ArtGlitterBlog

Fantasy Film Art Quilt....No Sewing Required! – By Laura Fraedrich

2012-02-16T18:00:00.000-07:00

I recently developed a love for art quilts, and even though my sewing is less than stellar I am crazy about making them. I recently moved and have yet to unpack my plethora of art and craft supplies, but I was jonsing to be crafty this past weekend so I put up a folding table, grabbed what paint and supplies I could easily find (miscellaneous fabric paints, Art Glitter Institute's Fantasy Film, some fabric and a few tie dyed paper towels I had in my stash) , and went to town...I didn't feel like unburying my sewing machine so I used the next best thing to put my quilt together with...Pellon's Wonder Under®! This stuff is great. With nothing more than an iron and a sheet of parchment paper, you can turn anything into an iron on transfer. The Fantasy Film was so much fun to work with, and it brought a whole new life to my finished quilt. I'm going to start putting it on everything from now on!

Supplies I used:
Tulip® Brand Fabric Spray Paint™, Beads in a Bottle™, Slick Dimensional Paint, cotton broadcloth (approx. 18" x 24"), paper towels, Art Glitter Institute's Fantasy Film, Pellon's Wonder Under®, acrylic paint.

I started by spraying the broadcloth with various colors of the fabric spray paint. At this point I didn't know exactly what my finished product was going to be, but I knew I wanted to make a sunset so I sprayed blue at the top and faded it into the purple and orange. Next, I drew out my picture with a pencil so I knew where to place the pieces I was about to cut out. I then cut three same size pieces of yellow Fantasy Film, layered them on top of one another, sandwiched them between two sheets of parchment paper and ironed for a few seconds. I repeated this process for the pink and blue Fantasy Film. Next I applied the Wonder Under to the ironed Fantasy Film pieces according to package directions. I cut 7 triangles out of the yellow, 3 cloud shapes out of the blue and 12 petals out of the pink. I did all of this freehand since I'm not exactly a stickler for accuracy.

I arranged the shapes I cut out onto my quilt, covered it with parchment paper and ironed them on. Viola! They were stuck and no sewing was required. I applied the Wonder Under to the tie dyed paper towels in the same fashion, cut out mountain shapes and ironed those on next. A whole landscape was starting to form!

To finish the project, I used acrylic paint to color the faces of the sun and flower, enhanced them by outlining them with black and green dimensional paint, and used Beads in a Bottle™ to create some texture in the sky and in the mountains.

I have yet to decide how I'm going to finish the quilt. I will probably add complimentary fabrics around the edges and make a wall hanging out of it, that is once I find my sewing machine!

Glitter Notebook by Candy Spiegel

2012-02-13T14:29:00.000-07:00

This glitter notebook is made from a mini composition pad of paper — the perfect size to keep in your purse so you always have paper on hand.

I created it using the lace technique created by Barbara Trombley, the owner of Art Glitter.

I love this technique because although it looks difficult, it is super easy! For a visual demonstration, click here …

First, adhere a piece of cardstock to cover the back cover of the book. I use a corner rounder to trim the right edge.

Now, to the fun part … Adhere a piece of Sticky Paper (with the protective cover to the sticky side up) to the front of the book and corner round the edges. Peel off the backing and position a piece of lace to the Sticky Paper. I used Lace Pattern 2.

Apply the background color (I used Ultrafine Transparent #85 Crystal).

Carefully remove the lace and apply the second color (I used Ultrafine Opaque #1 True Red).

Place a sheet of scrap paper over the top and gently run a brayer across the top to make sure the glitter is set well. Tap the book on a table to shake off the excess.

And now the finishing touches:

Cut the bookplate with a Tim Holtz Die out of cardstock and then paint it with Adirondack Dabber in Gold.

Stamp the quote (from Tim Holtz) in the center of the bookplate with Archival Black Ink and lightly color the edges with Vintage Photo Distress Ink. Adhere it with Designer Dries Clear Adhesive. Attach the bookplate with brads.

Using Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive and the Ultrafine Metal Tip, designate places for the beads (Glass Beads #817 Pearlies) including a very thin ring around the inside of the bookplate. Add the beads and let sit for a few minutes. Then, very gently, push the beads into the glue and shake off the excess.

For a final step, fill the bookplate with a bit of Glossy Accents and let dry.

(I received Art Glitter products in exchange for this post).

Glitter Valentine Cards by Barbara Trombley

2012-02-08T16:58:00.000-07:00

Here are some lovely Valentine Cards made by Barbara Trombley the Valentine Glitter Queen!

This is a simple two color glitter lace card. Just make your glitter lace paper, cut out the heart shape and corners. Glue it onto cardstock and embellish. You can't tell very well on this photo, but the edges of the heart have been curved up slightly for a great raised look.

Colors used:
Ultrafine Opaque #4 Berry, #114 Leaf
Ultrafine Transparent #144 Miss Muffet
Dazzler Hexi #D32 Engagement
Sticky Paper

Glitter Lace Instructions...

This wonderful card has a bed of Fantasy Fiber topped with Fantasy Film molded into a heart shape with a heat tool, then glittered in the middle with a rainbow of Ultrafine Transparent colors that are also used on the stamped images in the background, applied with Designer Dries Clear Adhesive.

Happy Valentines Day to All Our Art Glitter Enthusiasts!

Valentine's Treat n Sparkle Bag by Candy Spiegel

2012-02-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Everybody loves to receive valentines. The best ones have a little sparkle and come with a little treat.

I created this one to be simple enough that you could easily make enough for an entire class (or let the kids make them) — but interactive enough to make it stand out.

I started with a little white bag that I’ve been carrying around for years. I don’t remember where I got it from originally.

I added a piece of Bo Bunny paper to the front and then used my Big Shot to cut out a heart and foldable strip from QuicKutz/Lifestyle Crafts.

I used Close To My Heart alphabet stamps to stamp the sentiment on the inside and another stamp from CTMH to stamp the Happy. (It was part of a Happy Birthday stamp, but I only inked the happy portion).

For the heart, I spread a bit of Designer Dries Clear Adhesive with my finger and then covered it in Ultrafine Transparent Glitter #147 Pink Azalea. When dry, I adhered it to the front of the folded strip. Then, using Designer Dries Clear Adhesive again, I attached the strip and the string (from My Mind’s Eye) to the bag. Tying the string into a small bow keeps the strip closed and invites people to untie it and read the sentiment inside.

I tucked three Smarties into the bag, but you could put in a sucker, a few Hershey’s Kisses, or any wrapped candy.

Sparkle Heart Necklaces by Cassandra Midkiff

2012-02-01T14:44:00.001-07:00

My daughter is having a birthday tea party and I have been trying to come up with special things to put into favor bags besides overdosing them on sugar. I’ve come up with these very simple but cute heart necklaces. I picked up some 1” glass charms from Wal-Mart for a few dollars.

I took one of the glass pieces and traced out squares of scrapbook paper. Then I traced out some hearts in pencil and filled them in with my Designer Dries Clear adhesive. Next I sprinkled on my Art Glitter! I used mostly Ultrafine Opaque and Ultrafine Transparent glitters in shades like #14 Lavender, #144 Miss Muffet, #98 Amethyst, #202 Pansy, #87 Hot Kiss, #16 Blackberry, Ultrafine Hologram #247 Moulin Rouge, and many more.

Once they were dry I put the glass over them and slid them back into the charm pieces then strung them on some ball chain necklaces. I may end up adding some Glass Beads as well. These would make easy and sweet Valentines gifts too!

Goodwill's Gliitter Gala with Art Glitter

2012-01-28T15:23:00.000-07:00

The Seattle Goodwill had a Glitter Gala fundraising event recently that Art Glitter was happy to be a part of!

Photo by Storms Photographic

Jahna Hildebrandt, Goodwill's Events Manager, tells us about it:

We received so many complements that the décor was the best it has ever been and we owe it all to Art Glitter and Barbara! Thank you! I know the guests loved the glittery centerpieces because at the end of the night there weren’t any left – they took them off the tables and took them home! We had 16 volunteers from Amazon that came and glittered all the flowers for a corporate volunteer day. They had so much fun they offered to come back and do it again next year. And not just because they were volunteering indoors while the rest of their co-workers were clearing brush in a park in the rain.

Photo by Storms Photographic

Photo by Greg Banasek, PSAV

The Fantasy Film looked amazing on the backdrop and really pulled the entire room together. We went a little glitter crazy. Kenneth Horne, our amazing volunteer did some additional fabulous arrangements for the lobby that combined glittered flowers with fresh. We also glittered hair ornaments for the models.

The event was a smashing success. We raised almost $280,00 for our Job Training Programs and had a record 661 guests. Thank you again so much!

Photo by Storms Photographic

Heart Sun Catcher by Cassandra Midkiff

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is one of the first projects I was able to really play with Fantasy Film. For this project I used Fantasy Film in Aurora.

I cut out two heart shapes and crumpled them in my hand, then using the flame of a candle started melting them together. I knew I wanted some holes so I held some parts on the flame longer to create them. When I was satisfied with the shape I took some tulle and glued it to one of the larger holes. I cut out a tiny heart from some pink scrapbook paper then covered it with my Designer Dries Clear Adhesive and sprinkled it with Ultrafine Transparent glitter in Miss Muffet #144. Once it was dry I glued it onto the tulle. I also smeared some adhesive onto the fantasy film and sprinkled on Ultrafine Transparent glitter in Sea Shell #100.

Once everything was dry I took a needle and poked a hole on the bottom of the heart where I placed a jumpring and my strand of vintage glass beads. I poked another hole at the top of the heart and placed another jumpring and then threaded it with some clear fishing line. So happy with the finished piece, the Fantasy Film looks almost like an iridescent glass and it sparkles so beautifully in the light. I plan on making more to give out for Valentine gifts.

Art Journaling that Shines - Part 2 By Laura Fraedrich

2012-01-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hello again! Welcome to the second part of Journal Pages that Shine. This time we're going to use some of my favorite products in the whole world...Fantasy Film and Fantasy Fiber from Art Glitter. These products are so versatile that you can use them on all your mixed media projects. All you need is an iron and some parchment paper and you're ready to go! I always thought it was more complicated than that, but was pleasantly surprised the first time I used them. It's so quick and easy!

Again I started my pages by using watercolors, markers to doodle with, spray inks, collage elements, and craft punches to make little windows. For the left side, I used Fantasy Fibers for hair. I mixed together a pinch of purple and yellow, spread them out into my desired shape, then sandwiched them between two sheets of parchment paper and ironed briefly. It doesn't take much heat or pressure to get the fibers to fuse together. I recycled a white circular shape that I cut out of one of the pages below for the face. I used collage medium (Collage Pauge) and a foam brush to adhere the hair and the face to my page.

To make the small squares down the left side of the page, I used a craft punch. Then I cut 1/2" strips of different colors of Fantasy film. I arranged and overlapped them randomly on one sheet of parchment, then covered them with another and ironed briefly. It came out having a nice striped effect. I cut the fused film into squares slightly larger than the punched out squares and glued them onto the back of the page. I covered them with a strip of white paper so they can't be seen from the page behind.

For the left page, I used the same technique for the earth as I did for the face above. For the sun on the right page, I fused together 2 layers of Fantasy Film and added a pinch of pink Fantasy Fiber on the top. I glued it onto the back of the page but left it translucent instead of gluing white paper over it like I did for the above squares. I wanted to let the design from the page behind it in my journal peek through.

This is what was on the page behind the sun.

The colors of the paint were so similar to the colors of fibers I used that they just gave it a subtle luster.

You can see the design behind the film better here.

Next on my list is to incorporate these products into a small art quilt!

Art Journaling that Shines...Part 1 by Laura Fraedrich

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have never been one to keep journals or diaries. I had a diary when I was a kid and I think I wrote in it twice, probably about a boy I had a crush on when I was about 8 years old. I tried to keep one when I was in college, and that ended up being a glorified day planner. I've tried several other times in the past and spent a few hours writing down my deepest thoughts, just to read them again months or years later and tear them up because I thought they sounded so stupid. I hated the things I wrote about and I hated my handwriting. So I gave up.

Being the huge mixed media fan that I am, I started to see this art journaling craze materialize in magazines and online. I was definitely intrigued, but not completely sold on the idea because I knew my journaling history and figured I would never commit to it. Over the next year or two it became harder and harder to resist. How could anyone look at the beautiful and colorful journals of Teesha Moore, Ingrid Dijkers, and Pam Carriker and not want to do it themselves?

I tried art journaling a little bit but was frustrated because my pages weren't even close to as cool as theirs were. It wasn't until I took a journaling class with the Journal Fodder Junkies last year at Art Unraveled that I finally gave in to the temptation and started keeping an art journal. The biggest things I learned from the workshop were pretty obvious facts, but I never thought about it before then. Every journal page doesn't have to be a masterpiece, nor does if have to be about anything particularly important. What IS important is that you continue working in it. No page ever has to be completely finished. You can start 10 pages in one sitting and take 6 months to get back to them. Have nothing to say today? That's okay. Start slapping some paint on the pages. Collage receipts, magazine clippings that you like, junk mail, postage stamps, or anything else you can find that would otherwise be destined for your trash can onto your pages. Make some random doodles on a page and see what transpires. I can't say I journal everyday, but I've been regularly keeping up with it since that class. Some pages I like so much that I actually finish them!

I started creating my pages by randomly painting watercolors on some blank journal pages. After they dried, I took a fine tipped black marker (Micron Pigmas work well) and started doodling and drawing. Most of the time I didn't have anything specific in mind. I journaled words in the empty spaces around my doodles. I enhanced my drawings by using Copic markers to color in some areas. I used craft punches on some of the pages to cut out 'windows' that look onto the page behind it. I also collaged some papers I had in my stash to some of them. To add the sparkle and shine, I used Designer Dries Clear adhesive by Art Glitter to add various colors and varieties of glitter (also by Art Glitter). It was no exact science, I just used coordinating colors to enhance certain areas.

Stay tuned for my next post which will be about using Fantasy Fibers and Fantasy Film to enhance your art journal. See you soon!

Elegant Votive Candle by Candy Spiegel

2012-01-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

You can be sure of one thing when you live in Michigan — during the winter, the days are short and generally cloudy.
Christmas lights and holiday fun helps get me through November and December, but when the decorations come down in January, the cloudy, dark days can easily bring a person down.
So, I decided to extend the sparkle of the holidays right through winter by making an elegant candle holder.
I started with an inexpensive, plain votive cup. (I got mine at the Goodwill store for less than a dollar.)
At first, I planned to add just a bit of sparkle to the bottom third of the cup, so I started with strips of 1/4 inch Sticky Tape, like this.

Leaving the top of the tape on, I went in between the lines with Designer Dries Clear Adhesive and added a light layer of glue.
NOTE: You will want to use your Ultrafine Metal Tip for this and really spread the glue around. If you put it on too thick, it may drip down the side of the glass.
On the glue, I sprinkled Ultrafine Transparent Glitter in Blue Rain (120).

Then, I peeled off the covering on the tape and added Faux Snow. And this is where I got a bit carried away … In fact, I loved the look of the Faux Snow so much, I used Designer Dries Clear Adhesive to cover almost the entire exterior of the cup! It reminded me of a sparkly sweater and I just kept going and going.
Then, using my finger, I applied a little adhesive to the top rim and dipped it in some additional glitter.
I let the cup dry over night and then gently brushed off the excess.
Naturally, I wanted a little more added to the votive. I found a couple of clear beads from Maya Road in my stash and went to work making embellishments for my votive.
The first one has a flat back, so I used Art Glitter’s Very Black Permanent Stamp Pad and a Tim Holtz snowflake stamp to add a bit of design to the back.

I then heated it to set the ink, covered the back lightly with a layer of Designer Dries Clear Adhesive and dusted it with the same Blue Rain glitter I used on the glass.
Then, I thought that as beautiful as this white and silvery votive was, I still might like a little color. So, I took a smaller bead and covered one side with adhesive and then a layer of Microfine Opaque Bahaman Blue (512). Because the surface was not flat, this was a bit more difficult and I had to repeat the process once the first layer was dry. Keep in mind that if you do the same, make sure to smear the adhesive with your finger … Designer Dries Clear Adhesive can dry with a bit of dimension that you will be able to see in your finished product if you don’t smear it out.
Next, I attached a bit of ribbon and a few jump rings.

But, it still didn’t feel quite finished to me.
So, I adhered a piece of Sticky Paper to a scrap of white cardstock and then ran it through my Sizzix Big Shot with the small bird die from Tim Holtz. Then, I removed the protective layer off of the Sticky Paper and covered the image in the same Blue Rain glitter. For a final touch, I added an eye with Ranger’s Liquid Pearls and then attached it to the votive with Designer Dries Clear Adhesive. Because I was attaching it to the Faux Snow on glass, I had to hold it for a minute or two before it took hold.

Then, I inserted a flameless tea light and …

CAUTION: I have no idea how Faux Snow or glitter will hold up to heat or a flame, so I would recommend ONLY using flameless lights inside the votive. They are safer and just as pretty!
This is sure to keep the winter blues away!
I received Art Glitter products in exchange for this post.

Fantasy Fiber Foto Frames by Emily M. Miller

2012-01-11T13:21:00.000-07:00

Fantasy Fiber Foto Frames...say that five times fast! I love how diverse Fantasy Fiber is and that’s why I like to use it to frame photos with. You can use just a little or a lot. Form it into a shape or just simply use it as a backdrop.

I almost always use it sparingly. You can see on this first example I simply laid a few wisps of fiber in a square shape slightly larger than my photo, overlapping 3 colors a bit. Then I put my bakers parchment paper on top and ironed for just a second or two (with my iron set to cotton/med.-high). Glue it on back with Designer Dries Clear…done!

My altered kitty photo is part of a book exchange project I'm involved in where some of the backside is visible. I really like how the fiber shows my recycled cardboard box background. I'll be making 28 of these and the fiber is by far the easiest step!

For this second set of examples I started with a thin base again like above, put my photo on top before fusing. Then I placed a few strands around my subjects, making sure the ends overlap with the ends underneath and even allowing some wisps to cover their faces. Cover with parchment paper and lightly hit with the iron just where the fiber sits on top of your photo, fusing it on the edges to the fiber layer below.

This works perfect with home printed photos, the heat won’t bother them at all. I apologize for not trying it on commercial processed photos, but I would think that they would be fine too. I will try it and give you an update later in the comments. If you want to try it, just be sure to keep the top fiber layer thin and it won’t take much heat to fuse them. With a very short dwell time the parchment paper should protect your photo.

You will need to flip the photo over and iron it again to fuse the back layer. This technique makes a nifty sandwich effect. Now you can trim away the fibers that cover your subject with scissors or simply pull them off with your fingers.

This last example uses the fiber in a shape. Place some Fantasy Fiber in the shape of a heart on top of your photo (use a variety of colors), place your hand on top of the heart and slide your photo out from underneath. Place parchment paper on top and press iron over heart for 3 seconds or so. Cut away random strands in middle for a sharp edge, or leave them shaggy for a fluffy effect. Glue onto photo with Designer Dries Clear adhesive.

Now what you do with it is up to you! Add to a scrapbook page, fit inside a Fantasy Film envelope or mount on fabric. It’ll all look fantastic! (P.S...I'll show you the Fantasy Film envelope later!)

Glittery Necklace Holder by Cassandra Midkiff

2012-01-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

I’ve been looking for a way to display some of my favorite vintage necklaces. I wanted it to be arsty and preferably romantic but have never found anything that suited me so I decided to make my own necklace display.

I started with a Manzanita branch that I picked up in my backyard, any interesting and sturdy branch will do. I found one that would fit my 7" by 2 3/4" craft board. Using a paint brush and some diluted Designer Dries Clear adhesive I painted the branch and sprinkled my Ultrafine Transparent glitter in Bronze (#290) on top, after shaking off the excess glitter I sat it aside to dry.

Moving onto my board I found a simple scrapbook paper to act as my background and glued it onto my board and finished the edges with my brown ink pad. I attached some picture frame hangers onto the back, I suggest doing two separate hangers on each corner since the necklaces are heavy. Setting my branch on top I marked off two areas with a pencil where I’d secure the branch with some wire. I drilled holes into the marked spots. Before attaching my branch I smeared some adhesive to the top of my board sprinkled some Movie Star Shapes (Dazzlers #45) on top and then sprinkled it with Ultrafine Transparent glitter in Urchin (#169).

