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Badge: Build My Legacy

2012/05/20 by Leave a Comment

You may think your story is unimportant. However, how many times have your kids asked what the world was like when you grew up? They love to hear stories of you and themselves. By documenting your own story, not only can others experience your stories, they can see how you interact with your world.

 NOTE: This badge program builds on “Tell My Story” which encourages sharing stories of your life through storytelling.

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Steps

1. What do you want to leave behind?

Perhaps you want to leave stories of your life? Dreams you have achieved? A special experience that changed your life? Make a list of the items you wish to share with future generations. This might be your own stories or from your family.

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Telling your story

2. Short stories.

You might be interested in telling short stories. Think of a funny or embarrassing moment in your life. Make notes about how you might tell that story.

3. Long stories.

Perhaps you want to go beyond just a moment in time. Create a brief outline of a longer event such as a vacation or sport season you participated in. Make notes about how you might tell the story.

4. Writing.

Most people think of written stories when they think of telling a story. Write a short story about yourself. It can be short or long, encompassing something as simple as the first time you did something or complicated like experiences during a week at summer camp.

5. Storytelling.

Oral traditions have been around longer than written ones. Tell your story to others. Record your telling as well as the questions you are asked afterwards. Use the questions to help improve your oral story.

6. Skit or plays.

Skits or plays allow you to tell your story through many mouths. After documenting your story, ask others how they perceived the same events. Create a skit trying to keep to the authenticity of many points of view.

7. Puppets.

Create a puppet show based on your story. You can use shadowgraphs, sock puppets, marionettes or any other movable personification of yourself to tell your story. Perform your story for others.

8. Art.

Create a piece of art that reminds you of a story. Share your story with someone else. Ask if they can see the links between your art and story.

9. Photography.

You can have photos of people and locations in your stories. A series of photos can allow you to tell a story as well. Try telling your story through photos alone. Add brief quotes or comments as triggers to remember the story behind the photo.

10. Combining words and art.

Journals, whether written or art, are a great way to tell your story. When you open a diary or journal, you feel like you are taking a glimpse into someone else’s life. Start a journal to tell your story.

11. Digital.

Tell your story with digital media. Record your story as an audio or video file. Perhaps you might want to start a personal blog or podcast. Perhaps digital photos can be included in your legacy. Send these files / links to friends or distribute on YouTube.

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Creating a story

12. Mundane?

If you feel like you don’t have a story to tell, start one today. Find a way to start making a change in your life, the lives of those you love or your community. Explore your passions and start now. Keep track of your story as you create it.

13. Service.

Giving service to others affects your life as well as other in a positive way. Find ways to give service that allow you to start creating a story.

14. Build.

Start and build a business. Build your reputation with organizations where your expertise can benefit them. Start your own cause or significantly improve another. Build a garden to share with your community. Move beyond “Service” in Step 13 and push yourself to make a difference.

15. Create.

Create art. Create music. Create a blog that offers inspiration and hope. Create something from your own mind that you can share as a story.

16. One on one.

Choose a person who needs help and build a relationship. Help them start their own legacy. Document their stories. Or perhaps just spend time to brighten someone’s day and record their stories to carry on their traditions instead of your own.

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Combining stories

17. Participate in an event.

At a family reunion or get-together, have a few stories prepared and ready to go. Record the event to get additional ideas, stories and more. Once started, you’ll find many people like to share their stories.

18. Contest.

Select a theme for your stories and ask others to contribute their own stories. Create a contest for your family and friends to join. You can give serious or silly awards for your contest. Create a montage of stories and share it with others to vote on so even if someone doesn’t participate, they can be part of the fun.

19. Online archive.

Create an online archive for yourself or allow others to join. You can have as much or little control over submissions, organization and more. Ask others to help maintain the archive if they are better at certain tasks than you.

20. Publish.

Collect your stories and publish them to offer inspiration for others to start building their own legacy. You might want to publish a single story or a group of them. You might instead choose to share how you took your own journey or help others to start theirs.

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Sites to Explore

www.storyofmylife.com

www.therememberingsite.org

www.lovely-life-plan.com/create-your-own-story.html

www.facebook.com/about/timeline

creatinglegacynetwork.com

www.mystoryart.com

Filed Under: AEP, Badge Programs Tagged With: , , ,

Badge: Zentangle (revised)

2011/09/26 by Leave a Comment

Badge: ZentangleDo you doodle? Zentangle, also known as Zendoodle, involves creating doodled patterns in predefined areas. It is an easy technique done in black and white. Anyone who can doodle can do this craft technique.

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Steps

1. Reduce stress.

You’ll notice that both references use the word “zen.” The act of creating repeating patterns is relaxing and requires focus. It is a great activity to help reduce stress. While working on this badge, make sure to have a place you can focus and work without interruptions.

2. Basic materials.

A pencil, a black permanent fine line marker and smooth paper is all you need. Thicker paper is better so the marker doesn’t leak through it. Find these materials and a clean, flat surface to work on.

3. YouTube.

Check out the videos on YouTube to see how to Zentangle. You can purchase kits and books, if you really enjoy this technique. Watch at least two videos completely to see how this technique is done.

4. Research patterns.

There are many patterns available online. Start at tanglepatterns.com or Flickr. Save the patterns you like or continue to Step 5.

5. Pattern collection.

You can doodle the patterns you find. Use cards or a notebook to keep your collection. When you create Zentangles, you will have a variety of patterns at your fingertips. To help, AEP has printable ATC-sized cards available to download with the PDF version of this badge program.

