Friday, June 17, 2011

Did you know?

Have you ever wondered what to use when you don't have all the fancy schmancy tools that you see other artists using online?
Perhaps you are frugal like me and wonder what can I use to substitute for that? or can I use this instead of that?
Well from time to time I am going to share things that I have either found or use or maybe someone shared with me to help you.
Artists are always looking for ways to incorporate items in their stash to use other than their intended uses.
So I am going to start a " Did you Know" article now and again and I invite you to share with me things that you  find helpful, useful, instead of"s.
If I find something online I will direct you to the link to give credit where credit is due and I hope you will do the same if you find something here and share the link. Together we can build up a very helpful resource.

So here it goes.....

Did you know......
to distress the edges of your pages open up your scissors and run the paper between the blades close to the hinge part of the scissors, or, if you take a dressmakers seam ripper run it along the edges of your papers to make them ratty and worn.

Did you know.....
you can crackle your paint with ordinary white school glue? Apply a base coat of paint to your surface, let dry. Apply a rather thick and not too thin coat of white glue to the base coat, paint it on in different directions for interest. Clean your brush and allow the glue to tack up a bit. Next take another coat of contrasting paint and paint over the glue but do not go over the same area you just painted this will glob the paint up and glue and cause a mess. Cover the entire area and leave to dry. You can also use a sponge brush and sponge on the top coat of paint which I prefer to do. Watch as the paint dries, cracks will appear.

Did you know.....
if you don't have gesso not to worry, although white acrylic paint is no real substitute it will do the job. If you need to, just add a bit of water to the paint or your brush and paint the area you want to tone down or add interest to.

Well that's it for today.
Stay tuned for further Did you Know's?

12 comments:

  1. Some of that I did know and some I didn't!
    So I'm a bit wiser thank you for sharing.
    Hugs, amy

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  2. Yes, being frugal like you, I use all those techniques! Can't think of any to add to your list right now, but will put my grey matter to work while I sleep!

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  3. Great idea Les, I knew about these tips, but I'm sure there will be others that I haven't heard about yet. Will try to think of something that I can contribute. :)

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  4. hi hun,yeah had heard of these tips but sure others will love these,I also use my craft knife to distress the edges,that works beautifully. Will try to think of something so you can add it to your blog thanks again hunny,hugs cheryl xxxx

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  5. love the white glue on les, some great tips here....im sure i have lots too but cant think of any right now...;)

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  6. The crackle bit is new to me! Love that as too often the "crackle" paints dry up and are useless. Thanks!

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  7. This is a great idea.. didn't know about the scissors one.. thanks.. will try and think of something too..
    xx

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  8. Love your Did You Knows! I found a link to homemade glitter mists,gotta look it up! Hugs,Tee

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  9. Great idea for the crackle.Thanks for sharing.
    When I think of a handy tip I will sure let you know.

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  10. Hi Lesley, well I only knew one of those, so thanks for the tips, and I'll be staying tuned!

    Thanks for your lovely comment on my blog too, always lovely to see you there x

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  11. Hi Lesley!
    I JUST found your blog and now I'm a follower!! I love your "ideas" section and will be checking in through my Google Reader so I can stay on top of all your fabulous tips!
    xox
    Karen

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  12. Just like you Lesley to think of sharing these "ideas" with us. Your have a very generous nature. You've got me thinking for some more. So glad you're on wireless now. You won't know yourself, it'll give you a bit more time to get in the kitchen LOL!!!

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