While the board was drying I decided to work on a vintage hummingbird I’ve had for awhile. The bottom feathers of the hummingbird had turned yellow with time and some feathers had been worn in spots so I saw the opportunity to add a little more sparkle to the piece. I used my diluted adhesive and paint brush again painting onto the bird in the discolored spots and on his plastic beak and sprinkled him with Urchin glitter.

Going back to the branch I placed it on top of my board and secured the branch in place through the holes with wire. I then attached the bird to the back with wire onto one of my picture hangers. Next I took some vintage Millinery flowers that I’ve been collecting and attached them with adhesive. Once everything was dry I added my vintage bling and now I have beautiful piece to show off my collection.

Fairy Globe Art by Candy Spiegel

2012-01-03T15:06:00.000-07:00

Last May, at the Great Lakes Mega Meet, I discovered a new product and promptly fell in love … Globecraft Memories. The globes come in kits with chipboard frames that can be layered around a globe — which is perfect for 3-D items.

It’s taken me a while, but I finally put one together using some wonderful products from Art Glitter.

This one was particularly challenging to photograph because of the reflections in the globe, so I’ve included some close up photos to help you see all of the dimension and sparkle in this project.

First, I stamped the fairy (from JudiKins) three times on X-Press It Blending Card and colored each image with Copic Sketch Markers. Then, I cut the three images out and used foam adhesive to attach them together for dimension.

I thought her dress and hat should be really special. I imagined the dress as layers of beaded fringe, so using Designer Dries Clear Adhesive with the Ultrafine Metal Tip, I covered her dress and hat in Small Glass Beads in Clear (810) from Art Glitter.

Then, I added Microfine Transparent Winter White Glitter (711) to the spots on the wings and her socks. Since this glitter is transparent, the color shows through underneath.

I wanted her to have a bit more sparkle, so I added Microfine Transparent in Poupon (717), which is also transparent, to the place where her wings come out from her body.

While that dried, I turned my attention to the frame.

I wasn’t in the mood to trace, cut and sand, so I decided to ink the frame instead of covering it with paper. I used Rusty Hinge Distress Ink to cover each piece. Then, I used stamps from Tim Holtz and Studio 490, along with Ranger Archival Ink, to create pattern.

Next, I used Designer Dries Clear Adhesive to adhere the fairy and the globe to the background, and then to attach each of the frames to the top.

For accents, I covered some Grungeboard flowers from Tim Holtz with Vintage Glass Glitter in Chocolatta (624). (you could use cardstock or chipboard to make your own, if you need to). I glued those to the frame and then found a few dried flowers in my garden and added them. Once the adhesive was dry, I added a bit of twine from May Arts and some additional glue underneath to make it all stay put.

I love the juxtaposition of the Vintage Glass Glitter with the dried flower pods …

(TIP: It takes a bit more time for Designer Dries Clear Adhesive to set up on surfaces other than paper or fabric. So, I took my time and watched television while I held each flower in place and waited for the glue to set. It does adhere beautifully, it just requires a bit more patience than we are used to.)

I covered some additional Grungeboard die cuts (of butterflies and dragonflies) in Ultrafine Transparent Halo (230), Ultrafine Opaque Sand (68) and Ultrafine Opaque Sage (122) and adhered them around the frame.

Finally, I added a few brads and pronounced it finished.

(I received Art Glitter products in exchange for this post)

Gala Glitzy Trees by Laura Fraedrich

2011-12-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

This is the best time of year to stock up on supplies for next year’s holiday projects. I scored these funky wooden trees for about 70% off last year during the local craft store’s Christmas clearance sale. I didn’t know what I was going to do with them at the time, but I knew I’d turn them into something special eventually. An idea popped into my head when I came across them this year in my craft supply closet. It only took a few scrapbooking supplies and some Gala Glitz from the Art Glitter Institute (which, by the way, is my favorite product of theirs) to give these clearance items a new life!

Supplies Needed:

Wooden trees - mine came painted white already, but if yours didn’t, paint them using acrylic paints and let dry.
Two sizes of circle paper punches
Miscellaneous scrapbook paper
Collage medium (I used Collage Pauge)
1” sponge brush
Craft Glue (I used Tacky Glue)
Assorted sizes and colors of plastic buttons (about 20)
Designer Dries Clear adhesive
Gala Glitz in assorted colors (I used red, teal and lavender blue)
Assorted fibers or yarn
Small wooden blocks in various sizes
Ribbon

Instructions:

Punch out two sizes of circles out of your scrapbook papers. Cut out enough to cover most of the tree, leaving little bits of white showing through.

Using the sponge brush, apply a thin layer of collage medium to the tree and lay on the circles. Let dry, then repeat, adding more circles on another layer. When you are satisfied with your circles, apply one last layer of collage medium to seal.

Take the buttons and apply Designer Dries Clear adhesive to their centers, then sprinkle with Gala Glitz. Let dry. Leave some of the buttons plain.

Adhere the buttons randomly on the tree with craft adhesive. Use the largest buttons for the tree toppers.

Wrap several wooden blocks in scrapbook papers and glue into place with craft glue. Wrap ribbons around them and top with one or two tiny plastic buttons. Glue them to the base of the tree (if your tree came with a base).

Wrap a strand of fibers or yarn around the tree and adhere at both ends with a drop of craft glue.

Fantasy Butterfly Pendants by Emily M. Miller

2011-12-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Holidays to all! I just wanted to share with you these pendants I made. It is a small variation of some 4" Fantasy Film butterflies I did a couple of years ago.

These guys are all about 1.5" wide. Above and below are pin versions.

When you make jewelry with Fantasy Film you have to keep in mind that it will be a very light piece. So I added some beads and findings to the bottoms. Actually, some of them are recycled earrings that I don't wear anymore. They worked perfect for this project.

Some have a little bit of Fantasy Fiber in between the Film, like the first one above, this necklace below is just Film. The Fiber gave the butterfly a great texture.

You can't tell by the photos, but I made these pretty thick, at least 5-6 layers of Film. And I ironed them a bit too long. The ink became embossed almost and the colors are just fantastic!

After stamping I mold them over a candle flame just a touch for a little bit of lift. Take a look at my poor old blog (I have neglected it!) for a tutorial on the 4" butterflies. BlogbyEmm.com That will give you a good idea of how I created these.

This one above has fiber in it, can you see the texture difference? I'm very happy with the way they turned out. I'm giving several out at Christmas.

I'm making a class out of this project too, planning on it in February. See more of our classes HERE.

Have a wonderful Holiday Weekend! More fun to come soon!!!

Salt Shaker photo or place tag holders by Cassandra Midkiff

2011-12-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

I’ve seen this idea a few times and have always wanted to add my own “sparkle” to it. I found two vintage glass salt and pepper shakers at my local thrift store. I like items that have some wear and tear to them; I think it adds to their charm.

To begin I took the cap off and rubbed some Designer Dries Clear Adhesive around the edge of it. I then placed it directly into my Apricot Vintage Glass Glitter and rolled on the sparkle, I love the texture and quality of these glitters. I set it aside to dry and began to work on the body of the salt shaker.

I took a small amount of diluted adhesive and added it to the inside of my shaker I put my finger over the top and swirled it around. Next I took about half a teaspoon of my Ultrafine Transparent glitter in Urchin and added it to the inside and also swirled it around until it was coated.

While that was drying I went through some of my vintage rhinestone jewelry to find a piece that would work as a frame if you don’t have any rhinestone jewelry try using a shell, flower, metal finding or making a frame out of glitter. Once I found my perfect piece I used Beacon 527 glue to attach it since it is metal to glass. Again I set it aside to dry and went back to my lid.

I had some jewelry wire lying around so I am not sure the gauge. It is thick enough to stay in place but easy enough to bend with pliers. I twisted it around in a circle twice leaving a “slot” where my photo can go and then attached it to my shaker lid. I can tell this is something I will have to practice on more. I decided the silver was too shiny for my vintage inspired piece and painted it white with an acrylic paint. I didn’t seal the paint and don’t mind if it gets chippy I think it will add to it.

I then went back to the body of the shaker where I had glued my rhinestone frame. I use words from vintage poetry books often so I had some already pre-cut you could always print out your words if that isn’t convenient for you. I placed some of my DDC adhesive inside the rhinestone frame and added my word then took some more Apricot Vintage Glass Glitter and sprinkled it on top.

I rubbed some DDC adhesive all over the top of my shaker lid and sprinkled some Confections Dazzlers on top.

When that was dry I put it all together and viola a charming piece to give as a gift, adorn your home with or as an addition to a party as place holders.

Glitter Ornaments with Transparencies by Candy Spiegel

2011-12-17T18:00:00.000-07:00

I love the sparkle glitter provides. It seems a natural match for Christmas ornaments. But, sometimes I have a hard time getting it to look just right. I’ve watched Barbara Trombley, the owner of Art Glitter, do magnificent creations with glitter and glue, but mine just never seem to turn out as well.

Until I discovered a little secret … If you stamp on an acetate transparency and then put glitter on the back side, you will get a beautiful image without any glitter “mistakes”.

Using a stamp from Holly Berry House, a plastic ornament and some products from Art Glitter, I created this...

Isn’t it amazing!?!

I started by stamping the image on an Acetate Transparency using a Very Black Permanent Stamp Pad. Then, I used my heat tool to set the ink and then punched the center out so it would fit over the top of the ball.

Next, I turned the image over and used the Ultrafine Metal Tip and Designer Dries Clear Adhesive to apply the following glitters: Ultrafine Opaque Berry (4), Ultrafine Opaque True Red (1), Ultrafine Opaque Emerald (48) and Vintage Glass Glitter in Red Damask (608). I also covered the metal top in Ultrafine True Red glitter.

As you work, you’ll see the glue on the front side of the image. However, when it is totally dry, the glue vanishes and all you will see is the glitter.

While that dried, I cut strips of Fantasy Film in Waterfall, crumbled them up and then added them to the inside of the ball.

Once the transparency was dry, I cut out the image and then placed it on top of the ball and then put the clip back in place.

I didn’t like how wide the flower was, so I bent each side and glued the edge of the petal to the ball. This takes some time — Designer Dries Clear Adhesive dries quickly on most surfaces, but attaching glitter to plastic is a bit tough. I used a piece of tape to hold it in place while the glue dried overnight. Since all of the glitter is on the underside, it didn’t cause any damage when I removed it.

Of course, I was so excited with that project, I got a bit carried away and made this one, using the same technique:

For this one, I stamped the image twice and cut the green leaves out of the second one. I glittered them with the same ones mentioned above. However, since this one was keeping its center, I added Microfine Opaque Glitter in Cayman (521) to the center of the top layer only. I did not place any glitter in the center on the bottom image (the one with the green leaves), since I wanted a place to attach the two images together.

Once dry, I cut out both images and used adhesive foam to attach them in the center, to provide a dimensional look. Then, I added Large Glass Beads in Solar (803) to the center of the flower. (The beads are the only thing attached to the top of the transparency, rather than the back side.

Finally, I used my Crop-a-Dile to add an eyelet to the top and then strung a piece of ribbon as a hanger.

I wish you could see the sparkle and dimension in person! It’s beautiful. I hung it on the tree in front of a light to give it even more elegance.

Happy glittering!
(I received Art Glitter products in exchange for this post).

Freehand Glittered Holiday Cards by Barbara Trombley

2011-12-14T15:00:00.000-07:00

What could be easier than a few swishes of the glue bottle, a dash of glitter and voila a beautifully handcrafted holiday card!

Barbara’s Designer Dries Clear adhesive with the Ultrafine Metal Tip attached coupled with her exquisite glitter make her smooth, flowing designs simply divine!

Did you know this is exactly how Barbara got started? By making homemade Christmas cards for friends and family she developed a handmade greeting card business that grew into her glitter manufacturing business of today.

She started out with cheep white glue and that big metallic glitter of old. Soon it was apparent how popular her ideas were and she needed quality materials. Hence the industrial strength Designer Dries Clear adhesive designed by a calligrapher, (Barbara) it is forever flexible and will hold glitter for over 30 years. At least that is how long it has been around, I’m sure it will last longer!

Here’s Barbara sharing her talents with a class of glitter enthusiasts, learning how to freehand holiday designs on cards.

They did a great job!

Barbara’s products have grown so much from just glitter to the organic pleasures of Elements Earth Textures shown in the wreath above. Faux Snow, Glass Beads, Vintage Glass Glitter and even Dazzlers, all favorites for the holiday season!

Speaking of Glitter for the Season…make sure you take advantage of our 25% off all Art Glitter products sale, it will be over soon! We also have free shipping though the month of December. So Get Your Glitter On Now!!!

Visit our SALE page for more details!

For The Love of Zentangles ® by Laura Fraedrich

2011-12-11T18:00:00.000-07:00

I am hopelessly in love with Zentangles®. What's not to love about an art form that has been referred to as 'yoga for the brain'? There's nothing more calming than getting out a Micron marker and sketch pad and mindlessly drawing repeating shapes which will end up turning into an amazing piece of art. I started by trying to draw them myself, then decided to invest in a book that taught me how to draw some patterns. After awhile, I began adding colors to my designs and loved how they contrasted with the black and white patterns of the 'tangle'. I took it a step further by taking a class at Art Unraveled in 2010 with Rena Tucker on how to use Zentangles® to enhance other media such as collage. Shortly thereafter, I started noticing fabrics in the stores that had small black and white repeating patterns and just had to have them. Born were my 'Zentangle® Inspired Art Quilts' (which can be found in the Winter 2012 issue of Sew Somerset).

My latest project is also inspired by this captivating art form. I found some Zentangle-ish paper in the scrapbook section of my local craft store and knew exactly what I was going to do for my first project as a returning guest designer for Art Glitter. May I present to you...

Zentangle® Inspired Glittery Ornaments

How to make them yourself:

Supplies needed:
• paper mache ornament
• black and white patterned scrapbook paper
• collage adhesive
• small sponge brush
• ribbon that is the same width as the side of the ornament
• Designer Dries Clear adhesive
• small wooden letters to spell Joy and/or Love, or whatever other word you choose
• paint that cooridnates with your ribbon
• paintbrush
• coordinating glitter, Gala Glitz and/or Dazzlers Art Glitter
• small jingle bell
• assortment of fibers
• black permanent marker, such as a Sharpie

Instructions:
1. Start with a paper mache ornament, which you can get at your local craft store. Tear up pieces of patterned paper and collage them onto the ornament with a collage adhesive such as Collage Pauge and a small sponge brush. Seal by applying another layer of adhesive. Don't worry about covering up the sides completely (see step 2).

2. Cut a length of ribbon that will wrap all the way around the sides of the ornament. Glue on with Adhesive Dries Clear.

3. Cut a few 4" lengths of coordinating fibers and tie around the hanger of the ornament. Use one of the fibers to tie a jingle bell to it. Make sure you make a tight knot so it stays in place, or use a small dab of glue to hold it.

4. Paint the wooden letters with acrylic paint and let dry.

5. Put a healhy coating of Designer Dries Clear adhesive on top of each letter and sprinkle on the glitter, Gala Glitz or Dazzlers of your choice. I used the following colors:

        Joy - Ultrafine Opaque glitter in Summertree (j and y)
                  and Gala Glitz Teal (o) 
        Love - Vintage Glass Glitter in Thistle (l, v, e)
                    and Dazzlers Fruit Punch (o)

6. Once dry, glue the letters onto the ornament with Designer Dries Clear adhesive and let dry.

The Zentangle® art form and method was created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas and is copyrighted. Zentangle® is a registered trademark of Zentangle, Inc. Learn more at zentangle.com.

Gingerbead & Christmas Tree Garland by Candy Spiegel

2011-12-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

With Thanksgiving behind us, I’m ready for Christmas.

So, when Art Glitter asked me to make a few projects for December, I was excited to get started.
My first project is a miniature gingerbread and Christmas tree garland. It’s simple and cute and perfect for a little trim on a stocking, a table-top Christmas tree or on the edge of a shelf. I hung it on the window sill and it’s adorable.

The nice thing about it, is it is simple enough that the kids can get involved and soon everyone will be sparkly!

I started by cutting out gingerbread men and trees using dies from QuicKutz (Lifestyle Crafts). For the gingerbread men, I smeared Designer Dries Clear adhesive over the front of the die cut and then sprinkled Elements in Carrot (3) over the top. I love the dimension that Elements add and I must admit, Carrot is one of my favorites. Sometimes it is gold, sometimes orange and sometimes brown, but always fabulous!

(If you’ve never used Elements, they are organic compounds that have a bit of glitter added to them so they sparkle. They come in a variety of earth hues and smell wonderful, but since they are made from organic elements, they are not safe for your scrapbook. They are great for cards and other craft projects. Always spray with an acrylic or matt spray when dry to preserve.)

Anyhow, while the men were drying, I turned my attention to the trees, again covering all of the die cut except the trunk with Designer Dries Clear and then sprinkled them with Emerald Ultrafine Opaque Glitter (48). Once dry, I covered the trunk with Elements Sediment (27). If you click on the photo for a closer view, you can see the dimension it adds to the trunk.

Then, I added the Ultrafine Metal Tip to my Designer Dries Clear Adhesive and made tiny ornaments on the tree and buttons on the gingerbread men with Ultrafine Opaque True Red (1).

Then, I went through with Ranger’s Liquid Pearls and added eyes and frosting trim to the gingerbread men.

Once dry, I turned them all over and added a drop of Designer Dries Clear adhesive to the back of each one and then stuck on a piece of We R Memory Keepers’ twine, as you can see in the photo below.

I think they turned out rather cute, don’t you?

Ornament Favors by Cassandra Midkiff

2011-12-04T18:00:00.000-07:00

Every year around this time I try to think of little tokens of appreciation for my family that show them I care but are not too expensive. This year I’ve come up with tag/ornaments. On one side they have the too/from and on the other a beautifully decorated little piece ready to hang on their tree.

I found these inexpensive papermache ornaments at my local craft store for $.99. I covered the ornament with my Designer Dries Clear adhesive and put a vintage sheet of poetry paper on top. After cutting off the excess paper I dry brushed some white acrylic paint on top so the words show through lightly. Next I tore some green scrapbook paper to act as my ground and glued it into place; I took the same paper and glued it to the back of my ornament as well adding my to and from in pen. Taking my brown ink pad I gently went around the edges of the ornament to give it an aged look. I then took some pom-pom trim and glued it around the edge of my ornament, you can also paint this area if it is easier for you.

With my background in place I put down more Designer Adhesive along the top of my green “ground” and using my small spoon shook some Faux Snow on top. When that was dry I went back and put another line of glue and sprinkled Confection Dazzlers on top.

While it was drying I cut out my deer and poinsettia pictures. I glued some illustration board to the back of both to give my piece some dimension. I tied a little red and white thread around my deer’s neck and then using the designer adhesive outlined the deer’s bell and sprinkled Ultrafine Opaque Hologram Glitter #136 Chromosphere on top. I also outlined his ears and the top of his back and put some more Confection Dazzlers to make it look as though he had been snowed on.

I always like to use vintage items on my pieces when I can and recently found some vintage millinery stamen and some plastic holly berry leaves. I combined the two and glued it to my ornament. Once it was dry I put down more adhesive and sprinkled it with Gala Glitz in Silver my personal favorite.

I added glue to my poinsettia and sprinkled it with Chunky Opaque Hologram Glitter #332 Red Rocket. I added some sequins and a few drops and sprinkles of Confection Dazzlers to act as my snow. Then I glued everything into place. Once that was finished I added some vintage mercury bulbs to the top of the ornament.

Now it is ready to attach to your gift! A truly sweet little keepsake for someone you care about. I’ve included the deer image for your crafting projects.

Introducing Art Glitter Guest Designers

2011-12-01T14:01:00.001-07:00

Oh boy, it's time for New Art Glitter Designers again! And again we are pulling from our family of past designers. Please click on their names below and take a trip down memory lane.

