I started with a coat of white gesso on the pages leaving the definition visible. Then using my PaperArtsy stencil by Lin Brown (PS002) I applied Toad Hall Fresco Finish paint through parts of the stencil with a sponge. When dry, the leaves are outlined with a Ground Espresso distress marker.
The stamped images under the definition are from a Paperartsy Hot Picks set : 1102EZ, distress markers scribbled onto the stamp and applied to the page.
I wanted a border on the page so stamped some tiny leaves in ground espresso distress (messy, the leaf stamp was an acrylic stamp and doesn't work so well on the gesso as rubber stamps - learned that lesson!).
Then I added some die cut TH tattered leaves that I had left over from other projects.
At this point I was tempted to add more leaves but I decided to leave it alone.
That's it, my entry for the challenge done.
You are so clever.....you decided to "leave" it alone! Fabulous! I love your pages and your varied leaves. Me and Gesso are not the best of buddies either. I want them to make a Gesso that plays well with water soluble inks and paints. So far they don't care what I want.
ReplyDeleteThis is very pleasing to the eye. It does look like pressed leaves. To me it's just the right amount of everything.
ReplyDeletePerfect as it is. Wonderful idea with the leaves. Love the soft colors.
ReplyDeleteHugs Flo x
Knowing when to stop - that is the trick! Great page.
ReplyDeleteFabulous, love all the leaves, one of my favourite subjects for art work.
ReplyDeleteJulia, this is incredible. I'm glad you knew when to stop because this is simply perfect. I also like how you created your leaves. I would say you did a great job making them. This is truly wonderful, and I'm not just saying that, either. Great colors, great composition, and great decision to quit while you were ahead.
ReplyDeleteBeware of Distress inks on gesso, depending on the brand it doesn't dry very well (and therefore smudges). But if it is the acrylic stamp (NOT polymer), then be brave and use sanding paper to give it a grip. Use a fine grit and a light touch until it stamps well.
ReplyDeleteAs to your page, I like the design and yes I get the idea of pressed leaves in a book. It works!
A great idea, beautifully executed. It works for me.
ReplyDeleteYou've definitely achieved the look you were going for. It almost looks like someone left the book open outside and a few leaves floated down and came to rest there. I think you stopped at just the right moment. Lou x
ReplyDeleteWow, beautiful page, yes it did work!! Thank you for joining in The Craft Barn Challenge!
ReplyDeleteJane x
Great pages, they do indeed look like pressed leaves! Sorry I'm late commenting! xx
ReplyDeleteI'm a bit late with my comments as we had 9 days with no internet at the chalet....came back on @ 17.35 the night before we left!
ReplyDeleteLove your leaves, very nice colours too :-)
Sally
Yes, you achieved your perfectly. I love the clean fresh look of the finished pages.
ReplyDeleteOops! I should read before I push send! Meant to say "you achieved your aim perfectly".
ReplyDelete