Monday, November 19, 2007

New Techniques

This week I began a new technique's workshop. They chose to start with tags. I couldn't find tags at Walmart so decided to make my own out of manila folders. Everyone is using coffee to
dye their tags. I confiscated my DH's left over 7/11 coffee, bought a small jar of instant coffee
and experimenting was off.

On one folder I placed granules of coffee and brushed the liquid coffee on. This created a stain with dots of coffee remaining. The granules left on were shiny. I like the effect. The second folder I placed in shaving cream with granules of coffee and drops of liquid coffee, then brushed the entire folder with liquid coffee. When I wiped the cream off the folder it left the folder feeling silky. This one is my favorite. While experimenting I had a dying bouquet of flowers my DH bought me last week so I flower pounded on one folder. Take advantage of a good thing when available. I'm reminded of the saying "Waste not, Want not."
The effects of flower pounding - colors of pink and green from leaves and roses and carnations.



I let them dry, cut them apart 2 1/2 by 4 1/2, shaped the corners, punched holes out of an extra piece and enforced my tag holes. On several tags I will create pockets by sewing up the sides with sturdy thread. This is Step 1 of "Tags". I am glad I could not find pre-made shipping tags at the store. I am excited about working on this project especially since I have truly started from scratch.

5 comments:

Jacq said...

Thanks for sharing techniques from your class. It is always fun to take classes and learn new things. I haven't tried flower pounding, I'll be watching to see what else you do with it.

morningDove said...

hi Jacq: when doing flower pounding with hammer you should use a cloth over the fabric where you lay your flowers on but i just pounded the flowers right against hammer head on tag until juice came out of flower. Smushed it around and wiped left over flower away. you can join group on The Artistic Circle (yahoo group) and do it too if you like.

morningDove said...

hi Jacq: when doing flower pounding with hammer you should use a cloth over the fabric where you lay your flowers on but i just pounded the flowers right against hammer head on tag until juice came out of flower. Smushed it around and wiped left over flower away. you can join group on The Artistic Circle (yahoo group) and do it too if you like.

Fannie said...

Looks like you're having fun.

I saw a demonstration of flower pounding on "Simply Quilts," but I haven't played yet. I'll experience this technique by watching you play. ;-D

Casey said...

Wow, all of your tags look great, but the flowers add a beautiful glow! Can't wait to see step 2!