Candy Spiegel

Cassandra Midkiff

Laura Fraedrich

Speaking of memory lane. Let me take this opportunity to thank our last set of Designers. Their works of art will sparkle for all time!

Lori Mendenhall

Diana Gonzalez

Clare Dempsey

We also want to thank our family of customers! We are offering FREE SHIPPING the month of December for orders of $30 or more shipped via Priority Mail in the Continental U.S. with coupon code: DECFS2011

Enjoy!

Clear Glass Ornaments with Art Glitter!

2011-11-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

Clear Glass Balls are so fun to decorate! There are so many ways to do it! We filled some of these bulbs above with Fantasy Fiber and Film - No Glue Required! These are so fast to do you can't believe it. A couple of them have ribbon that has a touch of glitter on it pushed inside. Beautiful!

Or you can completely cover them with glitter. But the question is to glitter inside (like above) or outside (like below). Let your whims lead you!

Glittering the outside of a bulb is simple, paint on your Designer Dries Clear adhesive with your favorite type of brush (I usually use a foam brush) and spoon the glitter on while the adhesive is wet, white and shiny. Then either hang your ornament to dry or place it in your glitter tray, being sure the sides do not touch anything other than glitter while drying. Should only take half an hour to an hour to dry.

To glitter inside a bulb you need watered down Designer Dries Clear adhesive. You can go pretty thin when using Art Glitter Ultrafine colors or Dazzlers. However the heaver the glitter, like our Vintage Glass Glitter, Gala Glitz or Glass Beads, the thicker you will want your glue. If your glitter/beads are too heavy, they will slide to top or bottom of bulb, however you are holding it.

I put some watered down DDC in an old 2oz bottle with the black spout on and squeezed the glue inside the ball. Rolled the ball around until the inside was covered with glue. Next I held the open end of the ball over a tray and let the excess drip out. This can take a while depending on how much glue you used. So I set my bulb in an egg carton for about 5-10 minutes. This works great if you are doing several at a time, by the time you have 5 or more setting upside down, dripping, your first one is ready to glitter.

Now all you have to do is spoon or funnel in the glitter and roll around inside of ball until it is covered. Pour out excess. If you didn't let enough excess glue drip out, you will have some glitter/glue balls slide out into your clean glitter. If this happens, just let glitter/glue ball dry and take out of your glitter.

Let your ornament dry without top on. It will take anywhere from 1.5 to 5 days to dry completely inside. The thicker the glue, the longer it takes to dry.

Fantastic and fun! Go to our Fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/ArtGlitter and post a picture of your glittered ornament, enjoy!

A Scrap Bookers Book Purse by Clare Dempsey

2011-11-23T12:14:00.001-07:00

One of the members of my scrap booking guild has been asking me to teach a class on how to make a purse from a book. With Christmas approaching, I thought now would be the perfect time to try this project out. And if you know me, I love purses, Art Glitter and making gifts! I visited my thrift store and purchased some books for future book purses and figure I can make this project for $5.00 or less with careful shopping! I have also been admiring the rose purses on the market, but they are always so big and expensive. So, here is my take on the book purse.

I started by choosing a book, and I chose a scrap book. Now, this might seem to miss the whole book point, but I love a handbag with photos on the outside! And this scrap book from Target had an outside photo (around $15.00). I then Googled Book Purse tutorials and found at least five. My favorite was this one from Hungry Panda Clothing: http://www.hungrypanda.net/blog/2010/02/book-purse-tutorial.

I used her instructions for cutting out the insides, adding handles, and added a flap with my Art Glitter embellishment. The purse handles I purchased at Joann Fabrics with a coupon. I like a handbag that is pretty on both the front and the back. To make the flower, I cut a strip of fabric an inch wide and ran a basting stitch down the center. Using the Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive, I ran a bead on both raw edges of the strip. I added Art Glitter #79 Black Ultrafine Opaque Glitter and allowed it to dry. I then gathered the strip to form a ruffle. Starting in the center of a piece of felt, I hot glued the ruffle in a circle along the stitch line working in small portions at a time (about 1“). I then hot glued this to my purse flap.

For the book lining piece, I needed access to swap out that photo. I like to change the photo my season. So, I got out my trusty Vogue sewing book and made myself a bound button hole. Yes, that tailoring class I took in my fashion design program helped, but a standard buttonhole stitch would work too! Because I wanted access to change that photo I varied from the instructions on the Hungry Panda by making my purse liner removable with hook and loop tape. And I chose not to make a hook and loop tape closure as I added the flap. Another fun idea, is to make different purse linings for this purse for each season. Because it is held in place with hook and loop tape you can swap it out. And if you need a gift idea for the next holiday, you’re all set! Mother’s and grandmothers are so hard to shop for, but mine love a hand made gift! I am also including a side view of the purse and a view of the purse with it wide open.

Supplies Used
 Scrap book (Target)
Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive
Art Glitter #79 Black Ultrafine Opaque Glitter
Purse handles (JoAnn Fabrics)
Fabric
Hook and Loop Tape
Felt
Sewing machine
Thread
Exacto Knife
Scissors

Fantasy Film Heart by Lori Mendenhall

2011-11-16T16:00:00.000-07:00

We crafters are so fortunate to have a wide variety of gorgeous materials available! The colors, the textures, the shapes give us so many opportunities to create unique and beautiful things. I really love the effects you get with Fantasy Film – use it for a great play of color and texture.

For this project I crumpled up some Art Glitter Fantasy Film in Krista’s Eyes color. Crumpling gives the light lots of surface area to bounce off. I used two layers because I wanted deeper color and more depth.

I used some metal stain to color the inside of the heart pendant blank/bezel.

Then using Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear adhesive I glued down both layers of the Fantasy Film into the blank. I weighted it down while drying to make sure the film stayed in place.

This alone would make a beautiful simple pendant. But I chose to add a few more elements and use the Fantasy Film as the background. This seahorse charm was the absolute perfect one! I further accented with Dazzlers, Borealis #D26 and Dazzlers, Movie Stars #D45 and some wire.

Topping it with resin gives it that professional look while locking everything in. (I use Easy Cast epoxy). Let cure for 3 days.

Use this technique to create a stunning, and completely unique, pendant which can be used for a necklace, backpack pull, key chain, magnet, or brooch.

Note: I was given product in exchange for this article..

Glittery Jar of Delight by Diana Gonzalez

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

Recently, I acquired about 2 lbs or so of Red Glitter (by Art Institute Glitter, it was on sale, and it still is HERE). So, I put it together with sentiment stickers from a past Sampler Kit, and little bottles by Tim Holtz, and some hemp rope, and came up with this:

I antiqued the jar, by rubbing a nail file onto it, and all around the sides. The nail file is one of those rough and tough ones that you use on acrylic or false nails.

That’s all, really. I glued the cork to the jar, and wrapped a little bit of hemp rope around the rim, then glued the sentiment, “delight” because really, what else do you call a tiny little jar filled with glitter, right?

Oh, and of course wondrous, fabulous, amazing red glitter by Art Institute Glitter.
Then, a jump ring, and chain put it all together.

Thanksgiving Hostess Gift by Clare Dempsey

2011-11-08T18:00:00.000-07:00

I love to bring a little something for the hostess on Thanksgiving! I know how much work goes into cooking for this holiday and love to have a little thank you for the cook! This year, I will be bringing a pin I made with Art Glitter and organza. And just so the host does not feel left out, I will pin it to a ribbon and tie the ribbon around a bottle of their favorite beverage!

Supplies:
Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Glitter #343 Chestnut
Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive
Brown Organza fabric cut 3” x 42”
Thread
Sewing Machine
Low Temp Glue Gun
Pretty Button
Chipboard 2 inch circle
Brown Felt 2 inch circle
Pin back

Start by cutting your organza. I actually used a roll of organza I found at JoAnn’s and cut it 21 inches long. I then cut it in half lengthwise, so that I had two strips 3 inches wide by 21 inches long. I overlapped my two strips by an inch and ran a basting stitch down the center lengthwise.

I then added a bead of glue using Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive and sprinkled on my Chestnut glitter. Shake off excess and allow to dry. I pulled my basting thread so that the finished length of the strip was 14” and folded the strip in half.

I followed the instructions on the Maya Road Flower video HERE.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez6MLD_hTDc
Some tips for the organza instead of ribbon:
    •    Tie a knot at both ends after to gather and clip off the lose threads before gluing with the hot glue gun.
    •    Don’t wrap your center too tight or you won’t have a good space for your button. Use a hole about the size of a pencil in the middle of your flower.
    •    You will have to fold your organza in half as you go.

Here is a close up of the finished flower pin.

I just used more of the organza strip to tie a bow around the bottle and then pinned the flower to the center.

Glitter-Backed Mini Mosaic by Lori Mendenhall

2011-11-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

I love making mosaics, but they take a long time to complete – and I don’t like grouting. So to get around my impatience I make mini-mosaics. But instead of traditional glass/tile and grout I go for the mixed media look incorporating glass, metal, pearls, and glitter. So cute, fun, and quick!

Here’s how to put together one of these sparkly mini mosaics:

1. Start with a pendant blank (bezel). I like to purchase these from Etsy. Coat the entire bezel with clear-drying glue such as Art Glitter’s Designer Dries Clear Adhesive. Then fill the whole area with glitter and shake out the excess. In this piece I used Art Glitter Chunky Opaque Hologram, Comet, #251. Let dry.

2. This glitter is extremely sparkly so I chose muted materials to balance it out. I lined the edges with tiny glass tiles. To make it more interesting I added some pearls. In the center I used a copper charm – don’t forget to snip off the ring. My final touch was a couple of wire spirals. I didn’t want to leave too much glitter showing because it might be overpowering. Had I used a less intense glitter I might have left more exposed. The artist gets to decide what is “right” – I love that, don’t you?

3. Once you pick your elements and are happy with their placement, glue them down. Let dry thoroughly. This is very important because any remaining moisture can ruin your resin and therefore your whole piece.

3. Fill your bezel with resin. I use casting resin. The kind you buy at the craft store is fine, just be sure to buy the epoxy resin and not the polyester kind. Let cure overnight until hard, and three days for a full cure.

Note, I received product in exchange for the write-up of this project.

Glitter Fabric Frame Fun by Emily M. Miller

2011-11-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Dia de los Muertos to you all! Day of the Dead has become a favorite holiday of mine. Living in Arizona for the past 20 years has put me in tune with the traditions for this holiday celebrated in Mexico and around the world in many cultures. The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died. It is particularly celebrated in Mexico, where it attains the quality of a National Holiday. The celebration takes place on November 1st and 2nd, in connection with the Catholic holidays of All Saints' Day (November 1) and All Souls' Day (November 2). Traditions connected with the holiday include building private altars honoring the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds, and the favorite foods and beverages of the departed and visiting graves with these as gifts. (I copied all this from Wikipedia)

I love all the imagery and wonderful colors that remind me of Mexico and Day of the Dead. When I saw this material I just had to glitter it! I wanted to put it in a recycled 5 x 7 frame I had, but 5 x 7 didn’t showcase the material enough. So I covered the frame with it too! This can be done with any size frame.

Take out the back cardboard in your frame. Center it over the backside of your fabric and trace around it. Then move in at least ½ inch in on all sides and draw another rectangle. This inner rectangle is the one you will cut out and place in the center of your back cardboard. With fabric scissors cut out rectangle and 4 sides as shown by blue lines below. This does not have to be perfect, I repeat, it does not have to be perfect!

Lay rectangle on cardboard and place into frame to get an idea of where it should go. Draw guide lines at corners of fabric and take out of frame. Pour some Designer Dries Clear adhesive into a tray and add a few drops of water. Using a foam brush paint glue onto cardboard in between guide lines. You don’t have to be perfect here either, just close to the edges. Hold your fabric over glue and lay it down. Again, it doesn’t have to be perfect! Do you see a pattern forming?

Paint glue onto remaining edges of cardboard and glitter with Ultrafine Opaque #79 Black. Set aside to dry.

Lay remaining 4 fabric sides on frame to see where they need to go. Slide them down far enough to go just around the inside edge of frame and to make sure all the diagonals cover frame. We are only concerning ourselves with the front and the sides of the frame, we will take care of the back later. And guess what, it doesn’t have to be perfect! Paint glue on one side at a time and glue rest of fabric onto frame.

Use backside of frame as your guide and cut off remaining fabric…doesn’t have to be perfect! Using your Designer Dries Clear bottle with the Ultrafine Metal Tip attached, glue down corners as if you were wrapping a present, it there is excess over hanging cut it off before gluing. Smash and smooth fabric corners into place (you’ll understand when your doing it, it works great!). I have covered countless frames and even wood furniture this way and the DDC really hold the fabric for ages!

Take your double-sided Sticky Tape and run it along fabric ends. Lay the sticky tape down one side at a time and remove the protective red covering first before moving on to next side. Then glitter exposed tape with #79 Black.

Now you can go back to your cardboard piece and start glittering it. First straighten your fabric edges with Sticky Tape just like above. This time I glittered it with Dazzler #D15 Sea Nymph and filled in with Ultrafine Pearlescent #185 Varsity Blue.

Glitter your fabric as desired. Start with your darkest color first and keep going until all colors are done. Here’s what I used, in this order: Ultrafine Pearlescent colors - #175 Retro Red, #186 Purple Polkadot, #185 Varsity Blue, #182 Astro Turf, #178 Duck Tail. Ultrafine Transparent colors - #94 Key Lime, #93 Lemone.

Set aside and glitter frame in same manner, doing one side at a time, allowing each side to dry some before moving onto next side. Let dry completely.

Assemble frame. You can use spacers made from black foam core if you want your cardboard piece to be recessed. As you can see, my finished one isn't "Perfect", but it'll do just fine! Enjoy!

Recycled Journal Remade by Diana Gonzalez

2011-10-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Recently I had shown you a set of journals that I had made. Well, today, I decided to play around with them a bit more, and get a little more crafty with them. So I remade one of them. I hope you like it.

Well, so there it is. Do you like it? The flowers are crocheted, of course. I used Fantasy Film and Fantasy Fiber, by Art Institute Glitter, and some little cabochons in the middle there, of the flowers.

I LOVE that fantasy film! It’s so cool! This time, I crinkled it up, and THEN I ironed it (in between two pieces of parchment paper).

And of course, the fantasy fiber. I used a forest green shade of film, and glued it over some pink paper, and actually it looks really cool. Then, I added fantasy fiber, that was in a clear(ish) blue shade.

Then, I added that tissue tape, by Tim Holtz and the crocheted flowers by me. And the Cabochons. Now, this journal is ready to be used!

Using Glitter Lace Technique on Fabric by Clare Dempsey

2011-10-25T18:00:00.000-07:00

I love the Art Glitter Videos, and one of my favorites is the Glitter Lace Card by Barbara Trombley. You can find the video here. This week I set out to see if I could get the same look on fabric. The look is a bit more subtle, but just as beautiful with Art Glitter!

Here is what you will need to make this card:
Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive
Another Glue that dries tacky such as The Rubber Café or Zig 2 Way glue
Art Glitter Polyester Lace
Art Glitter 343 Chestnut Ultrafine Opaque Glitter
Art Glitter 86 Angel Dust Ultrafine Transparent Glitter
Art Glitter 295 Ensalada Ultrafine Transparent Glitter
Ivory Canvas Fabric
Ivory Calico Fabric
Assorted Ribbons
Metallic cardstock

Cut a piece of canvas at least 1 “ larger than your Art Glitter lace sheet on all sides. This is more than you will need for your card, but will allow for cutting later. Press any wrinkles out of your fabric and allow to cool. Working on top of a sheet of Parchment paper (shiny side up) or a Teflon craft mat, apply your dries tacky glue and smooth over the surface of your ivory canvas fabric. Here is a photo of the canvas fabric with the dried glue.

You will want good coverage so that the surface for the lace will be flat when glue dries. Allow to dry overnight. In the morning, remove the canvas from the Parchment paper and apply the Art Glitter Lace on top of the glue. Because these glues dry tacky you will be able to reuse your Art Glitter lace later! Smooth the lace onto fabric and make sure it is adhering well. Begin by pouring your darker color first (for this card Chestnut) and tap off the excess. You will want to see the video for the specifics! Then remove lace and poor on the Angel Dust glitter. Highlight the flower centers with the Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive and apply the Ensalada color. Allow to dry.

Cut the card base with metallic cardstock. Cut the calico smaller than the card base and pull a few threads on every side to achieve a frayed look. Glue the calico onto the card base with the Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive. Glue the glittered lace fabric on top using the Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive also. Make a banner with a bit of ribbon and your scissors using the same AG Fabric glue. Tie a box and apply ribbons to the card with Glue dots on the back side of the card. I love the shabby chic combined with the glamour of the glitter!

Glow in the Dark Glittered Earrings by Emily M. Miller

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to glitter these plain earrings with Art Glitter's #143 Glow in the Dark Glitter and I finally did it! I was worried about the detail on the teeth not showing, then it dawned on me. All I had to do was wipe away the glitter around the teeth before it dried. Which I accomplished with the glue tip pin.

I had wanted to take a photo of them with someone wearing them, but it was impossible. Have you ever tried to take a photo of something in the dark? The whole 'no light' thing is a definite hindrance! So this is the best I could get, there's still a little light, hence the shadow. But I promise the glitter really does glow in the dark!

The photo below shows how they looked before, very plain, but a nice white background for the glitter. Which is important for our Glow In The Dark glitter. If you have a transparent or very dark surface you want to glow use our Designer Dries White adhesive. This will give you a good solid white background for glowing results!

This surface resisted the glue quite a bit so I prepared it by cleaning with Rubbing Alcohol first, then I gave it a quick coat of glue and let it dry. Next, I painted on another layer of glue and glittered it. This method usually works pretty well. Even if you find your 'primer' layer of glue resists a little, it will hold with the second coat. If your surface is still resistant, you can rough it up with sandpaper, that usually does the trick!

Here's how they look in normal light. I love the texture with just a hint of twinkle! Really fun. Don't forget that you have to expose Glow in the Dark materials to a strong light source for them to work. We had a debate about using natural light vs. light bulb so I googled it, didn't find an answer. But did find out that the study of phosphorescent materials led to the discovery of radioactivity in 1896. Learn something new every day with google!

Are you using any glitter on a costume this year? Sometimes I just dust myself with an ultrafine transparent glitter for a nice overall shimmer. Hope you have a sparkling and safe night!

Glass Glitter Sale - Perfect for Ornaments!

2011-10-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Have you started getting ready for the Holidays yet? Well, I haven't yet either really, these are photos from last year! But you can officially let your plans begin by sprucing up your old ornaments with our Vintage Glass Glitter on Sale! We have a fabulous selection of 3oz jars we just added to our Overstock Sales.

The 3 ounce jars are usually $24.50 and while supplies last you can get these (see sale colors here) for only $12.25! That's right, half off!

The bulbs above are just plain ornaments painted with Designer Dries Clear adhesive and covered in Art Glitter's Vintage Glass Glitter (the red one has some Glass Beads on it too). This is real German Glass Glitter cut from glass films. It has a slightly different appearance than the Ultrafine Glitter, kind of an antique sophistication. It is called "Vintage" because it will age and fade with time. If you do not want an aged look just spray your dry project with a clear acrylic spray, or spray lacquer (both found in spray paint aisles).

We recommend you do not handle the glass glitter with your fingers, please use a spoon at all times. And it is not suitable for children to use. Now go get some glass glitter and let your holidays begin!

Glittery Mermaid by Lori Mendenhall

2011-10-14T15:00:00.000-07:00

I use a lot of brass stampings in my work. They generally are silver-plated, gold-plated or raw brass. They also come oxidized or shiny. These stampings can be beautiful, as you can see the mermaid below. In order to give her more interest and give my pendant sparkle and more pizzazz, I embellished her tail with glitter! While it’s a subtle look it does really make the piece much more special.

I found this gorgeous mermaid at VintageJewelrySupplies.com. First I used Designer Dries Clear adhesive along with #86 Angel Dust, Ultrafine Transparent on the mermaid’s tail. Using transparent is really important so that you can still see the details on the stamping. The Angel Dust gives just enough sparkle and iridescence to accent the tail without overpowering. Let glue dry thoroughly.

