Morning, I have to admit that I am hopelessly addicted to Graphic 45. It started a few years ago and I have a lovely selection. But the biggest pitfall is that I am loathed to used it. Like a lot of crafters out there, I do like to look at it every now and again.
After assembling my MDF project, I decided to use a selection from the Le Cirque Collection, here a variety from the borders and tags. I did get a few of them so I don't think they will be missed too much.
Firstly I gave two coats of black Gesso, leaving the first coat to dry in between. Normally I would have given just the one coat, but because the unit will be in use most days I wanted it to be hard-wearing.
I popped out the tags and borders from the sheets and removed any pips remaining. Then using Tacky glue, which I had let down with a little water I applied my decoration. Wherever possible trying not to overlap, where pieces joined I used my nail to mark and trim. In some areas I decoupaged the figures to add a little more interest. I trimmed around the edges and finished with a sanding block.
I left this to dry overnight and then applied a coat of Vintage Crackle Basecoat (Tonic) in one direction. When this was completely dry I applied another coat in the opposite direction. When this had dried, I applied a coat of Crackle Top Coat and again left overnight.
The effect was great, but to make it more obvious I used brown shoe polish and a soft cloth to rub it into the cracks.Hopefully you can see from the photos. I didn't seal the project as I think the crackle medium and polish were sufficient.
Thank you so much for popping by and looking at this project.
I do love reading your comments and try to answer everyone of them if possible. I am so happy that you are enjoying my blog and what I share on here.
I am thinking of adding a little about life here and stuff like that, maybe once a week. What do you think?
Love graphic 45 but only have one collection and have used none of it!
ReplyDeleteYou have been brave to use some of your stash but it does look amazing on your ink pad holder.
Some tales of your life out there etc would be really interesting if you want to share it,so I for one would say yes please.
Nicola x
I wont say how many I have..... I've not used any either. This is the first time I have used any of it. I keep saying I will buy 2. It's lovely to use and smells wonderful. Thanks for your comments Nicola.xx
DeleteI also just have one colllection of G45 Nick and have used 1 sheet in about 3yrs. Loving you ink storage it will be a joy for you to use with the gorgeous vibrant colours and pattern
ReplyDeleteI would love to here more about your life over there so come on get writing. Hugs Janet xxx
When I speak to people I don't think we are alone, People that buy G45 just don't seem to use it and want to keep it. The only people I know that ever use it, get it free and an endless supply. I am doing a gardening project at the moment, The builders made a nice seating area and where an old chicken shed was I have been making it into a nice little garden. I think I will share the project when its finished. Everything takes me so long, especially when you just cant do it.xx
DeleteI also just have one colllection of G45 Nick and have used 1 sheet in about 3yrs. Loving you ink storage it will be a joy for you to use with the gorgeous vibrant colours and pattern
ReplyDeleteI would love to here more about your life over there so come on get writing. Hugs Janet xxx
I love this Nick. I'm a huge g45 fan and I won't tell you how many pads I own lol. Xx
ReplyDeleteIt's just so lovely though isn't it Elaine. I would love to visit where it's made I bet it smells amazing.Take care Nickxx
DeleteThis is great Nick and, like you and so many, I love Graphic 45. I am attending a workshop in September with Clare Charvill in September and am really looking forward to it. x
ReplyDeleteSo glad you like it. I am very jealous, but also very excited for you. Clare is great.I won a card from her years ago and I still have it. It's lovely and probably the only one I will have made by G45. lol Take care Nick xx
DeleteWell so far I have t got any Graphic 45 papers. Perhaps I should remedy this. Love what you have done. Thank you for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteYou must invest in one, but once you do,I am afraid you will be hooked. It really is wonderful, everything about it screams quality and the colours and smell is superb. I am so glad you like the project,Take care XX
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