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Dark Romanticism: Mixed-Media Tutorial by Guest Artist Olga Siedlecka
She found herself among some rusty ferns.
The moist moss lay underneath, the burning stars high above.
The chilling air was cooling down her emotions.
We are pleased to welcome guest artist, Olga Siedlecka, to Somerset Place! Olga is a gifted mixed-media artist who has been featured in several Stampington publications including Bella Grace, Art Journaling, and Somerset Studio. Today she’ll be sharing how she created this beautiful mixed-media piece.
As the two main elements of my work, I chose a canvas panel and a small broken china plate. To start the background, I glued down grey paper with botanical patterns using a heavy gel medium. Then, I painted the background with black gesso along with emerald, indigo and navy inkblots of acrylic paints.
I applied this mixture with my finger to obtain a messy effect and when the medium was drying, I wiped the canvas with a moist cloth. This step resulted in a ragged and time-worn effect.
Then I started working on the focal element. I glued down the young lady’s portrait onto the china plate and also fixed the photo of moon phases under a few glass pebbles. I used thick gel medium which dries transparent and once it had dried, I trimmed the excess of the photo underneath.
Then, I arranged the composition of pebbles and the china plate. I added a star and dried ferns which were attached to the background with transparent gel.
When dry, I enhanced the composition with a dried root, a pinch of tiny beads, a pinch of shimmering powders, a bit of rusty pastes and red acrylic paints.
To finish the piece, I covered the plate with a coat of glaze medium and imprinted the moon stamp with heated sealing wax.The last step was adding a bit of color on the ferns and a few tea stain drops.
Materials Used: canvas panel, small china plate, gel medium, black gesso, acrylic paints, vintage photo, dried ferns or pressed flowers, microbeads, rust paste, art pebbles.
To keep up with Olga, visit her blog at: belladonnacrafts.blogspot.com!
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Glimpse Inside May Issues + Your Chance To Win!
We are thrilled to present our May 2019 issues! Discover creative inspiration in the next installment of our newly revamped Somerset Studio, summertime skin-care recipes in Willow and Sage, and stunning studio spaces in In Her Studio!
Click on any of the spotlighted titles below to get an in-depth sneak peek of featured articles and to reserve your copies today, and be sure to clip your exclusive coupon code below.
Receive $5 off on new May issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code*: BLOG0519 at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)
*Coupon is valid on the May releases of Somerset Studio, Willow and Sage, and In Her Studio only. Offer expires May 31st, 2019.
Somerset Studio
The newly revamped Somerset Studio is filled with unique and creative ideas for a variety of projects. It also includes free artist papers for you to incorporate into your creations!
Inside the May 2019 Issue:
The Book Issue: handmade books, altered books, and more
Artist Profile Molly Meng
Amy Willcut shares how to encase a significant floral bouquet in resin to create artwork that will stand the test of time.
Interesting techniques to create book pages that are full of texture and depth.
A spotlight on 3-D books that have art that literally jumps off the page.
Willow and Sage
From hydrating aloe face mist to rose petal lip mask, discover 144 pages of natural skin-care recipes and helpful tips inside of the Summer Issue of Willow and Sage!
Inside the May 2019 Issue:
DIY At-Home Facial
Anti-Frizz Hair Spray
Whipped Shea Citrus Body Butter
All-Natural Deodorant 2 Ways
Lifestyle for Beginners: Frizzy Hair Remedies
Summertime Self-Care Inspiration
Lavender Honey Lip Balm
Rosemary Soap for Oily Skin
All-in-One Headache Relief Kit
In Her Studio
The pages of In Her Studio are brimming with versatile ideas and talented artists. Dive-in to this beautiful collection of creative spaces that are sure spark inspiration!
Inside the May 2019 Issue:
Explore the quaint and charming attic studio of painter Kaila Jackson.
Weaver and macramé artist Lindsey Campbell of Hello Hydrangea shares her fiber-filled creative haven.
Step back in time in the rustic Oregon workshop of Howl Attire owner Alicia Renner.
Get inspired to get organized by the stunning quilting studio of Missy Luukkonen.
Meditate on lifestyle and wellness within The Movement Studio.
Enter to Win Our Glimpse Inside Giveaway!
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Mixed Media Unmixed with Guest Artist Heather Kindt
Join us in welcoming guest artist, Heather Kindt, to Somerset Place! Heather is a talented mixed-media artist who has been featured in several of our magazines including Art Journaling and Stampers’ Sampler. We’re excited to have her here on the blog today to give us insight into the best kinds of texture media to use for various projects!
I have a lot of media (media is the plural form of medium when it comes to art talk). Let’s make sense of the products we use when it comes to acrylic paint and texture media.
The Products
1. Paint, acrylic from craft to fine art grades
Acrylic paint = pigment + acrylic polymers + moisture + filler
(Acrylic paint = color + plastic + water + chalk/talc etc)
*specifics depend on the brand, the higher the price is usually the greater concentration of pigment
2. Gel medium
Acrylic polymers + water = gel
3. Texture medium
Gel medium + mixative = texture medium
Acrylic Paint
Paint comes in different viscosities or forms. Check out the forms of acrylic paint.
Heavy body paint is usually in a tube, metal or plastic. Quality varies by brand.
A telling characteristic of heavy body paint is the peaks that can be formed with a pallet knife.
Heavy body paint works well with stencils. It leaves a crisp image with clean lines.
A softer paint, but also considered heavy body, is open acrylic.
With a longer drying time the paint formula has more water and does not have the ability to dry with sharp peaks.
It works well with stencils but is not as sharp.
The next type form of acrylic is called fluid.
It is a liquid thicker than water.
It is thick enough to use with a stencil, but can easily seep underneath the edges. Using a small amount of paint with a sponge prevents seepage.
The final form of acrylic is very runny and has many names: paint ink, high-flow, airbrush paint.
Any color that is pastel must be shaken because the pigments with settle at the bottom in a fluid so runny.
(The bubbles are from all the shaking.)
High flow does not work well straight on a stencil. For sure use a stencil brush or sponge.
Compare the high-viscosity to an ink that is compatible with dip pens but has many uses. Inks vary in permanence, some are water soluble.
This is a permanent ink called an India ink. The color is very dense.
Both look great when spread by a pallet knife.
Acrylic Gel Media
Next are the gel mediums; gels vary in thickness and shine. For example Golden sells all these options.
Extra heavy gel medium
Heavy gel medium
Regular gel medium
Soft gel medium
And each is available in three sheens:
Gloss, Semi-gloss (Satin), Matte
While they all dry clear, a little bit of white is added to the gel to knock back the shine from gloss to make semi-gloss. More white is added for matte.
My Soft Gel Matte is old enough to have dried into a stiffer gel, such as heavy gel medium. These dry really fast.
If you forget which heaviness does what, Golden explains it on the label.
Works well with stencils. Also my favorite for image transfers is Regular Gel Semi-gloss. Similar to this one.
Another brand that is like Golden’s actual Soft Gel is Prima’s 3-D Matte Gel by Finnabair.
