Tuesday, October 28, 2008


Sketchbook Wednesday..."by candlelight"

Mrs. Staggs creates some challenging challenges. The first thing I thought of was birthday candles. Some might think of: Jack O'lanterns, romance, power outages, candles for religious observances and rituals, or candles used in days of yore to provide lighting.

But, when a "first thought/impression" pops in my head, it stays there. I love birthday cakes and candles. I love the glow they create, the wonder in the birthday person's eyes, and the promise of secret wishes that might come true.

What I used: papers from my stash, glue sticks, my original painted papers & birthday art, brads. There is also glitter which never photographs well and some velveteen orange paper on the left side with stitching on it.

(Don't forget to click on the photos to make them larger.)

What I learned: less is more is always true. I wanted to avoid a traditional birthday party color palette and use graphic symbols. I wanted to stay in the same color zone as another page I am displaying today. I learned that I like cutting and pasting better than drawing right now.

When I had the materials out for another project a few weeks ago, I made the page below. My friend and I had traded decorated envelopes. I copied mine in the scanner, printed it, and used it for a Halloween page. The supplies I used are in front of the page.

When the Wednesday sketchbook journal is filled, it will represent an entire autumn. There are ten pages left in it, which will take it through the holiday season. I am really happy that I have stuck with this. I lack discipline and it has forced me to think-- and create.

I am putting all my journal pages here.

Hats off to Mrs. Staggs!

2 comments:

Eileen said...

I would have never thought of birthday candles first. Very creative. And I love what you did with the idea.
Your journal cover is terrific!

Anonymous said...

Hi Helen, I really like both of your pages, and I especially enjoy seeing how different they are from each other. The flame on the candle is really neat. It almost looks real. I've been trying to think of less being more sometimes too. Your page is a wonderful example of how well that works. I still haven't mustered up the courage to try drawing. I'm going to have to work on that. I love this charming drawing, and the elements that you've chosen compliment it in a way that is "just right".
My hat is off to YOU! You've been so kind to participate each week, and to encourage me. Thank you very much!

Lena