Crafts Inspire Me

What's Your Inspiration?

Inspiration: Lost & Found – Part 3

Posted on August 24, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

This is the final post in this series, and so far, we have seen many inspirations and corresponding artistic expressions. I think it is important to mention that you don’t have to travel far in your search. In fact, you can be inspired in the comfort of your own home by paging through books and magazines, watching television shows or movies. Look outside a window or take a walk around the block. Flip through photos from past vacations. The inspirations are there waiting to be discovered.

Inspiration – Formula 1 Racing:

High-precision engines roar to life. Sleek racecars swerve side to side on the track, warming up their tires before taking their places upon the starting grid. When the lights go out, pure power explodes accompanied by an adrenaline rush, propelling the cars and drivers forward at speeds of up to 200 mph and the fans go wild. Formula 1 Racing is sure to inspire.

Go Kart Racing / Formula 1 Car Driving Simulator

Car Painting / Model Building

Beaded Jewelry & Precision Watches

Formula 1 Fan Apparel / Luxury Leather Goods

Watercolor Painting / Special Effects Photography

Inspiration – Colorful Parrot:

Playful, curious, and never at a loss for words, parrots are the entertainers in the animal world. Spend a little time with one of these colorful, expressive birds and you will be smiling before you know it. share that joy with family and friends through your next creative project.

Latch Hook Wall Art / Sculptural Metal Wall Art

Paint Pouring / Digital Painting

Tie Dye Clothing / Wildlife Abstract Art

Jungle-Themed Stained Glass / Tropical Candleholders

Ceramic Tile / Tropical Throw Pillow

Inspiration – Buddhist Temple in Oahu, Hawaii:

Located in Hawaii, the Byodo-In Temple offers visitors the gifts of peace and tranquility as they admire intricate architectural details, reflecting pools teeming with koi, and lush Eden-like gardens. This gentle, meditative energy can be expressed artistically.

Koi Painting / Marble Buddha Sculpture

Water Fountains / Calligraphy

Bonsai / Japanese Fabric Design

Water Garden / Meditation Space

Origami / Koi Mixed Media

Inspiration – Painted Lady Butterfly in a Garden:

With no particular destination, and obviously in no rush, butterflies flutter from bloom to bloom like colorful little fairies brightening our gardens and our spirits. Their vibrant colors, graceful movements, and eye-catching patterns are excellent resources for artistic endeavors.

Watercolor Garden & Butterfly Paintings

Butterfly Earrings / Digital Portraiture

Mosaic Tile / Butterfly Scrapbooking

Butterfly Wall Mural / Butterfly Illustration

Butterfly Metal Sculpture / Butterfly Special Effects Photography

Metal Sculpture & Special FX Photography

As you can see, inspiration can come anytime or anywhere, when you least expect it. Sometimes inspiration comes from your favorite pair of pajamas, and other times it may be an awe-inspiring view of the Grand Canyon. Whenever you find inspiration, let it into your heart and mind, stirring your passion and creativity. Your next work of art might really surprise you! Please share your thoughts in the comments section. If you missed the previous posts in this series, please click here for Part 1 or click here for Part 2.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Inspiration: Lost & Found – Part 2

Posted on August 17, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

Inspiration is everywhere. With our hectic schedules, we sometimes fail to notice. Let’s take a few minutes for some much needed “Me Time” to look for sources of inspiration and then figure out how to channel that energy into a burst of creativity. Let’s go…

Inspiration – Sunset at the Beach:

Key West, Florida is just one of the many places around the world where people gather to watch the setting sun. Nature puts on quite a dazzling show with bursts of color, luminous clouds and reflections upon the rippling water, thrilling viewers of all ages.

Birds of Paradise Flower Arrangement / Hand Dipped & Carved Turtle Candle

Fabric & Fashion Design / Fire Dancing

Sun Mosaic Tile / Writing & Playing Music

Sunset Illustration / Abstract Sun Stained-Glass Window

Tropical Sunset Illustration & Stained Glass

Sunset Painting / Sun Metal Sculpture

Inspiration – A Nebula & Starry Sky:

Staring up at the night sky, we realize how small we really are in such a vast universe. From the time we are children, we wish upon the stars, hoping one day the person, place, or thing we want most will magically appear. United we stand under the twinkling night sky and realize anything is possible.

