Steampunk Box

This box was so fun to make!  I actually wrote a tutorial on how to make this here.

I just love using guilders paste to alter metal.  I am super excited as I just brought my beloved paste in white.  I can hardly wait to get crafting with it.

Since the theme this week over at Simon Says Stamp and Show is no rules, it seems this project is a perfect fit!  

I am using my box to store some fun altered coasters.  I participated in a swap for these with Alpha Stamps so I plan to use this to store my happy return. 

Cheers, 

Rhea

Embossed Metal Box Tutorial

In this project I will show you how to take this humble little box from Alpha Stamps, and turn it into a grungy but elegant steampunk box.  This was also the technique used in my Altered Dress Form, posted a few weeks ago.  I am happy to report that this dress form was chosen to go on tour with an expo show for the next year.

Here is a peek at the finished product. This box is 4x4 so it is perfect for small chunky books, altered coasters or just random junk.  

I started out by prepping the box feet with both black and patina guilder's paste.

Then I moved on to prepping my box.  I applied one thick coat of black gesso.  

While these dried, I worked on embossing my aluminum tape from the hardware store.  Now, I do happen to have a machine that I use along with embossing folders.  If you do not have this resource get creative.  I was able to sample some textures from around the house.  A beaded place mat, a wire basket, a heat vent...get creative!

To add more dimension and texture, I painted my embossed tape with gesso and then wiped it off.  This leaves a bit of color in some of the indentations of the foil.  It also dulled down the metal quite a bit.   

Now for the fun part, applying the tape.  This is so easy, since the adhesive is already there.  I layered three strips on the top, adding each of the outside layers before placing the one in the middle. 

A bit of tissue tape on the edges gives it a finished look.  To blend the tape in with the project, I wiped some black gesso on and then off of the tape to grunge it up.  I also added a bit of spray glimmer to shine it up with another layer of texture.

Now it is time to add the hardware.  I simply used a heavy duty glue for the feet.  Make sure they are all level as it dries!  A vintage clock gear is held on by the faucet handle, which was screwed onto the top of the box.  Be sure to do this before embellishing the inside and the backing of the handle will be hidden. 

Now I chose my wonderful Alpha Stamps imagery.  The round things collage sheet had many options, so I chose a few.  A few large spinners add my favorite element of movement to the project.  

Simply glue inside with a bit of coordinating paper, and you are done.  

Hard to believe this was a simple little gift box to start, eh? :)

I hope I have inspired you to step outside the box with your embossing.

Cheers, 

Rhea

Altered Dress Form

A few weeks ago I posted here about a creative challenge I was about to embark on and this post showcases the results.  I was offered an opportunity to alter a dress form, with the chance of it traveling for the next year at the Original Sewing and Quilting Expo shows throughout the United States, if selected. 

7/14/12:  I am so pleased to report that my Industrial 

Glamour Girl was chosen!!!!!

The project is entitled Runway Re-View, and the challenge was to use repurposed items and not spend more than twenty dollars on materials.  Since the challenge this week on Simon Says Stamp and Show this week is "Anything Goes," I am going to enter this there as well.

I would gather that the value of the stuff I used on this was right around ten dollars.  The dress is made from embossed aluminum tape from the hardware store I had on hand.  I grunged it up with black gesso by painting it and wiping off the excess. 

To add a bit more bling, I added a belt made of an old chain and a broach.  I am always on the hunt for old jewelry on the cheap at flea markets and estate sales.  I recently went to my first auction and that was even better as far as affordable altered art supplies, but I digress...  To take the sheen off of the chain I used a bit of black Guilders Paste.  I am in love with this product, I want it in every color.   It is hard to see, but I also spritzed the dress with Perfect Pearls mists.  These work really well on metal. 

The bottom was embellished with a few bits I found on a half off sale in the wedding section of a big box store. I really loved the little sprays of wire and gems.  A few light bulbs were also added to go with the industrial feel and add a whimsical element. I detailed the trim of the dress in a black sequin trim I had on hand, although I have no recollection of ever getting it. 

I hope my little industrial gal is chosen to travel.  Perhaps some of my readers will actually get to see her in person, that would be cool.  No matter what, it was a fun experience to participate in and it really challenged me artistically.   

Cheers,

Rhea