It reminds me of the open acrylic paint since the peaks are soft.
Works well with stencils.
Texture Media
Gel medium + tiny clear balls, similar to sprinkles = Bead Gel (sometimes called glass bead gel).
If you take gel medium and add pearl or mica powder you will get an iridescent medium. They vary by brand.
This brand has a pretty thick gel that works with stencils and makes really cool image transfers.
There is a unique medium called Light Modeling Paste or Light Molding Paste or Ranger’s Texture Paste Opaque Matte. It is light and fluffy like marshmallow cream. I think that it is whipped, it has a surface that is porous. Much different from a gel, that has a consistency like paint, light pasted absorb liquid readily.
Thick moldings pastes hold a peak better than heavy body paint.
Perfect for stencils, go over them 2 or 3 times so you don’t waste paste.
Give extra drying time to thick applications.
Below is Ranger’s paste.
Regular Modeling Paste or Flexible Modeling Paste is much heavier than the light version. Trust me, it will make your journal heavy. It does make impressive texture.
Also brilliant with stencils.
I believe in dirty stencils, but you need to clean them after using pastes or they will mess up the clear lines.
Other texture pastes have a gel base with a particular mixture. Cement Paste and others mix sand with the gel the texture is very gritty. Mine dried out in the container (after a few years of neglect), but it is still flexible and you can see the gritty texture.
Another example is a black texture that can be made in different ways. This one is iron and a very heavy paste.
Now the formula is simple to understand. When you meet a new stencil consider what thickness of gel was used and what was the mixative. What it mica? Glitter? Metallic paint? Or you can make your own with gel and whatever you want! Yea us!
To keep up with Heather, you can visit her website and Facebook!
Website: https://heatherkindtart.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.kindt
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Artful Explorations: Dyeing with Avocado Pits
We are thrilled to share an article from the revamped Somerset Studio here on the blog today! This issue is filled to the brim with new and inventive ideas to inspire your creativity. One of our favorite creative ideas included in the Spring 2019 issue is how to dye mixed-media art projects with avocado pits. Who would have known that they create such a gorgeous rosy color? See the article written by our editor, Christen Hammons, below.
Artful Explorations: Dyeing with Avocado Pits
Each time I’m working on an issue of Somerset Studio, I find techniques I want to try. Sometimes it’s something that yields really cool results, and other times it’s a process that just sounds really fun. So, when we were planning some of the new features to add to Somerset Studio, I figured it was time I stop saying I want to try some of these techniques, and actually try them. I’m thrilled to share with you, Artful Explorations, our newest department. Here, we’ll take one of the techniques shared in each issue, and try it out. We’ll then share our findings and thoughts about the process.
When I first received Lisa Malette’s article, featured on page 95, I had no idea what she had used to dye the fabric she used a beautiful pink color. When I learned that it was avocado pits, I knew right away I wanted to try this out. Not only is the color produced absolutely gorgeous and unexpected, as someone who loves avocado, I always have plenty of them on hand.
I needed to collect a few avocado pits before I was ready to dye anything, so over the course of a week, I gathered up the discarded pits. I scrubbed each one free of any remaining avocado, and then placed the pit in a plastic baggie and froze it. After a week I was ready to go.
What I Dyed
We have a nice stash of different paper and fabric scraps at the office, so I grabbed the following:
Copy paper
Grungy shipping tags
Cotton fabric
Seam binding
Cotton twill tape
Notepaper
Shipping tags
Vintage paper
My Process
I set out to following Lisa’s technique as closely as possible, but as I am prone to do, I changed up a few things.
First, I filled a small saucepan up with water and then placed four pits in the pan. Then, I brought the water to a boil, and then turned it down to simmer. I fully intended to simmer the pits for a couple hours, but I realized it was getting late and so after about 30 minutes, I turned the heat off.
Next I placed all the items I wanted to dye into a baking dish. Then I poured the dye over the items and discarded the pits. I let everything sit for about 30 minutes. When I pulled the items out, I noticed some of the papers were sticking together, which actually created really interesting areas without very much dye.
I placed everything on paper towels to dry overnight. When I woke up, the papers were still damp so I placed them in the oven on low for about 5 minutes. When I pulled everything out, I was absolutely delighted with how everything came out.
My Favorites
I really love how the lined notepaper, copy paper, and torn fabric came out.
Not So Favorites
The manila shipping tags and the grubby tags really didn’t take the dye at all.
Conclusion
This was so fun, and so easy! Like Lisa, I read a lot of versions of this where people used the skins as well to create the dye. I found that it wasn’t necessary at all. I have to imagine that the fabric isn’t washable, but I really just wanted to create a nice stash of trims and papers to use later, so I don’t need to wash anything.
Thinking of trying this? Be sure to use the hashtag #somersetmade so we can see your beautiful results!
Pick up this issue of Somerset Studio on newsstands or on our website!
Christen Hammons is the editor-in-chief of Somerset Studio. She lives in Orange, California, with her husband, two sassy cats, and one scruffy dog.
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Best of 2018: Memorable Moments from Stampington’s Social Media
2018 was a wonderful year for Stampington & Company! It was filled with beautiful inspiration, creative ideas, and exciting new releases (In Her Studio, Field Guide to Everyday Magic, and Bella Grace New Generation). We are constantly in awe of our artists’ talent and creativity and can’t wait to continue to celebrate it in 2019! Below are a few of the memorable moments we shared on social media last year:
Memorable Facebook Moments of 2018
Memorable Instagram Moments of 2018
Memorable Twitter Moments of 2018
Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter as we continue to share and celebrate creative inspiration in 2019!
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A Roundup of Bewitching Halloween Projects
One of my favorite things about Halloween is the witches! Some people like the lovely side of Halloween like the good ole jack-o’-lantern and friendly ghosts, while others enjoy the spookier side of the holiday. But I feel that witches can really go either way! There are good witches, bad witches, and even mysterious ones. So in lieu of Halloween and my favored part of the holiday I decided to roundup some of my favorite witch projects.
(Artwork by Beth Ervin)
1) Hocus Pocus
You can’t wish family and close friends a proper “Happy Halloween” without a handmade card! The combination of lime green card stock, doilies, and the “Hocus Pocus” and witch stamps makes this Halloween card one of my favorite, although there are so many to choose from inside the Summer 2018 Issue of The Stampers’ Sampler.
2) The Good Witch Project
This project creates a great vintage, yet Halloween-themed container to store either candy or a Halloween gift for a special someone. In the shape of a handy tote bag, this project is actually made from an old recycled box, making it that much sturdier to store candy or a wonderful present. View project.
(Artwork by LeeAnn Kress)
3) Witches’ Tea Party
You are cordially invited to a witches’ tea party! Meet Penelope (right) and Juniper (left), these two lovely witches love to set up tea parties and they have wickedly good tea. These witches were later added to LeeAnn’s Bitter Sweets collection, featured in the Autumn 2017 Issue of Art Doll Quarterly. This is where the artist contributed the technique that she used to create these witches. However, Penelope and Juniper are shown in the Autumn 2018 Issue of Art Doll Quarterly, where LeeAnn shares the process for creating the tea party settings, including the linens, banner, tea set, and treats. Halloween is the best time to create this enchanting detailed project for any of your witch dolls!
