Cameron's Zoo -- A Mommy & Me Project

When it comes to Mommy & Me projects, this one is at the top of my list of cool ones. Cameron (age 5 at the time) and I created this project together last year. It now hangs in a prominent area in the living room. We named it Cameron's Zoo for obvious reasons. Just so you can have an idea of the size of this project, the canvas measures 20x16 inches.

 
Here are a few close-ups so you can see the well-executed animals. Cameron is gifted, that's for sure.

This project may appear to be difficult, but it is actually quite simple and the materials list isn't too extensive either. Cameron drew and colored all of the animals while I cut them out (the crocodile was especially challenging with those spikes! And the tiger tails, don't get me started...). I arranged them (with Cam's approval) and painted the background. It probably took us about 6-10 hours total and we divided it up over a few days so neither of us would get too tired.

This project is perfect for the animal loving child. I hope that you enjoy it as much as we did!

Materials:
acrylic paint (I used DecoArt Americana in Foliage Green, Milk Chocolate and Spa Blue)
canvas (16x20 inches)
cardstock (white and tan)
charcoal pencil (You can find these in the fine art section of your local craft store.)
colored pencils (I prefer Prismacolor, but any brand will work.)
decoupage glue (I prefer DecoArt.)
pencil
Portfolio water soluble oil pastels (optional) (Portfolio is the brand name. They can be found in the art
          section of your office supply store.)
small scissors (There is a lot of fussy cutting involved.)
spray fixative (I prefer matte. You can usually find this in your local craft store in the spray paint section.)

Technique:

Step 1: Decide on the desired size of each animal and cut your white cardstock down to size. To give you an idea of the sizes of the animals at Cameron's Zoo, the killer whale measures about 4x5 inches so the cardstock that I gave him to use measured about 5x6 inches. The elephant measures about 3x3.5 inches so the cardstock piece measured about 4x4 inches. Cameron had full creative control over which animals appeared in the zoo, I simply cut pieces of cardstock into various sizes and he chose which animal to draw. I gave him specific pieces of cardstock because I wanted all the animals to be relatively the same size for the project.

Step 2: Using colored pencils (or markers or even crayons) have your child draw as many animals as he/she desires. I noticed after a few animals that Cam's heads were always on the left side, so I encouraged him to try a few right-sided heads. This seemed to even up the orientation.


Step 3: Carefully cut out the animals. If you have an older child who feels comfortable using scissors, he/she can do this step alone.

Step 4:  Decide where each animal will live on the canvas by placing them down (don't glue yet!). Once you are happy with placement, use a pencil and lightly draw where the paths, pond, and grassy areas will lie.

Step 5: Paint the canvas. Allow each color to dry thoroughly before proceeding to the next one.

Step 6: Glue down the animals. Create a zoo sign and glue that down too. Dry completely.



Step 7: Using a charcoal pencil, outline the animals and the areas where two different paint colors meet. (For example, the edge of the pond, or the border of the grassy areas.) Smudge the charcoal pencil with your finger or with a q-tip or with an official charcoal pencil smudger. (They look like paper that is rolled into a pencil shape. You'll find them near the charcoal pencils in the fine art section of your craft store. I know they probably have a name other than official charcoal pencil smudger, but I don't know it.)

Step 8: If desired, use coordinating colors of Portfolio water soluble oil pastels to add interest to the painted areas. (If you look closely, you'll see that the grassy areas are two shades of green, the pond is actually two shades of blue and the paths are two shades of brown.) Add a border of black to the edges of the canvas and smudge, if desired.

Step 9: Spray a few coats of fixative to keep the charcoal and oil pastels from rubbing off.

Step 10: Praise your little artist, praise yourself and hang your creation with pride!

I hope that this project leads to many hours of creative fun with your little artists!

xoxo
Bethany

January Book Reviews

I love to learn new things so I read a lot. A lot. I believe the key to busy-mom-reading is to take advantage of transitional moments and always have your book (or books) with you. I always carry at least one book in my purse. Often another one is waiting in the car. I've got one next to the nightstand and another on the kitchen counter. Waiting for water to boil? Read a few pages. Sitting at the table with children doing homework? Read a chapter. This does require a certain tolerance for interruptions (and some forgiving eaters when you burn the beans because you are in a very exciting spot in your book) which may or may not work for you. Personally, I've become pretty good at handling interruptions. (Except when I'm working on the computer, then I lose it a bit. I'm not ashamed to admit it.)

