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Dark Romanticism: Mixed-Media Tutorial by Guest Artist Olga Siedlecka

She found herself among some rusty ferns. The moist moss lay underneath, the burning stars high above. The chilling air was cooling down her emotions.

We are pleased to welcome guest artist, Olga Siedlecka, to Somerset Place! Olga is a gifted mixed-media artist who has been featured in several Stampington publications including Bella Grace, Art Journaling, and Somerset Studio. Today she’ll be sharing how she created this beautiful mixed-media piece.

As the two main elements of my work, I chose a canvas panel and a small broken china plate. To start the background, I glued down grey paper with botanical patterns using a heavy gel medium. Then, I painted the background with black gesso along with emerald, indigo and navy inkblots of acrylic paints.

I applied this mixture with my finger to obtain a messy effect and when the medium was drying, I wiped the canvas with a moist cloth. This step resulted in a ragged and time-worn effect.

Then I started working on the focal element. I glued down the young lady’s portrait onto the china plate and also fixed the photo of moon phases under a few glass pebbles. I used thick gel medium which dries transparent and once it had dried, I trimmed the excess of the photo underneath.

Then, I arranged the composition of pebbles and the china plate. I added a star and dried ferns which were attached to the background with transparent gel.

When dry, I enhanced the composition with a dried root, a pinch of tiny beads, a pinch of shimmering powders, a bit of rusty pastes and red acrylic paints.

To finish the piece, I covered the plate with a coat of glaze medium and imprinted the moon stamp with heated sealing wax.The last step was adding a bit of color on the ferns and a few tea stain drops.

Materials Used: canvas panel, small china plate, gel medium, black gesso, acrylic paints, vintage photo, dried ferns or pressed flowers, microbeads, rust paste, art pebbles. 

To keep up with Olga, visit her blog at: belladonnacrafts.blogspot.com!

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Glimpse Inside May Issues + Your Chance To Win!

We are thrilled to present our May 2019 issues! Discover creative inspiration in the next installment of our newly revamped Somerset Studio, summertime skin-care recipes in Willow and Sage, and stunning studio spaces in In Her Studio!

Click on any of the spotlighted titles below to get an in-depth sneak peek of featured articles and to reserve your copies today, and be sure to clip your exclusive coupon code below.

Receive $5 off on new May issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code*: BLOG0519 at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)

*Coupon is valid on the May releases of Somerset Studio, Willow and Sage, and In Her Studio only. Offer expires May 31st, 2019.

Somerset Studio

The newly revamped Somerset Studio is filled with unique and creative ideas for a variety of projects. It also includes free artist papers for you to incorporate into your creations!

Inside the May 2019 Issue:

The Book Issue: handmade books, altered books, and more

Artist Profile Molly Meng

Amy Willcut shares how to encase a significant floral bouquet in resin to create artwork that will stand the test of time.

Interesting techniques to create book pages that are full of texture and depth.

A spotlight on 3-D books that have art that literally jumps off the page.

  Willow and Sage

From hydrating aloe face mist to rose petal lip mask, discover 144 pages of natural skin-care recipes and helpful tips inside of the Summer Issue of Willow and Sage!

Inside the May 2019 Issue:

DIY At-Home Facial

Anti-Frizz Hair Spray

Whipped Shea Citrus Body Butter

All-Natural Deodorant 2 Ways

Lifestyle for Beginners: Frizzy Hair Remedies

Summertime Self-Care Inspiration

Lavender Honey Lip Balm

Rosemary Soap for Oily Skin

All-in-One Headache Relief Kit

In Her Studio

The pages of In Her Studio are brimming with versatile ideas and talented artists. Dive-in to this beautiful collection of creative spaces that are sure spark inspiration!

Inside the May 2019 Issue:

Explore the quaint and charming attic studio of painter Kaila Jackson.

Weaver and macramé artist Lindsey Campbell of Hello Hydrangea shares her fiber-filled creative haven.

Step back in time in the rustic Oregon workshop of Howl Attire owner Alicia Renner.