6. Small Zentangles.

Create a few small Zentangles. Start with a simple shape, draw inside to define your pattern areas and fill it in. If you’re interested, AEP has printable ATC-sized cards available to download with the PDF version of this badge program.

7. More complex.

You can create Zentangle letters, frames or outlines of recognizable shapes — animals, insects, flowers and more! In addition, look beyond paper and pencil. You can Zentangle on fabric (quilting), paint on 3D shapes, or create anywhere else you can doodle.

8. Where to use Zentangles.

Here are a few ideas. What else can you come up with?

  • Altered art
  • Artistic trading cards
  • Dishes
  • Greeting cards
  • Journals
  • Postcards
  • Quilts
  • Scrapbook pages

9. Practice.

Practice your new skill. This is very time consuming, so most of your time will be spent on this step. Remember, you are doodling so there is no “right” way to do it. You’re also supposed to be relaxing, so don’t rush yourself.

10. Color

When you first experiment with color, copy your Zentangle and color the copy. You do not want to mess up your original after spending so much time with it. Make sure you’re happy with your color choices before altering your original.

11. Share your Zentangle.

Upload your original patterns and objects to AEP’s Craft Share site on Flickr.

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Supplements

SUPP_ATC_TangleFrames.pdf — ATC frames for Zentangles (6 designs, 9-up).
SUPP_ATC_TanglePatterns.pdf — Cards to create your patterns on, one per page.
SUPP_ATC_Tangle_Steps1.pdf — Cards to show up to create your pattern, up to four steps (9-up).
SUPP_ATC_Tangle_Steps2.pdf — Cards to show up to create your pattern, up to four steps (9-up).

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Sites to Explore

www.zentangle.com
blog.suzannemcneill.com
tanglepatterns.com
www.squidoo.com/zentangle-patterns

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The Zentangle® art form and method was created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas. Zentangle® is a registered trademark of Zentangle, Inc. Learn more at zentangle.com.
Filed Under: AEP, Badge Programs Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Badge: Rubber Stamp Basics (revised)

2011/09/13 by Leave a Comment

Badge: Rubber Stamp BasicsRubber stamping is a craft kids of any age can do successfully. You can start without spending a lot of money. The many stamping techniques allows you to continue improving your skills and expanding your knowledge. Specific techniques will be explored in additional AEP badge programs.

Your number concern when crafting is your tools, in this case the stamps themselves. We’ll focus on stamps, supplies and beginning stamping.

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Steps

1. What can you rubber stamp on?

Rubber stampers joke that they will stamp anything that doesn’t move. This isn’t far from the truth. In addition to be fun and addicting, rubber stamping allows you to personalize clothing, cards and more. Here’s a list of things you might want to rubber stamp on.

  • Balloons
  • Bookmarks
  • Business cards
  • Coasters
  • Candles
  • Cards
  • Clay pots
  • Frames
  • Jewelry
  • Magnets
  • Ornaments
  • Ribbons
  • Skin
  • T-shirts
  • Tablecloth / napkins
  • Walls
  • Wrapping paper
  • And much more!

2. Rubber stamps.

All “rubber” stamps are not made of rubber. In addition, some may be attached to a base while others need to be temporarily attached for stamping. Investigate different types of stamps. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

  • Mounted, flat
  • Mounted, roller
  • Unmounted
  • Rubber
  • Polymer
  • Foam
  • Digital

3. Anatomy of a rubbber stamp.

When you purchase mounted stamps, there is a mount (usually wood or acrylic block), foam and the rubber. Depending on what you plan to stamp on, you’ll need each of these in varying degrees.

The mount itself is the flat part of the stamp, giving your stamp stability. Your foam gives your rubber the flexibility to make sure the entire rubber surface comes in contact with your stamping surface evenly.

Purchasing unmounted stamps will save you a lot of money, but you need to find a mounting system that works for you. Polymer stamps which attach directly to a solid surface may need a sheet of foam under your stamping surface to work the same as a traditionally mounted stamp.

Examine the types of stamps in Step 2 and see how these three items interact with many stamp materials. Which do you need to eliminate to stamp on non-flat surfaces, if any?

4. Rubber stamp characteristics.

Rubber stamps are not created equal. Some work better for certain applications. Different characteristics of stamps and their limitations are listed below. Look at images of rubber stamps to find examples of these characteristics and explore any additional you find.

  • Fine detail — These stamps have fine lines that do not show well on items like fabric.
  • Shadow — Large, usually simple shaped stamps that are solid or have gradients – can be used for layering.
  • Deep etched — Raised surface of the stamping area is vastly higher than the base. The deeper the etch, the better the impression. You need deep etch for stamping into clay.
  • Bold designs — Large solid areas of rubber without a lot of detail, good for using with any material.

5. Rubber stamp designs.

Rubber stamp designs are incredibly varied. You will notice there are “trends” that hit the stamping world. A certain theme will become very popular such as “Asian” or “fairies.” Choose your favorite search engine, visit Flickr, or find another image site and look at rubber stamps. List designs you find that speak to you. How can you use these images in your own creations?

6. Rubber stamp storage.

Before purchasing stamps, you need to seriously think about storage. Wood mounted stamps take up a lot of room. Polymer stamps can be damaged easily if not stored properly. Look at stamp storage systems and decide what will work for you.

Think about indexing your rubber stamps as well to eliminate duplicate purchases. Indexing also makes information available for card swaps, magazine submissions, etc.