Cool Tone Crocheted Afghan / Astrology

Faux Finishes

Digital Portraiture / Pansies Flower Arrangement

Abstract Art / Star Wars CGI

Galactic Abstract Art & Star Wars Special FX

Stained Glass Picture Frame / Iridescent Beaded Necklace

Inspiration – Plumeria Tree Blossoms:

Although they are native to Central and South America, plumeria trees are best known for their colorful, aromatic presence in Hawaii. Visitors are often greeted with plumeria flower leis, which have an unforgettably sweet scent, perfuming the air in this island paradise.

Perfumes, Bath & Body Products / Plumeria Flower Lei

Floral Ceramic Tile / Exotic Flower Arrangement

Silver Plumeria Jewelry / Vibrant Crocheted Afghan

Handmade Scented Soaps / Digital Collage

Tropical Illustration / Flower Petal Mandala

This concludes part two of this creativity post. Do you have any favorites? Have you been inspired by an experience to create a new work of art? Please share your thoughts in the comments section and stay tuned for part three next week. If you missed part one in this series, please click here.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Inspiration: Lost & Found – Part 1

Posted on August 10, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

Sometimes it feels like inspiration is impossible to find. It hides in plain sight, masquerading as mundane items in our daily lives. Once you find it, you are faced with another question: What should I do with it? In this three-part series, we shall delve into several inspirations and interpret creative expressions for each one. Please join me on this artistic journey in search of inspiration.

Inspiration – A Beautiful Day at the Beach in Maui, Hawaii:

Spending time at the beach is so relaxing and refreshing. Fluffy clouds drift across the azure sky, palm trees sway in the gentle breeze, and the foamy surf tickles your toes as it ebbs and flows. What’s not to like? Tranquil blues and greens abound, while the soft sand cushions every step as you wander aimlessly picking up scalloped shells in this tropical paradise. Below are a few ways to express this inspiration.

Paint Pouring / Fabric & Apparel Design

Monkey Carved Coconut Sculpture / Sea Turtles Sand Sculpture

Seashell Wall Art / Tropical Illustration

Tropical Leaf Wall Sconces / Hibiscus Fabric Placemats

Ceramic Sea Turtle / Abalone Shell Earrings

Inspiration – Scuba Diving:

Dive beneath the waves into a hidden world of exotic creatures, bold colors, intricate patterns and textures soft as sand or razor sharp as coral. Each new discovery becomes a snapshot in your memory, filling you with excitement and the need to creatively express these newfound treasures.

Sea Life Wreath / Fish & Coral Throw Pillow

Fish Sand Sculpture / Humpback Whale Carved Wood Sculpture

Framed Fish Collage / Aquatic Wall Mural

Aquatic Stained Glass Dome / Tropical Fish Wall Art

Sea Horses Ceramic Tile / Aquatic Mosaic Wall Mural

Inspiration – Garden of Irises:

World renowned artists, including Monet, Van Gogh and Georgia O’Keeffe, have been inspired by flowers for centuries. Delicate petals in the most exquisite colors beckon us to come closer to appreciate these living works of art.

Hydrangea Wreath / Hydrangea Hand Hooked Rug

Floral Fabric Painting / Hydrangea Fabric Placemats

Flower Garden Painting / Floral Embroidery

Garden Gazebo Needlepoint / Beaded Jewelry

Butterfly Watercolor / Stained Glass Flowers

This completes part one of this artistic inspiration post. I hope you have found some interesting ideas for your future projects. What inspires you? Please let me know in the comments section. Please click here to read part two.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Sculpting in the Sand

Posted on July 27, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

Child’s Sandcastle

For a child, a day at the beach would not be complete without building a sandcastle.

Buzz Lightyear

Overachievers among us have honed their sand sculpting skills “to infinity and beyond!”

Sculptor’s Sandcastle

During worldwide competitions, we admire these incredible, albeit temporary, masterpieces. Let’s explore the amazing world of sand sculpture.

Relief Sculptures:

Adam & Eve in the Garden of Eden

The details are remarkable, including the serpent’s scales, human anatomy, grainy tree bark, and dimples on the apples. The glass eyes of the serpent appear to glow.

Librarian

Each book and every nook and cranny in the bookcases were carved by hand.

Disney’s Snow White

Snow White’s likeness has been captured beautifully, including her delicate eyelashes and the lively twinkles in her eyes.