You might be surprised at what I used for the setting – it’s an empty make-up tin! I buy them in bulk from TKB Trading. I put in the mermaid and filled in around her with seed beads, pearls, and glass.

I then encased the whole thing in resin. I love the resin with these glittered stampings because I feel secure that the glitter will never come off and it’s a higher-quality piece of jewelry.

Once the resin cured I glued on a bail.

You can see the same technique used on the fairy wings in the mosaic below. Adding glitter to butterfly or dragonfly wings would look amazing too!

Note, I received free product in exchange for this article. However, I’ve been using Art Glitter products for years and love them!

A Gilded Jewelry Box by Diana Gonzalez

2011-10-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

So recently I made a fun little item. I had ordered some amber beads on ebay (to make a teething necklace), and decided to turn the box it came in, into a pretty jewelry box, for someone to receive this Christmas (along with jewelry inside, duh).

Sorry for the crud picture. Wow, crud. I haven’t used that word since I was in high school. How about that. Maybe I’m getting old, eh?

Cute, eh? I made this using some acrylic paint, and a typewriter font rubber stamp.

After that, I used some wondrous Fantasy Fiber by Art Institute Glitter. What I did, was spread out some fantasy fiber sandwiched between two layers of parchment paper, and just ironed it.

Then, I just glued it on, with Art Glitter's Designer Dries Clear adhesive, and stamped it again with the typewriter font rubber stamp and some black ink. Then, I found this lovely keyhole trinket (by Tim Holtz) that I also glued on with Designer Dries Clear.

What else?

Food tastes better and worst when you’re pregnant. You’re favorite stuff tastes better, and the bad stuff tastes even worst. But then, I am a foodie. I really am. There’s nothing better than staying home on a cool autumn night, with your family, while you cook and make a nice meal together. It’s so gratifying to know that I make better chocolate cake than most coffee shops in New York City. This of course, makes me wonder who the heck they have working back there. I went to a “cupcake” cafe near my most favoritest pizza places in manhattan, and ordered a red velvet cupcake, which of course, tasted dry, nasty and nothing like a real red velvet cupcake. Sad. So that weekend, I went and made one myself.

Anyway, that’s all for now, I suppose. Keep on crafting! And I do reccomend that Fantasy Fiber, that stuff is so darned cool. You can iron it, stamp it, use your heat gun on it….so cool!

Later, crafty peeps.

Holiday & Party Lights for Less! by Clare Dempsey

2011-10-07T18:00:00.000-07:00

I love a look for less, and these days we are all looking for ways to stretch our dollar! So, I pulled out my salad packaging again to decorate for Halloween and make some custom lights with Art Glitter! You could use triangle boxes for Candy Corn lights like it did, or Christmas Trees! I used my Cricut Tags, Bags and Boxes and More cartridge to cut the triangle box. This cartridge has some great purse boxes that would make great lights for a little girl’s birthday party too! You could use a box shape for ABC blocks for a baby shower. Any box shape could be adapted to the make the perfect custom lights with Art Glitter! So, let’s get started on the how to’s!

Supplies:
Salad Packaging or other Packaging
Box Template, or Cricut or other electronic Cutter, or Sizzix Die
Art Glitter Dries Clear Adhesive
Art Glitter 56 Pumpkin Ultrafine Opaque Glitter
Art Glitter 92 Bananan Ultrafine Transparent Glitter
Art Glitter 86 Angel Dust Ultrafine Transparent Glitter
Low Temp Glue Gun with Glue Sticks
Paper Hole Punch
Strand of lights
Paper Scoring tool
Scissors

Cutting & Scoring your Box Light:
Cut the lips off the lids from salad packaging or some other packaging, so that your packaging lies flat, using a scissors. You will need one top per light bulb. The edges will be sharp, so be careful! Cut your box shape from the packaging using a template or electronic cutter such as a Cricut. If you use an electronic cutter, try the deep cut housing blade and or the multi-cut function to get through your packaging material. Sizzix also has some box templates that cut through packaging like butter! Punch a hole with a regular paper hold punch where you want your lights to be inserted. I chose the center of my triangle box (see photo).

Once, the box is cut, I scored it. I have found that if I fold my box after the glitter is applied it messes up the glitter and creates more glitter dust. So, I score first and glue second.

Gluing your Box Light:
To glue your glitter, start by applying the glue to the box where you want your darkest colors first, being sure to leave your box flaps free of glue and glitter for gluing and assembling later. Sprinkle on the glue, shake off excess and carefully dust the unglued plastic with Swiffer cloth. I have found that the glitter likes to cling to my plastic more than to paper, so I keep a box of Swiffer clothes handy in my craft room! Continue gluing in this manner applying one color of Art Glitter at a time. Since the box is scored, you will need to weight the edges to keep the box flat while your glue dries.

And for your convenience, I did a glue review! If you are a serious crafter, you have some serious opinions and loyalty to your glue! This is how I feel about the Art Glitter Dries Clear Glue: It’s the best for glitter! In this comparison, I tried the Terrifically Tacky Tape by PC and found that did not hold as much glitter and was not as rich. Take a look at these lights and you will see how much more glitter is held in place by the Art Glitter Dries Clear Glue! The light on the left was created with the Art Glitter dries clear Adhesive and the one of the left was created with the Terrifically Tacky Tape.

Once your Art Glitter Dries Clear Glue is dry, you can finish gluing your box together with the low temp glue gun. Then just insert your lights through your punched hole and you have a great custom look for less!

Fantasy Fiber Fairy Pendant by Lori Mendenhall

2011-10-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Since it’s almost Halloween, I thought this piece would be a perfect project for October. This sassy lady is all decked out in her peacock fairy queen outfit! The idea of this project is to find a great piece of clip art with Fantasy Fiber as a gorgeous background. The project would work just as well using Fantasy Film as a background! The artwork is then enclosed between glass and faux soldered using epoxy clay.

Let’s get started!

1. To begin with I found a fantastic piece of clip art. Etsy can be a really good source for this. I think this one came from Simply Swank. I printed the picture on cardstock and cut it out. In some cases I would add glitter highlights to the clip art.

2. To make the background, I fused some Art Glitter Fantasy Fiber in Ultra Violet. Two layers are used here because my sheet was too thin and I wanted it to be opaque. I cut out two squares from the fused Fantasy Fiber sheet.

3. I layered the Fantasy Fiber squares and the fairy cut-out on top of a clear piece of glass. This is Memory Glass by Ranger. Then I added a few pieces of Art Glitter’s Movie Star Shapes for a subtle accent. I glued the pieces down using a tiny amount of Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive with the Ultrafine Metal Tip. The corresponding glass square went on top to make a sandwich.

4. Using silver-colored Apoxie Sculpt epoxy clay I did some faux soldering. This idea came from Carmie Cimicata in a write-up she did for the John Bead blog. I have made/sold hundreds of pieces of jewelry using Apoxie Sculpt. It has similar properties to polymer clay, yet it air dries and it sticks to everything – as opposed to polymer clay, which requires glue to adhere embellishments. I used a thick snake of Apoxie Sculpt and wrapped it around my glass sandwich.

5. I then stuck some jump rings into the top. This is much easier than soldering! I’m not too bad with soldering except I have a hard time getting the jump rings on so I really appreciate the ease of this method.

6. I impressed some spirals, suns and flowers into the clay to give lots of interesting texture.

7. I then dusted the clay with Mona Lisa silver metal powder. Carmie’s method uses gilder’s paste to give the metallic sheen.

8. My final embellishments were some Swarovski crystal flatbacks and silver wire spirals.

9. The piece air-dries in a couple of hours. Seal the metallic powder with a sealant. I used Future floor polish.

Note, I received free product in exchange for this article. However, I’ve been using Art Glitter products for years and love them!

Halloween & Holiday Glitter Sales at Art Glitter

2011-09-30T18:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Glittering All! The Art Glitter crew is doing well. We are busy with the changing seasons. I’m in shock really, October is here and Halloween is so close it’s SCARY! To help you get ready we have added a nice selection of Halloween colors to our Overstock Sales going on. 1oz jars for only $6.60 and 4 Monochromatic Pee Wee Kits for only $9.99. Perfect for the holidays! See these sales here…

Speaking of sales, we still have Kooky Kolors for Toni in stock. Boy, with all these colors to choose from you can make a nice inexpensive pallet of Art Glitter colors for yourself! No one is happier about spreading the sparkle than Toni, our veteran salesperson who had a stroke early this summer. She is back in town and doing wonderfully! She’s not quite ready for work yet, but hopefully soon. She and Art Glitter thank you for all your well wishes and donations. See her special sale here…

But wait you say, you have all these colors and want something else? What would you say to 20% off any 1/4 oz jar you want? Yes! Join Art Glitter’s Texting Group and receive 20% off 1/4 oz glitter jars! What’s a texting group? It’s an easy, fast want for you to stay up to date with what’s new at Art Glitter and receive exclusive deals.

Call 90210, text the word “artglitter” to opt in and learn how to get 20% off your favorite Art Glitter Quarter Ounce Colors! Then go shopping and type in your text code in the comments field while checking out and we’ll apply your discount when your order is ready to ship.

Not "into" texting? Give us a quick email and we’ll set you up! But hurry to opt in if you can, Membership Space is limited!

Whew, that's a lot of sales! Better not wear myself out before I get my decorating done, Enjoy!

Pink Fantasy Earrings by Diana Gonzalez

2011-09-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

Recently I agreed to work with Art Institute Glitter. No sooner did I get my shipment of art supplies in the mail, then I was already at work, creating. So I made a pair of earrings.

Are these not the coolest earrings you’ve ever seen in your life? Oh man, I love them. And I love working with Art Institute Glitter. Not just because I love glitter, mind you. They have some unique supplies, and are a fun and easy company for an artist to work with. It’s nice when that happens.
I made these with their Fantasy Film. Oh my god, why didn’t anyone tell me about this stuff sooner? I LOVE it, so much!

To work with fantasy film, took my brown pigment ink stamp pad, and a rubber stamp with typewriter font. I stamped it, let it dry a bit, then crinkled it up. Then, I took a few pieces of film, and sandwiched it between two layers of parchment paper (parchment paper is a crafter’s best friend-it goes right up there with glue and glue sticks).

And then, I ironed it. I forgot to look at what setting I used. But experiment, I say!

Then, I cut out 1″ holes with a paper punch, and made these lovely earrings. Cute, eh? You can CLICK HERE to PURCHASE. And yes, I will be making more in a few different colors.

Steampunk Glass Shards Pendant by Lori Mendenhall

2011-09-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

When I got my hands on my first jar of glass shard glitter I knew I had to own every color! I love the chunky, yet refined sparkly look it gives my projects. My favorite thing to do with the glass shards is to encase them in resin.

The steampunk look is still in – especially pieces using gears. The large gear, along with the unique glass shards, gives this design its edgy flavor.

Here is how I made this piece:

1. Fill a pendant blank with glass shard glitter. Shown is Art Glitter Vintage Glass Glitter in Amber, #908.

2. Carefully encase the glitter with resin. When the resin sets up a bit, place the large gear on top. This gear is from Ranger’s Tim Holtz Ideology line.

3. Place a flatback Swarovski crystal in the center of the gear where the little hole is. Be cautious not to get resin on top of the crystal or it will ruin the reflection of the crystal.

4. Be sure to check back after a few hours to make sure nothing has shifted. If it has, use a toothpick to nudge it back into place. Set aside to cure for at least 24 hours.
5. Once the pendant is completely cured, create a cute accent dangle. This is simply a pearl on a brass headpin. I like a simple dangle here so as to not detract from the focal point.

Note, I received free product in exchange for this article. However, I’ve been using Art Glitter products for years and love them!

Fabulous Fall Leaf Pins by Clare Dempsey

2011-09-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

I think you’re never too old to play in Fall Leaves. The trees here are already changing and the colors are wonderful! So this year, I set out to capture that color and beauty with Art Glitter in jewelry. I started by cutting my leaves using SCAL2 on my Cricut and the Art Glitter Transparency sheets. It cut like a dream, but if you don’t have a Cricut, just hand cut a leaf or cut it with another die such as Sizzix.

I creased my transparency down the center a bit to make my leaf more natural looking. I then used the Art Glitter Dries Clear Adhesive with the Ultrafine glue tip and laid down the glue where the veins of the leaf would be in green.

I then added more Art Glitter Dries Clear Adhesive in between the veins. I carefully poured one color at a time, starting at the outside and working in to the center. This was allowed to dry completely and then I added Ranger Glossy Accents on the top of the glitter one half of the leaf at a time. The Glossy Accents caused my leaf tips to curl, just like an actual leaf on one side. I applied the Glossy Accents one side at a time, because the transparency sheet was already creased, and I wanted the GA to dry evenly. Once the first side was dry, I added Glossy Accents to the second side and allowed it to dry. Be sure to pop any air bubbles after you add the Glossy Accents before it dries! I did have to coax the curl into the second side while the Glossy Accents was still a bit soft.

I then added a pin back from Michaels to the back of my leaf using my low temp glue gun.

I also made a leaf pin on some metallic cardstock with the Art Glitter Gala Glitz Gold and Gala Glitz Orange.

Supplies:
Art Glitter Transparency Sheet
Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive
Art Glitter Ultrafine Metal Glue Tip
Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Glitter 278 Poppy
Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Glitter 56 Pumpkin
Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Glitter 47 Vine
Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Glitter 231 Copper Harbor
Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Glitter 343 Chestnut
Art Glitter Ultrafine Transparent Glitter 92 Bananan
Ranger Glossy Accents
Pin Backing

Big Bling Luggage Tag by Emily M. Miller

2011-09-16T15:00:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law asked me to make a cool luggage tag for her and I said how big? She said “you know me, make it BIG”! So here’s what I came up with…

This is an altered photo of her and her baby beagle. I scraped off the background and painted it too. I decided to use this laminate from 3M because it is really thick, double sided, and just the right size for a 4x6 print. I also printed out her address info on copy paper. Tore around the info, ran the edges across a couple ink pads and glued it onto the backside of a cereal box. (See backside at end of post).

I trimmed a little off the long side of the photo so I could have more space for the laminate sides to adhere together. I glued the photo onto the other side of the address info and let it dry a little. Then I placed the photo inside the laminate, leaving extra space at top to cut out a hole. I just free-hand cut out the hole with a zacto knife. You can see it’s not perfect, but who cares? Glitter will take care of that!

I used my bone folder to get a really good seal. Pressing the edges and as close to the photo sides as possible. The laminate was pretty slick so I sanded the edges for a better glue surface to stick to.

I wanted lots of bling with different sizes and usually that means I’ll grab for my Gala Glitz. But this will be handled quite a bit and I can’t use glass! So my next favorite big bling is Dazzlers. Here’s what I used:

D55 Queen’s Robe
D52 Rockettes
D44 Hollywood (stars)
Microfine Opaque Glitter #502 Diva Gold

Here’s how to get a quick easy mix, without mixing all your glitter together: Lay down your Designer Dries Clear adhesive. You can either paint it on or do the lazy messy method I use, take your ultrafine metal tip off and draw a thick line of glue, then smear it across your area with your finger. Start with your largest size of glitter, (the stars), take a small pinch of them and drop them on the glue sparingly. Then take the next size, (Queen’s Robe), and sprinkle some more on. Then fill in the rest with an ultrafine or microfine glitter (#502 Diva Gold). You’ll love the results! Be sure to work in sections so you can get it all done while the glue is wet, white and shiny.

I also edged the photo, the hole and sides with Queen’s Robe and Rockettes for a nice finish. (AND Because I smeared the glue on, the sides weren’t completely covered and I wanted to fix the hole too!)

I don’t know if any of you do this, but when ever I’m working with these larger glitter sizes and I have a left over pile of mixed pieces, I save it in a special jar, a sort of a kitchen sink concoction. I’ll use that later for a quick edging to finish off a piece. I have another one set aside for glass glitter and beads.

Here’s the backside with her address info blurred out. I just did a quick border with my left over glitter pile from the front side. As you can see the front is not quite dry. My theory was that I didn’t need to do the backside since it would show through from the front. I didn’t have time to find out if that was true, had to mail it off to her before it completely dried, but I’m sure it looks great. It has to…it’s glitter!

Fiber Skeletion Picture Frame by Diana Gonzalez

2011-09-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

So, recently I finished up altering a wooden picture frame, with a lovely Halloween theme.

Nice, right? I don’t have any ONE picture big enough for this frame, but I do have a few small ones that will go inside.

I used a memory frame by Plaid Crafts. I used glitter and products by Art Institute Glitter.
Want to make one? It’s easy peasy.

First, you’ll need to paint it black, using Plaid Folk Art paint, in Ultra black.

Then, use their extreme glitter paint (also in black). This gives it a nice shine, and gives it a little more….spook, I guess.

After that, you’ll need your fantasy fiber in a nice foresty green. (English Ivy)

In between two pieces of parchment paper, spread out a thin layer of fantasy fiber, and iron it.
I had to do this a couple times, so that I had enough of it, to fit on the frame.

Then, using Art Institute Glitter’s Designer Dries Clear Adhesive, just dab on a little bit of glue, and adhere it to the frame.

For the next step, get yourself some yellow cardstock, embossing ink, and black embossing powder, and a skeleton rubber stamp. I used one by Deadbeat Designs.

You know the drill: ink up, stamp up, and emboss.

Then, get yourself some alphabet rubber stamps. Stamp the letters BOO with black ink, then go over it with Designer Dries Clear Adhesive, and Art Glitter's FABULOUS Dazzler’s Glitter line, in Hexis Gunmetal.

Cut out the skeletons, and the letters (once they are dry), and glue them on.

Voila!

And that’s that!

The flower was just laying around somewhere. It’s by Prima, if you want to know.

So, if you don’t have the Extreme glitter paint, you can make some yourself with some #79 Black Ultrafine glitter, by Art Institute, and mix it with Mod Podge.

Anyway, this year I’m going to really try for Halloween. I mean, I really want to go all out. Maybe it’s me being pregnant. We’ll see. What else? It is a beautiful sunny day. Here I was, set for a week of full rain, and the sun comes out and betrays me. So I’m going out today, for a little bit. I mean, that’s what you do, when you have a kid. You know? Playgrounds, and glitter paint, and glue and things.

Glitter By Number by Clare Dempsey

2011-09-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

Have you tried the paint by number technique with your Art Glitter and Art Glitter Sticky paper? Well, you’re going to want to after you see how easy and beautiful it is! To use this technique you will need a digital cutters such as a Cricut, Pazzles, KNK or other. See bottom of the post for a full list of supplies for this project.

Set your machine to cut ONLY through the top layer of the Art Glitter Sticky Paper (portion with Red printing). For my Cricut I used the blade housing setting of 3 and the machine pressure setting of 3. Create your design and place the Art Glitter Small Sticky paper on the cutting mat with the red printed portion of the paper on top. Cut with your machine and remove from mat to apply glitter.

For this card, I used the Cricut French Manor cartridge. I then peeled off the portion of the design I wanted to start with, working with the darkest color first.

I like to use a pin or a piercing tool to pick up the top layer of the sticky paper. See photo below. I poured on my glitter and shook off the excess. Be careful not to touch the portion of the design that has already been glittered as you work. If you accidentally touch the glittered portion, you can carefully re-pour the glitter over the area again. However, this does get more difficult as you add more colors.

You may see as you work that you have missed a detailed portion of your design after you apply the glitter. Just use your pin or piercing tool to remove this small piece and glitter a second time on the detail. You can see in this close up, that the center of the “s” in Paris still has paper on it. I just removed this with a pin and poured the Blue Angel again over the small spot.

Continue peeling off the design color by color and pouring glitter as you go. I applied my lightest color 86 Angel Dust last. This technique is great for Christmas ornaments, Easter items and any detailed design!

Supplies:
Art Glitter Small Sticky Paper
Art Glitter 185 Varsity Blue Ultrafine Pearlescent glitter (Eiffel Tower)
Art Glitter 295 Ensalada Ultrafine Transparent Glitter (Paris)
Art Glitter 280 Lime Rind Ultrafine Opaque Glitter (Merci)
Art Glitter 183 Blue Angel Ultrafine Pearlescent Glitter
Art Glitter 86 Angel Dust Ultrafine Transparent Glitter
Cricut or other digital cutter
Pin or piercing tool
Cricut French Manor Cartridge (optional)

Glittered Bottle Cap Pendant – By Lori Mendenhall

2011-09-06T06:07:00.001-07:00

Whenever a customer notices that some of my pendants are made from bottle caps they think it’s really clever and cute! Well, I did not come up with the idea of making bottle cap pendants, but I do have my own little spin on them and this is what I’d like to share with you today.

