Archive for March, 2009

Creating a Faux Finish

March 25, 2009 at 2:45 pm · Filed under Decorative Painting ·Tagged , , , , , ,

master-bathroom-007Have you ever looked at a wall and just thought to yourself, “How boring!”? I often find myself doing that and feeling a little life could be added to your room with a faux paint treatment, or maybe even a hand paint border or spray of flowers in different places throughout the room. You can add just a little and make a big difference in any room of your home or office.

Faux painting is an inexpensive way to create interest on walls, glassware, and even furniture. It is a wonderful way to cover up flawed walls too. Remember, if you do a technique and find that you really do not like it, all you have to do is paint over it. It really is just that easy.

Faux actually means “fake”. You can use several different techniques to create interesting designs. A combination of different techniques can mimic many different products such as stone, marble, and even granite.

Often there are different tools and products that can be used to create the same look. You may find yourself trying different products and tools that are out on the market today, in order to achieve the desired look you are going for. In this learning process you will determine what works best for you. The main thing is to not be afraid to try. It is just paint!

There really is not wrong way to do it. The main thing to remember is to keep trying until you get the look you are after. Just like with anything else in life, the more you practice the better you will get.

Amy

www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com

aamilou@aol.com

614-530-0219

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Learning Different Painting Techniques

March 25, 2009 at 2:42 pm · Filed under Decorative Painting ·Tagged , , , ,

painted-borders-and-martini-glasses-0011There are a variety of painting techniques that may be used to add interest to any of your projects. Some are easier than others. Practicing can allow you to master any of these special techniques.

Drybrushing is often used when you are faux painting. It is not limited to this, but can also be used in paintings to add texture and interests.

You can do this technique with different types of brushes and do not have to use a special brush. It works better if you have stiffer bristles, but even that is not a requirement. The results will vary with each type of brush you use.

As the name suggests, you do this technique with a dry brush. You begin with dipping your dry brush in to your paint. You can either move the brush back and forth on your palette or in a paper towel to remove excess paint. Then you begin on your painting surface with your brush strokes. Keep repeating this process as your brush gets too dry and needs more paint.

If you are painting on a wall, light brush strokes in a random pattern going in the same direction all over the wall can create a neat look. You can also use this technique and do a criss-cross pattern. If you are using it in a painting it is a nice way to add depth, high-lighting, and shading.

You can create a lot of neat faux designs with this technique.
You can purchase practice boards at many home improvement stores. They are fairly inexpensive and a great size to create your designs on, before moving to your walls. This is a fun technique. Give it a try!

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Do Not Overwhelm Yourself When You Begin

March 23, 2009 at 12:42 pm · Filed under Decorative Painting ·Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

shopaholic-glasses-001jennifers-order-019jennifers-order-022You finally have decided to follow your passion. Good for you! First, you will need to determine what your outlet is going to be. You want the start up process to flow nicely from the beginning, to avoid becoming frustrated.

If you are like me, you will have several projects floating around in your head. Try to keep in mind that you can really only do a good job if you are working on one project at a time. Sit back, relax and choose the first one to work on. The others will get done eventually!

It is not really a goal unless it is written down, so what are you waiting for? Identify the project of choice. Start your list with the supplies that will be needed. Once you get started, you surely will not want to stop to go find a piece that is missing.

The next step in your process should be writing down each step that needs to take place in order to complete your project. Set up your work station and you should be ready to begin. Organization is key to a successful and enjoyable outcome. Most importantly, remember to have fun!

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

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Learning Different Painting Techniques

March 23, 2009 at 12:38 pm · Filed under Decorative Painting ·Tagged , , , , , , ,

painted-borders-and-martini-glasses-001painted-borders-and-martini-glasses-005painted-border-001There are a variety of painting techniques that may be used to add interest to any of your projects. Some are easier than others. Practicing can allow you to master any of these special techniques.

Drybrushing is often used when you are faux painting. It is not limited to this, but can also be used in paintings to add texture and interests.

You can do this technique with different types of brushes and do not have to use a special brush. It works better if you have stiffer bristles, but even that is not a requirement. The results will vary with each type of brush you use.

As the name suggests, you do this technique with a dry brush. You begin with dipping your dry brush in to your paint. You can either move the brush back and forth on your palette or in a paper towel to remove excess paint. Then you begin on your painting surface with your brush strokes. Keep repeating this process as your brush gets too dry and needs more paint.

If you are painting on a wall, light brush strokes in a random pattern going in the same direction all over the wall can create a neat look. You can also use this technique and do a criss-cross pattern. If you are using it in a painting it is a nice way to add depth, high-lighting, and shading.