Sculpting Details

Feathers upon the wings of a bird, and a joey in a kangaroo’s pouch – no details are overlooked.

Freestanding Sculptures:

Three dimensional sculptures, with subjects ranging from movies and books to famous landmarks and historical events, draw us in for a closer look. At this level of competition, the details are so crucial because the audience and judges must easily recognize the scenes, subjects or ideas presented. Below are several sand sculptures based upon popular characters.

Movie: “The Wizard of Oz”

Sculpting Dorothy & Friends Wizard of Oz

Movie: “Avatar”

Movies: “Pirates of the Caribbean” & “Maleficent”

Movie: “Pirates of the Caribbean”

Movie: “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory”

Children’s Book: “Where the Wild Things Are”

Special Effects:

Color & Lighting are just a few of the special effects implemented to bring sand sculptures to life.

Dyed Sand – Crocodile

Dyed Sand – Zebra

Flames – Fire-Breathing Dragon

Illumination – Castle

Illumination – Fall of the Roman Empire

Illumination – Cave Monsters

Illumination & Scenic Backdrop – Mother Gorilla & Baby

Illumination – The Paparazzi

The Best of the Best:

Neuschwanstein Castle

Located in Bavaria, Germany, world renowned Neuschwanstein Castle was the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella’s Castle. Despite the enormity of scale, and pressures of recreating an historical treasure, these artists successfully accomplished their goal.

Neuschwanstein Closeup

Lifeguard Rescue

Watching lifeguards rescuing a victim is an intense, nail-biting experience. Those emotions are extremely well conveyed in this incomplete lifeboat sculpture.

Lifeguard Rescue Closeup #1

The near vertical pitch of the lifeboat implies rough seas. The rowing lifeguard is focused upon an approaching wave or the distant shoreline. Either way, there is doubt and worry in his facial expression.

Lifeguard Rescue Closeup #2

Fully engaged in the rescue, the second lifeguard struggles to pull his victim into the boat, while bracing for the next wave. It looks like they all may need to be rescued.

Jack & the Beanstalk

“Jack & the Beanstalk” is a classic fairytale known to children and adults. Seeing it come alive in this sculpture is both awesome and scary. In this modified version, the giant survives the fall from the gnarled beanstalk and now he wants blood. Tossed by the sudden impact, Jack helplessly lies nearby on the ground awaiting his fate. The entire composition is a textural feast for the eyes.

Closeup of Giant from Jack & the Beanstalk

Pure fury is exemplified in the giant’s furrowed brow and roaring mouth with bared jagged teeth, as his fingers mercilously tear into the soil in his quest for vengeance. Pointed ears and wart covered skin add a layer of horror to this fairytale villan. How does this version end? We may never know.

I hope you enjoyed seeing these amazing works of art. The next time you visit a beach, maybe you will give sculpting a try. I’ll never look at sand the same way again. Please let me know which ones are you favorites in the comments section, and best of luck with your next artistic project.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

What’s New in the Art Studio?

Posted on July 13, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

New ideas are always brewing at the arts and crafts studio. Here is a sneak peek at a few of the upcoming projects…

Cake Decorating

Cake decorating has been a popular topic on this blog, and I have lots of new cake designs to share.

Crafting with Feathers

Craft stores always have feathers, and there are many creative ways to include them in your artwork.

Full Color Makeover

This monotone crane has been standing next to a potted plant for years. It is high time he gets some much-needed attention. Believe it or not this makeover will transform him into a crowned prince.

Cookie Decorating

The only time of year my family decorates cookies is Christmas. This post will inspire you to create beautiful cookies any time of year.

Painted Wood Crafts

Wood crafts are inexpensive, easy to color or paint, and quickly produce attractive décor for your home.

Magical Creatures from Harry Potter

The world of Harry Potter is inhabited by some extraordinary creatures. With a little creative magic, you can conjure one to adopt into your family.

Art Studio Mascots

Speaking of adoption, our foster cats have become permanent members of the family, and they will be popping into the studio from time to time for a visit. Here are a few of their recent comments: “Being an inspiration is exhausting and we’re working for kibble. F.Y.I., the feather projects will be delayed indefinitely…you don’t have any. You’re welcome. Wake us when there’s a big juicy mouse project!”