Get inspired to get organized by the stunning quilting studio of Missy Luukkonen.

Meditate on lifestyle and wellness within The Movement Studio.

Enter to Win Our Glimpse Inside Giveaway!

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Mixed Media Unmixed with Guest Artist Heather Kindt

  Join us in welcoming guest artist, Heather Kindt, to Somerset Place! Heather is a talented mixed-media artist who has been featured in several of our magazines including Art Journaling and Stampers’ Sampler. We’re excited to have her here on the blog today to give us insight into the best kinds of texture media to use for various projects!

I have a lot of media (media is the plural form of medium when it comes to art talk). Let’s make sense of the products we use when it comes to acrylic paint and texture media.

The Products

1. Paint, acrylic from craft to fine art grades

Acrylic paint = pigment + acrylic polymers + moisture + filler

(Acrylic paint = color + plastic + water + chalk/talc etc)

*specifics depend on the brand, the higher the price is usually the greater concentration of pigment

  2. Gel medium

Acrylic polymers + water = gel

  3. Texture medium

Gel medium + mixative = texture medium

  Acrylic Paint

Paint comes in different viscosities or forms. Check out the forms of acrylic paint.

Heavy body paint is usually in a tube, metal or plastic. Quality varies by brand.

A telling characteristic of heavy body paint is the peaks that can be formed with a pallet knife.

Heavy body paint works well with stencils. It leaves a crisp image with clean lines.

A softer paint, but also considered heavy body, is open acrylic.

With a longer drying time the paint formula has more water and does not have the ability to dry with sharp peaks.

It works well with stencils but is not as sharp.

The next type form of acrylic is called fluid.

It is a liquid thicker than water.

It is thick enough to use with a stencil, but can easily seep underneath the edges. Using a small amount of paint with a sponge prevents seepage.

The final form of acrylic is very runny and has many names: paint ink, high-flow, airbrush paint.

Any color that is pastel must be shaken because the pigments with settle at the bottom in a fluid so runny.

(The bubbles are from all the shaking.)

High flow does not work well straight on a stencil. For sure use a stencil brush or sponge.

Compare the high-viscosity to an ink that is compatible with dip pens but has many uses. Inks vary in permanence, some are water soluble.

This is a permanent ink called an India ink. The color is very dense.

Both look great when spread by a pallet knife.

      Acrylic Gel Media

Next are the gel mediums; gels vary in thickness and shine. For example Golden sells all these options.

Extra heavy gel medium

Heavy gel medium

Regular gel medium

Soft gel medium

And each is available in three sheens:

Gloss, Semi-gloss (Satin), Matte

While they all dry clear, a little bit of white is added to the gel to knock back the shine from gloss to make semi-gloss. More white is added for matte.

My Soft Gel Matte is old enough to have dried into a stiffer gel, such as heavy gel medium. These dry really fast.

If you forget which heaviness does what, Golden explains it on the label.

Works well with stencils. Also my favorite for image transfers is Regular Gel Semi-gloss. Similar to this one.

Another brand that is like Golden’s actual Soft Gel is Prima’s 3-D Matte Gel by Finnabair.

It reminds me of the open acrylic paint since the peaks are soft.

Works well with stencils.

  Texture Media

Gel medium + tiny clear balls, similar to sprinkles = Bead Gel (sometimes called glass bead gel).

If you take gel medium and add pearl or mica powder you will get an iridescent medium. They vary by brand.

  This brand has a pretty thick gel that works with stencils and makes really cool image transfers.

There is a unique medium called Light Modeling Paste or Light Molding Paste or Ranger’s Texture Paste Opaque Matte. It is light and fluffy like marshmallow cream. I think that it is whipped, it has a surface that is porous. Much different from a gel, that has a consistency like paint, light pasted absorb liquid readily.

Thick moldings pastes hold a peak better than heavy body paint.

  Perfect for stencils, go over them 2 or 3 times so you don’t waste paste.