My little secret is GLITTER! Notice how the ridges of the bottle cap are accented with gorgeous glitter? I also put a rim of the sparkly stuff around the edge of my artwork. This little accent makes all the difference in the world.

Here’s how to make this piece:

1. Use a paper punch to cut out a 1” circle of black cardstock. If you plan to do more than a few bottle caps I would definitely advise investing in a 1” punch – it’s a big timesaver and you get a perfect result each time.

2. Cut out a pair of lips from a piece of cardstock. These lips just happened to be the perfect size but I am sure you can find birds, hearts, watch faces, and many other things that would work fine too. Glue the lips onto the black paper circle. Coat both sides of the artwork with a sealant such as Mod Podge. Dry thoroughly.

3. When your cardstock is dry, place it in the bottle cap. Using Designer Dries Clear adhesive, draw a rim around the artwork and also add a dab to each ridge of the cap. Sprinkle the Art Glitter glitter onto the glue and shake off the excess. I like an opaque glitter for this look, here I’ve used Art Glitter’s Eclipse Ultrafine Opaque Hologram, #130. I’d also recommend using the Ultrafine Metal Tip. Dry thoroughly. This is extremely important, as resin and moisture don’t play well together.

4. Fill the bottle cap with resin. For this project I used Easy Cast casting epoxy resin. I like it because it’s got UV protectant so it won’t yellow – and it’s readily available from the craft store. Use the coupon they frequently send out and the price is very reasonable too. Let cure overnight until hard.

5. Drill a hole. I find it easiest to use an awl to start the hole. Then I drill through the resin and partially through the cap. Then I turn it over and use the awl and hammer to finish the hole from the backside. Wire wrap a bail, or you can simply use a jump ring. You could also use a glue-on bail instead.

Note, I received free product in exchange for this article. However, I’ve been using Art Glitter products for years and love them!

Introducing Art Glitter's New Designers

2011-09-02T12:57:00.003-07:00

Another three months has gone by and it is time for a new set of Art Glitter Designers. Only this time they should look familiar! We've brought back some goodies for you!

Please welcome back to our family: (Click on names for a look at their profile and blog posts).

Lori Mendenhall

Diana Gonzalez

Clare Dempsey

We are so excited to have these talented designers back! And so thrilled to have had the honor of our last set of designers, hopefully we'll see more sparkling ideas from them in the future too!

Here were a few of my favorites:

Kaaren Poole

Shannon Bielke

Laura Drahozal

They are all my favorites really, I just love all the heart and soul our Designers put into their work. Thank you all! ~Enjoy

Elements and Glitter ATC by Shannon Bielke

2011-08-29T09:58:00.002-07:00

Being a mixed-media artist at heart, I finally gave in to my natural tendencies and mixed it up a bit. This project caters to my love of all things small, as well as my fascination with ATCs. The size is similar to an ATC, just a little bigger. The mixed media part involves using glitter of course, a few of the Elements line, stampbord, paint, inks, stamps, mists, as well as brushes, pencils, pens, knives, and more.

I usually start a project like this with a quote or a favorite stamped image but this time I began with Art Glitter's Elements; "Meadow" (9). I chose it for the colors a long time ago, and I just love its scent! (This is one of those items that I just had to have long before I knew what I was going to do with it. You know what I'm talking about.) Having been properly re-schooled in the art of glitter, I knew I'd be able to put it to good use. And I did. I mixed it up with regular glitter, paint, inks, and stains. Fun and enlightening! I ended up using only a little for this project, and little bits of lots of other things.

I love how the different elements of this project work together, and I'm delighted with how the Element line adds dimension and seems to pull all the mixed up parts of this project together!

Supplies used:
Art Glitter:
Elements: Meadow (9), Fairy Bed (32)
Ultrafine Transparent: Miss Muffet (144), Fresh Green (312), Angel Dust (86)
Ultrafine Opaque: Cornflower (25), Dew Berry (314), Blackberry (16)
Dazzlers Flakes: Orange Crush (D35)
Designer Dries Clear adhesive
Ultrafine Metal Tip
Noodgers
Spoon Man!
Stampbord
Claybord Inks
Stazon Inks
Jaquard: Lumiere
Tattered Angels: spray mists
Stampendous: embossing powders
Hero Arts, Hampton Art Stamps, Tim Holtz Stamps

Feline Fairy Wings by Kaaren Poole

2011-08-23T18:00:00.001-07:00

The concept on this project was interesting, but I must admit that the final product, though great fun to make, is completely impractical. I have nine cats. When I tried to find one to try the wings on, six immediately headed for deep cover. Of the remaining three, Phreddee was willing but too fat – the harness wouldn’t close! I got the harness on Mopsy, but she immediately flattened on the carpet and began crawling backwards at mach speed! Belle tolerated it – but just long enough to get the picture.

Anyway, wings are fun to make and Fantasy Film is a great product for them. And of course wings have far more uses than this. I use them a lot for my little polymer clay fairies and animal fairies. So I think you will find the basic method useful. Here it is.

You will need:
Art Glitter Fantasy Film in Blue Nile (01534)
 Art Glitter Dazzlers Movie Stars (D45)
 Art Glitter Sea Nymph Dazzlers (D15) 
22 gauge black coated craft wire
 Alene’s Quik Grab tacky glue Diamond Glaze
 two part epoxy glue
 a cat harness 
a ¾” button with four holes in a color to coordinate with the harness 
scissors, a brush, iron and ironing board, parchment paper, round nose pliers, toothpicks

Cut two 12” lengths of the Blue Nile Fantasy Film. Place one on top of the other and sandwich them between two pieces of parchment paper. With the iron set on low, iron over the parchment paper to fuse the two pieces of Fantasy Film together.

Cut out four wing shapes about 5-6” long and 3” wide. There will be two wing pieces on each side – an upper wing and a lower wing, like a butterfly. Cut two 16” lengths of the craft wire. Thread the two ends of one of the pieces of wire through two adjacent holes in the button, centering the button on the wire. Pull the ends of the wire snug. Repeat with the other piece of wire and the other two holes. You now have four ends of wire protruding from the button. These are the spines of the wings.

With the round nose pliers, coil the ends of the wires, reducing the length of the wires until they fit nicely on the wings. Spread tacky glue on the under sides of the wires and glue them to the wing pieces. Let the glue dry. Cut four more pieces of wire about 8” long and make a coil in one end of each piece, reducing the length of the wire so that it fits nicely onto the wing. Glue one piece on each of the wings with the tack glue and let it dry.

Use the brush to spread a coat of Diamond Glaze on the upper side of the wings. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle the Sea Nymph Dazzlers and the Movie Stars Dazzlers over the wings. Let the glaze dry then add a second coat of glaze the set the glitter firmly in place. Repeat on the other side of the wings.

Mix up some two part epoxy glue and glue the button to the back strap of the harness. Mix up more glue and apply a generous glob to the upper side of the button to hold the wire ends in place.

Look for a willing cat and hope for the best!

Free Shipping Glitter Spree

2011-08-20T05:35:00.005-07:00

FREE SHIPPING Going on now through the end of August! YEA!

Get your coupon code and details HERE.
While you're there take a look at our overstock glitter sale items, get them while you can!

And we've cooked up an ANYTHING GOES sale for our Wholesale customers too! See details HERE Hurry, this one only lasts a week!
Interested in our Wholesale Terms? Visit HERE.

We so appreciate your continued patronage and mutual love for all that sparkles.
GET YOUR GLITTER ON!

"Blue Opal" Cameo Pin by Laura Drahozal

2011-08-16T18:00:00.003-07:00

There is a store that I go to EVERY time I visit Las Vegas-- the Australian Opal and Gem Store in the Forum Shops. I can't afford anything there, but still visit just to look at the fantastic opals. Opals are my birthstone and my weakness. They are fascinating, with their variety of colors and flashes of brilliant light.

Some of the most beautiful opals are often referred to as "water" opals and are known for their clear blue color. These stones are exactly what I thought of the first time that I saw Art Glitter Dazzlers in the flake form. When I discovered what they do under heat, well, I hatched a plan to create my own faux opal.

What would I do with the "stone" when I completed it? The only jewelry that I have ever collected, aside from opals, was cameos. Dreamweaver Stencils (whose design team I am on) has just come out with a gorgeous cameo stencil. When I thought of that, I knew the plan was coming together. I would make my own fantasy pin--a blue opal cameo.

First, I rubbed the soap on the back of the stencil so that it would be able to be removed from the adhesive later. Then, I brushed off the excess soap "crumbles" and attached it to the Double Sided Adhesive Paper. I used a little of the Microfine Blue Diadem around the cameo frame. When I removed the adhesive paper from the stencil, I was able to use this glitter as a guideline to cut out my oval.

I then laid a pinch of the Varsity Blue Pearlescent Ultrafine and a pinch of the Blue Diadem Microfine Opaque on that oval and rubbed it in, burnishing the colors together and onto the paper. When I was certain that it was thoroughly pressed in, I brushed off the excess.

I covered the whole thing with Versamark and Clear Embossing Powder. I heated it. While it was still warm, I poured another layer of Clear Embossing Powder over the top and heated it. Then, while this was still warm, I sprinkled on a generous amount of Blue Eyes Dazzlers. As I heated these, they shrank a little and changed colors. They became the gorgeous "flash" of color that the opal is known for. I heated them until they turned to colors that appealed to me. I then stopped all heating and let the project cool for a little while.

When it was time for another color, I added a layer of Versamark, and Clear Embossing Powder. I heated until this melted and, while it was still warm, I sprinkled on a little of the Lapis Shards Vintage Glass Glitter. I let this cool. Then, another layer of Versamark and two more layers of Clear Embossing Powder. When it cooled, I was finished with my "opal".

I was very pleased with the result on this, because the two colors and types of glitter gave a base that refracted light in different ways, the dazzlers added the "flash" and the shards added a depth of color and shine, but retained both their shape and color. All of these elements, separated by the clear embossing powders, are what made this stone look real.

The cameo head was very simple. I put the soaped stencil onto another piece of Double Sided Adhesive Paper, poured Opaque White Embossing Powder over the top and top and rubbed it in, as if to burnish it. I removed the stencil and heated the embossing powder. While it was warm, I poured the Sea Shell Transparent Glitter over the top. I let it cool and cut around the embossed section.

For the frame, I put the soaped stencil on yet another piece of the adhesive paper. I poured the Microfine Silver Moon Opaque Glitter into the frame, trying to avoid the open center of the stencil as much as possible. I then burnished it in with my fingers, brushed off the excess and removed the stencil. I poured the Black Wing Microfine on very generously on the edges and burnished that in as well. I peeled the backing off of the paper and adhered it to a piece of chipboard. I adhered the adhesive backed aluminum to the other side of the chipboard. Then, I carefully cut around the exterior of the frame with my sharp, pointy scissors.

I positioned the pin back on the back of the chipboard and marked the holes with a pen tip. I removed the pin back and punched the holes with my Big Bite. I repositioned the pin back and attached it through the holes with the brads.

I straightened out the "opal", which had curled a little during all that heating. It caused the embossing powder to crack a little, imitating the "crazing" or cracks in a real opal. I then peeled off the back and positioned it onto the frame. I peeled the back off of the cameo and adhered it to the "stone".

Finally, I had to tweak it just a little. I used my scissors to carefully "trim up" some of the edges of the stone to perfect it. I hit the trimmed edges lightly with a heat gun to round it off a little. I then used the permanent marker to color the edges where the chipboard shone through.

Did this take a little while? Certainly, but it was ridiculously fun to do. Most of the time that it took was thinking things out and trying various methods. Now that I have figured it out for you, and told you what to do, it should be easy for you to reproduce it. I am personally quite thrilled with this project. I successfully combined my love of cameos and of opals into the ultimate piece of jewelry for a small percentage of what the real thing would have cost. Granted, it is made of chipboard and glitter, so maybe I won't wear it to a ball, but I WILL wear it, and proudly. I made my very own beautiful, fun opal. You could, too.

Materials:
Double Sided Adhesive Paper
Dreamweaver Cameo Stencil LL 3017
Large Soft Stencil Brush
Soft Bar Soap
185 Varsity Blue Ultrafine Pearlescent Art Glitter
504 Blue Diadem Microfine Opaque Art Glitter
D38 Blue Eyes Art Glitter Dazzlers
911 Lapis Shards Vintage Glass Art Glitter
Opaque White Embossing Powder
100 Sea Shell Ultrafine Transparent Art Glitter
508 Silver Moon Microfine Opaque Art Glitter
507 Black Wing Microfine Opaque Art Glitter
Chipboard
Adhesive Backed Aluminum
Pin Back
Big Bite
3 Square Silver Brads
Sharp Scissors
Fine Tipped Opaque Black Permanent Pen

Glam Birdhouse by Shannon Bielke

2011-08-13T06:00:00.002-07:00

My Glam Birdhouse is is actually a green bird-house. Yes, green in color, or colors, as the case may be, but that goes without saying. Green, also in that it's made mostly of recycled products.

Could you tell? The decorative papers are scraps leftover from a 2 page scrapbook layout, the foundation is an old mailing box measured, cut, and glued together, and the ribbons are just bits of scraps.

The glitter, and rightly so, is the only thing not recycled! Don't you think it prettied up my project quite nicely?

This glam birdhouse is a perfect example of 'less is more'. I know, we've all heard that many times before, and in this case without any conscious decision I used very little glitter in comparison to other projects.

However, the amount I did use enhanced my project beautifully! The original plan was to enhance the whole project with lots of glitter both transparent and opaque, but I ended up using very little ultra-fine glitter, and I only used 3 colors. 6 months ago I wouldn't have considered glitter at all, but I'm learning my lessons and loving them! Glitter works so well in so many different circumstances! For me, the glitter was just one of the several patchwork pieces of the birdhouse that worked together to make the whole thing work. And yes, I will put a protective coating on it and hang it outside. Hopefully my birds appreciate glam!

I'm still playing around with what I call; non-glitter glitter; the Elements line of Art Glitter. It really is a beautiful and versatile medium to work with!

Supplies used:
cardboard, paper scraps, ribbons scraps
Art Glitter:
Ultra-fine Transparent:
86 Angel Dust
312 Fresh Green
219 Lily Pad
Ultra-fine Metal Tip
Noodgers
Spoon Man!
Designer Dries Clear

Encaustic Glitter Fun by Emily M. Miller

2011-08-09T18:00:00.003-07:00

Oh have I been having fun! I just returned from Art Unraveled in Phoenix, Arizona and I learned some new exciting tricks I want to show you! This post covers the Encaustic Rusted Play class I took with an extremely talented instructor Patricia Baldwin Seggebrush, creator of Encaustikits.com. It was pure fun!

For those of you not familiar with Encaustic Painting, please let me quote Wikipedia: "Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, involves using heated beeswax to which colored pigments are added. The liquid/paste is then applied to a surface—usually prepared wood, though canvas and other materials are often used..." Of course I added Art Glitter products!

This example uses a Fantasy Film and Fiber piece I stamped ahead with Barbara's Spring Moth stamp (my favorite stamp!). I started with a nice layer of wax and pushed my image into it while it was still hot. The image was not cut out so it had unfused edges of film and fiber sticking up that I promptly heated with a heat tool to get some interesting colors going. Then I added another layer of wax and heated it again. This time I sprinkled on some Art Glitter Ultrafine Transparent #171 Gelina with my fingers and heated it again til it spread around in a fun way! This piece is only about 5 inches wide, so I think I will use it in a collage piece later.

This guy is pretty straight forward. Again I used a pre-stamped Fantasy Film Dragonfly. This was one that I had molded over a candle flame and it was kind of beat up on it's own, but embedded in the wax it takes on a new life! You'll also notice some squares and stars from our Dazzler line sparkling in the background.

I'm embarrassed to admit that I forgot to take some pure, unfused Fantasy Film and Fiber with me, which would have been MORE fun than I can imagine. So I'll just have to show you those experiments later when I get them made.

This encaustic painting again is just pure fun! I used lace for a stencil for the red wax and smashed in some Vintage Glass Glitter, Glass Beads and Ultrafine Glitter. It was a sort of a kitchen sink concoction I came up with after glittering some adult size wings a few years back. This one is completely unfinished, I may add more wax, may not, but it will definitely become the beginning of another collage.

Enjoy ~emm

Shabby Chic Flower Pin by Kaaren Poole

2011-08-06T06:00:00.002-07:00

Call me retro, but I still love the shabby chic look, and for this piece I was inspired by the scraps I had left over from a shabby chic “rag” quilt. I can use this pin on my hat or on a sweater. Wouldn’t these be great in fall or winter colors for holiday gift sales?

Here’s what you’ll need:
Fabric scraps 
5/8 “ button with four holes 
1 ¼” button (not the shank type, or remove the shank as you need a flat back)
 size 11 yellow seed beads
 3mm drop beads in a color to coordinate with your flower fabric 
22 gauge craft wire 
Art Glitter Pee Wee monochrome glitter kits in green and pink (or another color to coordinate with your flower fabric) 
Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Glitter in Golden Orange (UFO #347)
 Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive (FDC)
 clutch pin back
 heavy beading thread (such as Fireline) and beading needle, scissors, small sharp scissors, sewing machine, file card for leaf pattern, pencil, 2-part epoxy glue

Begin with the Leaves:
Draw a leaf pattern on the file card and cut it out. It should be a simple shape about 2 ½” long. Cut six rectangles of leaf fabric just large enough for the leaf pattern. Arrange them in pairs, wrong sides together, and draw around the leaf pattern with the pencil. Mix and match the fabric colors if you like – I think a variety looks good. Working with the sewing machine and one pair at a time, sew a straight stitch up the center vein them back down the vein leaving about 1/8” space between the two rows of stitching. When you reach the bottom of the vein, turn away from the vein and stitch around the outside edge of the leaf, stopping at the bottom of the other row of vein stitching. This will leave the bottom edge of the vein open for inserting the wire. Cut the fabric leaf out, cutting around the outside edge of the leaf and close to the stitching, but being careful not to cut the thread. Cut a piece of craft wire about 3” long and thread the wire into the channel formed by the two rows of stitching for the vein. Trim the end to about ½”.

Then the Flower Center:
Cut a 2” square of fabric scrap and glue it to the back of the 5/8” button with the Designer Dries Clear Fabric Adhesive, being sure not to cover the holes in the button. Let the glue dry completely. With the Fireline threaded on a beading needle, add the bead strands to the center of the button as follows: Leaving a 4” tail, thread the needle from the back through one of the holes in the button. Thread the needle through 5 yellow seed beads then one drop bead, then, skipping the drop bead, back down through the 5 yellow seed beads and the hole in the button. Pull the thread snug and repeat for the other three holes. Thread the needle back up through the first hole and the first 2 yellow seed beads from the previous step. Thread the needle through 3 new yellow seed beads and one drop bead then, skipping the drop bead, back through the 3 new yellow seed beads, back through the first 2 yellow seed beads on the original strand and back down through the hole. Pull the thread tight and repeat for the other three holes. Tie the end of the thread and the original tail in a tight knot and trim the thread ends. Trim the excess fabric from around the button, leaving a margin of 1/8” fabric showing all around the button.

Then the Two Rows of Petals:
Cut two strips of flower fabric on the diagonal. Cut one strip 7” x 7/8” (the inner petals) and the other strip 1 ½” x 13” (the outer petals). Fold the larger strip in half matching short end to short end, then fold it again in thirds. Cut a long scallop shape along one long edge about 5/8” deep. Unfold the strip – you should have a strip with six scallop shapes along one long edge – these are the outer petals. With the Fireline threaded on a needle, run two rows of small running stitches along one long edge of the smaller piece and along the long straight edge of the scalloped piece. One row should be 1/8” from the edge and the other should be ¼” from the edge. These are the gathering threads. Leave 3” of thread on each end. Now, working on the sewing machine, run a row of zig-zag stitch right along the long edge opposite the gathering stitches on each of the two petal pieces and trim away the ends.