I hope you enjoyed this brief look into future posts. Comments and suggestions are welcome, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Rainbow of Gems – Part 3

Posted on July 6, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

This is the final leg of our gemstone tour as we explore the neutral color palette, followed by several multicolor gems that really know how to stand out in a crowd. Here we go…

Color: Black – mysterious, sexy, luxurious

Black Onyx

Historically, black onyx has been carried as protection for travelers. Used in jewelry, it provides great eye-catching contrast, showcasing any accompanying gems.

Black Diamonds

Have you ever seen black diamonds? The natural-color black has been growing in popularity, but unlike other diamonds, these stones are opaque.

Snowflake Obsidian

The product of volcanic activity, as molten obsidian cools tiny pockets of trapped gases burst forming the delicate snowflake patterns in this beautiful gemstone.

Tahitian Black Pearls

Tahitian black pearls, grown in the waters of French Polynesia, are the only true black pearls. All other black pearls have been dyed.

Color: Gray – sophisticated, timeless, well-balanced

Gray Jasper

Gray jasper brings a sense of calm and well-being to the wearer.

Color: Brown – relaxing, grounding, comfortable

Tigereye

Want to see a magic trick? When bright light reflects off fibers in a Tigereye stone, the color appears to change in a phenomenon known as chatoyancy.

Smoky Quartz

Also known as smoky topaz, this gemstone ranges in color from light browns to black, just like its namesake, smoke.

Natural Mother of Pearl

Mother of pearl comes from the shell of an oyster or mussel. These organic gems are cream, beige and tan swirled with white.

Color: White – peaceful, practical, cool

Onyx

This banded stone is believed to increase intuition and clarify dreams.

White Mother of Pearl

Because this organic gem comes from a pearl producing shell, it is associated with nurturing and motherhood. Cameo pendants and pins are typically carved from mother of pearl.

Pearls

Pearls have long been associated with female power. Cleopatra is believed to have worn makeup made from ground gemstones. Today we may wear pearlescent eyeshadows, but she wore the real thing!

Clear Quartz

Clarity of vision and creative inspiration are qualities associated with clear quartz. Because this gem resembles ice, it looks even more frosty when paired with blue or black gemstones.

Diamonds

Diamonds are the hardest gemstone in the world. Perhaps that is why they have become a universal symbol of love and commitment in engagement and wedding rings.

Multi-Color Gemstone Gallery: – multiple colors in one gemstone

Sardonyx

Fluorite

Abalone

Pink Labradorite

Opal

Blue Agate

Unakite

Chrysocolla

Watermelon Tourmaline

Turritella Agate

If you love gemstones and archeology, turritella agate is for you. Turritella is a midsize snail that lived millions of years ago. These fossilized creatures are forever preserved within the stones, resulting in a one-of-a kind, visually stunning piece of jewelry.

Carved Agate

Our final gemstone is this beautifully carved fish cut from a single piece of agate. It’s a gemstone and sculpture in one. How cool is that?

I hope you have enjoyed Mother Nature’s rainbow of gems. New gemstones are still being discovered, creating fresh possibilities in jewelry design. If you feel inspired to try jewelry making, Fire Mountain Gems is a wonderful resource for gemstones, supplies, tutorials and more.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Rainbow of Gems – Part 2

Posted on June 29, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

Welcome to part two of our rainbow of gems tour. The Warm Color Palette includes yellows, oranges, reds, and pinks. Qualities associated with each color are noted below. Warm colors call to mind images of blooming flowers, days at the beach, and barbecues in the backyard. Let’s find gems to inspire us.

Color: Yellow – cheerful, warm, motivational

Golden Beryl

You may not have heard of the gemstone called beryl, but I am sure you are familiar with two of its relatives, emerald and aquamarine. Although it comes in a few colors, yellow is the rarest.

Amber & Amber with an Insect Trapped Inside

Even when the sky is gray, cheerful gold and yellow amber beads will brighten your day. Amber is often found with very interesting inclusions like the famous mosquito in the movie, “Jurassic Park.”

Citrine

Want more light and positivity in your life? Citrine captures rays of sunshine you can wear day or night.

Lemon Quartz

Yellow quartz quenches your thirst for beautiful gemstones like a cold glass of lemonade on a hot summer’s day.

Color: Orange – joyful, playful, independent

Orange Coral

Coral has been used for centuries in jewelry. Because it is susceptible to damage from direct sunlight and excessive heat, care should be taken when wearing or storing your coral pieces.