(Artwork by Trudy Honeycutt)
4) A Mysterious Witch
In a faraway land there once lived a mysterious witch that went by the name of Hagatha Crystal. Not much was known about Hagatha the witch as she was seldom seen out. For the most part, she was unapproachable, except when the other villagers depended on her to help solve the latest mysteries in town. This helpful little witch is featured in the Autumn 2018 Issue of Prims and makes a fun Halloween-themed primitive.
(Artwork by Janice Martin)
5) A Witch’s Stool
Janice is a big Halloween fan so when she discovered this old milking stool in her parents’ rural Oregon barn she transformed it into this witchy Halloween décor. Create a similar one to add a magical touch to your Halloween party or to your home for trick-or-treaters to admire. See the tutorial inside the 2015 Issue of Somerset Holidays & Celebrations.
(Artwork by Georgiann Carlson)
6) The Witch’s Travel Kit
Designed for the modern witch-on-the-go this travel kit contains all the necessities. This project uses fun elements like stamps, gems, tarot cards, and spells! This project can add a special touch to your witch costume this year or make a thoughtful Halloween gift for the charming witch in your life! Featured inside the 2010 Issue of Somerset Holidays & Celebrations.
I hope you have enjoyed this round up of bewitching projects. Don’t forget to head to https://stampington.com/halloween-projects for more Halloween-inspired ideas!
Do you have any fun witch-themed projects? Share your ideas in the comments below!
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Romancing the Vial: 13 Artful Test Tube Projects
We’ve assembled 13 artful projects that highlight working with test tubes; gather inspiration and a fresh take on what is possible with test tubes! Featured here is everything from salt soak vials to decor and garden kits. Have you ever used test tubes for a unique project? Send your creative projects that include coffee filters to [email protected] for a chance to get your ideas featured in an upcoming post!
1) Blossoms and Bud Vases
These darling bud vases are a quick and easy project that can be hung in a window to catch the light and to decorate your home with a spare blossom or bloom. View project here.
2) Jasmine Flower Tea & Spearmint Bath Salt Vials
There are many benefits to using jasmine tea as this tea has therapeutic properties, plus they are simply lovely. In this project Melinda Barnett pairs jasmine blossoms, jasmine essential oil, and spearmint because of the similar properties, which turned out to be an excellent self-care treatment and these vials make a wonderful gift! Read more inside the Winter 2018 Issue of Willow and Sage.
3) Herb Garden
Andrea Handojo’s love for gardening and DIY projects lead to this herb garden kit that is perfect for spreading the gardening love. All you need is herb seeds, a wooden box, and test tubes of course! Read Andrea’s tutorial and tips inside the Winter 2018 Issue of Somerset Life.
4) Vanilla Jasmine Lime Bath Salts
While exploring the three notes of a perfume Melinda Barnett realized that bath salts rarely have more than one or two notes; so she set out to create a bath salt with all three. In creating this three-note bath salt Melinda also upcycled decorative flowers, glamorizing these vials. See the entire tutorial inside the Summer 2017 Issue of Willow and Sage.
5) Lemongrass Sage Salt Soak Vials
Melinda Barnett loves this lemongrass and sage combination for it’s fabulous scent. This project is a lovely affordable indulgence, simply create, adorn, and exfoliate; read the tutorial inside the Winter 2017 Issue of Willow and Sage.
6) Garden Salt Soak Vials
Take your test tubes to the next level with these etched tags. Not only can you gift the luxury of relaxation, but you can personalize your salt soak vials with this tutorial. Read more inside the Winter 2017 Issue of Willow and Sage.
7) Citrus Salt Soaks
Citrus scents are always so fresh and clean they are appropriate any time of the year. Melinda Barnett came up with three different salt soak recipes for her article in the Autumn 2016 Issue of Willow and Sage. Create these recipes and pamper or self or a loved one!
8) Mountain Pepper Salt Soak
The exquisite May Chang, or mountain pepper, is reminiscent of ripe lemons; however, it also possesses a woodsy anchoring note, making it an excellent addition to almost any citrus-based salt soak recipe. Read Melinda Barnett’s tutorial inside the Summer 2016 Issue of Willow and Sage.
9) Rosebud Bath Salts
Mix Epsom salt and rosemary and share the benefit of salt with a friend with this repackaging gift idea inside the Winter 2015 Issue of Willow and Sage. While you are there learn the scoop on salts!
10) Jackets for Decor
Armed with some yummy collage scraps L. Katherine Roberts decided to collage test tubes with her leftovers. Pair these tubes with a gifted book, serve as a small appreciation gift, or stocking stuffer! Learn more about the project inside the Autumn 2017 Issue of Somerset Life.
11) Creative Minds Tool Box
Saddened by the thought that some creative minds may be neglecting their calling, L. Katherine Roberts was inspired to put together this tool box featuring items to engage the creative mind. This mini-assortments of sketching supplies is a prompt project that get the imagination going! Read the tutorial inside the Spring 2015 Issue of Somerset Life.
12) Belle Jardiniere Painted Pallet
Aiming to do something a little different, Jennifer Taylor wanted to create home decor that could also display flowers, fresh or dried. Learn how she created this wonderful piece from a little Milk Paint, a pallet, and some test tubes inside the Spring 2015 Issue of Somerset Life.
13) Hot Chocolate in a Tube
If you’re short on time during the holidays but want to gift a handmade item this hot chocolate project is for you! Add hot chocolate, marshmallows, a pretty fabric scrap, and gift this cozy project to your loved ones! Pick up the Autumn 2014 Issue of Somerset Life for more creative living ideas.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this roundup of projects that showcase a variety of projects that feature test tubes.
Have you ever used test tubes in a unique way? Share your project in the comments below or email your ideas to [email protected] for a chance to be featured on the blog!
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Get Published: May Calls and Challenges
Our Stampington publications want your submissions! If you are an artist or writer looking to have your work featured in one of our magazines, here are the May calls and challenges that our editors are looking for. We encourage you to submit your work again even if you have tried before. The following magazines have upcoming deadlines of May 15th (unless otherwise noted), so this is your chance to see your name in print and get published!
Have questions about submitting your artwork? Leave us a comment below!
~Artwork by Carrie Todd
In every quarterly issue of Art Journaling, artists open their journals and share creative techniques for capturing their emotions. From stamping and collage art to painting and sketching, each journal is filled with innovative techniques and inspirational stories. If you have an art journal that you would like to share with our readers, we would love to hear from you.
Deadline: May 15th
~Artwork by Robyn P. Thayer
How do you carry it? That’s the question Somerset Studio would like to help answer through our new and exciting special publication titled Haute Handbags. Whether we use purses, clutches, totes, portfolios, sacks, bags, or attachés, there are many styles made with an astounding array of materials emerging from all corners of the creative world – all vying to be carried and used with style. You are welcome to construct a bag from scratch, or to purchase one that you embellish and alter with paints, beads, rubber stamps, ribbons, buttons, transparencies, and more. No medium or material is ruled out so use your imagination to make bags of leather, wool, fabric, paper, plastic, wood, glass, or any other materials that you love.