You can create a lot of neat faux designs with this technique.
You can purchase practice boards at many home improvement stores. They are fairly inexpensive and a great size to create your designs on, before moving to your walls. This is a fun technique. Give it a try!

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

Comments (1)

Do You have the Courage to Create?

March 19, 2009 at 4:16 pm · Filed under Decorative Painting ·Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

I know for the past 16 years I have dreamed of having my own business. I went from wanting to stencil for people in their homes to painting glassware. My husband often discouraged my desire to paint for people in their homes. It was not that he felt I was not good enough, but his concerns for me were the liability you have when you are working in people’s homes, and also dealing with not getting paid for your completed work.

However, my desire to paint continued and I would do jobs in my own home and for my friends. I had such a strong desire for a creative outlet. I continued to buy every painting and home decor magazine I could get my hands on. That of course, filled my mind with even more ideas.

I still had the feeling that my husband was not completely sure of me pursuing my dream in any medium. However, I started trying different projects and took the next step which was freehand painting. For years I did stenciling, but never tried much in the way of freehand painting. Boy, was my husband in trouble now!!!

I am not and have never been afraid to paint on walls or objects, knowing full well if the project was not to my liking, it could just be painted over. No problem! It is just paint.

Here’s where the trouble began. I ventured to the outside of our home! I had already painted just about everything on the inside, a few times at that. The little picket fence that hid our trash cans was the first to get painted. I painted a cute whimsical flower pattern on it. Then, I planted a few little plants in front of it. What a cute little garden!

The backyard would be my next target. Watch out…..Here I come!!! Our old privacy fence would be my next project. I took two sections of it and painted what looked to be a picket fence. It almost gave the look of a fence leaning up against the privacy fence. I also planted a garden in front of it. I love little sections of seating and gardens throughout a yard. I really had fun doing it. I received so many positive comments.

I also have a fetish for old doors. I had a nice friend that would supply me with them. My husband did not like that so much, but oh well! I created an outdoor screen and placed it in the back yard. I painted a tree theme on it. Very unique and fit right in with the pine trees, pond, and park bench. Of course, the park bench was painted too!

One day while standing out in the backyard, my son came out to talk to me. We were standing there looking around the yard. He turned to me and said, “Do you see how much better you have gotten?”. He’s a pretty big critic and an art college graduate. I was surprised and took that as a way of him paying me a compliment! Which by the way does not come easy for him. You could really see from one project to the next, the amount of improvement I made in my skills.

I continued on with smaller projects like stepping stones, pots,
and bird baths. My desire to be creative was even stronger and continued to grow. I became familiar with Donna Dewberry’s One Stroke at this same time. I tried to get in to a few classes here in town and unfortunately, they kept getting canceled. Frustrated, yet determined to learn, I purchased just about every book I could of hers. Yes, I sat down and taught myself. I practiced and practiced and continued to try different projects and even attempted a few craft shows. They were duds, so I focused on the internet and continued to work my daytime job.

The turning point for me was when I painted a few champagne glasses for my son’s graduation party from college. The glasses, though they were cheap they really looked expensive. People were afraid to use them! It made me think I was on to something. That following June my friends had a party where you had to bring fun glasses to exchange. You got it, I painted mine! They were nothing like I paint now, just really basic, but boy did people love them! So, determined to get my business going I started painting glassware even more, and found out how much fun it it to paint.

In November of 2007 a friend of mine told me about Etsy. I love Etsy! I sat up a shop in addition to my own site. Did I mention in this mix I also learned to make jewelry? I listed a few things on the site. I did not get my first sale until January 2008, but after that I began to focus on it and really tried to learn how to make it work for me.

I have learned so much since I started out. There is so much more to learn. You just have to put your fears aside and tackle it. You will have your ups and downs. Maybe it will take you many trials and errors. That’s okay. Learn from them and just do not let them stand in the way. Do not let what others may say stand in your way either. Try to take them with a grain of salt and remain determined. Remember, it takes time to build a business!

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219 jennifers-order-001jennifers-order-007jennifers-order-018jennifers-order-020

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Fun Gifts for Your Bridesmaids

March 15, 2009 at 5:42 am · Filed under hand painted specialty glasses ·Tagged , , , , , , ,

painted-borders-and-martini-glasses-042painted-borders-and-martini-glasses-031painted-borders-and-martini-glasses-035painted-borders-and-martini-glasses-022If you are a bride to be you might be trying to find something unique to give to the special women who will be in your wedding, and sharing that special day with you. The is nothing more special than having something painted to fit each person. An affordable way to accomplish this is to purchase custom painted glassware.

It is very easy to do. You can go with all of the same glassware, or determine each person’s favorite drink and have that kind of glass painted. Let the artist know the theme you wish to see for each person. They definitely do not all have to be the same. It is actually nicer if they fit each girl’s personality and are different.