On to the book reviews...

It has been a long time since my last book review so I divided my list into sections to better serve your needs.

Self-Help

The Gifts of Imperfection: Let go of Who You Think You are Supposed to be and Embrace who You Are by Brene Brown was given to me by a dear friend for Christmas and it opened my eyes to the dangers of perfectionism, people-pleasing and shame. This short book calls into question cultural norms and is a must-read for every woman who struggles with embracing her imperfect self.

Non-Fiction

Unscientific America: How Scientific Illiteracy Threatens our Future by Chris Moony is a call for mainstreaming scientific topics. In a world where science is constantly progressing and technology is pushing open boundaries, the American public is extraordinarily uneducated. Ethical questions and future policy should be discussed in a public forum, however, most Americans remain ignorant (not always due to their own fault). Moony is pushing for governmental reform and equal media time for scientific reporting. In a culture where we discuss ad nauseum what brand jeans the latest celebrity is sporting, but ignore the discovery of planets with possible life, we've got serious issues.

Deadly Persuasion: Why Women and Girls Must Fight the Addictive Power of Advertising by Jean Kilbourne is a difficult read. It took me about a week to get through this one because it is filled with statistics, facts and deep thoughts. This isn't a light book, but it is never boring or tedious. Kilbourne's dry wit and dogged pursuit of information make it fascinating. Even if you don't believe that your life has been affected in any way by the media or advertising, your mind will be completely blown open. You'll never look at another ad the same way again. Nor will you be able to watch another sitcom unaware of the negative messages you are receiving. (I believe this is a positive change.) Basically, this thesis is a call to media literacy and an excellent jumping off point for discussion and action. I wouldn't hesitate to say that every woman and teen should read Deadly Persuasion.

Fiction

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen could be described as grotesque and disturbing. Set in the U.S. during the Great Depression, this novel is a fascinating commentary on the life of rejects and outcasts. From alcoholism to sexual promiscuity to abuse to power to mental illness to loyalty, you can find it all in here. No matter what your station in life, you'll find something to discuss. As a reader, I didn't identify with any of the larger-than-life characters, but I still found myself mesmerized. This is a great book club book.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne is an extremely quick read. Written in the perspective of a very naive 9-year-old German boy at the advent of World War II, you'll be tickled by his vocabulary and his unique way of viewing the world. When you find out that his father is the head of a major concentration camp, you'll be even more drawn in. While reading this novel, I predicted a dismal ending, however I was completely taken aback by the Picoult-like twist. I really liked this one.

Mixed-Media Techniques

Surface Treatment Workshop: Explore 45 Mixed-Media Techniques by Darlene Olivia McElroy and Sandra Duran Wilson is a fabulous book for artists who love interesting backgrounds. It is filled with techniques and creative methods. I was so inspired by this book that I plan on working alongside the authors in my art journal so I can practice and experiment with each new idea. This is a must-read for all mixed-media artists and scrapbookers looking to expand their horizons.

Plaster Studio: Mixed-Media Technique for Painting, Casting and Carving by Stephanie Lee and Judy Wise is right up my alley. I love exploring three dimensions on a two dimensional surface and this book is filled with ideas and techniques for my obsession. I was initially drawn to this book because I took Judy Wise's online Encaustic class and became a fan of her down-to-earth, intelligent and creative teaching style. This book does not disappoint. This is another book that I will follow page by page to improve my art.

Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks and Techniques for Working with the World's Most Versatile Medium  by Nancy Reyner was a big surprise to me. I've read and digested Patti Brady's Rethinking Acrylic: Radical Solutions for Exploiting the World's Most Versatile Medium so I figured this was pretty much the same thing. I couldn't have been more wrong. I see Reyner and Brady's books working in tandem. Where Brady leaves off Reyner picks up. Whatever Reyner omits, Brady includes. They are both wonderful resources for any acrylic artist. I was so inspired by Reyner that I'm currently developing online and local classes on acrylic paint.

