Sunday, February 12, 2012

Steampunk Journal with Jewels

This is another one of those projects that has been rattling in my brain for a while.  Although it pained me to do so, I used up most of my Graphic 45 stash of Steampunk Debutante paper.  At least I have a pretty book to show for it!  I used a lot of items from the G45 line in this project.  The policy envelope book was one of those things I saw online and really wanted, so when I found it at Altered Art Addicts in Jackson, I was super excited. 



One of my favorite tricks on the cover, was how I altered the key.  I used a patina product on just the key part of the embellishment, helping the clock and wings to stand out.  I also cleverly lined up the key to mimic the pattern on the paper. 






Early on in my creating process, I decided to add lots of embellishments and metal.  I love to use jewelry techniques in my mixed media projects, as this is where my creative roots lie. 




The orientation of this book also makes it unique.  I thought my use of space allowed me to use my papers in a more effective way.  I adore the wings I attached here with Tim Holtz's charm clips.  It was a happy accident but they move perfectly as you turn the pages. 




Here again I used a charm clip to attach my jewelry.  On this art charm I have a pendant I made with resin, watch parts and tissue tape.  It has been lying around for a while, I was glad to find it a proper home.





Inside of each envelope page has a little something tucked inside.  This tag was fashioned from the packaging that the Graphic 45 trims came on.  You can see the trims used through out the project too.  I love to repurpose things in my art, especially if they were meant for the trash can.  A few of these supplies also came from Dillon's Scrapbook Center, another local shop. 




Here is another shot of my favorite gal.  I just love this sheet of paper. I made a pretty big error on this page, and I will let you in on my secret.  The framed butterfly is totally crooked.  A little bit of texture from the ribbon and a successful distraction takes the eye away from my mistake.  The wings were colored with a bit of acrylic paint and some rub and buff. 



I used consistent or complementary background papers on each spread.  It helps to unite each set of pages.





I actually also mixed in some other Graphic 45 paper in this project from the Botanicabella line.  They are so smart to keep their palates similar as they blend seamlessly. 





I love the little vintage "souvenir" metal embellishment.  It was given to me by a colleague who picked it up for me after seeing some of my assemblage art. 





I love all the butterflies.  They were each fussy cut one by one.  I used them throughout the book, again bringing in some continuity.  Another tiny detail I added for fun, a women peeking out behind the keyhole. I wish you could see the other side of the key, there is the most amazing natural patina on there. 


  





I love the little metal pull tag here.  This was done by gluing two of these little metal things back to back.  I have no idea what they were for, but they worked for this.  The background of this pull out is actually the back of a paper pack. 



One of my favorite things about Graphic 45, they include faux postage in every line.  I adore all things postal.





I love how all the journal jewelry can be seen on other pages. This last page has to little tags in it.  Apparently, I was on a roll!




Another tag with my "gear gal" on it.  Oh how I adore her!  She looks better with real gears in her hair though. :)






I hope you enjoyed checking out my little exploration in Graphic 45.  I had a blast creating this from all those things that are so hard to use. 

My original intention for this post was to make a video tour of this book, however it proved difficult given the orientation I chose.  That was something I did not think of before assembling!  I used a lot of photos to try and assist.  My apologies to those with slow computers!

Cheers,

Rhea

23 comments:

  1. Love, Love ,Love it! I just love making steampunk albums! you have such creative ideas too!:O)

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  2. this is absolutely GORGEOUS!! Love everything!

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  3. Absolutely superb! I spent ages pouring over every detail. :-)

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  4. Your work is exquisite! What eye-candy ~ just in time for Valentine's Day - and calorie free!

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  5. This is a lovely piece. So fun to look through each and every detail. Even though you used up your paper stash, the beauty is that it didn't really go away at all, you still get to look at it whenever you like. Thanks for sharing your labor of love.

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  6. This is stunning! I love everything you did. Will have to look at it several times so I don't miss any little details. Thanks for sharing.
    Gail Bales
    Gail in Oklahoma

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  7. What a wonderful piece. Every page has so many wonderful elements! You should send this blog post on to Graphic 45, maybe they will send you more supplies to feature on your blog!

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  8. WoWzA, this is fabulous! Thanks for the inspiration!

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  9. Wow!! What a beautiful book! I love the orientation of the book and the size. You did such a wonderful job!

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  10. A beautiful book, each page a delight.

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  11. Oh, Rhea... this is just stunning! Wish I could see it in person... each page looks fantastic!

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  12. AMESOME just like you! You have to go to CHA with me!! Thanks for letting people you like my store. We are trying so hard to make a go of it. Loved seeing you the other day
    Karen

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  13. Gorgeous, I am hoarding my paper, as it so beautiful. Your project showcases it so well. It is a work of art.I love the mix of your jewellery pieces in there, they are stunning. Judith xx

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  14. This is STUNNING! real eye candy!

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  15. u rocked this one girl! luv luv luvvvvvvvv

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  16. WOW! your work is beautiful. I love the dinning room piece and butterflies are a favorite of mine too. Thanks for sharing your lovely creations.
    Cheers!
    Lori

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  17. Ahhh, Rhea. You impress and inspire the heck out of me! Good luck!

    Cheers,
    Susan

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  18. This is absolutely amazing!! I just LOVE it!

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All the comments and feedback you leave affirms my creative spirit on a very deep level. I am grateful for your time and readership!