Making something Old New again.

This week my challenge to my Altered Art Class was to bring in old jewelry items and turn it into something new. We did add lots of new pieces to the old stuff. I think everyone was pleased with their new pieces.

One of the ladies commented that now she knows why jewelry artist charge so much for their work at shows, "this is a pain in the #x*". I would agree with that statement. Take a look at the quick video and you'll see that we used some neat pieces to create with. So next time you're visiting the flea market, Great-Aunt Betty or a yard sale you may just look at that old piece of jewelry as a treasure not a piece of trash.

If you would like to try to make a few of these goodies at home you need to know a few basic jewelry making steps. You can find those in most beading magazines or this website will give you some of the basics. http://www.makingjewelryfun.com/inst-stretch.htm

Next Week we will begin creating ALTERED ART BOOKS. If you are interested in joining my altered art group, aka art chicks, we meet every Friday at my home in Roswell. We begin at 10 am and go to about 2 pm. The cost is $10 per class and it is pay as you go. Each week we work on different projects that interest the group. The bonus is that we also have lunch together.

If you would like to learn more about this fun group shot me an email at juliecooper@bellsouth.net.

We welcome newcomers with creative minds. My motto is anyone can be creative, you just have to find the thing you enjoy.

Paintings on Canvas

Today I'm off to teach my acrylic class at East Roswell Park. This class meets every Thursday from 11:30 to 1:30. It's a very relaxed class. Some of my students are beginning painters and some are very experienced. I run it like an open studio. Students are encouraged to work at their own pace and choose their own subjects. I am available to direct my students and help them with trouble spots in their work. The next session begins on April 15 and goes through May 20th. You can sign up for only $84 at any Roswell Park.

The video below shows some of the paintings I have created over the last year with my students and on my own. Most are for sale.

SAILOR'S VALENTINES

I recently read an article in "Cloth Paper Scissors" about sailors' valentine. SAILORS VALENTINES are love tokens usually made from shells and other found objects that are housed in a wooden frame. They were first made by sailors back in the 1800's at sea for their sweethearts at home. This week I challenged my Friday Altered Art Chixs to create one and here is what we came up with. I think the key to success is lots of sea shells to choose from, lots of hot glue and knowing you are creating for someone you love. Hopefully this get you thinking about doing something creative for your special valentine.

Just trying to figure out this blogging thing so i can keep my friends and students updated. It's a little confusing but I know it will be a blast once I've got it all figured out. I am feeling a little like the chicken lady at this point but I may have just made my first post. Cross your fingers.