Currently In My Purse/On the Nightstand/In the Car

I'm currently got the following books in my purse (either in the state of reading or waiting to be opened): I Thought it was Just Me (but it isn't): Telling the Truth about Perfectionism, Inadequacy and Power by Brene Brown, So Sexy So Soon: The New Sexualized Childhood and What Parents Can Do to Protect Their Kids by Diane E Levin and Jean Kilbourne, A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini, MOM, Incorporated: A Guide to Business and Baby by Aliza Sherman and Danielle Elliott Smith and The Dance of Anger: A Woman's Guide to Changing the Patterns of Intimate Relationships by Harriet Lerner.

 

Have you read any of the books I briefly discussed? What did you think?

xoxo

Bethany

DIY: Trendy Chalkboard Tote Tutorial

I think it's about time we had another tutorial! I created this Trendy Chalkboard tote using plain canvas fabric decorated with DecoArt's chalkboard paints and So Soft Fabric paints (which I adore!) I used a few Crafter's Workshop stencils too.

 I love the size of this bag because it fits all my overdue library books as well as a few diapers and toys. Plus, the chalkboard on the front pocket keeps me on task. Here are a few close-ups so you can see all the details.

You'll see that I kept all my edges raw. I love the rough, funky look!

This project is an easy sew. As long as you are familiar with your sewing machine and how to cut fabric, you should be just fine.

I created an awesome powerpoint presentation that I converted into a video that apparently isn't compatible with YouTube. After a few hours of research, massive a bit of frustration, and a lot of talking to myself repetitively, I've decided to go another route. Alas...

So you'll get the tutorial here instead.

I also have a downloadable PDF available so you can have the directions at your fingertips as you create this project. Please note that this is my very first time creating a downloadable pdf so I have all my fingers crossed that this works. If it doesn't, please be very patient and leave me a nice comment so I can try to figure it all out. I'm a bit fragile about the whole-getting-technology-to-do-what-I-want thing.

**Please note that this project is for your personal use only. Please do not use the PDF or this tutorial to teach classes or to create totes to sell. Thank you for your honesty.** 

Now, on with the tutorial!

Materials

DecoArt chalkboard paint (black)

DecoArt Americana paint mixed with Fabric Medium (Calypso Blue, Cherry Red)

DecoArt So Soft fabric paint (Fine Glitter Lemon Drop, Sizzling Red, Celebration Pink)

Sewing machine

Stencils (optional) I used The Crafter’s Workshop templates.

Canvas (unstretched)

             (2) pieces 14x15 inches (the front and back panels)

             (1) piece 42x10 inches (the side panels and bottom)

             (1) piece 50x3 inches (the handles)

             (1) piece 10x11 inches (the chalkboard pocket)

Technique 

Step 1: Apply colorful paint to your fabric pieces in a loose mosaic pattern. Use stencils, if desired. Place a piece of cardboard under your fabric to catch any excess paint from ruining your surface. 

 

TIP: Keep in mind how each piece will fit on the bag so while painting you can avoid any upside-down images once you sew the bag together.

Step 2: If desired, following the directions on the back of the Americana fabric medium, create a mixture with the fabric medium and the chalkboard paint. Paint the 10x11 in. piece of canvas with this mixture. You will need two coats. For the first coat, your brushstrokes should be vertical. The second coat should have horizontal brush strokes.

Product Notes: Mixing the chalkboard paint with fabric medium creates a final product that can be washed safely.

Step 3: Once the paint has dried, use your sewing machine and a contrasting thread color to add doodles, circles or outlines to random painted areas.

TIP: If you do not have free motion capabilities, don’t panic, you can do this without it! (I did!) Just go slow. 

Step 4: Sew the chalkboard piece onto the front panel on three sides. Leave the top open in order to create a pocket. Do not turn the edges. Leave them exposed for a raw, interesting look.

Step 5: Placing wrong sides together, sew the 42x10 in. side and bottom piece to the back panel (14x15 in. piece.) Start at the top, proceed downward, to the bottom and back up again. Use a ½ in. seam allowance. Use a small stitch for strength. Repeat to attach the front panel. (See figure below.)

TIP: Don’t stress about the corners, just do your best and move on. They won’t be perfect, but most likely, no one will ever look at them.