This would be a nice gift by itself or just a little something extra. This could even be a fun gift to give the girls the night of your bachelorette party. They could enjoy the evening drinking from their own special glass. If you want to save this gift for each person to drink from at your wedding reception, that would be perfect as well. It’s really up to you.

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

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Do You Know What Your Creative Zone Is?

March 13, 2009 at 1:40 pm · Filed under Decorative Painting ·Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

dishes-for-fundraiser-and-sun-visors-032For each of us this may mean something quite different. It also may vary depending on the project we are working on. Allow yourself a little time to get it just right, and to figure out what works best for you. Keep in mind what works well for someone else me may not work for you.

You might find that you need to be working in total silence. Maybe you work well if you are jamming to your favorite rock music or maybe classical music is your thing. You will learn by putting yourself in different situations, and determining how you are able to obtain the best results in your work.

Setting up your work space may be as easy as finding a nice quiet place, surrounded by trees, and just the sounds of nature to inspire you. Others may work well with lots of color and clutter around them, giving them ideas in which they can feed their creative on. This too may depend on the project your are working on. Mix it up if you need to. You work space does not always have to be in one particular spot.

Start by making notes of when you felt your most creative. If you work well from late evening into the early morning, then by all means go for it. Maybe you are a morning person and do well first thing when you get up. If you can determine what works best for you, this will maximize your creative time and allow you to do your best work.

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

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Are You Looking for a Fun Painting Project?

March 12, 2009 at 1:44 pm · Filed under Painting on Clothing ·Tagged , , , , , , , ,

If you are planning a birthday party for your pre-teen, or planning a fun project for your group to do at their next meeting, this idea might be just right for you. Painting on foam sun visors is easy to do and will also give you a great sun hat to wear to the beach, out in the garden, or even when you play golf.

There is no preparation that has to be done prior to painting. They are very easy to paint on for those who are new to painting. They are also very affordable and will allow you to keep the fee for the project to a minimum.

This type of sun visor is easy to obtain. Many of your local craft and hobby stores stock them. All you have to do is find the time to stop by to pick them up. If you are unsure, you might want to call first to make sure they are in stock. Depending on the amount needed, it may be necessary for you to order them.

I would suggest either coming up with possible designs that can be painted on them prior to your gathering, or just allow each person access to the paint, the painting tools, and let their imagination get the best of them. They could do funky designs with different types of paint brushes, polka dots, or use stamps to create their designs. Stencils could be used with this project. You might even suggest that each person bring something from home they might like to use on their visor.

It is up to you on how detailed this activity will be. I would judge this based on the time and space available to your group. Most importantly, remember to have fun!

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219 dishes-for-fundraiser-and-sun-visors-102

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Fun Wedding Favors

March 3, 2009 at 8:38 pm · Filed under Wedding Accessories ·Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

Were you looking for something out of the ordinary for your wedding favors? Or maybe you are hosting a special event and need something to give to each guest. Have you considered something hand painted? Maybe even a container to hold nuts or small candies for each guest?

Chinese Food Carry Out Boxes are a lovely idea for this very thing. They are affordable and yet unique, and can be painted in such a way to still be classy for your event. Just about any theme would look nice on these boxes. You can go all out and cover the entire box with painting, or just add a touch. Either way you will get your money’s worth with this type of favor.

They are not bulky or something your guests will have to try to figure out what to do with when they get it home. They can decide if they just want to enjoy the goodies while there or take them home for later on. Once they finish off the treats inside, just toss it in the trash can and they are done. No fuss!

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219 cherry-martini-and-sunflower-bowl-038

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Setting Up Your Work Station Before You Begin

March 2, 2009 at 12:45 am · Filed under How to Paint on Glass and Plastic ·Tagged , , , , ,

Before you begin your painting project, it is important that you start with an organized station from the very beginning. How it is set up will depend greatly on which hand is your primary hand and what is most comfortable for you. The position of the piece you are working on should be such, allowing you to be comfortable while working. No bending or straining should occur while you are painting.

As for the position of your water, brushes, paint, and any other tools, they should be located where it is easiest for your primary hand to reach. This area should be kept uncluttered to avoid any spills or mishaps. The items you use the most should be close to you. Other items that are not needed as often can be stored behind your brushes and paint, or even placed behind your project.

The main thing to consider when you are setting up your station is that your items are easy to access. They also need to be arranged to avoid running your hand or arm through the paint, or even knocking off one of the items from your work station. This could be a real mess if you were to knock your paint off! Take precautions to avoid disasters from the start.

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com
614-530-0219
aamilou@aol.com

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