Give extra drying time to thick applications.

Below is Ranger’s paste.

Regular Modeling Paste or Flexible Modeling Paste is much heavier than the light version. Trust me, it will make your journal heavy. It does make impressive texture.

Also brilliant with stencils.

I believe in dirty stencils, but you need to clean them after using pastes or they will mess up the clear lines.

Other texture pastes have a gel base with a particular mixture. Cement Paste and others mix sand with the gel the texture is very gritty. Mine dried out in the container (after a few years of neglect), but it is still flexible and you can see the gritty texture.

Another example is a black texture that can be made in different ways. This one is iron and a very heavy paste.

Now the formula is simple to understand. When you meet a new stencil consider what thickness of gel was used and what was the mixative. What it mica? Glitter? Metallic paint? Or you can make your own with gel and whatever you want! Yea us!

To keep up with Heather, you can visit her website and Facebook!

Website: https://heatherkindtart.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.kindt 

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Glimpse Inside April Issues + Your Chance To Win!

Our April 2019 issues have arrived! Discover creative inspiration for your next celebration in Mingle, helpful techniques in Art Journaling, and heartfelt stories in Bella Grace New Generation Issue 3. Take a peek inside each of these titles below!

Click on any of the spotlighted titles below to get an in-depth sneak peek of featured articles and to reserve your copies today, and be sure to clip your exclusive coupon code below.

Receive $5 off on new April issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code*: BLOG0419 at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)

*Coupon is valid on the April releases of Art Journaling, Mingle and Bella Grace New Generation only. Offer expires April 30th, 2019.

  Art Journaling

  Art Journaling is filled with beautiful journal page inspiration accompanied by inspiring stories from acclaimed mixed-media artists!

Inside the Spring 2019 Edition:

Take a stroll down memory lane with a vintage-inspired school-themed art journal.

Learn how corrugated cardboard can be elevated into three artistic tag books.

Explore an altered book bursting with interesting elements.

The Artist Profile of Tiffany Goff Smith featuring her dreamy, textured layouts.

  Mingle

  Pick up the Spring Issue of Mingle to discover inspiration for your next celebration!

Inside the Spring 2019 Edition:

Check out a tropical paradise-themed Mother’s Day gathering by Jamie Forsythe.

Cassandra Clair shares a Southern-inspired ladies’ brunch.

Discover Melanie Beilner’s year of picnics.

Julie Abrera presents a whimsical flower crown workshop.

Step inside a secret garden baby shower by Laura Schwandt.

Skybox Event Productions gives a sneak peek into a doughnut-themed birthday bash.

Learn all about an anniversary celebration hosted by Elizabeth Draeger.

Bella Grace New Generation Issue 3

Bella Grace New Generation Issue 3 includes heartfelt stories from young writers that will inspire you to celebrate everyday magic. It is perfect for daughters, granddaughters, sisters, nieces, students, aspiring writers, photographers, and young-at-heart-friends – a gift they will truly treasure.

  Enter to Win Our Glimpse Inside Giveaway!

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Share Your Art for #NationalCraftMonth + Enter to Win a Free Subscription

We are so excited National Craft Month has arrived! To celebrate, we’re inviting you to share your artwork on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for the entire month of March. Each week we’ll be selecting pieces to feature on our social media accounts, and you’ll also have a chance to get published in our magazines!

See below for details on how you can participate.

On Facebook:

Join Stampington’s Artist Community, a Facebook Group full of other encouraging and supportive artists.

Share your artwork in the group using #NationalCraftMonth

On Pinterest:

Join our collaborative Pinterest board for National Craft Month 2019.

Pin your artwork to the board to share it with the world!

Our editors will be searching this board for the best of the best. You could be published in an upcoming issue!

On Instagram:

Share your artwork using #NationalCraftMonth and #SomersetMade for a chance to be a featured artist on our Instagram feed.

Be sure to follow @stampington for the latest updates and featured artists.

  Enter to win a subscription to any Stampington & Company magazine of your choice:

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Glimpse Inside March Issues + Your Chance To Win!