Orange Carnelian

Carnelian has a blend of color from light to dark within the same stone.

Orange Chalcedony

Available in several colors, chalcedony may also have bands of color. I must be hungry because these beads remind me of an orange creamsicle.

Peach Pearls

Known for their iridescent luster, pearls have been a worldwide favorite for every type of jewelry, from single pearl earrings to priceless crown jewels.

Color: Orange Red – energizing, attention-getting, self-assured

Madeira Citrine

Named for a city in Portugal, Madeira citrine has a deep, reddish orange or brownish orange color.

Color: Red – bold, romantic, sexy, powerful

Red Carnelian

In ancient Egypt, carnelian was worn as jewelry for its beauty, carried daily to energize the body, and buried with the dead as protection in the afterlife.

Red Coral

Red coral is typically harvested in the deep waters of the Western Mediterranean.

Garnet

Garnets have a long history as symbols of love, power, and protection. Many rulers have worn garnet studded crowns as sign of their power and authority.

Rubies

Rubies, the birthstone for July, are one of four “precious” gemstones, which includes Sapphires, Emeralds, and Diamonds.

Red Jasper

Jasper can be spotted, striped or solid color. Warriors often adorned their weapons and armor with jasper to ensure success in battle.

Color: Pink – soft, feminine, sweet

Rhodochrosite

This beautiful pink gem is honored by Native Americans. With frequently occurring “floral” patterns within the stones, rhodochrosite is a popular gift of love.

Rose Quartz

Transparent rose quartz is very rare, and the most prized comes from Madagascar.

This completes the warm color palette and the traditional colors of the rainbow, but there is still a treasure trove of gems waiting for their turn in the spotlight. Please share your thoughts about your favorite gemstones in the comments section and stay tuned for part three. To read part one, please click here.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

From the Heart – Jeweled Box

Posted on June 15, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

Finished Box
Treasure chest? Jewelry box? What could it be? There’s something so exciting about starting a new project. Sometimes you start out with one thing in mind, which slowly transforms into a beautiful butterfly. Originally. I intended to paint geometric designs all over this box. A roll of rhinestone ribbon became my inspiration, which revealed my hidden need for a lot of bling. Who knew? Where will your inspiration take you?

How to Decorate a Wooden Box:

Plain Wooden Box with Heart Shaped Window

When selecting a box for your project, look it over carefully for damage. Check for splinters or dents, and test the functionality of the latch and hinges. I often find smudges of glue on the glass/acrylic. If necessary, compare several boxes side by side at the store.

Wooden Box with Open Lid
Plain Box - Open
This box, available through AC Moore, is wood inside and out.

Painted Lid

I liked the look of the natural wood and kept most of it as-is, with the exception of the flat top, which was brushed with white acrylic paint to create a high contrast background.

Project Supplies:
Beads &; Paints
You will need a bag of loose rhinestones and fabric paints in turquoise, black and brown.

Additional Project Supplies:
Marbles & Rhinestone Ribbon
You will also need a bag of turquoise flat glass marbles, a roll of 1/2” turquoise rhinestone ribbon, Elmer’s glue and a glue gun. The rhinestone ribbon and marbles are available at dollar stores.

Outline the Heart with Rhinestones
Beaded Heart
Apply a large dot of fabric paint at the edge of the heart. Use tweezers to push a rhinestone down into the wet paint. Alternate the fabric paint colors to create your pattern. Repeat the process until the outline is complete. Just as reminder: the rhinestones are clear. It’s the paint that determines the color.

Apply Rhinestone Ribbon

Rhinestone ribbon is glued in horizontal bands across the top of the box. Use Elmer’s glue because it will allow you to reposition as needed. Use scissors to cut the ribbon to fit. At the end, fill in any blank spaces by cutting rhinestones from the ribbon and hand placing them with tweezers and Elmer’s glue.

Completed Beading on Lid
Completed Lid
As you work around the center heart, you may need to pry off individual beads to make the ribbon fit. They say hindsight is 20/20. If I had to do this over, I would probably apply the ribbon first and then outline the heart.

Apply Flat Glass Marbles
Apply Flat Marbles
A glue gun will make this step quick and easy. Apply marbles on all sides. Ensure the marble placement will not interfere with the opening and closing of the lid. I found are marble that had broken in half, and placed it under the latch to complete the pattern, which you can see in the next photo.