Deadline: May 15th
~Artwork by Brooke Bock
For that added touch of glamour without the complexity, Jewelry Affaire is a quarterly publication dedicated to the art of understated, yet extraordinary jewelry. You don’t need to be a master craftsperson to create wearable art that makes a statement. The refashioning of a vintage piece into something new, embellishing a chain, the placing of a pendant, adding beadwork — anything that exemplifies sophisticated chic on an easy to understand level can be submitted.
Here are some of our ongoing departments we feature in every issue:
Whimsical Wares
Jewelry that is out of the ordinary and extraordinary
Natural Revelry
Adornments that are otherworldly
Vintage Jubilee
For lovers of heirlooms and findings, celebrate with classics that make time stand still
Artistic Affaire
Innovative to wear and uncomplicated to share
Black Tie Affaire
Dripping with jewels, pearls, and other sumptuous materials, these sophisticated statements pieces can make every day feel like an occasion
If you’re interested in being our artist for the Feature Article, please email a link or pictures of your jewelry collection.
Deadline: May 15th
~Event by Jenny Keller
Unique gatherings take center stage with our now-quarterly publication, Mingle! From intimate art retreats, to creative, one-of-a-kind celebrations, Mingle provides the inspiration you need to plan extraordinary gatherings with an artistic flair. For this publication, we are looking for stunning photographs and stories from unique gatherings such as the following:
Intimate Affaires Do you get together regularly with close friends for a night in of crafts? Perhaps you have a tradition of going to the park for a knitting circle or a picnic.
Art Retreats Do you plan art retreats for others to come participate in? Have you attended one that had a profound effect on you?
Handcrafted Weddings Was your wedding completely crafted by hand? Did it take place somewhere unique?
Birthday Parties & Anniversaries Did you throw a party for a friend that was simply over the top? Maybe you thought of an interesting theme.
Party Details Did you take a couple pictures (or maybe just one) of a stunning aspect of an event that you think Mingle readers need to see?
This is just a sampling of the items we are looking for to publish in each issue of Mingle. Submissions and questions can be emailed to the editor at [email protected], or saved on a disc and mailed to our physical address. If selected, we will need hi-res versions of your photographs.
Deadline: May 15th
Click here to download our guide for how to submit photographs. It will also show you how to convert images to the correct size and resolution for this publication.
~Artwork by Melinda Barnett
Handcrafted Projects for Christmas & the Holiday Season
Christmastime is where most crafters truly shine — it is the time to create beautiful handmade gifts, lovely wrapping and cards, and artful decorative pieces. In this upcoming issue of A Somerset Holiday, we are aiming to create an inspirational, instructional companion for the holiday crafter with an abundance of simple projects, covering everything from artwork and gifts, to creating the packaging and tags labeling each memorable gift item. We invite you to join in the celebrations and submit your very favorite holiday-themed artwork, gifts, and more. Projects that might spring to mind are Christmas cards, gift wrapping paper, wreaths, advent calendars, and quick and easy gift ideas (i.e. face scrubs, gift baskets, imaginative gift card holders, stocking stuffers, candles, food/beverage ideas, and so on). Start a lasting tradition by giving gifts straight from the heart and made with your own hands. Please submit your most festive DIY projects to be considered for this stunning, full-color 144-page publication.
Deadline: Every May 15th.
A Little Bit Handmade
The holidays are a very busy time, so it is not always easy to have the time to make something by hand. In this department, we aim to take a purchased item and personalize it in some way. For instance, taking a thrifted coffee mug and turning it into a hot cocoa kit, making a scarf in 20 minutes or less from a yard or two of fabric, or altering a Moleskine journal for the recipient with their monogram in a faux-calligraphy style. These are creative, inexpensive, simple projects that ideally take 30 minutes or less to make.
Deadline: Every May 15th.
~Artwork by Melony Miller Bradley
Somerset Life aims to demonstrate how easy it is to add a touch of beauty to our daily lives, whether it is through a simple craft project, or an inspiring essay that shares how to find the beauty that already exists. Our mission is simple: make the ordinary extraordinary. For those looking to be a part of this bestselling publication, we have a number of ways to do so. We are currently looking for artwork submissions in the following categories:
Locales of Intrigue
This special department features stories about truly unique stores and boutiques across the globe. Stores that would like to be featured in this department are asked to submit digital images of the store with a brief written query to the Editor-in-Chief at [email protected]. If the submission is accepted, professional hi-resolution digital images (300 dpi at 8″ x10″) will need to be furnished by the store.
Deadline: Ongoing.
Life Creative Spaces
Where do you create? Whether it’s a small table or breakfast nook, cleared-out closet, or an actual room dedicated as your creative studio, we want to peek inside. If you think your creative space is something that Somerset Life readers would like to learn more about, please submit digital images of your space with a brief written query to the Editor-in-Chief at [email protected]. If the submission is accepted, you will be asked to furnish professional hi-resolution images (300 dpi at 8″ x 10″).
Deadline: Ongoing.
Miscellany
Sometimes, an image of something lovely is all we need to feel inspired. Have you taken a photo of something that makes you feel inspired? Perhaps it is a photo of your collection of vintage handkerchiefs. Or an old stack of books. Or your treasured stash of ribbons. Please submit your favorite digital images (5″ x 7″ @ 300 dpi) to be considered for Somerset Life’s special Miscellany department to the Editor-in-Chief at [email protected].
Deadline: Ongoing.
Artful Kits
We all love to collect papers, ribbons, embellishments, and other bits and bobs. More fun than collecting specific elements is finding creative ways to juxtapose the pieces together to create unique kits. Whether you create them to give away or to sell or offer to students in a workshop setting, we’d like to see your favorite kits. Please send in kit samples directly to the Editor-in-Chief as outlined in the Submission Guidelines.
Deadline: Ongoing.
Creative Living Ideas
In each issue of Somerset Life we share 10 Creative Living Ideas, and we show quick and easy ways to add a touch of beauty or creativity to your life, or perhaps someone else’s. Maybe you have a clever way of packing a sack lunch, or you have a developed a creative way of saying “Thank You” to a friend. Please send in samples directly to the Editor-in-Chief as outlined in the Submission Guidelines.
Deadline: Ongoing.
The Magic of Friendship Bracelets
Where would we be without our friends? We all need a tribe with a common goal where the bonds are strong and the friends are amazing. One way to show your friendship is by creating a gift for someone special, and this got us thinking about friendship bracelets. This symbol of friendship given from one friend to another has been around for a long time. They’re often handmade from embroidery floss or thread, but we thought it would be fun to elevate the ordinary friendship bracelet and see what our talented readers can come up with. Maybe add some pearls? How about tying on tiny words of inspiration? We’re looking for beautiful friendship bracelets that celebrate not only friends, but an authentic and creative life!
