Chakra P. Tutorial: Words as art

Today we are pleased to introduce the first of a few posts featuring D.I.Y.'s (or how-to's) from the talented Rikkianne of Chakra Pennywhistle. Rikkianne as you many of you know, is well-known for her beautiful eco-friendly products from pillows, accessories, and children's wear. She has an amazing eye and style, and a great ear (follow her on blip.fm, we do!). She has some awesome ideas to share here, and we hope you love her first one today, "Words As Art", we think it's an awesome idea to make for Valentine's! Visit Rikkianne at her etsy shop here!

I found this project on the Mint Design blog. Meghan from Mustard and Sage made the loveliest painting for her husband using a Neutral Milk Hotel tune. When her painting popped onto the screen, I had one of those moments where you almost fall out of the chair because you realize how beautiful it is and that you might just be able to do that yourself! That is the reason why I had to share it with you. Be sure to check out Meghan’s process. While mine is a bit different, both tutorials share a simple project that actually says quite a lot.

The hardest part is picking out what to say. I am a music lover and I immediately knew that I would never complete the painting if I had to pick one song. I decided to use a quote that my husband and I have kept close to our hearts for the nine years that we have been together. My quote is taken from a Time Out New York interview with Julia Child. I have kept the clipping for years and this project allowed me to showcase it in the most perfect way.

Supplies:

Artist Paints: I used gouache for my painting. I happened to have some in the studio and tried it out. I liked the effect. It is a bit thicker than acrylic and leaves a more textured/aged look. Acrylic is easier to stamp leaving a smooth print. You can even use an inkpad. I have provided examples of all three styles.

Paint Brush: To apply the paint to the stamp and also nice to have on hand for touch ups.

Foam Letter Stamps: You can find different sets and fonts at your local craft shop.

Stretched Canvas

Pencil / Ruler

Process:

1. Take a ruler and draw a horizontal line across your canvas. This line will be your stamping guide.

2. Paint color on your stamp with the paintbrush. I found that this was easier then dipping the stamp. It makes for a more even print.

3. Place your stamp on the canvas and press.

4. Continue for each word, all the while using your horizontal pencil lines as your guide.

Below are the different stamp effects …

Top: Gouache
Middle: Acrylic
Bottom: Inkpad – Mine was rather old and dry but I think that you can get the gist.

That’s all there is to it! I hope that you enjoy this tutorial. If you decide to make one of your own, please share what your words would be!