We can’t wait for you to discover the creative inspiration in our March Issues! From the modern and vintage-styles featured in Belle Armoire Jewelry to the unique techniques in Art Quilting Studio, you are sure to find the inspiration you need for your next project!

Click on any of the spotlighted titles below to get an in-depth sneak peek of featured articles and to reserve your copies today, and be sure to clip your exclusive coupon code below.

Receive $5 off on new March issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code*: BLOG0319 at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)

*Coupon is valid on the March (Spring 2019) releases of Belle Armoire Jewelry, Bella Grace, and Art Quilting Studio only. Offer expires March 31st, 2019.

  Belle Armoire Jewelry

  Belle Armoire Jewelry is filled with beautiful jewelry creations that will inspire your next jewelry project!

Inside the Spring 2019 Edition:

A modern jewelry collection featuring gold leaf and laser-cut wood.

Flame-painted copper earrings display an array of colors.

Book text and metal combine to create vintage-style necklaces with a message.

Animal pendants so detailed you’d never guess they’re made of leather.

  Bella Grace Issue 19

  Bella Grace is a special, 160-page publication devoted to discovering magic in the ordinary. Our aim is to touch the souls of our readers through beautifully penned stories and striking photographs that capture life’s beautiful journey.

Inside Issue 19:

Random acts of kindness to incorporate into your life

Re-thinking our imperfections

Trading Audrey Hepburn

Embracing the pause

Step up your gratitude practice

Learning to lean into the why’s of your life

Art Quilting Studio

  Art Quilting Studio magazine provides a playful and informative forum where quilt enthusiasts from all walks of life can cross-pollinate to share techniques, ideas, and inspiration.

Inside the Spring 2019 Edition:

Discover the talents of Catherine Timm in the Artist Portfolio.

Maggie Dillon shares her vintage-inspired portraits in the Series Showcase.

Kathryn Pellman gives us a sneak peek into her Fashionista Quilter in Quilting the Odd & Unusual.

See Linda Koenig’s fairy-tale vision in The Visit.

Jean Loussarian cleverly depicts an artistic stairway in her quilt Stairway to Heaven.

Virtually flip through Rose Legge’s quilted book titled Summer of Wings.

Kari Goodwin explains her technique for making her geometric-themed quilts.

Find out Laurie Mutalipassi’s inspiration behind Hanbok Girls.

  Enter to Win Our Glimpse Inside Giveaway!

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Artful Explorations: Dyeing with Avocado Pits

We are thrilled to share an article from the revamped Somerset Studio here on the blog today! This issue is filled to the brim with new and inventive ideas to inspire your creativity. One of our favorite creative ideas included in the Spring 2019 issue is how to dye mixed-media art projects with avocado pits. Who would have known that they create such a gorgeous rosy color? See the article written by our editor, Christen Hammons, below.

Artful Explorations: Dyeing with Avocado Pits

  Each time I’m working on an issue of Somerset Studio, I find techniques I want to try. Sometimes it’s something that yields really cool results, and other times it’s a process that just sounds really fun. So, when we were planning some of the new features to add to Somerset Studio, I figured it was time I stop saying I want to try some of these techniques, and actually try them. I’m thrilled to share with you, Artful Explorations, our newest department. Here, we’ll take one of the techniques shared in each issue, and try it out. We’ll then share our findings and thoughts about the process.

    When I first received Lisa Malette’s article, featured on page 95, I had no idea what she had used to dye the fabric she used a beautiful pink color. When I learned that it was avocado pits, I knew right away I wanted to try this out. Not only is the color produced absolutely gorgeous and unexpected, as someone who loves avocado, I always have plenty of them on hand.

  I needed to collect a few avocado pits before I was ready to dye anything, so over the course of a week, I gathered up the discarded pits. I scrubbed each one free of any remaining avocado, and then placed the pit in a plastic baggie and froze it. After a week I was ready to go.