The Completed Bejeweled Box

Large turquoise hearts are glued in each of the four lid corners. These hearts are actually jewelry pendants. A black onyx bead has been glued to each heart to cover the hole on top.

I’m considering lining the inside of the box with felt or velvet. It all depends upon how it will be used, and frankly I haven’t decided yet. What would you do? Please make suggestions in the comments section. I look forward to hearing your ideas.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

The Ultimate Hair Accessory – Flowers

Posted on June 8, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

Spending time in nature brings a renewed sense of balance, re-energizing the mind and body and nourishing the soul. Wearing flowers in your hair is a lovely way of taking a little piece of paradise with you as a daily reminder to stop and smell the roses.

Accessories by Nature

Who needs an accessories store when Mother Nature provides everything we could possibly need and more?

The Power of One

Sometimes all you need is one bold flower as a focal point. Of course, there is no denying that having green hands tends to be an attention-getter as well. (lol)

Hawaiian Traditions

Native Hawaiians celebrate beautiful traditions with music, dance, and flowers, and visitors are encouraged to join in the fun.

Timeless Flowers

Weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries are all great excuses for floral accessories, but you don’t have to wait for a special occasion. Celebrate “Me Day” with flowers!

Flower Girls

Sweet and sassy flower girls are experts at charming audiences and stealing the show.

Back to Nature

Turn an ordinary picnic in the park into a portrait session for you and the kids.

Fairytale Princess

Start with an adorable portrait of your precious crowned prince or princess (a.k.a. child) and let the power of photo software magically develop a fairytale image to be treasured for years to come.

Fur Babies

If your kids are fur babies, a few flowers will render heartwarming photo results.

Love & Romance

Perfectly placed blooms evoke an exquisite romantic vibe.

Beaded Beauty

As the bride processes down the aisle, guests are dazzled by a delicately beaded headpiece and a ring of bold red flowers to complete this attractive updo.

All Eyes on Me

On the left, a copper headband wrapped in flowers, complemented by beaded copper earrings and shimmering eyeshadow, creates this lovely harmonious look. The more organic style on the right beautifully frames the bride’s face, while dramatic makeup and lashes draw attention to her eyes.

Confidence is Beautiful

Soft and ethereal like a fairy princess or bold and sensual as a siren of the sea, flowers let your personality shine through with confidence.

Floral Fashionistas

Makeup, hair, and jewelry accompanied by color-coordinated flowers are the key elements of these fashion forward styles.

Pretty in Pink

Peonies are so beautiful, and their scent is intoxicating.

Bold & Beautiful

If you want to stand out in a crowd, wear red. Flawless makeup with vibrant lip color will have them hanging on every word.

In Perfect Harmony

A white pearl headband and earrings mimic the white hydrangea blossoms and charming lace wedding gown. A filmy pink dress calls for delicate mini roses and pastel blooms of spring.

Poetry in Motion

Flowers, ribbons, and vibrant designs are an integral part of Mexican traditions. Her black dress and hair provide the perfect contrast for the fuchsia and green palette, with a brilliant smile as the cherry on top.

Belle of the Ball

Start with an intricately beaded evening gown, layered with fabric petals and pearl centers. Wispy greens serve as the foundation for a lovely peach floral crown and matching bouquet. A soft peach makeup palette completes this exceptional formal look. The belle of the ball will be dancing long after midnight.

Flower Power

If you love being the center of attention, a bold statement is the way to go, and this floral look is unforgettable. The makeup palette perfectly complements this jaw dropping composition. The only disappointment is not seeing how her bridal gown coordinates with such an over-the-top floral display.

Here we are at the end of our flower extravaganza. Hopefully you are inspired to incorporate more flowers into your life. Flowers bring smiles and we all benefit from more happiness.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

The Octopus & the Mermaids

Posted on June 1, 2022 by Crafts Inspire Me

Tropical House Closeup
A little piece of paradise – Isn’t that what we all want? That means different things to different people. For many, the idea of a cozy grass shack on a tropical island is a common fantasy. Of course it goes without saying that we’ll expect all the comforts of home in that “shack,” but that’s not important. Visualizing the dream is the focus here. This time of year so many people visit the seashore. An ocean-themed centerpiece, created one piece at a time, brings memories of vacations past to mind, and inspires dreams of vacations yet to come.