 

Step 6: To create the handles,  fold both raw edges on the longest sides in ¼ inch. Iron if necessary. Fold in half hotdog bun style. Sew closed. Sew along the opposite side, if desired. The strip should now measure 50 x 1 ½ in. (See figure below.)

 

Step 7: Cut the handle piece in half to create two separate pieces. Each handle should measure 25 x 1 ½ in. If desired, fold raw edges in ¼ in. to make a finished edge along the top and bottom of each handle.

Step 8: Place the bag on the floor, front side up. Take 1 handle strip and pin to the front panel 1 inch from the right edge and 1 inch from the top edge. Make sure the strip isn’t twisted and pin the second edge (of the same handle strip) on the to the front 1 inch from the left edge and 1 inch from the top edge. Repeat for the back of the bag. (See figure below.)

Step 9: Sew the handles onto the bag. Make the seams strong by sewing a square. Next sew an X in the middle of the square. (See figure below.)

 And finally, another picture of the final project.

Enjoy your tote! When you create this project, be sure to post pics on your blog and link me so I can see it!

Happy Creating!

xoxo
Bethany

Getting to Know: Stacey McElyea

I'm thrilled to introduce you to Stacey McElyea, owner of Shimmerz paints.

1.    

,

I was lucky to meet Stacey when I became a member of her talented Education Team and I've been a big fan ever since. Not only does Stacey make beautiful shimmering iridescent paints and mists, but she has the amazing ability to develop completely unique and creative solutions. I love that she thinks completely out-of- the-box. 

Now, on with the chat!

 BK: Stacey, tell me about yourself.

SM: I have been Dave’s wife for 21 years, mother to three amazing kids and the owner of Shimmerz Paints.  I like so many women wear a lot of hats during my day.  I homeschool my kids, work daily in my business, and try to be all and do all for my friends and family.  I don’t often have extra time, but when I do I still love to scrap, rubber stamp and dabble in photography.  My life is crazy, but full and wonderful.  The Lord has given me more blessings than I can count.

2.    BK: Tell us how Shimmerz, the company was born. What prompted you to start a specialty paint company?

SM: Shimmerz started in the back room of my store, The Stamp Pad.  Back then Radiant Pearls were very popular, but my customers kept complaining that they wouldn’t dry.  That got us thinking and while I was home sick and my husband, Dave was tending the store, he had a brilliant idea.  He came home and presented me with Shimmerz.  A water based paint that would actually dry.  I was thrilled and was wanting to know what he used to make them.  He replied that if he told me, he’d have to kill me.  Of course he was joking!  From that day he began to formulate and create colors for Shimmerz.  He is still the keeper of the formulas.  We still have colors today that are just as popular as they were in 1999.  For instance, Angel Wings is still our most popular color after all these years.  One product lead to another and while it’s been many years and we’ve tweaked formulas over those years we still make all of our products in the USA, and are very proud to do so.  We believe that quality, a good price point that beats our competitors and good customer service are the keys to good business.  We won’t step away from that belief.  We are thankful for every order we get and eagerly thank each and every customer.  They deserve that much!

3.    BK: Can you tell us a bit about the Shimmerz manufacturing process? Do you mix the paint colors yourself? Do you have a factory? Where do you get your ideas for colors?

SM: As Dave would say. . . .If I told ya, I’d have to kill ya!  Tee-hee-hee!!!  We are a family owned and operated business.  We do it all!  We order in raw materials and make each and every product ourselves.  We make the product as it is ordered.  No one wants a product that’s been sitting on the shelf for 6 months.  ICK!!!  We make everything in what we call the “Man Room”.  It’s  a very large room in our house where the “Man” makes the paint.  Our kids all take a part in the process too.  From mixing, bottling, labeling, processing orders to shipping. . . . Everyone helps.

I am the one that gives the “Man” the ideas for colors.  I try to go with what’s hot in the industry, or often times what feels right to me.  Colors give a feeling. .  .and I know when a color feels right.  I guess it’s an intuitive thing.  For instance, when I created the color palette for our new Limited Edition Holiday colors, I wanted happy, whimsical colors that maybe weren’t so traditional.  I wanted colors and names that make the artist smile.  We make a great team.  So far, it’s been working for us quite well.

The Limited Edition Holiday colors are available only until January 30th!