Now add the Glitter:
I really like Art Glitter’s Pee Wee Kits. They give you a lot of variety at a value price and are perfect for projects like this where you have a number of colors to match. I will use a variety of greens from the Green Mono kit for the leaves and, to coordinate with my flower fabric, I’ll select a pretty color from the Pink Mono kit for the flower edges. Around the center of the flower I’m using Art Glitter’s Ultrafine Opaque Glitter in Golden Orange. To add the glitter, just run a bead of glue around the edges of the leaves, along the zig-zag stitched edges of the flower strips, and around the edge of the button center, then generously sprinkle the glitters over the glue – greens on the leaves, pinks on the flower strips, and Golden Orange around the flower center. Let the glue dry. Now gather the petal strips by pulling on the gathering threads and tying the ends of the gathering threads in tight knots. You want to gather as tightly as you can.

Now for the Assembly:
Mix up a bit of the 2-part epoxy and glue the wire ends of the leaves to the right side of the 1 ¼” button. Catch a bit of the leaf fabric in the glue so that the leaves don’t slip off the wires. When the glue is set, mix up more and glue the large petal piece, then the small petal piece, then the button center. Do all three of these pieces at once and press down firmly while the glue sets. Now mix up more glue (that fast set time has its pluses and minuses!) and add the clutch pin to the back.

I hope you enjoy your glittery shabby chic flower pin!

Glittering Butterfly Bag by Laura Drahozal

2011-08-02T18:00:00.003-07:00

One of my very first memories is of a trip to the beach with my mother and father. I can't remember where it was--just some lake here in Michigan. I do remember playing on the sand at the edge of the water as the waves licked my toes. I also remember my beautiful mother packing everything we needed in a large straw bag with bright colored straw flowers appliqued all over it. I was fascinated by those applique flowers. I often picked at their edges, despite my mother asking me not to. It was that memory that came to me when I saw this cute little straw bag in the Target Hot Spot. Although it was too small to fit all of my family beach needs, it was cute, alterable, and only $2.50--so it was mine!

When I got it home, I had to decide what to put on it. It was a simple decision, really. I have had a thing for butterflies for several years now, and they show off the glitter so beautifully. I am also on the Dreamweaver Stencil design team, and was aware of their gorgeous butterfly stencils, so I decided to use them.

Here is what I did: First, I used my Copic Multiliner to trace around my butterfly stencils on Claudine Helmuth White Sticky Backed Canvas. The Copic liner made a light black line. In retrospect, I would have used the Faber Castell Pitt Pen in black. I obtained one of these highly pigmented ink pens at CHA and they make a darker mark on the canvas. They are also waterproof, which I initially thought the Copics were.

Anyway, once the stencils were traced, I colored between the lines to make the black parts of the butterflies. I then had the joy of coloring them. I used the Designer Dries Clear Fabric Glue (canvas is fabric, after all) and the Ultrafine Metal Tip for the glue. I worked outside in extreme heat, which, while I don't recommend it, did help the glue dry quickly between layers. I also rotated the butterflies as I worked on them, doing all the inside colors, then the second color, etcetera, until all the butterflies were done. I used Ultrafine, Microfine (in transparent and opaque), and chunky in these butterflies, as I liked all the contrasts. I also used Hologram Glitter in each butterfly to up the glitter impact.

When I was finished glittering all of the butterflies, I let them dry (which, as I mentioned before, did not take long due to the extreme heat). I then preheated my oven to 300 degrees, and when it beeped, I turned it off and inserted the butterflies on a foiled cookie sheet. I let them "bake" for 30 minutes to set the glitter. It was perfectly fine, and did not even effect the adhesive on the back of the canvas. Once I removed the butterflies and let them cool, I arranged them on the straw bag. When they were just right, I peeled off the backing, and pressed them firmly where they belonged. Then, the hardest part--I used heavy duty black thread and a curved upholstery needle to tack them all to the straw backing. I made this decision because I know that the Sticky Backed Canvas was not intended for use on straw, but it did seen to stick very well.

When the stitching was done, I used my Faber Castell Pitt Pen to color in the lighter areas of black. After that, I had a cute little beach bag like the one stuck in my memory, but updated, fun and glittery. I won't be taking it to the beach any time soon, but there is a stamp show in August..........

SUPPLIES:
a small straw tote bag
Claudine Hellmuth White Sticky Backed canvas
Copic Multiliner (or Faber Castel Pitt) in black
Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive with ultrafine metal tip
Uphostery Needles
Heavy Duty Thread

ALL BUTTERFLIES
85 Crystal Ultrafine Transparent
79 Black Ultrafine Opaque

BLUE
328 Cairo Chunky Opaque Hologram
504 Blue Diadem Microfine Opaque
140 Canadian Blue Ultrafine Opaque
62 Copper Canyon Ultrafine Opaque
Dreamweaver LJ 916

GREEN
94 Key Lime Ultrafine Transparent
128 Quark Ultrafine Opaque Hologram
62 Copper Canyon Ultrafine Opaque
48 Emerald Ultrafine Opaque
Dreamweaver LM 121

PURPLE
15 Fuschia Ultrafine Opaque
256 Purple Passion Ultrafine Opaque
Dreamweaver LM 255

ORANGE
336 Alien Ultrafine Opaque Hologram
501 Monarch Microfine Opaque
179 Tang Ultrafine Pearlescent
62 Copper Canyon Ultrafine Opaque
Dreamweaver LM 257

RED
D 51 October Dazzlers
332 Red Rocket Chunky Opaque Hologram
DreamweaverLS 57

Dazzle Dangles by Emily M. Miller

2011-07-30T06:00:00.005-07:00

Oh these are fun! I designed this project for a kids class and it went wonderfully! We started out filling bottle caps with different Dazzlers and covering the logo side with Ultrafine Hologram Opaque Glitter #136 Chromosphere.

There are also a myriad of seed pods here too. We brushed Designer Dries Clear Adhesive onto Yucca, Agave and Acorn tops then sprinkled with more Dazzlers! My favorite Dazzlers at the moment are several Hexis: D29 Confection, D55 Queen's Robe, D52 Rockets, D56 Dragonfly, D53 Gold Crown; Flakes: D38 Blue Eyes, D37 Lollipop, D42 Sherwood. The Slivers worked quite well for this project too.

Of course you can use just about any glitter product in the bottle caps and on the seed pods. I prefer the larger cut glitter products like the Shards Vintage Glass Glitter, Glass Beads and Gala Glitz. Since this project was for kids we didn't use any glass products and stuck to the Dazzlers and I was really happy with the results. See the two lower Yucca pods above? They are covered with #815 Waterdrops (clear) Glass Beads, they look like moth wings!

While these were drying we had fun with Fantasy Film! Our stamp theme is bugs. We stamped Fantasy Film on several bug stamps in various colors. This was a perfect opportunity to use up some Fantasy Film scraps. Then we cut the bug images out, leaving approx. a ¼ inch border and room at the top to put a little hole above the image for wire. You can cut yours out closer to the image if you want.

Next I put holes into every piece. The Fantasy Film pieces were easy, I used a utility knife for their holes. The other pieces required a nail and hammer, not too difficult! Which is good because I had to do this step for ALL of us!

Then we wrapped wire through each dangle (or around a stem) and left the top as a hook. And I say we left the top as a hook because instead of cutting strips of wire, we used ornament hangers! It was a perfect match and I tell you what, a new favorite short cut of mine for wiring projects!

Then I cut three different kinds of ribbon the length of my arms outstretched. We laid the three strands out flat on a table, distributed the pieces among the three strands and placed them evenly along their length. To tie them on, first start with the center dangle and tie a knot around its wire hook, then work your way down on both ends. Don't worry about getting each dangle in its perfect spot...it just doesn't matter!

All that is left is tying a knot at the top of all three ribbons and finding a spot to hang it.

I hesitate to use this photo, it is so horrible! The lighting is off and I couldn't get my dangles to stop moving! So I apologize, but I wanted you to see how it looked in full length. My students' Dazzle Dangles looked better than mine! Enjoy!!!

Pretty Pink Cards & Boxes by Shannon Bielke

2011-07-26T18:00:00.003-07:00

To misquote and improve upon a familiar jingle: "Everything's better with a little glitter on it!" So true! Pretty and glitter go together so well!

I needed cards to include with a couple of small gifts for a very dear friend, so I looked through my supplies wanting to make something pretty for her.

Feeling the urge to create, I pulled out my paper scraps too beautiful to throw away. I picked a number that went together well, and set to work. I didn't end up making just a couple a cards. Of course not! I made a number of mini cards and a box to keep them in, thus creating yet another gift. Each card was small and simple, but different and interesting. To add to the interest was, of course glitter! Glitter to highlight edges, glitter to add to the design, and glitter to create interest! I love these little cards!

My favorite glitter application this time was stamping an image in glue and then glittering the glue! I plan to explore this technique more in the future.

Another technique to try is mix the glitters together to make even more beautiful colors. I mixed the pretty Fresh Green (312) with Crystal (85) and Thyme (277) to make a lovely new green for the leaves on the box and one of the cards.

As you can begin to see, glitter can enhance just about any project in a beautiful way!

Supplies used:
Misc. paper scraps
Misc. ribbon scraps
Art Glitter:
Designer Dries Clear Adhesive
Ultra fine metal tip
Ultra Fine Opaque Glitter: #10 Baby Pink, #51 Mai Mango, #277 Thyme
Ultra Fine Transparent Glitter: #85 Crystal, #312 Fresh Green, #144 Miss Muffet

Whimsical, Glittery Headband by Laura Drahozal

2011-07-23T06:00:00.006-07:00

Have you every had a really bad haircut? I bet you have. This last one of mine was pretty awful. She gave me bangs that made me look like I was about twelve. You may wonder what this has to do with Art Glitter. Well, as I was trying to grow these bangs out, they kept falling in my eyes. I needed a headband, but no ordinary headband would do. 'That is when inspiration hit--I could make a cute, whimsical, glittery headband.

I decided that I wanted dimensional fabric flowers on my headband. I would have made them all cotton fabric, but realized that they would stand up better if I added some felt. I cut the flowers with an Accucut machine and then had the joy of decorating them.

I chose to use a brass stencil to make an interesting pattern on the fabric. I am currently on the Dreamweaver Design Team, so I opted to use their stencil LJ 855 Curliques. I taped the stencil onto cardboard on one side with removable tape, creating a "hinge". I then slipped the fabric under the stencil. I made a small puddle of Art Glitter Fabric Glue on my craft sheet. I had a little water handy, so that I could water it down a little if the glue got too dry.

I then loaded a small stencil brush (also by Dreamweaver) with the glue. I tapped the brush on a paper towel to remove the excess, then I brushed the glue over the stencil, scrubbing into the holes just a little. When I lifted the stencil, the beautiful pattern was on my fabric in glue. I poured colored glitter over it, and now my pattern was in glorious glitter. I repeated this for all of the flower parts and the stems that I had cut. I found that my stencil gunked up with glue every fourth or fifth time that I used it. Whenever this happened, I would just clean it with a little water and an old toothbrush.

I also discovered that when I stencilled the felt, I could use slightly wetter glue. Therefore, every time I would clean the stencil, I would use it with the felt the very next time. That way, any water that was not completely wiped off mixed with the glue. WARNING: this technique is super addictive--so much so that I actually created four different flowers, of which two became headbands--one blue and one pink.

After the parts dried, I stacked them. I stitched a small x in the center to attach all of the petals. Then, I ran a quick running stitch around the center of each felt layer and pulled it tight to get the petals to stand up. This created my 3D look. Then, I had to attach the flowers fo the headband. Sadly, the flowers would not attach to the headbands with my fabric glue. I had to sew them down with a few stitches.

When the leaves and flowers were in place, I put a little Art Insititute Fabric Glue on the edges of the cotton petals and added more glitter. I let this dry, then heat set it, following the instructions on the back of the glue bottle.

I had a great time creating this whimsical solution to a bad haircut. I thought I would hang onto these and wear them occasionally even after the hair was fixed, however, when I asked my grandmother to model these for this blog post's pictures, she loved them so much that I am planning on giving them to her. This got me to thinking about what a great project this would be at a senior center or for kids (with a little supervision during the sewing). It was fun, creative, functional, and glittery--my favorite type of project!

Materials:
Art Glitter Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive

BLUE FLOWER

Ultrafine Opaque Glitter 113 Sky
Ultrafine Opaque Hologram 329 Egyptian Blue
Ultrafine Transparent 100 Sea Shell
Ultrafine Opaque Hologram 128 Quark

PINK FLOWER

Ultrafine Pearlescent 174 Pink Cadillac
MicrofineTransparent 725 Muscatel
Ultrafine Transparent 100 Sea Shell
Ultrafine Opaque 109 Cavalado

Brass Stencil--I used Dreamweaver LJ 855
Stencil Brush
Headbands
Needle
Thread

Undersea Fantasy Film Votive by Kaaren Poole

2011-07-19T18:00:00.006-07:00

Fantasy Film plays a starring role in this light-catching votive with an undersea theme. It was simple and fun to make. I’m hoping you will be inspired to make one or – better yet – make one using your favorite theme. Here’s how I made this one.

Here’s what you’ll need:
Clear glass votive and tea lights 
Art Glitter Fantasy Film in Watermelon, Dandelion, Krista’s Eyes, and Waterfall
 Art Glitter Ultrafine Holographic glitter in Neptune (#191) 
Art Glitter Ultrafine Transparent glitter in Orange Crush (#91), Lettuce (#286) 
Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque glitter in South Seas (#285), Summertree (#46) 
Art Glitter Vintage Glass Shards in Amber (#908) 
Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive
Art Glitter Ultrafine Metal Tip
gold glass seed beads, size 6
 black glass seed beads, size 15
 Mod Podge decoupage medium
 E6000 glue
 small sea shells waxed paper, small sharp scissors
toothpick, 1” wide foam brush, size 8 round paint brush
iron and ironing board, parchment paper

Here’s how to put it together
• Cut 3” lengths of both Watermelon and Dandelion. Place one on top of the other on a piece of parchment paper, then put another piece of parchment paper on top to the Fantasy Film. Press for a few seconds with a medium hot iron to bond the two pieces together. You will now have an orange piece of double-thickness Fantasy Film.
• With the small sharp scissors, cut out four or five fish shapes from the fused orange Fantasy Film. Cut assorted seaweed shapes from the Krista’s Eyes and Waterfall Fantasy Film.  • Working on a piece of waxed paper to protect your work surface, quickly coat the clear glass votive with Mod Podge using the foam brush. Apply a liberal coat. Press your Fantasy Film fish and seaweed pieces in place in the Mod Podge. When the Mod Podge has partially set, brush another coat over the entire surface and lightly sprinkle the whole votive with the Neptune Holographic glitter. Set it aside to dry for 2 to 3 hours. (The Mod Podge under the Fantasy Film will dry very slowly – perhaps 24 hours or more - but you can continue with the votive after a few hours.) When the Mod Podge dries you will see that it gives the glass a somewhat textured look, like antique glass.
• Use the Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive with the ultrafine metal tip to put scale and dot designs on the fish and lengthwise stripes along the seaweed shapes. Sprinkle Orange Crush glitter over the glue designs on the fish, catching the excess glitter on the waxed paper. Similarly, sprinkle Summertree, South Seas, and Lettuce glitter over the designs on the seaweed, distributing the three colors in a pleasing design and catching the excess on the waxed paper. 
• Cover the bottom ¼” to 3/8” of the votive with random large dots of Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive. Sprinkle the Amber Art Glitter Vintage Glass Shards over the glue, catching the excess on the waxed paper. This is the “sand” on the bottom of the ocean. Let the glue dry. 
• Use the E6000 glue to glue the small shells in place. For the fish eyes, pick up a size 6 gold bead on the end of a toothpick and dip it in the glue. Set the bead in place on the fish’s face – it will lie hole up. This is the iris of the eye. Pick up a size 15 black bead on the tip of the toothpick, dip it in the glue, and place it in the hold in the center of the gold bead – the black bead is the pupil of the eye. 
• For the final touch, add more glitter to the bottom inch or so of the votive above the shards and between the seaweed pieces. Mix the excess glitter that fell onto the waxed paper. Apply the Art Glittler Designer Dries Clear Adhesive in these areas with the paint brush. Sprinkle the mixed glitter over the glue, more heavily towards the bottom and more lightly towards the top. 
• Let everything dry thoroughly, then ENJOY your VOTIVE!

Clockworks by Shannon Bielke

2011-07-16T06:00:00.002-07:00

This was such a fun project! I found a clockworks in my supplies and decided to make a clock; it had been a while. . .

So, using only things I had on hand, I put one together. The base is made of foam board, and the front is made of various bits and pieces of things I had in my vast array of miscellaneous cool stuff I can't live without. I found my theme when I came across the tag with the woman's silhouette on the front.

The original plan was to glitter most elements as I placed them, but when I started arranging things, I realized the best way utilize the glitter was to use it as a focal point. The clock was just a clock with a random smattering of like images until I added the glitter to the numbers only.

I love how that one touch seemed to pull the whole thing together! There was just a bit of glitter on a part of the background paper, but that was only one of the many pieces that made up the whole of the clock face. I love this clock! I love the randomness of the parts, and I especially love the Art Glitter!

I'm finding I'm becoming more more and more comfortable using glitter and find more ways to use it all the time. This not just because there are so many beautiful colors of glitter and endless places to use it, but because it's fun, and positively addictive!

Art Glitter Types and Sizes Explained...

2011-07-12T18:00:00.006-07:00

Since our fantastic designers have been skillfully experimenting with our product line I thought it might be helpful to explain the different types, sizes and cuts of glitter that we carry. I don’t know why we haven’t done it any sooner…the subject is long overdue so here we go…

The bulk of our glitter is cut from polyester films. Namely the Ultrafine, Microfine and Hologram lines. The films are very thin, so thin that you cannot see the dull side of the cut, thus giving them their high quality status. Some of the ultrafine opaque colors have a mix of metallic glitter in them as well. All the polyester glitters are acid free and safe for wearing on skin. Click here for a list of the Ultrafine Opaque colors with metallic glitter in them.

Our most popular and most sparkly line is Ultrafine. It is about 1/4 the size of that chunky craft glitter you probably used in Kindergarten. Microfine is then half the size of Ultrafine. Therefore, Microfine is a little less sparkly since it has half the surface area. It has a wonderful velvety look to it that can have a spectacular effect for the right project.

Currently we have over 400 colors in the following types:
Ultrafine opaque
Ultrafine opaque hologram
Chunky opaque hologram
Ultrafine transparent
Ultrafine pearlescent
Ultrafine neon transparent
Ultrafine neon opaque
Microfine transparent
Microfine opaque
Fine Vintage Glass Glitter
Shards Vintage Glass Glitter
Dazzlers Hexis
Dazzlers Funky
Dazzlers Slices
Dazzlers Flakes
Dazzlers Shapes
Faux Snow

The difference between Transparent and Opaque colors correlate directly to their names. The transparent colors are influenced by the surface color they are on and opaque colors completely cover the color they are on.

Hologram colors have one tone plus a full spectrum of refractive colors.

Pearlescent colors have a "satiny" look and possess both opaque and transparent qualities. Meaning they are slightly transparent.

Neon colors are of course very bright.

Vintage Glass Glitter is cut from actual glass films creating uneven sized particles. Its colors do fade with time. To help avoid fading/tarnishing you can spray your dry project with an Acrylic Spray, Matt Fixative or Spray Lacquer. Be sure to always use a spoon when applying the glass glitter and it is NOT recommended for children to use. The fine size is slightly larger than our ultrafine glitter and the shards size is several times larger.

Our newest glitter line is Dazzlers. They are much larger cuts of glitter in all kinds of shapes and sizes.
Dazzlers Hexis, you can actually see the six sides to this glitter
Dazzlers Funky, a concoction of holograms and shapes just for fun!
Dazzlers Slices, glitter cut into little slices
Dazzlers Flakes, light, thin, flakes of glitter
Dazzlers Shapes, as the name implies: stars, squares, circles, etc.