7. Rubber stamp maintenance.

Taking care of your rubber stamps will extend their lifecycle. This will also contribute to your storage decision in Step 6. Avoiding sunlight is incredibly important. Research ways to clean and extend the lifecycle of your stamps.

8. Rubber stamp purchases.

What do you need to look for in a quality rubber stamp?

  • Deep etching
  • Lack of defect
  • Quality of foam
  • Size (Smaller stamps are easier to use.)

Where can you get rubber stamps? Look at your local craft stores, discount stores and online. Compare rubber stamp characteristics, materials and design.

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Moving beyond rubber

9. Rubber stamp supplies.

These are only the most basic supplies. As you move away from being a beginner, your stamping supplies will grow. Before you purchase any supplies, check your home. Use what you already have first to determine what you like before spending a lot of money.

Materials to stamp on include paper, fabric and clay. Paper is the best to start with as it is inexpensive and readily available. Often, making cards is a great way to start as a final card can be a first success within minutes of starting a project.

“Inks” may be anything from inkpads to bottled acrylic paint. These are applied to the rubber to make your impressions. Inkpads come in dye (fast drying) and pigment (slow drying) varieties. Also, you’ll see some inks, such as “Staz-On”, are specially designed and may need a specific material to clean the ink from your stamp. Make sure you read your directions before applying “inks” to your rubber.

Coloring materials may include markers, colored pencils, watercolors, chalks or anything else you can use to color in the details after making your impressions.

10. Rubber stamp accessories.

Again, most of these items you will already own. Collect them in a box or basket. Try them out before purchasing any more accessories.

  • Scissors
  • Craft knife
  • Self-healing mat
  • Ruler
  • Bone folder

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Let’s get to it!

11. Getting a good impression.

Here are a few suggestions for getting good impressions. What other ways can you think of?

  • Stamp on a stable, flat surface
  • Place a few sheets of paper, foam placemat, etc. under your stamping material in case the ink goes through.
  • Ink your stamp by patting the inkpad to the stamp or vice versa. Make sure it’s completely covered.
  • Stamp on a scrap piece of paper first if you’re using specialty paper
  • Apply firm, even pressure – DO NOT ROCK
  • Large stamps need more pressure, smaller stamps need less
  • Lift the stamp up straight from the paper
  • Experiment!

12. Back to kindergarten.

Remember when life was about staying in the lines? Once you have your stamped impression, your job is to color in your image. This is the step where your creativity shows. One rule for this — have fun!

13. A few impressions more.

Once you have stamping down, you may find that stamping a few extra images is a good thing. You can color them as you’re watching television and keep them in a box for those “I need a card now” moments. You can also use them for collage, scrapbooking and a slew of other paper crafts.

14. Selling your stamped items.

As you get better, you may find you want to sell items you stamp. In Step 6, we mentioned indexing your stamps. Each stamp company has their own policy for how you can use their images. When you purchase a stamp, you’re agreeing to use it for your personal use. “Angel companies” allow you to sell items with their images on them. Most do not allow digitizing their images. Read the usage policies for a few companies and compare them. Stampin’ Up! Is a huge stamping company, start your research there.

15. Learning more.

In addition to the links following the badge steps, there are many printed items for you to explore. There are stamping magazines you can peruse to learn more about stamping. These include:

  • Vamp Stamp News
  • RubberStampMadness
  • Stamper’s Sampler
  • Card Maker Magazine
  • Scrap and Stamp

You can also visit your library for a variety of books on the subject of rubber stamping.

16. What happened to digital?

Digital stamps (digi stamps) are black and white computer images that print out looking like a traditional stamped image. The draw is the lack of physical storage needed and the ability to manipulate an image by resizing, flipping and more. They are limited to printing materials that go through your printer and must be cut out. Look at a few digital stamp companies. Explore the advantages and disadvantages of digital stamping. Is it for you?

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Sites to Explore

www.littlebit.com/rubber1.htm
rubberstamping.about.com/od/gettingstarted/tp/The-Basics-of-Rubber-Stamping.htm
www.creativity-portal.com/howto/artscrafts/rubberstamping.html
crafts.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Rubber_Stamp_Storage
www.associatedcontent.com/article/132897/how_to_start_a_rubber_stamp_collection.html?cat=6
www.stampinup.com/us/enu/5293.asp
www.stampington.com/html/beginningbasics_artstamp.html
www.stampendous.com/Tips+%26+Techniques
www.splitcoaststampers.com
www.papercraftz.com
www.vampstampnews.com
www.rsmadness.com
www.cardmakermagazine.com
www.craftstamper.com/article.aspx?x=startstamping&d=list
Filed Under: AEP, Badge Programs Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Badge: Photo Crafts (revised)

2011/09/12 by Leave a Comment

Badge: Photo CraftsDigital cameras open up an entire area of crafts to people of all ages. When photos are included in your crafts, they become more personal and a reflection of you. Try traditional crafts with your photos as well as digital ones.

This badge program features supplemental PDF files to help with ideas and more. Do not feel you must follow the PDFs. There are numerous photo ideas online that you can incorporate into your crafting.

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Steps

1. No originals.

Never use your original photos. You do not want to take the chance of destroying the only photo you have. For this reason, digital photos are a great material for crafting. Whether you have traditional or digital photos, always use copies for crafting.

2. Cards.

Cards can benefit from the addition of photos. You can create cards digitally or by hand. Create one or more of these cards to start exploring photo crafting. Feel free to expand beyond this list.

  • Christmas cards
  • Friendship cards
  • Postcards
  • Birthday cards
  • Valentine cards
  • Recipe cards

Check out SUPP_PhotoCards.pdf for additional card ideas.