4.    BK: What were some mistakes you made when starting the Shimmerz business? What would you have done differently, looking back now? What were some of your successes?

SM: We have definitely made some serious mistakes along the way.  We’ve attended the School Of Hard Knocks a couple of times.    Many years ago, we signed an exclusive contract with the largest stamp company in the industry.  That was my first mistake!  When they suddenly went out of business. . . . so did we.  That was before blogs and Facebook.  We were all but dead in the water.  It was so hard.  Needless to say, there is no exclusivity offered by Shimmerz anymore.  Like all other businesses, I’ve trusted certain people when I shouldn’t have.  With each mistake then and now, I take a moment and thank the Lord for it, because that’s how we learn and grow.  It hurts, but we should still be thankful for it.

My successes. . . ..hmmmmm. . . . Well, I think I have a fairly solid company.  We keep our overhead really low, so we can weather the storm of a downed economy a bit easier.  We’ve taught our kids how to work hard and run a business.  We met so many amazing people and are so glad we did.  We have THE BEST designers that the industry offers.  They are not only extremely talented, but genuinely awesome people.  We value each and every one of them and it’s our goal that when they know that they are valued.  Each day that I have orders for Shimmerz is a successful day.

5.    BK: When you choose the designers for your Education Team and your Design Team, what traits really stand out to you? In your mind, what makes a great video or DT application? Any advice for up-and-coming designers?

6.   SM: Absolutely NO DRAMA!!!!  I don’t supply little red wagons for a designers ego and if they already have one. . . I won’t pull it.  I make that very well known.  When looking for new designers, I don’t just look at their artwork, I read their blogs and look for that person's character.  They aren’t just artists, they represent my company.  They have to share my philosophy of the industry and keep it in perspective.  We aren’t saving lives. . . . it’s paper, paint and glue.  They have to keep it real. It can touch lives, but rarely save them.  When I am looking at artwork, I’m looking for artists that aren’t cookie cutter artist.  They have to think outside the box.  They have to stand out from the rest.  At the risk of sound cliché, I go with my gut feeling.  It’s like creating new colors. . . .I get a feeling.  Sometimes that feeling is wrong, but most of the time it’s right. 

I believe that being a Shimmerz designer should be an easy, fun experience.  We all have too much stress in our lives.  I don’t ever want Shimmerz to add to the stress of my designers.  So I try to keep it simple.  They are important to me. . . .so again. . . . I want them to know they are valued.

Artwork created by Bethany Kartchner using Shimmerz products. As seen in Somerset Gallery Autumn 2011.

7.    BK: Do you have any advice for small business owners? Upcoming designers?

SM: I was told many times, “If you don’t go to CHA, you won’t make it in the industry!”  I’ve gone once, and don’t plan to go back.  So my best advice. . . don’t feel pressured to follow the pack. It’s your business.  You have to do what work for you, not your friends or other business owners. Be creative!   Don’t over extend your business.  If you can’t afford it now. . . don’t do it thinking that it will pay off later.  Go with your gut!  PRAY!!!!  Take the time to learn about the business not just the craft.  Reality is that if you are running a business, you most likely won’t have the time you’d like for the craft.  Did I mention. . . Prayer?

As for designers, show me who you are as a person.  Show me that you will be a great representative for my company.  Show your art well.  Have good lighting.  You don’t have to be a professional photographer or videographer, but showcase your projects the best you can.  Learn how to promote!  Whether you are a designer for me or another company. . . .be ready, willing and able to tell your readers, and followers why the company you represent is a great one.  If you can’t do that. . . . you are on the wrong team.  Don’t just try to be on the “popular” design teams.  Do your homework and make sure you want to represent that company. 

I look for great artwork, but I also look very closely at whether that designer can really help me sell my products.  It may sound harsh, but it’s business.  I want to sell my products and want designers that will help me do it.

Artwork created by Bethany Kartchner using Shimmerz products.