Deadline: May 15, 2018
MICA INSPIRED!
Who doesn’t love mica? Johanna Love showed us how some pretty gold mica flakes could add glittery pizzazz to nails in her article in our Jan/Feb/March 2018 issue, but we know the use of mica goes much further! Mica flakes add instant luminosity and sparkle to any project as well as texture and dimension. They come in different colors from silver, white, frosted to mulberry, charcoal, and a range of tones in between. This versatile product can be layered, mixed with paint, incorporated into snow globes, added to cards or mixed-media projects and much more. What can you do with mica flakes? Show us how you can incorporate them into artwork that personifies a Somerset life!
Deadline: May 15, 2018
Click here to download our guide for submitting photographs. It will also show you how to convert images to the correct size and resolution for this publication.
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Glimpse Inside New October Issues + Giveaway + Coupon!
Receive $5 off on new October issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code BLOG1017 when prompted at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)
Art Journaling
Dive headfirst into the wonderful world of Art Journaling, and find new ways to express your artistry! In this 144-page issue, artists share unique and innovative techniques to take the pages of your journal to the next level.
Inside the Autumn 2017 Issue:
Be inspired by the beautiful artwork accompanied by courageous stories from featured artists
Lynne Moncrieff shares her technique for creating a purse to store your miniature journals
Renee Zarate finds journaling inspiration in playing with a color wheel
Brigid Gallagher Davies journals in soft, feminine neutral shades
Mary Walden shows her lovely sewn journal
Haute Handbags
Inside the autumn issue of Haute Handbags, carry your yoga mat in style with Hélène Cardon’s handmade yoga bag complete with a dreamy watercolor pattern and plenty of bohemian flair.
Learn how Sara Templeton turned an empty basmati rice bag and a passion for green living into a successful line of eco-chic bags made from 100 percent reclaimed fabric.
Also featured in this issue, Terry Lischka transforms recycled men’s suit coats into sophisticated and fashionable cross-body purses, Abraham Ruiz channels his passion for architecture into stunning geometric clutches made of die-cut, German-milled wool felt, and Roxana Elena Nicolae developed a unique 3D collage technique that she pairs with hand-painted and hand-cut leather pieces to create beautiful and whimsical clutches.
Jewelry Affaire
Sometimes it is the simplest things that are the most elegant. Come join us in celebrating the beauty that can be found in easy-to-make jewelry in this 144-page issue of Jewelry Affaire.
Inside the Autumn 2017 Issue:
Meagan Crockett transformed leftover fabric scraps from a dream catcher into bohemian bangle bracelets
Toni Pullen sculpted a monochromatic design with a handmade polymer clay pendant
Laser-cut hardwood pieces that form the base of Jayme Lillie’s kaleidoscopic earrings are brought to life with colorful eco-friendly resin
Becky Nunn created an innovative way to make dimensional cuffs, earrings, and lapel pins
Andrea Shodipo cleverly incorporated sequins into her chic earrings that celebrate African culture
A scrap of leather inspired Sherri Welser to create an organic Southwestern necklace that uses paint to imitate a soldered look
Mingle
It’s time to embrace autumn with the newest issue of Mingle! With page after page (144 to be precise!) of party tips and tricks, you’re bound to be inspired. You’ll be brainstorming your upcoming holiday gatherings before you know it!
Inside the Autumn 2017 Issue:
Tracy Carpenter shares her detail-filled farmhouse Christmas bash
Enjoy Halloween in Paris with Toni Roberts
Don’t miss the spook-tacular pirate party by Shannon Von Eschen
Peek inside Tara Berger’s blush-and-Bordeaux-themed friendsgiving and her Christmas play date featuring a vintage camper
Alyssa Crocker hosts a lumberjack birthday party
Kathy Pardell throws a fun-filled event honoring teachers
Check out Katie Garrahy’s tree trimming get-together!
Somerset Life
Celebrate the artful and the creative inside the autumn issue of Somerset Life! Each 144-page issue provides an abundance of inspiring ideas to infuse our daily lives with simple pleasures, art, romance, creativity, and beauty.
Inside this issue we have Melissa K. Lippert’s adorable boho on-the-go purse, Lynne Moncrieff’s “Hanging Around the Christmas Tree” ornaments, and book collages for the holidays with L. Katherine Roberts.
You will also find tutorials for art bento boxes, rosebud corrugated fabric collage tags, altered peat pots, and fabric stamped bridal gift bags.
We’re also celebrating Pinots and Merlots with our sommelier gift bundle idea for the wine lovers in your life. Get ready for the holidays with projects like creating a tiered embroidery hoop ribbon Christmas tree, alum-dyed holiday star ornaments, and a burlap advent garland.
Plus, discover 10 new Creative Living Ideas to help you live an artful life!
The Stampers’ Sampler
It’s beginning to look a lot like Craftmas! Start welcoming the holidays with the autumn issue of The Stampers’ Sampler! As with every issue, there is a special Tempting Template pattern and free artist paper tucked inside to inspire your upcoming card making projects.
Inside the Autumn 2017 Issue:
Ignite your creative spirit just in time for the busiest card season of the year with Our Holiday Happenings challenge
Get dialed in with the latest card-making techniques with our Telephone Tempting Template results
There’s still plenty of time for those last-minute Halloween cards. Check out even more Frightful & Delightful results that were so great we are featuring them late!
Find out who our next Guest Artist is!
Where Women Create BUSINESS
Where Women Create BUSINESS is an invaluable, 144-page guide for every woman business owner – from those just starting out to experienced artisans. Through advice columns and in-depth feature articles, this magazine offers a multitude of knowledge and inspiration to women with a passion for success.
Inside the Autumn 2017 Issue:
Elizabeth Lane delivers customers the best books of the season through Quarterlane book subscription boxes
Gigi Fasano’s Vintage Moon clothing boutique
Rebecca Armstrong spreads happiness through her apparel company, Peace Within
Susan Eastin offers farmhouse and cottage decor, gifts, and antiques at De Smet Trading Co.
Stylist and wedding designer Rebekah Carey
A Somerset Holiday
Dive into your handmade holiday gift preparations with the 2017 issue of A Somerset Holiday! This issue puts a rustic-chic spin on the holidays by offering fun and simple ideas for handmade gifts.
Inside this issue, you will find a variety of gift wrapping and decor ideas, like Dalia Blevins’s sweet little snowmen salt shakers, and Carol Fisher’s Putz house village crafting kit.
Plus, for those who want to personalize your gifts, but just don’t have time, look no further than the A Little Bit Handmade department to create gifts with a handmade touch in minutes.
Also featured in this issue, several artists share inspiration to make gorgeous Christmas tree ornaments that will be sure to get you even more excited for the holidays!
Enter Our Glimpse Inside Giveaway!
We’re giving away brand-new October issues to THREE lucky winners! Simply follow these steps to enter for your chance to win:
1) Click on your favorite spread above.
2) Pin or “Like” that particular issue.
