French Country Star Garland

As soon as I saw the challenge for the design team to create some Fourth of July decor, I knew I had to make a star garland.  I adore they symbol of the star, as my online alias shows.  

The star shapes were cut out from the French Country Patterns and Solids.  I used a template I made myself when I could not find a steel rule die at my local craft store.  My thriftiness not only saved me some money, but helped to create some interest by having some irregularity in my stars.

Eyelets were added in appropriate corners and I then simply strung my stars on the twine. I have a huge stash of vintage eyelets.  I often find big jars of eyelets at estate sales, and I cannot resist when they are fifty cents.

In order to make the metal embellishments stand out, I added another layer of paper behind them.  Edges were also inked along the way to add a bit of dimension.  The metal stars were found recently at a store closing.  While I hate to see places going out of business, I do love to get good deals.

This is where I hang my different banners.  An easy and super affordable way to seasonally dress a room.

I hope you found at least a little bit of inspiration in this project!

Cheers, 

Rhea

Steampunk Spells Triptych

The thrill of getting my hands on new crafty stuff for my design team work never seems to wear off.  The new Steampunk Spells line by Graphic 45 has to be one of my favorite papers to date.  I feel so very blessed to start my role as a designer for a premier paper company!

The base is a triptych that Leslie is working on sourcing over at Alpha Stamps.  I will be getting a few more of these for sure once she does.  It was really simple to create a thoughtful piece.  There was a bit of a challenge for me to keep the inside flat, so that it could close.

The clasp was altered with gilders paste.  In order to thin the paste out an help it get into all the cracks of the fancy rectangular latch, a bit of mineral spirits was added. 

Inside I let the paper do most of the work.  The middle portion is not altered all that much for two reasons.  First off I had to keep it flat. Secondly, I just wanted the lovely paper to be highlighted.  I always like the "title pages" that Graphic 45 comes up with to set the tone of the line.

I am absolutely in love with this print.  Here again, it was used it in an area where it could be fully appreciated and not covered up with all my crazy embellishing.

The central portion of this piece is topped with several ornate filigree, also buffed with gilders paste. The focal piece is an old set of souvenir wings from an airline.  I added a rusted metal button and an ornate key from the Graphic 45 staples line.

I absolutely love this paper line and I can't wait to see what else I can create with it.  I am also looking forward to seeing how it looks in the hands of others!  

Cheers, 

Rhea

Moroccan Doors

This is yet another installment of the most wonderful round robin through my Kindred Souls group.  The theme for Pam's book is ornate doors.  You should see the construction of her journal, she really inspired me!

I had some of the brand new Bohemian Bazaar paper and stickers by Graphic 45  on my work table, so these quickly became my starting point.

I just love the rich color and vibrant pattern.  I tried to hinge these doors several ways, unsuccessfully.  In order to be able to still peek inside, the problem was solved by showcasing them slightly open.

On the back I used a bit of watered down Peacock Feathers Distress stain to add watery interest.  

I hope Pam enjoys the contribution I made for her most amazing journal.

Cheers, 

Rhea