Blogs, Backgrounds and Boxes - Oh My!

Lately, I've been experimenting with my art and my boxes -- they have been consistent sellers in my etsy shop and at shows. I seem to have found my "canvas!" This past weekend, I took my collage art to a new level by experimenting with a technique I learned in Somerset Studios magazine, and let me just say it was a messy (literally) process. I was covered in paper, paint and Mod Podge, but I was having fun!  I'm actually finished except for the insides, which need to be either decoupaged or lined with velvet paper.

This is really one of those go-with-the-flow projects, however, I can give you some initial steps.

Materials needed:

• Wood boxes
• White gesso or a primer of your choice
• Mod Podge
• Paint colors of your choice (I used Deco Arts Americana Winter Blue and Snow White).
• Paint brushes
• Rag or paper towels
• Marker
• Scraps of paper to match the shades of paint (or not - really whatever you want). I used some scrapbook paper, vintage sheet music, wrapping paper.
• Stamps
• Ink
• Vintage jewelry piece for knob (if you want a knob)

1. Clean and gesso your "canvas" -- whether it be a real canvas or a wood box. I used little unfinished wood boxes.

2.  Paint your boxes a base color. I used Deco Arts Americana Winter Blue ( I love this color!!!). Let it dry.

3.  Using Mod Podge, randomly glue strips of ripped paper all over the box -- except the bottom. Let the box dry.

4. "Paint" over everything with a mixture of watered down white paint. I used Deco Arts Americana Snow (Titanium) White. Tip: you can also add a touch of brown paint to antique it if you want.

5. Rub off the paint in areas. This will provide you with a background for the rest of your collage.

6. Go wild with stamps, ink, more paint, and markers. Again, I left the bottom a calm winter blue and  stamped it with a message of "Peace."

7. Last, I used a piece of vintage jewelry for a knob and to add interest. I have a huge stash of broken vintage earrings, but you don't have to use vintage. Make sure the back of the piece is semi flat so it can be easily attached to the box lid. To attach, dab a dot of Gorilla Super Glue to the piece and press it against the box lid. Hold for about a minute. I like using the Gorilla brand because it dries quickly, clear and it really, really holds!

I can't wait to do more!! But, must. Control. Self.

I am linking to my first DIY Club party:

And, by the way, the little star box made the front page of etsy -woo hoo!