Beach House Before & After1
Before & After Photos: Tropical Home – Front Facade. What was once a home for tiny gnomes transforms into a tropical retreat with orange silk flowers, and a bamboo pattern drawn by hand on the exterior walls using a brown Sharpie marker.

Beach House Before & After2
Before & After Photos: Tropical home – Back Facade. The bamboo pattern continues across the back, giving it that island vibe.

Light House Before & After
Before & After Photos: Lighthouse. Whoever heard of a lighthouse without a roof? To make the roof shown, fold the paper into a cone and staple it as needed to hold its shape. Glue a soup can lid to the bottom of the cone and paint it gray to match the lower portion of the building. Add twine along the edge and down the sides to resemble a standing seam metal roof. Tie several knots in a piece of twine and glue it to the peak of the roof. Tint the glass votive holder yellow using a highlighter, and line the inside with orange paper to suggest a brilliant light glowing from within the tower.

Sailboat Before & After2
Before & After Photos: Sailboat. This sailboat only needed minor adjustments. The faded white stripes needed a fresh coat of paint, and the middle stripe was changed to orange. Because the opposite side of the sail was unfinished, the stripes and shells were duplicated on the back. A cute little blue bird was glued on top of the mast.

The Star of the Show: A Blue Ringed Octopus
Octopus Before and After 2
Before & After Photos: Octopus Closeup. It’s hard to believe the monochromatic octopus on the left is the same one on the right, but it is. It’s amazing what a difference a little paint can do.

Octopus with Candles
Original Octopus Candleholder: This whole project started with this silver metal octopus candleholder. As you can see, it looks top heavy with the large pillar candles, and the octopus is rather hidden underneath. Round candles were another option, but he looked like a juggler! (lol)

As with all creative projects, it’s helpful to gather a few photos for inspiration. The blue ringed octopus is a fascinating creature. Fans of James Bond 007 will remember the movie, Octopussy, in which Maude Adams had an aquarium with this beautifully patterned octopus, and she also wore a white silk robe emblazoned with its colorful, exotic image. Each octopus has a unique pattern, and the blue iridescent rings are impressive creations courtesy of Mother Nature.

Paints
Supplies:
Octopus (7-1/2” high x 4-1/2” wide x 1-3/8” thick)
Acrylic Paints – tan, brown, black, yellow, white, & metallic blue
1) Bottle fabric paint – white
1) Bottle fabric paint – brown
2) Paintbrushes – one for base coat, and a fine brush for details
Paint Palette
Clear Spray Paint

Octopus without Candles
This is how it looks without the candles. The large metal plates are too big, overpowering the beauty of this piece.

Octopus without Plates
The plates were removed using a Dremel cutting tool, and the tips of the tentacles were filed smooth. Now you start to notice the amazing sculptural details created by the artist.

Painted Tan
The color was the next issue to be addressed with two coats of tan paint. The artist painstakingly created a realistic looking octopus, but that thick coat of silver paint had obscured all those intricate details.

Painted Brown Spots
A brown pattern was applied to the entire body and the eyes were painted black.

Painted Black Spots
Black spots were added, overlapping the brown.

Painted Blue Rings&Yellow
Blue iridescent rings were applied over the black spots. Random yellow stripes wrap around the legs and head. A white dot was added to the pupil of each eye.

Painted Brown Irises White Outlines
The eyes were made more realistic with the addition of brown irises and white outlines.

Clear Coat & Suction Cups
Two coats of clear spray paint were applied to protect the acrylic paints. White suction cups were added to the underside of the tentacles and allowed to dry. Next brown fabric paint was applied over each of the suction cups to provide shape and depth. This beautiful sculpture now has the rich, colorful appearance it deserves, and makes an interesting conversation piece.

Finished Centerpiece
Photo: Completed Centerpiece. Black pebbles form little volcanic islands amid a vast ocean. In front of a cozy tropical home, a mermaid sits quietly reading, as a sailboat glides along the water. Another mermaid leaps out of the sea with a treasured seashell in her hand. The lighthouse makes a welcome rest stop for wildlife and a sunbathing mermaid. A feisty octopus playfully thrashes about the water’s surface. Palm trees swaying in the breeze display a pair of small signs that says it all: “Beach Please!”

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

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