  What I Dyed

  We have a nice stash of different paper and fabric scraps at the office, so I grabbed the following:

Copy paper

Grungy shipping tags

Cotton fabric

Seam binding

Cotton twill tape

Notepaper

Shipping tags

Vintage paper

    My Process

  I set out to following Lisa’s technique as closely as possible, but as I am prone to do, I changed up a few things.

First, I filled a small saucepan up with water and then placed four pits in the pan. Then, I brought the water to a boil, and then turned it down to simmer. I fully intended to simmer the pits for a couple hours, but I realized it was getting late and so after about 30 minutes, I turned the heat off.

Next I placed all the items I wanted to dye into a baking dish. Then I poured the dye over the items and discarded the pits. I let everything sit for about 30 minutes. When I pulled the items out, I noticed some of the papers were sticking together, which actually created really interesting areas without very much dye.

I placed everything on paper towels to dry overnight. When I woke up, the papers were still damp so I placed them in the oven on low for about 5 minutes. When I pulled everything out, I was absolutely delighted with how everything came out.

    My Favorites

  I really love how the lined notepaper, copy paper, and torn fabric came out.

    Not So Favorites

  The manila shipping tags and the grubby tags really didn’t take the dye at all.

    Conclusion

This was so fun, and so easy! Like Lisa, I read a lot of versions of this where people used the skins as well to create the dye. I found that it wasn’t necessary at all. I have to imagine that the fabric isn’t washable, but I really just wanted to create a nice stash of trims and papers to use later, so I don’t need to wash anything.

  Thinking of trying this? Be sure to use the hashtag #somersetmade so we can see your beautiful results!

  Pick up this issue of Somerset Studio on newsstands or on our website!

  Christen Hammons is the editor-in-chief of Somerset Studio. She lives in Orange, California, with her husband, two sassy cats, and one scruffy dog.

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Best of 2018: Memorable Moments from Stampington’s Social Media

2018 was a wonderful year for Stampington & Company! It was filled with beautiful inspiration, creative ideas, and exciting new releases (In Her Studio, Field Guide to Everyday Magic, and Bella Grace New Generation). We are constantly in awe of our artists’ talent and creativity and can’t wait to continue to celebrate it in 2019! Below are a few of the memorable moments we shared on social media last year:

  Memorable Facebook Moments of 2018

      Memorable Instagram Moments of 2018

      Memorable Twitter Moments of 2018

    Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter as we continue to share and celebrate creative inspiration in 2019!

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Glimpse Inside November Issues + Your Chance to Win One!

The November Issues have arrived! These four issues are overflowing with inspiration, tips, and hygge vibes this winter season. Don’t miss the special edition issue of Bella Grace, The Cozy Issue, which is filled with stories that capture slow living. The latest issue of Willow and Sage is exactly what dry winter skin needs and the second issue of In Her Studio is finally here with more tips and stories to share! Plus, Somerset Studio will keep you up to date on all the latest mixed-media trends. There is something for everyone beneath each cover.

Click on any of the spotlighted titles below to get an in-depth sneak peek of featured articles and to reserve your copies today, and be sure to clip your exclusive coupon code below.

Receive $5 off on new November issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code*: BLOG1118 at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)

*Coupon is valid on the November (Winter 2019) releases of  The Cozy Issue, In Her Studio, and Willow and Sage only. Offer expires November 30th, 2018.

  The Cozy Issue

Bella Grace magazine is putting its special touch on “hygge” — the Danish concept of embracing a feeling of coziness, warmth, charm, and simplicity. Within The Cozy Issue, women of all ages will be charmed by stories that capture simple, slow living and tiny moments of happiness.

Inside:

Simple Ways to Build a Bank Account of Comfort

Betsy May Shares the Art of Cozy Living

Tips to Plan the Best Hot Chocolate Party

Fun Ways to Hygge this Valentine’s Day

How to Keep the Cozy Feeling Going All-Year Round

Ella Wilson reflects on What Makes a Home Cozy

  In Her Studio

In Her Studio takes readers on a tour through the creative spaces and lives of female artists, designers, and makers. From traditional to not-so-traditional, artists showcase the places where they create and share the thought processes behind developing their spaces. We’re thrilled to announce our second installment, which is filled to the brim with inspiration and stories from the most creative women across the globe.