8.    BK: How do you balance your work and your family?

SM: My kids all need “Mommy Time”.  Even my 20 year old needs Mom on a daily basis.  My family ALWAYS comes first!!!  No exceptions.  I try to follow a very simple model.  I may have a To-Do list that’s a mile long, but I will only accomplish in each day what the Lord as planned for it.  Simple as that.  I do my best to cross as much off that list each day, but over the years have learned that freaking out and laying awake at night worrying about it won’t change a thing.  It’s easier somedays than others to remember this principle, but I do my best.  So when do I work?  I squeeze in emails while Gracie (my 7 yr old) is doing her spelling or reading.  I set aside 2 hours each day to work in my office. . . hopefully uninterrupted by a kid.  I work late at night when Sami, Kaleb and Gracie are in bed.  I take my iPad to Gracie’s ballet class and work, or to the golf course while I wait for Kaleb.   And. . . .gasp. . . . we work on weekends in between family events and activities. . . BUT only if absolutely necessary.  I do try really hard (and this is tough for me) to “unplug” during the weekends.  I try to tell myself that my laptop needs some time off too.  Somehow, it all works.  We work together as a family to get it all done.

9.   BK: You were either the first company or one of the first companies to have a video team which makes you very cutting edge. Plus, you are always coming out with new and interesting products. Do you have any tips for others who would like to be on the cusp of the industry's future? How do you stay on top of things?

I wish I could give a clear and concise answer to this question, but honestly, I can’t.  I spend time praying and asking for direction.  I’m always trying to think ahead.  I wish I could take credit for the inspiration that I’ve had, but I can’t.  I owe it all to God.  I don’t mean to sound preachy, but it’s the truth.  I go with my gut.  It has to feel right.  I have been very fortunate and so far, things are working well.

Artwork created by Bethany Kartchner using Shimmerz products.

10   BK: Where do you see the industry heading? Where are the trends heading?

  

SM: I truly think that the industry is in a bit of a crisis.  It saddens me to see so many good companies going out of business.  I believe that there will be more to come.  I look at it like a forest fire.  Some of the trees have to burn, in order for new growth to take place.  New companies will arise from the ashes and those companies that can whether the fire, will be stronger.

As for trends, I think all old things become new again.  Going back to basics is going to be hot!  Re-using items will gain in popularity.  Buying basic items (like paint, i.e. Shimmerz, lol ) and using it in multiple ways will never go out of style.  Hard times force artists and companies to be creative.  That’s a good thing!

11   BK: Tell us about some of the challenges in your life and how they've shaped your character today.

SM: Personal challenges are more important to me than business challenges.  Of course, I want my business to thrive and of course I will continue to have challenges arise, but it’s the personal challenges that hopefully make me a better person.  I am always challenged not to worry.  I tend to be an over thinker.  I have a very nasty habit of taking on too much and my health pays for it in the direction of anxiety attacks.  My biggest challenge is being able to cut myself some slack.  I have to learn. . . . and keep learning that I am only one person.  It’s about remembering that principle of my To-Do list.  God has a plan for my day, my month, my family, my business.  I have to rest in that plan.

Artwork created by Bethany Kartchner using Shimmerz products. As seen in Somerset Apprentice.

12   BK: What, do you feel, is your greatest personal accomplishment?

SM: Again, I’m sure it sounds so cliché, but I LOVE being a mom!  I love being Dave’s wife!  There is nothing more endearing to me than to have Sami sit on my bed and tell me all about her date and what a creep the boy was.  Or sharing her dreams with me.  I love watching Kaleb play golf like a young pro and hearing him ask me to listen to the latest song he taught himself to play on his guitar.  Kaleb is classified as deaf, so that’s a big thing for me.  And. . .it never fails to bring a smile to my face and heart to hear Gracie running up the stairs, yelling, “Mommy, I made this for you”, and it’s a picture or card or some other fabulous piece of art that she’s made.  Those 3 kids are my most greatest accomplishment.  They are such a blessing to Dave and I.

13  BK: If you weren't running the Shimmerz business, what would you be doing now?

SM: Hmmmmm. . . . I would most likely still be in the real estate industry.  EEEK!  That’s scary now too.

14   

       BK: Anything else you'd like to add?

SM: Thank you so much for the opportunity to ramble on.  I am both honored and humbled to be asked to share my life, my business, and my thoughts with you.


Thank you Stacey, for chatting with us today! Remember, you have one week to ask any follow-up questions. Just leave a comment with your question and I'll compile them and Stacey will answer them in another post. 

Have a great week!

xoxo
Bethany