3. Bookmarks.

Start with including a photo to a traditional rectangular bookmark. Add words, stickers or other items to your bookmark before laminating. Lamination will help protect your bookmark. If you don’t have a laminator, use clear contact paper or clear packing tape. Check out SUPP_PhotoBookmarks.pdf for additional bookmark ideas and create bookmarks for yourself and others.

4. Calendars.

Calendars can be a great gift for friends and family. The number of photos you’ll need depends on the design. For ideas, check out SUPP_PhotoCalendars.pdf for calendar ideas and sample templates. Create one or more calendars.

5. Jewelry pieces.

You can incorporate photos in jewelry with charms, pendants and pins. SUPP_PhotoJewelry.pdf can be a start to your jewelry designs. Create charms, key rings, zipper pulls or jewelry you can wear or give as a gift.

6. Fabric possibilities.

Incorporating photos with fabric can involve transfers, printing directly on fabric or iron-ons. Of course, creating stencils can be done, though it will be a lot more work. Choose one of the following to incorporate photos or try an idea of your own.

  • Tote bag
  • Purse
  • Quilt square
  • T-shirt
  • Sweatshirt
  • Wall art
  • Table linens
  • Towel
  • Pillow
  • Pillow case
  • Sachet
  • Eye pillow
  • Lunch sack
  • Apron
  • Bulletin board
  • Frame
  • Book cover
  • Wine bag
  • Dolls
  • Patch

SUPP_PhotoFabrics.pdf has some techniques for working with fabric.

7. Flower photos.

From SUPP_PhotoFlowers.pdf, select one of the versions of flower photos to create flowers using your photos. If you’d rather create flower photos from your own ideas or the Web, do that instead. This is a great idea for Mother’s Day.

8. Faux it.

Creating a magazine cover with your child’s sports photo or postage for a letter for your kids gives a personal touch to everyday items. Use photos to create faux items. Some ideas are included in SUPP_PhotoFaux.pdf. For a quick list, try any of these.

  • Magazine cover
  • Album cover
  • CD sleeve
  • Trading cards
  • Money
  • Gift card
  • Postage stamps
  • License

9. Fridgies or refrigerator magnets.

Use photos to decorate your refrigerator or other metal surfaces. Check out SUPP_PhotoFridgies.pdf for fridgie ideas. Don’t forget to check out the Web or jot down your original ideas as you try crafting photo fridgies.

10. Ornaments.

Ornaments might be for Christmas or everyday decorations. From SUPP_PhotoOrns.pdf or from an online project, create an ornament from one of your photos.

11. Puzzles and / or games.

You can make puzzles from your photos. Game pieces featuring the players might make a game more interesting. Explore ways to incorporate photos in your play life by checking out SUPP_PhotoPuzzles.pdf or projects you find on the Web.

12. Scrapbooks.

Scrapbooking is a craft that features photos. Create your own scrapbook or a page featuring your photos. A couple unusual ideas for scrapbooking are included in SUPP_PhotoScrap.pdf.

13. Frame it.

Crafting a frame is another way to incorporate your photos. Purchase frames that you can decorate that fit your photo or create a frame from everyday materials. Check out SUPP_PhotoFrames.pdf for some ideas.

14. Home décor.

Looking for ways to display photos around your home? Check out SUPP_PhotoDecor.pdf or search the Web for ideas. Try one or more.

15. Explore beyond this badge program.

SUPP_PhotoVarious.pdf gives you a lot of additional ideas for crafting with photos. If you find any additional on the Web you feel would fit into this badge program, feel free to share your links.

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Supplements

SUPP_Photo.pdf
     Listing of what is in each supplement of this set.
SUPP_PhotoBookmarks.pdf
     Three bookmark ideas.
SUPP_PhotoCalendars.pdf
     Considerations before creating calendars and sketches for design ideas.
SUPP_PhotoCards.pdf
     Two card ideas, with variations, and sketches for design ideas.
SUPP_PhotoDecor.pdf
     Three home décor ideas.
SUPP_PhotoFabrics.pdf
     Techniques for getting photos on fabrics and more.
SUPP_PhotoFaux.pdf
     Faux postage with templates.
SUPP_PhotoFlowers.pdf
      Two ways of making photo flowers.
SUPP_PhotoFrames.pdf
     Four frame ideas.
SUPP_PhotoFridgies.pdf
     Three ideas for fridgies plus information on sealing photos.
SUPP_PhotoJewelry.pdf
     Three jewelry ideas and three charm ideas.
SUPP_PhotoOrns.pdf
     Five ornament ideas.
SUPP_PhotoPuzzles.pdf
     Two puzzle ideas.
SUPP_PhotoScrap.pdf
     Four scrapbook ideas and a template.
SUPP_PhotoVarious.pdf
     List of ways to use photos that don’t fit other supplements.

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Sites to Explore

www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/PrintLab/pl_home.jsp
www.familyfun.com
www.yourpix.com/createphotos/photocrafts.jsp;jsessionid=82C9EFA3ABC1A06C60EC13FCF60562B7
h71036.www7.hp.com/hho/cache/755-0-0-39-121.html
www.makingfriends.com
www.marthastewart.com
www.squidoo.com/createit
www.squidoo.com/photo-craft
www.ourdigitalphotographysuccess.com
www.framecraft.com
www.photocarddesigns.com
www.shutterfly.com
www.snapfish.com
www.photo-opps.com/crafts-using-pictures.html
www.activityvillage.co.uk/photo_crafts.htm
1000words.kodak.com/thousandwords/post/?id=4901740044025006775
www.ehow.com/photo-crafts
www.brighthub.com/multimedia/photography/articles/18109.aspx
parentingteens.about.com/od/craftphoto/Photo_Picture_Craft_Projects_for_Teens.htm
Filed Under: AEP, Badge Programs Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Badge: Explore Crafts (revised)

2011/08/26 by Leave a Comment

Badge: Explore CraftsCrafts can be a fun hobby or a way to earn extra cash. Let’s explore a variety of crafts to enrich your life as well as share with others.