3) If you pinned to Pinterest, share the link in the comments section below. If you “liked” on Facebook, tag us so we can see.
4) If you don’t have Facebook or Pinterest, please comment below and tell us which issue you find most appealing and why.
Winners will be randomly selected for our magazine giveaway and contacted via email. Contest is open to U.S. residents only, and ends 10/31/17 at 11:59pm PST.
*$5 off coupon code applies to purchases of any of the following (Autumn ’17) issues only: Art Journaling, Haute Handbags, Jewelry Affaire, Mingle, Somerset Life, Where Women Create BUSINESS, and A Somerset Holiday. Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. Discount code can be used only one time per customer and expires 10/31/17.
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5 Unlikely Uses for Gesso
Inside every artist’s toolkit, there should be gesso. It is so useful that it is an integral part of every mixed-media artist’s creative process. It is typically a white paint mixed with some sort of chalk, which provides plenty of “tooth” for later layers of paint — but that is not all that this wonder mixture is good for! Here are 5 different ways to use this tried-and-true material.
1. Primer
We’ve all heard of this use, but it is also a great primer for unconventional substrates. The glass jars below were not the ideal candidate for these rub-ons until a layer of gesso was applied. With the gesso in place, the rub-ons adhered perfectly and provided a lovely white and gold motif. If using gesso as a primer for something like glass, be sure to seal the entire project when finished so that the gesso doesn’t chip.
Other substrates to try with a layer of gesso primer: Canvas, wood, sculptures, polymer clay, art journals, furniture (including finished, polished furniture), glossy photos, tiles, Artist Trading Cards
Project Idea: White and Gold Embossed Jars
Click here for a closer look.
2. Dry brush Techniques
“Dry brush” provides a lovely painterly look to any piece of artwork. It can also add dimension to painted surfaces. For the Shabby Chic Altered Clock, gesso was applied with a dry, coarse bristle brush to create some texture on the blue chalk paint.
To achieve a “dry brush” look, begin with a completely dry brush with very coarse bristles. This will provide the brushstrokes and lines that the “dry brush” technique is known for. Dip the very end of the brush into the gesso, remove as much of the excess paint as possible, then drag across your canvas or project, letting the gesso leave thin, parallel streaks. If too much paint is applied, try brushing over the same area with a dry brush (with no paint on it). The trick to the “dry brush” technique is that less is truly more. Begin the process with the slightest amount of paint possible, then layer on more as needed until the desired technique is achieved.
Gesso provides the perfect texture to do a “dry brush” technique with because it is thick enough that it will leave beautiful lines across the page, without spreading out or absorbing too much.
Project Idea: Shabby Chic Altered Clock
Click here for a closer look.
3. Whitewash
The shabby chic clock project also uses one of my favorite techniques for using gesso. The flower rosettes were first painted with a bright pink, then a very watered down gesso was applied to the surface, allowing the gesso to pool up in the cracks and crevices to make the details of each flower really pop. This technique also works great on textured backgrounds, like crinkled paper, three dimensional shapes, or textured embellishments.
4. Chalk Paint Finishes
Because gesso is typically a white paint and chalk mixture, it is a great alternative to chalk paint. For this shabby chic desk décor project, the vintage box paired well with the gesso applied to the surface. The gesso had a matte finish and was chalky enough that it didn’t look too new. A few quick swipes with the sand paper provided a layer of paint that looked like it had been there for years.
Gesso can also be tinted with different paint colors mixed in. If you are looking to mellow out a paint color or create a less shiny finish with acrylic paints, mix in a little gesso to the project. Clear gesso also provides this matte, chalky finish without diluting the pigment in acrylic paints.
Project Idea: Shabby Chic Desk Décor Memo Board
Click here for a closer look.
5. Prepping Backgrounds
For those of us that love to use vintage texts, sheet music, and other patterned paper in our artwork, gesso can provide a wonderful blanket to mask some of the busyness. Try brushing a very light coat of gesso over the surface to tone down the printed patterns and incorporate a busy piece of paper seamlessly into the background of your next project. On these two project ideas, the text in the background is just barely visible so that it doesn’t distract from the subject matter, but it still provides a fun texture to the overall piece.
Project Idea: Where the Heart Is Canvas
Click here for a closer look.
Project Idea: TIME An Art Journal Page Project
Click here for a closer look.
Don’t have this amazing tool in your craft stash yet? Check out our Adhesives, Primers, and Mediums Collection!
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Dina Wakley-Inspired Splatter Art Journal Page + Faber-Castell Giveaway!
I’ve been admiring all the bright colors inside Art Journaling for a long time. For the most part, my projects rely on deep browns, creams, shades of dark teal, and touches of pink. However, I challenged myself for this art journal page to think outside the browns box and create something with vivid colors and bright contrast. The end result is brilliant hues of green and teal that really make this art journal page pop. Dina Wakley’s stamps paired perfectly with the colorful and grungy splatters on the page, making this a winning combination of bright colors and grungy goodness.
Supplies:
Altered Book Art Journal
Lonely Girl Cling Mount Stamp by Dina Wakley
Create with Abandon Cling Mount Stamp by Dina Wakley
Teal Blue StazOn inkpad
Ranger Ink Distress Crayons — Set 1 Brights
Vibrant Turquoise Dylusions Ink Spray
Foam blending tool
Color Fizz green tablet
Gesso
Instructions:
Prime your altered book art journal by painting the entire page with gesso. Keep the gesso thin so that the text print can peek through.
Allow gesso to dry completely.
Place a color fizz tablet directly on the page, then drop warm water on it to begin the reaction. As the tablet begins to release pigment, rub it in an L-shape along the corner of the page. When enough pigment has released onto the page, remove the tablet. Drop a little more water onto the page, then blow from the corner so that the watercolor creates a splatter toward the rest of the page.
Tip: Dry the splatter with a heat gun to avoid the water soaking through the gesso and into the rest of the book.
Rub Distress Crayon in an L-shape along the same corner as your splatter. Use a blending tool to rub in the crayon so that the splatter begins in the teal color and fades to green.
Stamp the Create with Abandon stamp so that it overlaps with the splatter. Tip: You will need to use StazOn permanent ink for this image because other inkpads will smear on the waxy surface of the Distress Crayon.
Remove the top of the Dylusions ink spray and use the tube on the spritzer to splatter the page with Vibrant Turquoise ink spray.
Stamp the Lonely Girl image onto a separate piece of cardstock with StazOn Teal Blue ink. Trim and attach to the bottom corner of the art journal page.
Enter to Win a Color Fizz™ Set from Faber-Castell!
Our friends at Faber-Castell have graciously provided this Color Fizz™ Set for this giveaway — that’s a $10.95 value!
Experience Innovation in Color with Faber-Castell® Design Memory Craft® Color Fizz
Spritz, dip, drip and brush to create beautiful watercolor effects. Drop these tablets into low immersion containers with hot water and watch your color fizz as it creates splatter effects. Suitable for watercolor paper and natural fiber fabrics.
Your color is sure to POP. Available in 2 artistic color combinations.
Click here for more information about this amazing product.
