Inching Into Paper Art

Not that I should allow myself to get distracted by trying a new form of art, especially when I have plenty of work that earns me my portion of the budget, but look what I have been up to. Look close, now, because each block is only one inch square. Inchies. Who thought of crafting a world of art into an inch? Well, then I thought about the embroidered buttons I made back in October and realized it can be done. However, paper is so FLAT. At least with embroidery and fabrics, one has a lot of dimension. So, it took many attempts to come up with these little tiny squares that I am willing to send across the pond to Joanne who sponsors an inchie of the month swap. Paper art seems to be all about layers. Paper, stamps, foam stickers to bump something up, glue, glitter (I like the clear glitter), charms, stickers, … I have spent way too many dollars at the craft and scrapbook stores this month trying to be cool at paper art for the swaps I am in right now. Again, I started with one swap and then couldn't stop. Why? Why? Well, I know why. It's fun, and, at the time of joining, it doesn't seem like much work (sounds like using credit cards!). Turns out though, when stressing over creating something good enough to swap for, hours are spent on the idea. Anyway, as you can see on the left, I am in the "Oh, So Charming Itty Bitty Swap" - 3 x 3 inch art cards. Actually, those were a breeze after the inchies! So many more possibilities in 9 square inches of art. Soon to be blogged here. Then, it is the "My Vintage Heart Swap" which is …., well, the details escape me right now but all about hearts and vintage items; just click on the link to see. Not necessarily paper, so embroidery is on the way to that one. My swap partner lives in Norway. Wow! That's a crafty place. I can't wait to see what comes my way. Then, we have the "Sweet Heart Box Swap." Thankfully, I have seen several of these altered box projects done up in magazines, so I know what to do, just deciding on the papers again is difficult. Finally, and why not join one more?, it is the "Hanging Heart Swap." That will be a small art quilt. I have it already cut and sorted out. They all sort of go together, so it isn't much of a stretch. After spending hours on the inchies … the rest have come together rather quickly. Oh, and the swap I am really looking forward to is the personal one with Dana again. It's so nice to be asked.

BTW, it's snowing in South Carolina right now. You know, the south shuts down when the white stuff falls. In this one case, working at home doesn't work out in my favor … no travel required. Thus, I'll be commuting from my bed to my desk while the rest of South Carolina stays snuggled up for a few more hours!