Just Start

As I mentioned a few days ago...I was inspired by Dotty's Random Acts of Art project. I knew I was going to use snippets and scraps...and I was anxious to just start.

I may do a few different versions...but for now I'm sticking with a familiar format I used when I made some calling cards with my contact information a while back. 

They are easy to assemble and stitch...and a good size to tuck here and there. I'll add something on the back...but I'm not going to include my name or any contact information. I want these to be completely anonymous.   

I was tickled with this one because I found a use for something I didn't love. 

A week or so ago I did a cyanotype experiment...and until this morning I thought it was kind of a bust. But with a little cutting....and paired with one of my photo kaleidoscope prints...I think it works. The white zig zag stitching is just the right finishing touch.

The print started with these lobster claw rubber bands from the summer. Most of the lobster was eaten while Becky was visiting. 

I've always thought there should be a use for these. Maybe I found one.

Have I mentioned that I got a new toy? I bought a UV light so I can make cyanotypes inside on a rainy day...or even at night. And the best part about it is that Kelly can borrow it for cyanotype art lessons at her school.

I placed the rubber bands under the light on the treated paper for about six to eight minutes. (The light is sitting on my printer...it's the closest flat place next to an outlet...the cord is short.)

The light is small...and was very reasonably priced. I know I'll use it this winter.

This is what the rubber band print looked like when it was done processing.

And this is what it looked like after I rinsed it in water then diluted peroxide. I thought the wonky shapes were interesting...but I was a little unsure of the design. Cutting out chunks of the shapes was the game changer.

I used a few more of the rubber band chunks to make this card. I paired them with a piece of a watercolor doodle and a bit of black and white paper. 

I'm actually now quite fond of these little blue rubber band pebbles.....so I'll probably print them again. 

I have seven cards made so far...and more in progress on my table.

I'm going to put something on the back of these this evening....and since I will be out and about most of tomorrow I will start to distribute them. I am volunteering at Maine Needs...so will probably tuck a few into with some of the orders. 

I still don't have a name for this project...but I'm mulling it over. 

Maybe it doesn't need one....I just needed to start.