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Steps

1. Look at crafts.

A starting list is on the last page. Choose one you’d like to try from the list or discover your own by choosing from materials you like to work with, skills you have, something you’ve always wanted to try or any other way you’d like to chose.

2. Online research for your chosen craft.

Go to your favorite search engine and do a search for your craft. Not only may you find tutorials or workshops, chances are you’ll find patterns and templates as well. Check out the following types of sites:

  • Vendor / supplier sites
  • Magazine / pattern publishers
  • Associations or groups that feature your craft
  • Pattern sites, free
  • Tutorial / workshop sites
  • Template sites
  • Individual enthusiasts

3. Traditional research for your chosen craft.

Go to the library and find out if they have books, magazines or even DVDs that can help you explore your chosen craft.

4. Take a class in the craft you’ve chosen.

Check out local and online craft stores, interest groups or even online classes. Perhaps your local YMCA, library or other community area has craft programs for adults. Choose a class that appeals to you.

5. Practice your new craft alone or with a group.

Most crafts are done individually. Explore ways to make your craft more of a group activity. Search for online groups as well as those that meet locally. Start out with free resources to find out if you actually enjoy the craft before looking at “for pay” groups.

6. Share your new craft with family and friends.

Show what you have learned and be able to answer the following questions.

  • Why did you choose it?
  • Would you do it again?
  • What did you like / didn’t like about it?
  • How can you share your experiences?

7. Share your new craft with other enthusiasts and find out more information.

Here are a few ways you can share your craft. Include any others that you enjoy.

  • Web (Yahoo! Groups, blogs, etc.)
  • Local individuals
  • Formal or informal groups
  • Vendors / suppliers

8. Cultural exploration.

Some crafts have cultural variations. Research to find out if there are techniques or additional information outside the mainstream for your chosen craft.

9. Creativity counts.

Some crafts evolve as people add their own creativity. This may be as simple as new crochet stitches or as expansive as creating a new craft. Look into your craft’s history and see how it has evolved. Can you add your own creativity to your craft?

10. Teach others what you’ve learned.

Turn this into a training session for other adults, teach it to kids or even family members who show an interest. By teaching your craft, you’ll have others who may want to continue doing it with you.

11. Start or help with a club for your craft.

Sharing your craft not only expands your knowledge, you also can have fun with others sharing similar interests. Find out if there are any local craft clubs in your area, including local craft stores. If not, explore what you need to do to start your own.

12. From craft to career.

Some people enjoy their craft so much they make it a successful career. Writing about your craft, submitting completed projects, providing supplies or even teaching can provide either a supplemental or full income. Explore the possibilities of how you can make money from your craft.

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Sites to Explore

www.ehow.com/how_2185225_find-craft-websites.html
www.creativity-portal.com/howto/artscrafts
familycrafts.about.com/od/craftstechniques101/u/findaproject.htm
www.squidoo.com/groups/Explore-a-new-craft
52crafts52weeks.wordpress.com
www.favecrafts.com
www.allfreecrafts.com
craftideasweekly.com
www.craftsnthings.com/Default.aspx
www.brighthub.com/arts/crafts.aspx
www.crafterslovecrafts.com/paper-crafts.html
www.howtodothings.com/hobbies/how-to-find-craft-templates
findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1249/is_n4_v70/ai_19926663
www.factly.com/Article/Choosing-a-New-Craft-Hobby/91959
Filed Under: Badge Programs, Girl Scouts Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Badge: Artistic Trading Cards (revised)

2011/08/26 by 2 Comments

Badge: Artistic Trading CardsArtist trading cards (ATCs) are small pieces of art. They can be made with multiple different materials in a variety of art and / or craft techniques. In addition, these can be as simple or complicated as you choose. ATCs are an excellent activity for kids and a great way for you to get rid of scraps and leftovers from other projects.

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Steps

1. Size.

Artist trading cards have only one rule — they must be 2.5″ x 3.5″. This is 64mm x 89mm. The size is the same as a standard trading card. This also allows you to place them into trading card plastic sleeves, the same as baseball cards.

2. ATCs on the Web.

Search for ATC images online to see what crafters and artists have created. Save any images that you find inspirational.

3. Cutting ATCs from a sheet of paper.

You can easily cut out nine cards from a standard sheet of paper (7.5″ wide x 10.5″ high).

  • US letter — 8.5″ x 11″ (215.9mm x 279.4mm)
  • A4 — 8.27″ x 11.69″ (210mm x 297mm)

To save paper, you can get 10 out, but trimming is a bit more complex. You can find templates on the Web showing you how to cut them. Cut a sheet of each and decide which way you prefer to use.

4. Simple techniques with ATCs.

Simple craft techniques to try with ATCs include:

  • Rubber stamping
  • Drawing
  • Decoupage
  • Coloring
  • Stickers

Try one or more of these simple craft techniques on a card.

