOG

I can use this as a chalkboard

Or, I can use it as a writing table by just slipping in my reversible blotter!

IN THE BEGINNING

 This is the primitive desk in it's original wood finish!

I even painted pencils to match!

Hope you like the transformation.  By the way, you can see the complete line of Ann Butler Designs™Iridescent Paints at Earth Safe Finishes.

Thanks for stopping by!

613 Avenue Create - Challenge#127 ATG w/Optional Twist Make Something for Your BFF

Hello, Crafty Peeps!

This gift was crafted for my SIL, Portia!  She is one of the sweetest people on earth and I had so much fun creating this for her.  She loves York's Peppermint Patties, and when I found these heart shaped ones at Amazon, I was inspired to alter the box and jazz it up!

Portia's nickname is "Chops."

I used Earth Safe Paints to color the embellishments.  The paper is Graphic 45 French Country

Thanks for stopping by!

Hugz,

Chana

Challenges Entered:

ATW Challenges:  Always Anything Goes
Love To Create Challenge:  Anything Mixed Media/Creative
Mixed Media World:  Vintage

CHALLENGE #107 - ANYTHING GOES with Optional Twist: WINNIE THE POOH DAY

Hello, Crafty Peeps,

It's Winnie The Pooh Day

If you want to play our optional twist, we challenge you to:

Use one of the following quotes in your creation

WINNIE THE POOH CLIPBOARD

For this challenge, I chose to create a clipboard using recycled paper products.  

I save various sizes of corrugated cardboard boxes. I have  found that I can cover them with fabrics such as canvas, burlap, crinolin, and create strudy functional items.   This is a functional clipboard and I have every intention of  using in in my studio.

Supply List:

Chipboard (2 Pieces) cut to the desired size (mine is 5" x 7") 

Paper Scraps (or other desired background papers)

Image

Clip

Baby Wipes

Gesso, Mod Podge (or other matte gel medium)

Inks, Paints, etc.

Step One:

Apply Gesso to the front of one of your cardboard panels.  Allow to dry.

Step Two

Arrange your background papers on your panel.  Don't worry about overlap 

Continue gluing pieces until you have your desired collage.  Leave some white spaces

When you are satisfied, apply several coats of Mod Podge.  Allow to dry between coats.

 Fold and trim overlap.   Remember that some the overlap will show on the back.

Step Three

Choose the color(s) that will be your primary color (chose yellow/brown to coordinate with Pooh's fur) and apply to your panel.  Use a baby wipe to mute your color

Round the corners of your clipboard at this point

Step Four

While your panel is drying, apply Gesso to your clip.  I decided to paint th red clip, but I could have used either clip without altering and they would have worked just as well.

 I also taped my Winnie The Pooh Invitation Stamps so I could use just the image.

Step Five

Choose paints, Inks, and/or sprays.  Experiment until you achieve the desired color profile

I wanted to pull in the color of the forest so I did greens, reds, etc.

Step Six

Apply stamped or hand drawn images.  Allow to dry, apply several coats of Mod Podge

Use your baby wipe to keep your colors from becoming muddy.

Step Seven

Determine the placement of  your image and sentiment. Center Clip

 Apply designer papers or other embellishment to clip

Step 8

Attach Clip, add image and sentiment.  

Apply several coats of Mod Podge until desired result is achieved

Apply back panel

I used Plain Jane Baseboard Brown by Tattered Angels 

ENJOY YOUR NEW CLIPBOARD

HUGZ, 

CHANA