Inside:

Maryanne Moodie creates intricate weavings in her charming Brooklyn studio.

A quaint British cottage where wool is transformed into lovable handmade bears.

The pattern-filled workspace of illustrator, graphic designer, and photographer Jesi Lee.

Rachel Sager brings her mosaics from the workshop into the Pennsylvania forest.

  Somerset Studio

Paper crafting, art stamping, and mixed-media arts are elevated to an artistic level in Somerset Studio! Come join in the celebration of these popular handcrafting styles by exploring the industry’s most trusted and innovative mixed-media magazine, as you learn from fellow artists working with exotic papers, intriguing art stamps, fine calligraphy, and a variety of mediums. Every issue includes 144 inspiring pages and comes with four free designer artist papers, clip art pages, or coloring pages tucked inside!

Inside:

Putting stained fabric scraps to use

Simple yet stunning Christmas cards for everyone on your list

Bold stamped gift-wrap

Making teeny, whimsical art with shrink plastic

Painted papers put to the test

Transform wrapping paper into romantic journals

Willow and Sage

Willow and Sage magazine is filled with more than 70 unique recipes, uses, and beautiful packaging ideas for homemade bath and body products. With the holidays just around the corner, give yourself and your loved ones the gift of self-care. Our latest issue of Willow and Sage features natural homemade products and remedies that are perfect for replenishing and soothing dry winter skin.

Inside:

Orange Creamsicle Body Scrub

Recipes & Remedies for Dry, Chapped Lips

Peppermint Eucalyptus Vapor Rub

Elderberry and Calendula Cold and Flu Elixir

A Refreshing Detox Bath

How-to Clean Laundry With Soap Nuts

3 Projects to Gift Hygge

Winter Wonderland Christmas Soap

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Bramble Berry + Willow and Sage Team Up for a Special Giveaway Worth $450!

This month’s issue of Willow and Sage spotlights Bramble Berry’s “3 Projects to Gift Hygge This Holiday Season.” We love seeing this innovative company sharing their ideas and expertise on the pages of our publications.

And what’s more, we are absolutely thrilled to be teaming with them to offer a very special giveaway for YOU. Now through November 30th, you can enter for your chance to win one of five bath and body-inspired bundles!

The Prize

Each prize bundle contains 3 issues of Willow and Sage, plus an aromatic, Lingonberry Spice Candle Kit from Bramble Berry.

The Lingonberry Spice Candle Kit has everything you need to make four, homemade candles, including:

1 lb. EcoSoya Advanced Wax

Four 4 oz. Lidded Glass Jars

Four Narrow Wooden Wicks

1.75 oz. Lingonberry Spice Fragrance Oil

Printed Instructions

Printed Labels

    We’re giving away 5 prize bundles, that’s $450 worth of goodies. It’s the perfect way to kick off your handmade gift-giving this season! Enter here: 

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A Roundup of Bewitching Halloween Projects

One of my favorite things about Halloween is the witches! Some people like the lovely side of Halloween like the good ole jack-o’-lantern and friendly ghosts, while others enjoy the spookier side of the holiday. But I feel that witches can really go either way! There are good witches, bad witches, and even mysterious ones. So in lieu of Halloween and my favored part of the holiday I decided to roundup some of my favorite witch projects.

  (Artwork by Beth Ervin)

1) Hocus Pocus

You can’t wish family and close friends a proper “Happy Halloween” without a handmade card! The combination of lime green card stock, doilies, and the “Hocus Pocus” and witch stamps makes this Halloween card one of my favorite, although there are so many to choose from inside the Summer 2018 Issue of The Stampers’ Sampler.