5. More techniques / materials for ATCs.

ATC cards can be made with any art or craft technique. Try making a card with paper, clay, fiber, wood or other material. You can also make embellishments to attach to the card with a non-paper product.

6. Kids make ATCs, even big kids.

Kids love to create ATCs. Collect some or all of the following and place them in the center of the workspace. Each kid will go through 3-5 cards an hour. Have extra cards on-hand in case you have very creative kids. Providing examples will give them a starting point.

  • Scrap paper / construction paper
  • Stickers
  • Stamps and ink or paint
  • Paper punches or scissors
  • Markers / pencils / pens / crayons
  • Yarn, embroidery floss or other fibers
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Glitter
  • Confetti
  • Scraps of ribbon, lace, etc.

7. Sharing with swap-bot (www.swap-bot.com).

If you don’t have people that you send cards to, you can always swap cards. Swap-bot allows you to join (for free) and swap not only completed cards, but random items and more.

8. Card swaps.

Card swaps aren’t limited to swap-bot. Groups on Yahoo! and other sites trade in singles and multiples depending on swap themes hosted by volunteers. Some are very large . . . a US swap covered a card for each of the 50 states. Also, check out your local scrapbooking / paper / rubber stamp store to see if they have a monthly swap you can participate in.

9. Start your own swap.

Start your own ATC swap club. Show others how to make ATCs. Pick a theme, technique for everyone to use, etc. Perhaps you can invite others to share their art or craft skills to add variety to your cards.

10. Upload images to Flickr.

AEP has a special area on Flickr to share completed projects for others to see. Search for “AEP” or “Adult Enrichment Project” for our sites.

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Supplements

SUPP_ATC_9up.pdf
     Diagram for cutting 9 cards out of a sheet of paper.
SUPP_ATC_10up.pdf
     Diagram for cutting 10 cards out of a sheet of paper.

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Sites to Explore

www.atcsforall.com
www.wikihow.com/Make-Artist-Trading-Cards
www.art-e-zine.co.uk/atcnov03.html
gomakesomething.com/category/ht/atcs/
painting.suite101.com/article.cfm/artist_trading_cards
www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/tutorials/artist_trading_cards_atc
thekeytomyart.wordpress.com/2010/04/12/artist-trading-card-atc-swap-and-tutorial
www.squidoo.com/atcs
www.mailartists.com/atcs.htm
Filed Under: AEP, Badge Programs Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Badge: Art Journals (revised)

2011/08/24 by 5 Comments

Badge: Art JournalMany people keep journals or diaries of their lives. An art journal takes this activity to the next level. This craft not only allows you to record your life but also to explore your art. You do not have to be an “artist” to create an art journal, you only need the desire to create. These journals are considered “mixed media” because you can pull many art and craft techniques into a single project.

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 Steps

1. What is an art journal?

An art journal is an illustrated diary or journal. It moves into the realm of art when you add illustrations, paintings, embellishments and more to create a visual journal. Art journals are excellent for people who might not always have the words to share their lives as they would in a traditional journal / diary.

Go online and look at art journals portrayed there. Discover what others have done. If you think this is something you might want to try, continue with the steps below.

2. Make a plan.

Would you like to create a theme for your art journal? Perhaps highlighting your experiences with your troop for an entire year? Document your family traditions, family holiday or special trip? Create a normal journal / diary with embellishments? A keepsake journal for someone you’ve been separated from? Celebrate a life-changing event like a birth or a wedding? Make a visual representation of a feeling, mood or idea? You may want to journal your dreams or flights of fancy.

You can also use an art journal to try art and craft techniques and document your results.

Decide what you will do in your art journal.

3. The journal.

You need to start with a journal. Here are a few ideas. Choose one or find one of your own.

  • Composition book
  • Handmade book
  • Drawing / sketch books
  • Diary / journal
  • Hardcover book (altered art)
  • Single-subject notebooks
  • Dollar store blank notebooks

Before you decide, think about how you will be using your book? Will it stay open as you work on it? Is that less important than a spiral binding that gets in the way? Would you do better with individual sheets and assembling the pages later? Is your paper thick enough for the materials you plan to incorporate?

4. Idea and color files.

Using manila folders, zip-top bags or any other system you feel comfortable with, start collecting ideas and images for your art journal. Note colors or thoughts you have initially for these items. You may find it easier to collect color chips (paint stores) or magazine clippings to show colors instead of trying to describe a color. Dates and times for items may help trigger memories or details. This will help you later as you start to assemble items in your art journal.

5. Writing prompts.

Writing prompts can also help provide you with ideas. Review our list of items you may want to include. Keep notes with enough information to prompt you into activity.

  • Memories
  • Quotes
  • Questions
  • Poems / song lyrics
  • Short stories
  • Clichés
  • Your ideas
  • Theme prompts

Create your own unique list of writing prompts.

6. Basic tools.

Here’s a list of basic tools to start with. Some tools you may have around your house, so check before purchasing more.

  • Paint brushes
  • Glue / adhesives
  • Rubber stamps
  • Scissors
  • Craft knife and cutting mat
  • Stencils
  • Sand paper / emery board
  • Ruler

7. Basic materials.

These are materials you may or may not need depending on the techniques you intend to include. Review the list and find out about any items you are unfamiliar with.

  • Paint / watercolors
  • Gesso
  • Markers
  • Pens / ink
  • Embellishments, scrapbooking
  • Magazine clippings
  • Pencils (colored and others) / erasers
  • Scrapbooking paper / embellishments
  • Gel medium
  • Crayons
  • Double-sided tape
  • Ink pads
  • Stickers
  • Photographs

NOTE: If you are intending on creating an archivally safe journal, don’t forget to check every material before you include it.