Faux Snow is a large cut of white/clear flakes. Perfect for snow and wintery effects.

And if that isn’t enough, closely related to glitter, we also carry micro Glass Beads (no hole beads). As with the glass glitter, these colors will fade with time too. With two sizes large and small, they add a nice dimension to projects.

Then there is Gala Glitz. A simply delicious medley of Vintage Glass Glitter and Glass Beads. Use in all your designs for a stunning, classy look.

Last but not least is our Elements line. Elements are organic components, grown or produced by Mother Earth and manipulated into a variety of shades and shapes with just a touch of sparkle added to them. Again, they are organic and will have to be sprayed with Acrylic Spray, Matt Fixative or Spray Lacquer or else they will disintegrate.

Next time we should talk about glue....

Firefly Bracelet by Kaaren Poole

2011-07-09T06:00:00.004-07:00

I frequently have occasion to use two part epoxy glue and really like how quickly it sets and its clear shiny look. Since it is a thick glue and sets quickly, I thought I might be able to successfully use it like resin to embed Art Glitter’s gorgeous Dazzlers glitter. The “collage” links and pendants seemed an obvious backing, and a pre-assembled bracelet blank by Nunn Designs made the project quick and easy.

Tiny vintage glass cabochons in the shape of fireflies were the inspiration for this bracelet. Don’t they look gorgeous against these rich Dazzler colors? Like a summer night.

You will need:
Blank collage bracelet in antique copper (available at fusionbeads.com) 
firefly glass cabochons (available from splendorintheglass.net) or other small glass foil-backed cabochons (the foil back is important – it makes the cabochon stand out against the glitter)
 Art Glitter Vintage Glass Glitter: Shards in Citrine #905 
Art Glitter Dazzlers in Gypsy #D10, Sea Nymph #D15, and Patriot #D31 
glass seed beads, size 11, to coordinate with the glitter colors  
two part epoxy glue, either 5 minute or 15 minute set
 ES6000 glue 
strong beading thread, beading needle
 toothpicks, aluminum foil, waxed paper, small scissors

I mixed the glitter with the epoxy glue and used the mixture to fill the cavities in the bracelet links. Before the glue set, I lightly pressed the glass fireflies into the surface. For a more finished look, I surrounded the metal rim of the link cavities with strands of small seed beads.

The two-part epoxy glue sets fast, so have all your materials at hand when you begin to work. Read through the instructions first to be sure you understand them before you begin.
Cover your work surface with a sheet of waxed paper and lay the bracelet blank out right side up.

Now work quickly to mix the glittery glue and fill the cavities in the bracelet links.

To mix the glittery glue, squeeze out a nickel-sized puddle of one of the epoxy parts, then another nickel-sized puddle of the other part of the epoxy right up next to it. Repeat two more times so that you have 3 double puddles. Spoon about 1/8 teaspoon of the Dazzlers glitter on top of each of the three double puddles, one color per puddle. Add a few Citrine Shards to each puddle. Using a separate toothpick for each double puddle, quickly and thoroughly mix the double puddles. You will now have three puddles of mixed epoxy glue with one color of glitter and a few shards embedded in each.

With the toothpicks you used to mix the glittery glue, scoop up large drops of the glittery glue and fill the bracelet link cavities. The glue will flow slightly, but you may need to use the tip of the toothpick to push it into the corners. I used two colors per link and swirled the colors slightly together with a clean toothpick. I wanted distinct areas of individual color, but a little mixing here and there.

If the glue gets too stiff to work with, just mix up more!

Before the glue sets, lightly press the firefly cabochons onto the surface.

Now that that’s done, you can relax a little. Actually, if you don’t want the beaded borders, you’re finished already!

For the beaded borders, cut a piece of beading thread about 10” long. Thread it through a beading needle and thread a sufficient number of beads to reach around the rim of one of the links. Count the number of beads and write it down – this will take the guess-work out of bordering the other links. Pass the needle back through the first bead you threaded, and then through all the others in order. This will make a closed loop. Pull the ends so that you only have about ½” of play in the thread. Squeeze out a bit of ES6000 glue on a small piece of foil and use the side of a toothpick to press the glue all around the rim of one of the link cavities. Lay the beaded loop around the rim onto the glue and pull the ends tight so that the beaded strand fits snugly around the rim. Tie a double knot with the ends of the thread. Using your fingers, press the beaded strand in place to even it out and get good contact with the glue. Repeat for the rest of the links.

When the glue is set, trim away the ends of the thread.

Enjoy!

You can also get these metal findings for pendants or earrings, so you may want to make a matching set.

A Pretty Little Thank You by Laura Drahozal

2011-07-05T18:00:00.006-07:00

Need a little something to decorate a bridal shower table? Or maybe as a gift for a neighbor who walked your dog while you were away? For this post, I created a versatile little gift. Initially, I thought of this as part of a wedding centerpiece or a shower decoration, which is why I chose a monochromatic color scheme--all blues. I also wanted to explore and illustrate the differences between three types of beautiful Art Glitter: Ultrafine Transparent, Ultrafine Pearlescent, and Microfine Opaque.

I am truly excited about this experiment with one color, but let me start at the beginning. First, I found a terra cotta pot, which I painted with three quick coats of white acrylic paint. While that dried, I cut some vinyl masks with my Silhouette. The patterns were purchased from the Silhouette Online Store. The one that I used for the base was actually a cupcake liner, that I made a little larger. The pattern for around the top was a border lace pattern. I used a simple label pattern and the font Argos for the sentiment. I cut an additional, blank label of the same size. While I used the words "Thank You", I could just as easily have cut the names of a lucky couple or even "Get Well Soon".

When the vinyl was cut, I removed the parts that I wanted to be glittered from the original sheet and used transfer paper to move my masks from their backing to the pot. Since the cupcake liner wasn't the exact dimensions of my pot, I had to cut a couple of small slits in the bottom to make it fit properly. Then, I smoothed it all down and removed my transfer paper. I selected the location of the label and put that blank vinyl label in place over the other mask.

To start glittering, I put a some Desinger Dries Clear onto a clean sour cream lid and added just a little water. I used a paint brush to brush this mixture onto the pot. Because of the water, the mask resisted the glue a little, pushing it into the empty spaces. I poured the Blue Boy Ultrafine Transparent over the top of the glue and lightly pushed it down with my hand. I chose transparent glitter because I knew that I was going to use a very busy background pattern, but I wanted the overall look to be subtle. Going back to that idea of using this for wedding or shower decor, I imagined the background as a beautiful, glittering lace. I let it dry for a few minutes before brushing off the excess glitter and removing the vinyl.

I then removed the letters from the vinyl backing on the other label. I moved it to the spot I had saved for it. I used the same technique that I did on the "lace" portion, but had more glue in the mix because I wanted to make sure that my coverage was completely solid. I glittered this with the Microfine Opaque Blue Diadem, pushing it well into the crevices. The Microfine glitter really gets in against the edges of the mask, creating a crispness to the letters. I used the opaque because I wanted the color to be strong and vibrant for the message.

Before I even removed the vinyl mask for the letters, I replaced the Ultrafine Metal Tip on the Designer Dries Clear Glue and used it to glue around the edge of the label. Because I wanted this section to be a little more precise than the "lace", I used Noodgers to push any stray glue back into the right area. I glittered it with Pearlescent Varsity Blue. I also glittered around the top, bottom, and between the top edge and the base.

Of course, it wouldn't be a project of mine if I didn't pull out the Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Fabric. I laid a 18" long piece of wide white organza ribbon on my craft sheet. I then put the Ultrafine Metal Tip on my fabric glue and made some swirl designs on the ribbon. I glittered it with the Microfine Opaque. When it was dry, I ran a needle with embroidery floss about 1/4 " from the edge all the way down the ribbon. I pulled the ends of the floss together and tied them off to create a rosette. I tied a ribbon around the pot and glued the rosette down with fabric glue.

When I was finished, I had a pretty, customized special little gift. I also had some fun glittering with masks and experimenting with a monochromatic color scheme. Think of something like this the next time you need a few inexpensive centerpieces for a party. You will have a good time before the party even starts!

Supplies Used:

145 Ultrafine Transparent Blue Boy
185 Ultrafine Pearlescent Varstiy Blue
504 Microfine Opaque Blue Diadem
Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear
Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Fabric
Ultrafine Metal Tip
Noodgers
Terra Cotta Pot
White Acrylic Paint
Paintbrush
Silhouette Machine
Silhouette Vinyl
White Organza Ribbon
Needle
White Embroidery Thread

Glittered New 4th of July Pinwheels by Emily M. Miller

2011-07-02T06:00:00.007-07:00

Oh the joys of 4^th of July! I live on the busiest corner of small town U.S.A. And on the 4^th of July there are all kinds of activities going on at the park next door. We’ve been there almost 20 years now, everyone knows that I put my pinwheels out every year and well…they’ve seen better days!

So my answer to all sprucing up problems? Art Glitter of course!

Materials:

Pinwheels

Scotch Tape

Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Glitter: #291 Fire Engine, #140 Canadian Blue

Art Glitter Ultrafine Pearlescent Glitter #189 Pearl

Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive (DDC)

Art Glitter Designer Dries White Adhesive (DDW)

Art Glitter Ultrafine Metal Tip

Paint Brush

Start by bending over the top pinwheel tips into the center and tape them into submission. Then paint glue (DDC) onto the 4 bottom ‘wings’ and glitter with Fire Engine Red. Let dry, take tape off.

Remove the circle disk at the end of the horizontal post and glitter it your choice of color. Set aside to dry.

Carefully glue (DDC) and glitter center of top pinwheel Canadian Blue. Let dry 10 min. or so and finished off ‘wings’ with Canadian Blue. Let dry.

The thing you want to be careful about is making sure you don't get glue on your center post. You want to make sure your pinwheel will still spin easily.

Do some brushing off of excess glitter at this point. That is if you don't want to pollute your pearl glitter with blue glitter like I did!

Then you can start drawing on designs with Designer Dries White adhesive, using the Ultrafine Metal Tip on your adhesive spout and fill in with Pearl glitter for a perfect sparkly white effect.

Now my only problem is I have to get 10 more of these done...now! Oh well, it will be worth it!

Just wanted to share an updated photo of my poor wagon I glittered 4 years ago. See it in our gallery when it was beautiful...http://www.artglitter.com/gallery/galEmilyMMillerGlitteredWagon.html So why am I showing this photo? Because this thing has been out in the Arizona sun, wind and elements for 4 years with virtually no shelter in the last two years and it still sparkles!

I promise to take better care of my pinwheels. Have a wonderful 4th!

Hummingbird Necklace and Earrings by Kaaren Poole

2011-06-28T18:00:00.005-07:00

Hummingbirds are such enchanting creatures. They’re both cute and beautiful with the striking iridescence of their feathers that flashes in the sunshine – perfect images for jewelry. So I decided to make a set of hummingbird earrings and a necklace. Art Glitter is the perfect product to add gorgeous sheen to the birds. And crystals add even more sparkle! Here’s how I made them and what I used.

Make the polymer clay Hummingbirds
Condition the clay according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

From the green clay, form a snake shape about 3/8” thick and trim it evenly on both ends so that it is 1” long. Form a second snake shape 1/2” thick and trim it to 1 ¼” long. With the tissue blade, slice each snake shape in half lengthwise. You will be using the two smaller pieces for the smaller earring hummingbirds and one of the larger pieces for the larger pendant hummingbird. You will not be using the second larger piece.

Repeat the previous step with the black clay.

Press one green piece and a same-size black piece together on the long sliced edges. Repeat for the other pieces. You will have three snake shapes, two smaller ones and one larger one, each half green and half black lengthwise. These are the bodies. The green sides are the bellies and the black sides are the backs.

Lay all three body shapes on the work surface green side up. Use the edge of the tissue blade to make a mark across the green side at about 1/3 the length. This line divides the belly (the 2/3 part) from the tail (the 1/3 part). Now cut away the green part to form the tail: starting at the mark, and using the tissue blade, slice at an angle horizontally through the body to the end.

Shape the tail gently with your fingers.

Form a ball of the gold clay a little larger than 3/8” and another a little larger than ½”. With the tissue blade, cut each ball in half. These are the heads. Press a half of the small ball to the head end of each of the small bodies, and half of the large ball to the head end of the large body.

Roll thin snakes of black clay for the beaks. Cut three sections about ½” long (longer than the beaks will be) and roll to taper one end of each. Trim the wide ends so the beaks are the right lengths and press them in place. Cut three lengths of craft wire about 1” long. Carefully press a length of the craft wire from the tip of the beak through the length of the beak and into the head, and repeat with each hummingbird. These wires will strengthen the joints between the beaks and the heads. Leave any excess wire in place – you will trim it later when the clay is cured.

To make the hummingbird’s feet, cut six short lengths of the black craft wire and use the round nose pliers to make a double loop on one end. Press the other end of the wire into the bird until the loop is snug against the body. Repeat with each piece of wire.

With an end of the sterling silver wire dipped in baby powder, poke a hole in the top of each hummingbird’s head. These holes will later accommodate the wire loop to hang the hummingbirds by.

Cure the clay according to the manufacturer’s directions. When the hummingbirds are cool, carefully use the wire clippers to clip away any excess wire from the tips of the beaks.

Coat the Hummingbirds with Glitter
Coat the hummingbirds’ beaks with a coat of Designer Dries Clear Adhesive, using the round brush. Be sure that the beaks are completely but lightly covered –be sure you don’t use so much adhesive that it drips. Carefully dip each beak in the open container of Black Wing glitter to coat the beaks. Let dry.

Lay the hummingbirds on your work surface, bellies up. Coat the entire front side of the hummingbird with Designer Dries Clear Adhesive, once again using the soft brush. Carefully apply the glitter over the adhesive. Pick up a bit of glitter by pinching it between your thumb and middle finger, then sprinkle it over the adhesive. Use the same motion you would use to sprinkle salt, but use small movements to better control where the glitter is falling. Hold your finger tips about 3 inches over your hummingbirds. Coat the head Cayman, the throat Ruby Red, the tips of the tail and wings Black Wing, the remainder of the tail and wings Terra Blue, the lower part of the Terra Blue, and the remainder of the belly Reed. Let the adhesive dry.

In a similar fashion, apply glitter to the back of the birds using Cayman on the head, Terra Blue on the tips of the wings and tail, and Bavarian Forest over the rest. Let the adhesive dry.

Reapply Designer Dries Clear Adhesive and glitter to fill in empty spots as necessary and let the adhesive dry. Be sure you have coated the top of the head (Cayman).

Apply a coat of Diamond Glaze over the entire hummingbirds – front, back, and beak – to seal the glitter in place. Let the glaze dry.

Re-open the holes in the tops of the head with the end of the sterling silver wire if necessary.

Cut the eyepins about 3/16” inch from their eyes. Glue the shortened eyepins into the holes in the tops of the hummingbirds’ heads with the 2-part epoxy glue. Be sure you have used enough glue for a good bond, but also ensure that you haven’t closed the holes in the eyepins.

Make the Earrings with the two Small Hummingbirds
Cut two pieces of sterling silver wire about 1” long. With the chain nose pliers, make a loop in one end of each of the pieces of wire. Thread an 8mm crystal on the straight end of the wire. Trim the straight end to about 3/8” then make a loop on that end also. Repeat with the other piece of wire and a second 8mm crystal.

Cut two pieces of chain each 5/8” long.

Open one of the oval jump rings, thread one end of a chain piece and the loop on the head of one of the hummingbirds onto the jump ring, and re-close the jump ring. Repeat with the other small oval jump ring, chain piece, and hummingbird.

Open the loop on one of the ear wires and slip it through the other end of one of the chain pieces. Re-close the loop. Repeat with the other ear wire.

Make the Pendant and Necklace
Cut a piece of chain 4 1/2” shorter than the finished length of your necklace.

Cut a piece of sterling wire about 1 ¼” long. With the round nose pliers make a small loop in one end. Thread the oval crystal on the other end of the wire and press it snug against the loop. Trim the straight end to about 3/8” and make a loop on that end. Before you close the loop, thread it through the loop on the large hummingbird’s head, then close it.

Locate the chain link that is in the center of your necklace chain. Open the free loop above the oval crystal, thread it through the center link of the chain, and re-close it.

Cut 6 lengths of sterling wire each 1 ¼” long. With the round nose pliers make a small loop in one end of one of the pieces of wire. Thread an 8mm crystal onto the wire, trim the straight end to 3/8”, and make another loop. Repeat with the other five lengths of wire and five 8mm crystals.

Working on one side of the necklace, count five chain links from the center link where the pendant is attached and cut the chain in the sixth link. Open a loop at one end of a crystal/wire assembly and slip it through one of the ends of the chain you just cut and re-close the loop. Open the loop at the other end of the crystal/wire assembly, slip it through the other cut end of the cut chain, and re-close the loop. You now have inserted a crystal into the necklace chain.

Continuing to work outwards, repeat the previous process twice so that there are a total of three crystals on one side of the necklace.

Repeat on the other side.

To attach the clasp, open a large oval jump ring and slip it through one end of the necklace chain and the loop on the lobster claw clasp. Open the second large oval jump ring and slip it through the other end of the necklace chain and the large round closed jump ring.

Now for the branch in the hummingbird’s feet. Cut three pieces of sterling wire 1 ½” long. Set one aside.

For each of the remaining two, use the round nose pliers to make a large loop in one end of the wire. Before you close it, thread three glass leaf-shaped beads onto the loop, then close it. Bend the straight end of the wire perpendicular to the loop. Thread a 6mm crystal on the straight end, trim it to 3/8”, and make a loop from the straight end. 

Cut a piece of chain ¾” long and a second piece 3/8” long. For each piece of chain, open the small loop on a wire/glass leaf assembly, slip if through one end of the chain, and re-close the loop.

Working with the final of the three pieces of wire, make a small loop in one end. Before you close it, thread it through the other end of one of the pieces of chain, then close it. 

Thread the straight end of the wire through the hummingbird’s feet. Trim the straight end to 3/8” and make a small loop. Before you close the loop, string the free end of the other wire/glass leaf assembly onto the loop then close it.

Enjoy your necklace and earrings! When you wear them, be sure to toss your head often for maximum bling effect!

Materials:
For Hummingbirds: 
• Fimo Soft polymer clay in Metallic Gold, Black, Spring Green 
• three pairs 3mm glass eyes (glasseyesonline.com) 
• 24 gauge craft wire, any type of metal 
• 24 gauge black coated craft wire 
• Art Glitter’s Microfine Opaque Glitter: Ruby Red (MFO-500), Cayman (MFO-521), Terra Blue (MFO-510), Bavarian Forest (MFO-514), Black Wing (MFO-507), Reed (MFO-519)

For Jewelry:
• three thin gauge sterling silver eye pins 1” long
• about 2’ (for a necklace up to 20” – you will need more chain if you want a longer necklace) of fine gauge sterling silver chain (4mm links) .
• about 18” 22 gauge half hard sterling silver round wire 
• six small glass top-drilled leaf beads
•  sterling silver lobster claw clasp 
• two 7mm sterling silver oval open jump rings
•  pair of sterling silver ear wires 
• eight 8mm Siam round faceted Swarovski crystals
•  two 6mm Siam round faceted Swarovski crystals
•  one 12mm polygon Siam Swarovski bead 
• four small sterling silver oval open jump rings (about 4x6mm)
•  one 8mm closed round jump ring

Additional Supplies:
• Tissue blade for polymer clay 
• Art Glitter’s Designer Dries Clear Adhesive
• Diamond Glaze 
• two part epoxy glue 
• needle nose pliers 
• round nose pliers 
• wire cutters
 • soft round brush, size 8 
• baby powder
•  pointed round toothpick

My Red, White and Blue Glitter Shoes by Laura Drahozal

2011-06-25T06:00:00.004-07:00

Every year, the women in my family go to the Salute to America Concert and Fireworks at The Henry Ford in Michigan. It is a great family event. Everyone packs a succulent picnic, which we eat on the lawn as we listen to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. As twilight slips into evening, we can hear The 1812 Overture begin. At the appropriate moment, the cannons are shot and the fireworks start. Part of the fun of this event is all of the attendees trying to out-red, white and blue each other. This year, I am convinced that I have it nailed--Art Glitter will help put me over the top with my glittering patriotic shoes. The best part? They were really fun to create. They took just a little patience, but weren't difficult. Let me explain.