  2) The Good Witch Project

This project creates a great vintage, yet Halloween-themed container to store either candy or a Halloween gift for a special someone. In the shape of a handy tote bag, this project is actually made from an old recycled box, making it that much sturdier to store candy or a wonderful present. View project.

  (Artwork by LeeAnn Kress)

3) Witches’ Tea Party

You are cordially invited to a witches’ tea party! Meet Penelope (right) and Juniper (left), these two lovely witches love to set up tea parties and they have wickedly good tea. These witches were later added to LeeAnn’s Bitter Sweets collection, featured in the Autumn 2017 Issue of Art Doll Quarterly. This is where the artist contributed the technique that she used to create these witches. However, Penelope and Juniper are shown in the Autumn 2018 Issue of Art Doll Quarterly, where LeeAnn shares the process for creating the tea party settings, including the linens, banner, tea set, and treats. Halloween is the best time to create this enchanting detailed project for any of your witch dolls!

  (Artwork by Trudy Honeycutt)

4) A Mysterious Witch

In a faraway land there once lived a mysterious witch that went by the name of Hagatha Crystal. Not much was known about Hagatha the witch as she was seldom seen out. For the most part, she was unapproachable, except when the other villagers depended on her to help solve the latest mysteries in town. This helpful little witch is featured in the Autumn 2018 Issue of Prims and makes a fun Halloween-themed primitive.

  (Artwork by Janice Martin)

5) A Witch’s Stool

Janice is a big Halloween fan so when she discovered this old milking stool in her parents’ rural Oregon barn she transformed it into this witchy Halloween décor. Create a similar one to add a magical touch to your Halloween party or to your home for trick-or-treaters to admire. See the tutorial inside the 2015 Issue of Somerset Holidays & Celebrations.

  (Artwork by Georgiann Carlson)

6) The Witch’s Travel Kit

Designed for the modern witch-on-the-go this travel kit contains all the necessities. This project uses fun elements like stamps, gems, tarot cards, and spells! This project can add a special touch to your witch costume this year or make a thoughtful Halloween gift for the charming witch in your life! Featured inside the 2010 Issue of Somerset Holidays & Celebrations.

  I hope you have enjoyed this round up of bewitching projects. Don’t forget to head to https://stampington.com/halloween-projects for more Halloween-inspired ideas!

Do you have any fun witch-themed projects? Share your ideas in the comments below!

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Glimpse Inside New October Issues + Your Chance to Win One!

The October Issues have arrived! These four issues are brimming with inspiration and are sure to excite you for all the latest mixed-media techniques in journaling, or consider a young woman in your life and take a peek at New Generation Vol. 2. Plus, don’t miss these trendy holiday projects and entertaining ideas featured in our holiday issues! There is something for everyone beneath each cover.

Click on any of the spotlighted titles below to get an in-depth sneak peek of featured articles and to reserve your copies today, and be sure to clip your exclusive coupon code below.

Receive $5 off on new October issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code*: BLOG1018 at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)

*Coupon is valid on the October (Autumn 2018) releases of Art Journaling, A Somerset Holiday, Mingle, and New Generation only. Offer expires October 31st, 2018.

  Art Journaling

  Be inspired by the beautiful journal pages accompanied by courageous stories from acclaimed mixed-media artists, inside the October issue of Art Journaling!

  Inside:

Learn how Sherry Pollack moved outside her comfort zone to create a neutral journal void of the colors she’s used to working with.

Discover Darlene Koppel’s transparent paper art journal that masterfully makes use of deli paper.

See how Sharon Hoerth put her own take on journaling inside of a traveler’s notebook.

In our We Asked the Artists department, learn how our contributors escape a creative block and what creative rituals they follow.

Explore a wide variety of journaling styles from talented artists including LorriMarie Jenkins, Pam Carriker, Carolyn Dube, and more!

  A Somerset Holiday

  Dive into your handmade holiday gift preparations with the 2018 issue of A Somerset Holiday! You’ll discover a variety of DIY projects that are both approachable and festive, along with gift wrapping and decor ideas to get you through the season.