8. Time investment.

Take time to work on your journal. You may want to work on it every day, on the weekend, etc. Set up a schedule and stick to it. Not only are you more likely to work on it, others will pick up on your “special time” and leave you alone.

Also, schedule a certain amount of time to create a page. This will stop you from working on one page until it is “right.” Nothing is perfect and if you fixate on that perfection, you will not complete the page. Come back to it later and review it, making adjustments if needed.

9. Tutorials.

There are numerous tutorials on the Web covering not only the creative process, but techniques and materials. Some of these are listed in Steps 10-17. Try tutorials on one or more techniques. You may also find some that are not listed to make your art journal unique to you.

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Exploring techniques and materials

10. Backgrounds.

You’ll need to start with the background. The background can incorporate colors from the elements you intend to include on the page, the colors that communicate a mood, etc. You can also work on multiple page backgrounds and finish embellishments when you’re feeling “inspired.” Any paper technique can be used to create backgrounds, embellishments or focal elements. Create backgrounds for a few pages.

NOTE: When working with wet media, the colors may bleed through the paper. Paper will curl if it is too wet. Pages may stick together. Place wax paper under your pages to help isolate these pages as you work on them.

11. Painting.

Acrylic paint is cheap and comes in a variety of colors. You can use it as it is or adjust it with other items for a variety of looks. Also, the brush you use can make a big difference in the coverage and texture you have on a page. Don’t want to use a brush? Try sponges, stamps or a variety of other items to put paint on a page. Experiment with various colors and have fun!

12. Drawing and sketching.

You can draw directly on the page. You can also draw on another page and attach it. Do not worry about being perfect. This is your unique art journal. You don’t have to draw images. Create Zentangle™ patterns or doodle randomly. Try adding to your pages with your drawings.

13. Collage.

Collage is not clutter for its own sake. It’s a collection of items that together explain a feeling, mood or idea. You can use any found bits that lay flat for the pages. If your bits aren’t flat, sketch or photocopy them. Glues have different properties that may make them easier or harder to work with from drying time to thickness. Experiment with a variety of adhesives to find those you prefer to work with.

14. Photos.

Do not use your original photos unless you have either the negatives or digital files for a backup. You don’t want to use irreplaceable originals. Photocopies are thinner and easier to manipulate. If you don’t like the final result, you can throw it out and do it again. Find other tips for working with photos.

15. Ephemera.

Ephemera is any vintage item in the public domain you can include in your artwork. This may be images from the Library of Congress or old matchbooks you pick up at a garage sale. Like photos, you may want to work with photocopies. Search through some of the images at the Library of Congress or search Flickr (www.flickr.com) for ephemera. Find some you can use for your art journal.

16. Recycled.

Recycled materials such as junk mail can be used in art journals. Magazines can be used for images, as background paper for lettering or full words. Brainstorm other recyclable materials you can include in your art journal.

17. Journaling.

You have your prompts. Are you writing in your journal? Gluing words you created from your computer? Assembling letters from a magazine like a ransom note? Calligraphy? Sometimes one word is enough to convey your thoughts. Practice journaling in at least two different ways.

18. What else speaks to you?

What other art / craft techniques speak to you? What materials fit your journal that haven’t been mentioned? Don’t feel limited to the materials / techniques listed. This is your journal. Use what you want.

19. Sharing your journal.

Share your journal when it is complete. Photograph, copy or find another way to share your journal. Feel free to share it with other AEP members, your family or to the general public.

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Sites to Explore

ezinearticles.com/?7-Tips-For-Starting-Your-Painting-Art-Journal&id=458596

artjunk.typepad.com/art_junk/2007/03/art_journal_tut.html
billiescraftroom.wordpress.com/2011/02/18/tutorial-choosing-papercard-for-your-art-journal
trishbee.wordpress.com/2007/08/03/the-book-of-me-sketchbook-challenge
thriftycollageartist.blogspot.com/2008/02/background-tutorial-1.html
www.scrapscene.com/2009/06/art-journal-ideas.html
www.liveyourart.net/2010/03/junk-mail-art-journal-tutorial.html
www.imaginativebloom.com/2010/05/04/anna-denise-art-journal-and-tutorial
balzerdesigns.typepad.com/balzer_designs/2011/03/art-journal-every-day-tutorial-for-a-leather-journal.html#axzz1Vge4Ni9i
www.artistsjournals.com
pamcarriker.com/2010/02/21/fun-graffiti-journal-page-tutorial
www.milliande.com/Art-Journaling-with-Teesha-Moore-Collage.html
www.artellaland.com/BookLarksSample.pdf
daisyyellow.squarespace.com/abstract
www.loc.gov/library/libarch-digital.html
painting.about.com/od/keepinganartjournal/a/art_journaling.htm
www.squidoo.com/Visual-Journals
www.wikihow.com/Use-an-Art-Journal
www.suite101.com/artjournals
Filed Under: AEP, Badge Programs Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Badge: Fairy Crafts

2011/05/15 by 1 Comment

Badge: Fairy CraftsFairies are popular with kids of all ages. From fantasy to Disney, fairies are usually depicted as small creatures with wings and magical abilities. Let’s have fun with fairies.


Steps

Human-sized crafts

1. Wings.

You can purchase wings, but making them is a unique craft. Search the Web for wing patterns. Find one you feel you can accomplish and build a pair of wings. Wear your wings for a while and decide what adjustments would make them more comfortable, easier to wear and more fun.