To Enter:
1) Share your favorite image above on Pinterest or Facebook by pinning or liking the image.
2) If you pinned to Pinterest, share the link in the comments section below. If you “liked” on Facebook, tag us so we can see.
3) If you don’t have Facebook or Pinterest, please comment below and tell us your favorite technique for incorporating color into your artwork.
Winners will be randomly selected from the comments below for our giveaway and contacted via email. Contest is open to U.S. residents only, and ends 03/15/17 at 11:59pm PST.
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Glimpse Inside April Issues + Your Chance To Win!
Our April 2019 issues have arrived! Discover creative inspiration for your next celebration in Mingle, helpful techniques in Art Journaling, and heartfelt stories in Bella Grace New Generation Issue 3. Take a peek inside each of these titles below!
Click on any of the spotlighted titles below to get an in-depth sneak peek of featured articles and to reserve your copies today, and be sure to clip your exclusive coupon code below.
Receive $5 off on new April issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code*: BLOG0419 at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)
*Coupon is valid on the April releases of Art Journaling, Mingle and Bella Grace New Generation only. Offer expires April 30th, 2019.
Art Journaling
Art Journaling is filled with beautiful journal page inspiration accompanied by inspiring stories from acclaimed mixed-media artists!
Inside the Spring 2019 Edition:
Take a stroll down memory lane with a vintage-inspired school-themed art journal.
Learn how corrugated cardboard can be elevated into three artistic tag books.
Explore an altered book bursting with interesting elements.
The Artist Profile of Tiffany Goff Smith featuring her dreamy, textured layouts.
Mingle
Pick up the Spring Issue of Mingle to discover inspiration for your next celebration!
Inside the Spring 2019 Edition:
Check out a tropical paradise-themed Mother’s Day gathering by Jamie Forsythe.
Cassandra Clair shares a Southern-inspired ladies’ brunch.
Discover Melanie Beilner’s year of picnics.
Julie Abrera presents a whimsical flower crown workshop.
Step inside a secret garden baby shower by Laura Schwandt.
Skybox Event Productions gives a sneak peek into a doughnut-themed birthday bash.
Learn all about an anniversary celebration hosted by Elizabeth Draeger.
Bella Grace New Generation Issue 3
Bella Grace New Generation Issue 3 includes heartfelt stories from young writers that will inspire you to celebrate everyday magic. It is perfect for daughters, granddaughters, sisters, nieces, students, aspiring writers, photographers, and young-at-heart-friends – a gift they will truly treasure.
Enter to Win Our Glimpse Inside Giveaway!
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Share Your Art for #NationalCraftMonth + Enter to Win a Free Subscription
We are so excited National Craft Month has arrived! To celebrate, we’re inviting you to share your artwork on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for the entire month of March. Each week we’ll be selecting pieces to feature on our social media accounts, and you’ll also have a chance to get published in our magazines!
See below for details on how you can participate.
On Facebook:
Join Stampington’s Artist Community, a Facebook Group full of other encouraging and supportive artists.
Share your artwork in the group using #NationalCraftMonth
On Pinterest:
Join our collaborative Pinterest board for National Craft Month 2019.
Pin your artwork to the board to share it with the world!
Our editors will be searching this board for the best of the best. You could be published in an upcoming issue!
On Instagram:
Share your artwork using #NationalCraftMonth and #SomersetMade for a chance to be a featured artist on our Instagram feed.
Be sure to follow @stampington for the latest updates and featured artists.
Enter to win a subscription to any Stampington & Company magazine of your choice:
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Glimpse Inside March Issues + Your Chance To Win!
We can’t wait for you to discover the creative inspiration in our March Issues! From the modern and vintage-styles featured in Belle Armoire Jewelry to the unique techniques in Art Quilting Studio, you are sure to find the inspiration you need for your next project!
Click on any of the spotlighted titles below to get an in-depth sneak peek of featured articles and to reserve your copies today, and be sure to clip your exclusive coupon code below.
Receive $5 off on new March issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code*: BLOG0319 at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)
*Coupon is valid on the March (Spring 2019) releases of Belle Armoire Jewelry, Bella Grace, and Art Quilting Studio only. Offer expires March 31st, 2019.
Belle Armoire Jewelry
Belle Armoire Jewelry is filled with beautiful jewelry creations that will inspire your next jewelry project!
Inside the Spring 2019 Edition:
A modern jewelry collection featuring gold leaf and laser-cut wood.
Flame-painted copper earrings display an array of colors.
Book text and metal combine to create vintage-style necklaces with a message.
Animal pendants so detailed you’d never guess they’re made of leather.
Bella Grace Issue 19
Bella Grace is a special, 160-page publication devoted to discovering magic in the ordinary. Our aim is to touch the souls of our readers through beautifully penned stories and striking photographs that capture life’s beautiful journey.
Inside Issue 19:
Random acts of kindness to incorporate into your life
Re-thinking our imperfections
Trading Audrey Hepburn
Embracing the pause
Step up your gratitude practice
Learning to lean into the why’s of your life
Art Quilting Studio
Art Quilting Studio magazine provides a playful and informative forum where quilt enthusiasts from all walks of life can cross-pollinate to share techniques, ideas, and inspiration.
Inside the Spring 2019 Edition:
Discover the talents of Catherine Timm in the Artist Portfolio.
Maggie Dillon shares her vintage-inspired portraits in the Series Showcase.
Kathryn Pellman gives us a sneak peek into her Fashionista Quilter in Quilting the Odd & Unusual.
See Linda Koenig’s fairy-tale vision in The Visit.
Jean Loussarian cleverly depicts an artistic stairway in her quilt Stairway to Heaven.
Virtually flip through Rose Legge’s quilted book titled Summer of Wings.
Kari Goodwin explains her technique for making her geometric-themed quilts.
Find out Laurie Mutalipassi’s inspiration behind Hanbok Girls.
Enter to Win Our Glimpse Inside Giveaway!
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Glimpse Inside New October Issues + Your Chance to Win One!
The October Issues have arrived! These four issues are brimming with inspiration and are sure to excite you for all the latest mixed-media techniques in journaling, or consider a young woman in your life and take a peek at New Generation Vol. 2. Plus, don’t miss these trendy holiday projects and entertaining ideas featured in our holiday issues! There is something for everyone beneath each cover.
Click on any of the spotlighted titles below to get an in-depth sneak peek of featured articles and to reserve your copies today, and be sure to clip your exclusive coupon code below.
Receive $5 off on new October issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code*: BLOG1018 at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)
*Coupon is valid on the October (Autumn 2018) releases of Art Journaling, A Somerset Holiday, Mingle, and New Generation only. Offer expires October 31st, 2018.
Art Journaling
Be inspired by the beautiful journal pages accompanied by courageous stories from acclaimed mixed-media artists, inside the October issue of Art Journaling!
Inside:
Learn how Sherry Pollack moved outside her comfort zone to create a neutral journal void of the colors she’s used to working with.
Discover Darlene Koppel’s transparent paper art journal that masterfully makes use of deli paper.