First, I washed an old pair of denim colored canvas shoes. As they dried, I collected my supplies: Art Glitter Dries Clear Fabric Adhesive, the Ultrafine Metal Tip, Number 500 Ruby Red Microfine Opaque Glitter, Number 508 Silver Moon Microfine Opaque Glitter, Number 189 Pearl Ultrafine Pearlescent Glitter and Number 140 Canadian Blue (ironic, right?) Ultrafine Opaque Glitter.

When the shoes were dry, I packed them with old newspapers to keep the sides upright. I then attached the fine tip to my Art Glitter Fabric Glue and began with the red stripes. These stripes stretch across the sides of the shoes from the seam by the tongue, along the seam that attached the front to the side and then next to the rubber near the sole. They stop at the seam that connects the heel to the side. I NEVER crossed over a seam. The stripes look difficult, but were actually quite easy, since I just followed along the seams and rubber edges. With the fine tip attachment (a necessity), the fine lines were easy to do, and the glue came out somewhat sparingly--exactly the amount I needed to prevent drips. The stripes didn't need to be straight lines, since they were supposed to represent the stripes on a flag in motion. I did the bottom red stripe first, so that I could follow the pattern. As far as the distance went, I knew that I wanted those white eyelets for the laces to be entirely in the white stripe. Therefore, I put the edges of the red stripes just outside the edges of the eyelets. Of course, I poured the red glitter on these stripes as soon as they were on the shoe. I did all the red stripes first--bottom to top on one side of a shoe, bottom to top on one side of the other shoe and then CAREFULLY bottom to top on the opposite side of the first shoe, and then the second shoe. Then, I had to wait for a little while for the glue to set well.

Once the red stripes were set, I needed to add the white stripes and stars. The problem that I faced was that there was no completely opaque white glitter to use. I needed the opacity because I was using those denim colored shoes. If I had been working on anything but fabric, I could have used Designer Dries White Glue, but I needed that clear fabric glue this time. I solved this problem by using silver as a first layer for my white components. I chose the Microfine Glitter because I knew that it would cover very well and create a nice base for that white. I drew the stars freehand with glue, the same way I learned to make stars in elementary school. Once again, I wasn't worried about perfection, as this project was more fun than precise. I made the stripes by filling the space between the red ones. The first layer was all filled in with the silver. Then, I had to wait for it to dry before I put a layer of white on the top. (Honestly that silver microfine was so gorgeous that I was sorely tempted to just leave it, but it wouldn't fit my color theme.)

When the white was dry, the fine tip was invaluable, as I used it to make blue outlines around the stars. This was a great way to touch up my crazy stars just a little. When the whole thing had dried for several hours, I followed the package instructions on the Dries Clear Fabric Glue to set it. I preheated the oven to 300 and turned it off. Then, I added the shoes on a foil lined cookie sheet and baked for 30 minutes. I washed them in cold water so they would be all ready for me to dazzle my fellow fireworks fans. So, as the picnic is eaten and the music begins, I'll be thinking, "Let the patriotic clothing contest begin!" I know I am ready for the Fourth of July (thanks to Art Glitter) are you?

SUPPLIES:

Art Glitter Dries Clear Fabric Adhesive
Ultrafine Metal Tip
No. 500 Ruby Red Microfine Opaque Glitter
No. 508 Silver Moon Microfine Opaque Glitter
No. 189 Pearl Ultrafine Pearlescent Glitter
No. 140 Canadian Blue Ultrafine Opaque Glitter.

Glitzy Baby Book by Shannon Bielke

2011-06-21T18:00:00.005-07:00

Using my current favorite line, Once Upon a Springtime by Graphic 45, I made this baby book for a dear friend of mine who just had a sweet little baby girl, Josie.

Hands down my new favorite product to use these days is Art Glitter's Fantasy Film! And, so, with lovely shades and styles of glitter, Fantasy Film and the lovely papers, I think I succeeded in creating a sweet little book I'd be happy and proud to give to a beloved child.

Supplies used:
Art Glitter Fantasy Film - Spring Morning
Ultrafine Opaque Glitter - 10 Baby Pink, 42 Aqua, 19 Grape, 25 Cornflower
Ultrafine Transparent Glitter - 144 Miss Muffet, 312 Fresh Green, 85 Crystal
Designer Dries Clear Adhesive
Tools Kit
Ultrafine Metal Tip
7 Gypsies blank book
Graphic 45 Once Upon a Springtime papers
Recollections rhinestones
Prima Flowers
JLC Flowers, bling
Kaisercraft pearl strips
Stazon inks
American Tag eyelets, nailheads
Miscellaneous stamps
Misc. ribbons and fibers

I'm finding the beauty of Art Glitter's products is versatility! It still amazes me what can be done with glitter that has nothing to do with over-the-top bling and sparkle!

For example, the Elements line intrigues me and speaks to my inner artist. I'm in the process of designing a project just so I can attempt to use them to their best advantage! Now, doesn't that sound like fun??

Sparkle On Toni! Recovery Fund at Art Glitter

2011-06-18T06:00:00.002-07:00

If you’ve ever called Art Glitter, you’ve probably talked to Toni. Her sparkling personality and abundant enthusiasm for Art Glitter shines through the phone lines and glistens on everyone she helps. Now it is our turn to help Toni. Earlier this month she suffered a stroke and is undergoing therapy and treatments to bring her speech and mobility back. As her medical bills stack higher we want to help lessen her load.

It is Art Glitter’s pleasure to donate a major portion of proceeds from our Kooky Kolors Glitter selection. These limited edition colors are Art Glitter quality at a discounted price. Just make a purchase to assist Toni or to make a monetary donation through paypal to her Recovery Fund click HERE.

Thank you! When you sparkle, Toni sparkles!

IBS Las Vegas - June 18 - 20
Hope to see you at the International Beauty Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Come see us at Booth #5264 June 18th - 20th. ALL GLITTER AT SHOW IS 25% OFF! This is one Hair and Nail Conference you will not want to miss and we will be covered in Art Glitter!

Fantasy Garden Frame by Shannon Bielke

2011-06-14T18:00:00.001-07:00

This was such a fun project! I've always been an altered/rustic kind of artist and all that involves.

You know, pieces that are aged, mismatched, darker colors, and random items . . . but then I discovered glitter! Glitter is not all girlie (and yes, it certainly can be!), it can also be subtle, beautiful, and classic.

Art Glitter's colors are fantastic and beautiful, and their tools make it easy to use the glitter subtly and delicately or boldly and brilliantly. At first I thought I might not be any good using glitter, but never fear! It was fun, easy, and amazingly creative!

This project, my Fantasy Garden Mirror, practically created itself with all the beautiful parts I used, and then inspired me to find different ways to use glitter and Fantasy Film in other projects. Yes, glitter can add to my altered art pieces, and Art Glitter's Elements Earth Textures are fantastic for rustic pieces!

Art Glitter Dries Clear Adhesive
Fantasy Film: Spring Morning, Satin
Ultrafine Opaque: 122 Sage, 40 Ocean, 42 Aqua, 10 Baby Pink
Ultrafine Transparent: 168 Black Light
Ultrafine Metal Tip
Tools Kit
Kaisercraft Wood Frame
Jacquard Lumiere: Citrine, Metallic Olive,
Pinata Color Extender
Prima Flowers Valentine Vine White
Misc. stamps

Hologram Glitter Butterfies T Shirt by Laura Drahozal

2011-06-11T06:00:00.002-07:00

I am so thrilled to be a guest blogger for Art Glitter this summer! I have used their products for years now in all my papercrafting, art, and fabric endeavours. I love these products for their reliability and variety. I have most recently been bitten by a love for the Holographic Glitters. I wanted to start with a project that showcased the beautiful range of Art Glitter colors and allowed me to use the holographics. The butterflies on this shirt let me to do just that--and it was so easy!

First, I used my Silhouette Machine to cut the butterflies out of their black flocked heat transfer material. All of the designs were available on their site, so I didn't have to create any of the butterflies from scratch. After I removed the inside pieces and ironed them on to my shirt, I got to the really fun part.

I had a "coloring book" to fill with glitter. For each butterfly, I used the Fabric Dries Clear Adhesive fitted with the fine metal tip to fill the "wells", leaving a little white right around some of the edges to create extra interest. I used a variety of glitter styles and colors, but focused primarily on opaques, because I wanted the intensity on this project. It was like painting with glitter, each individual container a new well on my artist palette.

I let the glue dry for a few hours. Then, I used a large stencil brush to remove the excess glitter. I set the glue by leaving it for 30 minutes in a warmed oven (according to Fabric Dries Clear package instructions). Then, I washed it inside out in cold water so that I could wear my piece of glittered art.

Art Glitter I used:
Ultrafine Opaque: 32 True Blue, 62 Copper Canyon, 66 Yellow, 140 Canadian Blue, 155 Red Velvet
Ultrafine Transparent: 94 Key Lime
Ultrafine Opaque Hologram: 128 Quark, 329 Egyptian Blue, 336 Alien
Ultrafine Pearlescent: 189 Pearl
Microfine Opaque: 500 Ruby Red, 501 Monarch, 510 Terra Blue

DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION:http://cmp.ly/2

Fascinated with Fascinators by Kaaren Poole

2011-06-07T18:00:00.003-07:00

I admit it – I was really into the Royal Wedding, and those hats! A few years back I was exchanging e-mails with a lovely woman in England and one time she sent me a photo of herself in which she was wearing a small but pretty much outrageous hat which she called a “fascinator.” “Fascinators” are apparently designed to “fascinate.” When I saw those amazing hats at the royal wedding, I was reminded of Beryl’s fascinator and I thought making one would be a fascinating and timely project for Art Glitter.

Art Glitter’s glitter and fantasy film often play a starring role my 3D polymer clay animals and fairies. I wanted to apply those techniques to a different subject. Lilies are one of my favorite flowers and since their shapes and markings are distinctive yet simple I thought one would be a fitting subject for a Fantasy Film sculpture.

Here are the materials I used:
Art Glitter Fantasy Film: Sunkissed, Satin, Watermelon, Aurora, and Spring Morning
Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Glitter in Red Velvet #155 and Michigan Moss #232
 Art Glitter Ultrafine Transparent Glitter in Angel Dust #86, Halo #230, and Lettuce #286
 Art Glitter Ultrafine Pearlescent Glitter in Duck Tail #178 
Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive
Aleene’s Fast Grab Tacky Glue 
Judi Kins Diamond Glaze
 22 gauge color coated wire in burnt orange and green 
26 gauge color coated wire in yellow green 
green florists’ tape
 white polymer clay 
2-part epoxy glue 
very thin metal headband.

You will also need: felt thin-tip pen, iron, parchment paper, wire cutters, needle-nose pliers, thin cardboard, scissors, small knitting needle, a candle, round paint brush (about a size 8), baby powder or cornstarch.

The process was pretty simple. I made each petal, leaf, stamen, and the pistil separately then wrapped them together to form the flower. I added the leaves and wrapped the stem, and finally attached the flower to the headband. Here’s how.

Begin with the petals. Make six petals from Fantasy Film and wire then embellished them with glitter. When you look closely at a lily you will see that although all six petals are about the same length, the three inner petals are wider than the three outer ones. (Using these types of small but important observations makes art work convincing.) Cut two petal patterns out of thin cardboard. The one for the inner petals is a pointed oval 4” long and 2 ¼” wide. The one for the outer petals is a pointed oval 4” long and 1 ¾” wide.

With the felt tip pen, draw around the patterns on a piece of Satin Fantasy Film, drawing three petals from each of the two patterns. Trim each of the patterns down a tiny bit on the tip and about ¼” narrower on the sides. From each trimmed pattern draw and cut three of each from the Sunkissed Fantasy Film. Place the Sunkissed pieces in the centers of the Satin petal shapes. Finally, follow the same procedure – trimming the pattern further, cutting the shapes, and placing them in the centers of the Satin petals over the pieces of Aurora – with the Watermelon Fantasy Film. Carefully place the Fantasy Film “stack” between two pieces of parchment paper and bond them together by pressing with a warm iron.

The next step is to apply the wire and glitter to the petals. Cut six pieces of the orange wire, each piece about 11” long. Fold each piece of wire crisply in half and glue them down the centers of the petals with Aleene’s Fast Grab Tacky Glue. The folded end goes at the outer tip of the petals and the two cut ends extend below the bottom point of the petals. When the glue is dry, cut out each of the petals, cutting about 1/8” outside the felt tip pen lines. To give a finished edge to the petals, carefully melt them with a candle flame. Hold the wire ends with the pair of pliers and carefully passed the edges of the petals near enough to the candle flame to melt them slightly. Keep the film a bit away from the flame so it doesn’t burn.

To add the glitter, use the brush to apply a line of Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive along both sides of the wires and large dots randomly on either side of the wire. Sprinkle Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Red Velvet glitter over the adhesive then tap away the excess. Once the adhesive dries, use the brush to apply a coat of Judi Kins Diamond Glaze over the entire petal then lightly sprinkle Art Glitter Ultrafine Transparent Angel Dust and Halo glitter over the entire surface. When the Diamond Glaze is dry, I apply a second coat of glaze over the entire petals to seal in the glitter. Repeat the Diamond Glaze and sprinkled glitter process on the back side of all the petals.

For the flower center, form 6 little rice-shaped pieces of polymer clay for the stamen ends. For the pistil end, form a small ball of polymer clay then press three indentations with the side of a small knitting needle, radiating the three lines from a central point. (It should look like a tiny three-lobed pumpkin.) With a needle dipped in baby powder or cornstarch, poke holes in the sides of the stamen pieces and the bottom of the pistil piece to accommodate wire. After curing and cooling the clay pieces according to the manufacturer’s directions, use 2-part epoxy to glue 4” lengths of the spring green 26 gauge wire in the holes of all 7 pieces. When the epoxy is dry, coat the clay portions of the 7 pieces with Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive and dip the stamens in Art Glitter Ultrafine Pearlescent Duck Tail glitter and the pistil in Art Glitter Ultrafine Transparent Lettuce glitter to coat them. Seal the glitter with a coat of Diamond Glaze when the glue is dry.

Follow the same procedure as the petals to make the leaves. Lily leaves are narrow shapes like daffodil leaves and a little shorter than the petals. Make three short leaves (about 3” long and 1 1/8” wide) and one long swoopy curved one (about 8” long and 1 1/8” wide at the widest point) for drama. Using a warm iron, bond a piece of Art Glitter Aurora Fantasy Film and a piece of Art Glitter Spring Morning Fantasy Film together then cut the leaf pieces from this double-thickness sheet. Cut pieces of green wire a few inches longer than twice the length of the leaves. Fold the pieces of wire in half but keep the two halves somewhat separated along the central portions of the leaves’ lengths. Glue the wires in place with Aleene’s Fast Grab Tacky Glue, cut out the shapes, flame-finished the edges, apply a coat of Diamond Glaze then sprinkle Art Glitter Ultrafine Opaque Michigan Moss glitter and Art Glitter Ultrafine Transparent Lettuce glitter over it and finally seal the leaves with a second coat of Diamond Glaze.

Now that you have all the pieces it’s time for the really fun part - assembling the flower. Here’s where the florists tape comes in. Florists’ tape sticks to itself when you stretch it a bit, so be sure to pull a bit as you wrap it so it will stick.

Hold the 7 flower center pieces together in a bundle and wrap the ends with a 2” piece of florists’ tape to hold the bundle together. Begin where the pieces would emerge from the center of the flower and continue down towards the ends of the wire bundle.

Next, position the three wider petals around the center cluster, spacing them evenly – these are the inner petals. Hold them in place by wrapping the entire bundle – center bundle and the wires from the three petals - with a 3” piece of florists’ tape. Next add the three narrower petals in the same way, spacing them between the wider petals.

Wrap more florist’s tape around the bundle of wires. Start at the base of the petals and wrap for about 2”.

To add the leaves, attach them to the bundle one at a time, beginning with the longest leaf closest to the flower and adding the other three leaves as you progress down the stem. To add them, hold them against the wrapped flower “stem” and wrap florist’s tape around the leaf wire/stem bundle.

Finally, I attach the flower with leaves to the headband, wrapping tightly with florists’ tape. To be sure that the flower stays in place anchor the ends of the wrapped wire to the headband with a few dabs of 2-part epoxy. Also add a large dab of the 2-part epoxy to the center of the flower to firmly anchor the petals and flower center parts together.
Arrange the petals and leaves to your liking by bending the wire, then Enjoy!

Introducing Art Glitter's New Guest Designers

2011-06-04T06:00:00.004-07:00

It's that time again. Time to say good bye to three very talented wonderful designers and hello to three new talented and wonderful designers!

I always think that our designers will be sick of glitter after three months, but our last group were glitter enthusiasts to the end. We may see more of Candy, Janelle and Clare in our glitter futures. I thank you for sharing your designs and wish you the best of luck. May all your dreams sparkle and shine.

Here's our next crew. Join me in welcoming these artists in their glitter endeavors to come, it's going to be a lot of fun!

Laura Drahozal
I am a former art teacher and current substitute teacher from Michgan, where I live with my fabulous husband Steve and spoiled Collie, Emma. I have a BFA from the University of Michigan and can find artistic inspiration in just about everything. I have participated in many forms of art, from stained glass to sculpture and metalwork to colored pencil drawing.

I discovered papercrafting in 2004, after my mother was diagnosed with Inflammatory Breast Cancer. It was then that I realized how much of life we let fly by. Scrapbooking allowed me to capture thoughts in the same way that my other love, photography, allowed me to stop moments. Papercrafting causes me to draw from all my artistic interests, and challenges me to discover new ways to incorporate them.

I started my blog in March 2010, rememberinglifesmoments.blogspot.com. I am on the design team at Scraptales in Brighton, Michigan, where I also work part time and teach classes. I just love showing people new techniques and can now be found demonstrating on the Scraptales Youtube channel.

Recently, I have been honored to be on the Dreamweaver Stencils Design Team and published four times in The Stampers' Sampler and Scrap & Stamp Arts.

I am very excited to be an Art Glitter Guest Designer. I believe that there isn't alot that can't be improved by the magic of a little Art Glitter, and can often be seen covered in it myself!

Shannon Bielke
As a child, I wanted to be like my mom, an artist herself. In reality I became an artist because I've always felt the need to create, thus, art has always been a defining factor in my life.

In college I earned a BA in fine art, and now I teach art on all levels from elementary age through college. I design projects for and teach classes at Paper and Metal Scrappers in Payson, I'm a designer for CHA, and a contributing designer or design team member for a number of different companies.

I have a wonderful supportive family, my husband Scott, and four beautiful children, Allison, Matt, Jeff, and Hannah. Newly an empty-nestor, I'm finding more time to explore my creative urges which are continually changing, evolving and dragging me along for the ride!

My website is about my art and my latest projects, check it out: Shaandco.net.

Kaaren Poole
I live in the Northern California countryside on 10 wooded acres, otherwise known as Paradise. Here with me in Paradise are dog, cat, and duck family members and my sister who is also my best friend. It seems that I’m older than the other Art Glitter Designers and I just want everyone to know that you’re never too old for glitter! In fact, glitter, gleam, and sheen may get even better with age as the bonds of conventionality fall away one by one!

My first work life was in the computer industry, but now I’m able to indulge something I always enjoyed but didn’t follow as a career – art. I work in several different media both 2D and 3D and my favorite subject is animals. My current goal is to get juried into the Society of Animal Artists, and once I achieve that, I will be working towards signature status in that organization.

I sell my art on my website (wildharestudio.org) and eBay (seller id kaapoole), and write about it on my blog, wildharestudio.blogspot.com. Whenever I am fortunate enough to sell my art, I donate 100% of the proceeds to animal charities. Along with my family, animals, and friends, art brings joy to my life every day and glitter brings joy to my art!

I hope you enjoy my projects, and happy glittering!

Thank you glitter gals! And remember, to see all our designers projects listed in a nice orderly manner visit Art Glitter's Guest Designer page ~ Enjoy!