2. Make-up.

Fairy make-up includes lots of glitter, color and rhinestones. Explore fairy make-up online. Create a unique fairy look for yourself or someone else. Take photos to document your final design so you can recreate it later.

If you really enjoy doing the make-up, start a small photo journal to document your developing make-up skills. This will also help you when you’re stuck for ideas. Feel free to include images you find online that you’d like to duplicate.

3. Clothing.

Fairy clothing can be simple or extravagant. You can accessorize clothing you already have or make something new. Sketch out a fairy outfit for yourself or someone else. Here are some things you might want to incorporate into your outfit.

  • Embellished sleeveless tops
  • Tutus
  • Leggings
  • Satin slippers

4. Wands.

Wands are another simple craft item. Don’t feel stuck with a standard star on your wand. Try snowflakes or faux flowers to give it a unique look. Perhaps bubble wands are your thing. Search the Web for a multitude of wand ideas and make one or more to coordinate with your wings, make-up and clothing.

5. Flower garland.

Also known as a flower hair wreath, these utilize wire, ribbon and small flowers to make a cute hair piece. Find instructions online or design your own.

6. Fairy dust.

Fairy dust is as easy as glitter or a combination of glitter and colored sand. Experiment with  making fairy dust out of items such as seed beads, no-hole beads and other mediums you can find. Place the fairy dust into necklace vials, bottles, pouches or a container you make yourself.

7. Treasure box.

Choose any box you like and decorate it. Use paint, rhinestones, flowers and other items that fit your fairy theme. Make sure your box is large enough to hold your fairy treasures. Of course, you may choose to make a treasure box that fits in your fairy house instead.

8. Fairy collage.

When most people think collage, they think of flat paper with pieces glued to it. While this is an option, try decorating and putting fairy items in a shoebox or shrine. Add three-dimensional elements and create a special keepsake.

9. Tooth fairy pouch.

Make a simple drawstring bag from fabric. You can add stamped images, glitter paint, seed beads and other items to decorate the bag. The bag can be used to hold teeth for the tooth fairy, fairy treasures or magical fairy dust.

10. Fairy journal.

Keep track of all your fairy activities. From sketches of fairies to favorite flowers to your own poetry, you can use your fairy journal any way you like. Create a simple journal with paper, string and an awl (for punch binding). Decorate the cover with your good fairy taste and have fun with this project.

NOTE: If you don’t want to try bookbinding, decorate a purchased notebook or journal.

11. Flowers for all.

Flowers are big with fairies. Find sites with instructions to make flowers out of paper, clay, felt or just about any material. Create flowers that are coordinated with your fairy look.

Check out the Adult Enrichment Project badge program “Paper Flowers” for more ideas.

12. Fairy jewelry.

Incorporate your fairy style into headbands, necklaces, bracelets and more. Materials should include ribbons, flowers, charms and sparkling beads.

13. Fairy masks.

With pre-cut masks or templates, decorate your mask with a variety of bright colored markers or paints as well as glitter. If doing this activity with a group, consider a sample or two available to spark creativity.

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Fairy-sized crafts

14. Fairies.

Fairies can be made out of almost anything. Find free instructions on the Web or look through the Adult Enrichment Project supplements for this badge program. Create one or more fairies and determine for what age each type is an appropriate craft.

  • Clothespin fairy
  • Flower fairy from faux flowers and floral wire
  • Clay fairy
  • Ribbon fairy
  • Recycled Barbie or other doll

Use one of these ideas or gather materials and create your own unique fairies.

15. Paper dolls.

Find paper doll fairies or adjust a paper doll and make a fairy out of it. Start a fairy fashion set for your doll.

16. Photo fairies.

Take photos of family and friends. Either digitally or by hand, outline the photos and add wings and other items to make fairies. Create a collage with your fairy friends.

17. Outfits for dolls.

Take some of the items you created for human-sized fairies and size them down for your favorite doll. Alternately, find patterns and make an item or two.

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Fairy crafts galore

18. Many more crafting ideas.

The number of fairy crafting ideas seems infinite. Look online or at your local library for even more fun fairy craft ideas.

19. Teach others.

Show others how to make the fairy crafts you’ve enjoyed. You can do this at a meeting, special day event or even do an entire fantasy day camp featuring the projects you enjoyed creating.

20. Craft fair.

For money earning, try holding or participating in a craft fair. Feature your fairy creations.

21. Fairy event.

Host a fairy event, utilizing one or more of the craft projects above as activities.

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Supplements

AEP_Supp_FairyCraftsMB.pdf

  • Overview of possible fairy crafts

AEP_Supp_FairyWings.pdf

  • Templates of five fairy wing shapes

 

Sites to Explore

www.patchworkdesigns.net/PP/mfapp.htm
www.craftbits.com/search_craft_ideas/diy_projects?search_term=fairy&commit=GO
familycrafts.about.com/sitesearch.htm?q=fairies&SUName=familycrafts
www.squidoo.com/Learn-to-make-fairy-wings
www.staceysays.com/2011/04/create-your-own-barbie-fairies
family.go.com/search-familycom/fairies
spoonful.com/search?query=fairy
www.fairies-secrets.com
www.netmums.com/things/Craft_days_fairies.1912
www.redtedart.com/2012/05/14/elves-fairies-midsummer
www.ehow.com/list_6106212_fairy-craft-ideas.html
www.herecomethegirlsblog.com/2012/06/20/fairy-fun.html
Filed Under: AEP, Badge Programs Tagged With: , , , , ,