See how Sharon Hoerth put her own take on journaling inside of a traveler’s notebook.
In our We Asked the Artists department, learn how our contributors escape a creative block and what creative rituals they follow.
Explore a wide variety of journaling styles from talented artists including LorriMarie Jenkins, Pam Carriker, Carolyn Dube, and more!
A Somerset Holiday
Dive into your handmade holiday gift preparations with the 2018 issue of A Somerset Holiday! You’ll discover a variety of DIY projects that are both approachable and festive, along with gift wrapping and decor ideas to get you through the season.
Inside:
Vickie Kammerer creates textured ornaments in an elegant snowy style.
Trendy wood slices are transformed into playful decor for the tree or a gift.
Diane Adams assembles a stunning kit of handmade Christmas decorations.
Learn how to create rustic Christmas charm with a flannel mittens garland.
Beads and baubles come together to form a festive snowman necklace.
Mingle
Dive into the latest issue of Mingle to discover an unlimited supply of holiday inspiration. Our October edition highlights special get-togethers that will warm your heart and inspire your next gathering this season.
Inside:
Discover Cassandra Clair’s wine-tasting friendsgiving.
Jenny Keller shares her ladies’ lunch at the pumpkin patch.
Harmony Goodson gives a sneak peek into her Halloween-themed dinner.
Enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas tea party with Melanie Beilner.
Alicia Bruce hosts a wintery wreath workshop.
Learn how to style holiday-inspired dessert tables with Lorrie Everitt.
Celebrate Leslie Carpenter’s vow-lloween party.
Bella Grace New Generation
Bella Grace New Generation features the same inspirational content you love about Bella Grace, but geared toward young women ages 12 to 19. It’s a positive space for sharing, and we’re delighted to spotlight a number of young writers and photographers within our encore edition.
Inside:
Bella Harris talks about not living life “for the likes.”
How to be a good friend.
Ivy Clark shares why it’s important to be passionate about something, and how to figure out what that is.
Missy Merritt shares why she is proud to be a redhead.
Are you an introvert or an extrovert? What does that mean?
Throw a spa day for your next birthday party.
Enter to Win Our Glimpse Inside Giveaway!
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Glimpse Inside New April Issues + Find Your Exclusive Coupon!
Receive $5 off on new April issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code BLOG0418when prompted at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)
Bella Grace New Generation
We’re sharing Bella Grace with a whole new generation of young women.
Bella Grace New Generation features the same inspirational content you love about Bella Grace, but geared toward girls ages 12 to 19.
It’s a positive space for sharing, and we’re delighted to spotlight a number of young writers and photographers within our premier issue.
Like its sister publication, New Generation will continue to discover magic in the ordinary, through its stories, photographs, and interactive, journaling space, while offering up perspectives on everyday life for teenagers and inspiration for embracing your uniqueness.
Sample Content Includes:
How to claim your individuality in a world where so many want nothing more than to fit in
Tips and techniques for balancing the demands of the everyday girl
Suggestions for creating a healthy relationship with social media
Struggles and lessons learned from friendship
Distinctive viewpoints on day-to-day life for teenagers
Artistic photography, life lists, and Instagram Collections
Features:
144 high-quality matte pages
Sturdy cover stock
Thought-provoking prompts
Workbook and journaling space designed for readers to respond directly on its pages
A new compact size! Slightly shorter than Bella Grace, our newest title is designed for you to tuck into your purse or beach bag. Take it with you for whenever inspiration strikes.
Zero outside advertising
Art Journaling
Art Journaling has 150+ beautiful, full-color pages straight from the journals of masters. We can’t wait to share what’s in-store for you within our April installment:
Roben-Marie Smith shares her colorful Artful-Attache journal documenting her trip to California.
Discover Jenni Zmuda’s motivational tag booklet inspired by coping with mental health problems.
Be amazed at Torrie Gass’ eclectic, whimsical journaling style in this issue’s Artist Profile.
In our Bound for Art department, Kate Yetter explains how she made her chipboard steampunk art journal from scratch.
See how a collaboration between five other artists resulted in a one-of-a-kind, eye-catching art journal by Heather Kindt.
Haute Handbags
This best-of edition of Haute Handbags features 100 of our favorite artfully treated bags.
Stitched
Dyed
Stamped
Painted
Felted
And More!
Whether you’re a long-time fan, or new to Haute Handbags, you don’t want to miss this special compilation of the most artistic bags we’ve ever featured.
Jewelry Affaire
Jewelry Affaire Magazine offers 144 pages of handmade, jewelry making projects that are simple, yet elegant.
What’s Inside:
Be enchanted by Nicole Esposito’s dreamy painted portrait bezels and her chic, simple packaging.
Discover Featured Artist Melanie LeGrand’s whimsical collection with hand-stamped metals and tiny details that’ll make your heart swoon.
See how Tatsiana West turns a polished pebble into a celestial pendant with resin and hand-painted artwork.
Learn how Christie Schneider transformed patterned Dixie cups into chic, modern earrings inspired by Project Runway.
Explore a wide variety of jewelry projects from chalk-painted pendants and wire hoop earrings to leather-stamped pieces, multi-strand bracelets, and stitched pouch necklaces.
Mingle
Get ready to be inspired by spring-themed gatherings that will give you even more creative reasons to celebrate!
Inside Mingle Spring 2018:
Discover Suzi Banks Baum’s backyard art camp.
Misha Perritt throws a stunning terrarium-making birthday bash.
Celebrate Earth Day with Jamie Forsythe.
Tara Berger shares her alfresco dinner party with girlfriends
Peek inside a bohemian baby shower by Angie Kay.
Let’s Flamingle! Harmony Lynn Goodson hosts a festive get-together.
Learn all about the floral-themed graduation soiree by Samantha Leenheer.
Somerset Life
Welcome spring with this delightful and romantic issue of Somerset Life. In addition to offering 144 pages of authentic and creative living ideas, our latest installment features:
A Template for Love & Friendship by L. Katherine Roberts
A “Possibility” Collage Kit by L. Katherine Roberts
Vintage Bird-Themed Card Making Kit by Diane Adams
Seek Stillness Journal & Wall Hanging by Lynne Moncrieff
My Journey to Romance by Jo-Anne Coletti
A “Blessed Box” for all seasons
Gold painted shells for elegant desk décor
Giving the gift of color
How to elevate an everyday picnic
and much more!
The Stampers’ Sampler
Welcome to the Spring 2018 Issue featuring more than 200 rubber-stamped projects and cards for every occasion.
What’s Inside:
It’s time to party like a pineapple with our very tropical and sweet Pineapple Tempting Template results.
Our annual Celebration Challenge returns and is packed with page after page of festive cards.
Don’t miss a brand-new Artist Paper and Tempting Template!
Read more about how Guest Artist Rita Perfater cherishes the written word and the immeasurable impact ahandmade card can have on the receiver.
The post Glimpse Inside New April Issues + Find Your Exclusive Coupon! appeared first on Somerset Place: The Official Blog of Stampington & Company.
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