Valentine's Day Cards Using Acrylic Paint and Stencils

Tonight after work, I decided to start working on some Valentine's Day cards.  I decided to use some of the papers and supplies from my January card kit from Simon Says Stamp and to incorporate my Dina Wakley stencils and acrylic paints by Claudine Hellmuth.  I was up late on Sunday night watching Dina demo (from CHA on You Tube) how to make fun backgrounds with paints and stencils and so I knew I had to give it a try.

I really enjoyed just letting go and having fun with the paints and by the end of the session I was covered in paint, ink and gesso.

Both of these cards are not my usual style, but I really enjoyed the experience and all the fun texture I was able to get on them with the paints.

Dina will be putting out her own line of paints and brushes through Ranger, and I cannot wait to get my hands on them to continue exploring the world of mixed media.

No Bird Soars Too High If He Soars With His Own Wings (W. Blake)

Hi, guys!  This past Saturday I was fortunate enough to attend two classes in the city with Dina Wakley as my instructor.  She is an amazing mixed media artist and a fabulous teacher.  Last year I was lucky enough to take a few of her classes, so when I heard she was coming back to NYC to teach this weekend, I knew I had to be there. 

You know that I love stamping, and creating fun cards.  It is my passion.  I have never been comfortable drawing or painting. Flashbacks from high school art class surface and all the negative criticisms start whispering in my head and so I don't try. Dina was teaching a painting birds on canvas class that really interested in me (love her birds!) and knowing she was the teacher really spurred me to take the class and to TRY. That may sound funny to some, but when you aren't encouraged and feel like you can't, it isn't easy to take a class with others sitting all around you, etc.  I knew from experience that Dina is the most positive teacher, and makes class FUN.  No negativity allowed in class!   I learned a lot and, most importantly, had fun! Not only that, but now I am not "afraid to draw," but will continue with it for MYSELF.  I am going to share my canvas with you and believe me, I never would have, had I not taken this class.

If Dina Wakley is ever in your neck of the woods teaching, I think you should definitely enroll in a class (or two) and you will be amazed and, most importantly, will have FUN!

Have a great day, and hope you have a creative day!