  Inside:

Vickie Kammerer creates textured ornaments in an elegant snowy style.

Trendy wood slices are transformed into playful decor for the tree or a gift.

Diane Adams assembles a stunning kit of handmade Christmas decorations.

Learn how to create rustic Christmas charm with a flannel mittens garland.

Beads and baubles come together to form a festive snowman necklace.

  Mingle

  Dive into the latest issue of Mingle to discover an unlimited supply of holiday inspiration. Our October edition highlights special get-togethers that will warm your heart and inspire your next gathering this season.

  Inside:

Discover Cassandra Clair’s wine-tasting friendsgiving.

Jenny Keller shares her ladies’ lunch at the pumpkin patch.

Harmony Goodson gives a sneak peek into her Halloween-themed dinner.

Enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas tea party with Melanie Beilner.

Alicia Bruce hosts a wintery wreath workshop.

Learn how to style holiday-inspired dessert tables with Lorrie Everitt.

Celebrate Leslie Carpenter’s vow-lloween party.

  Bella Grace New Generation

  Bella Grace New Generation features the same inspirational content you love about Bella Grace, but geared toward young women ages 12 to 19. It’s a positive space for sharing, and we’re delighted to spotlight a number of young writers and photographers within our encore edition.

  Inside:

Bella Harris talks about not living life “for the likes.”

How to be a good friend.

Ivy Clark shares why it’s important to be passionate about something, and how to figure out what that is.

Missy Merritt shares why she is proud to be a redhead.

Are you an introvert or an extrovert? What does that mean?

Throw a spa day for your next birthday party.

  Enter to Win Our Glimpse Inside Giveaway!

The post Glimpse Inside New October Issues + Your Chance to Win One! appeared first on Somerset Place: The Official Blog of Stampington & Company.

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Romancing the Vial: 13 Artful Test Tube Projects

  We’ve assembled 13 artful projects that highlight working with test tubes; gather inspiration and a fresh take on what is possible with test tubes! Featured here is everything from salt soak vials to decor and garden kits.  Have you ever used test tubes for a unique project? Send your creative projects that include coffee filters to marketing@stampington.com for a chance to get your ideas featured in an upcoming post!

    1) Blossoms and Bud Vases

These darling bud vases are a quick and easy project that can be hung in a window to catch the light and to decorate your home with a spare blossom or bloom. View project here. 

    2) Jasmine Flower Tea & Spearmint Bath Salt Vials

There are many benefits to using jasmine tea as this tea has therapeutic properties, plus they are simply lovely. In this project Melinda Barnett pairs jasmine blossoms, jasmine essential oil, and spearmint because of the similar properties, which turned out to be an excellent self-care treatment and these vials make a wonderful gift! Read more inside the Winter 2018 Issue of Willow and Sage.

    3) Herb Garden

Andrea Handojo’s love for gardening and DIY projects lead to this herb garden kit that is perfect for spreading the gardening love. All you need is herb seeds, a wooden box, and test tubes of course! Read Andrea’s tutorial and tips inside the Winter 2018 Issue of Somerset Life.

    4) Vanilla Jasmine Lime Bath Salts

While exploring the three notes of a perfume Melinda Barnett realized that bath salts rarely have more than one or two notes; so she set out to create a bath salt with all three. In creating this three-note bath salt Melinda also upcycled decorative flowers, glamorizing these vials. See the entire tutorial inside the Summer 2017 Issue of Willow and Sage.

    5) Lemongrass Sage Salt Soak Vials

Melinda Barnett loves this lemongrass and sage combination for it’s fabulous scent. This project is a lovely affordable indulgence, simply create, adorn, and exfoliate; read the tutorial inside the Winter 2017 Issue of Willow and Sage.

    6) Garden Salt Soak Vials

Take your test tubes to the next level with these etched tags. Not only can you gift the luxury of relaxation, but you can personalize your salt soak vials with this tutorial. Read more inside the Winter 2017 Issue of Willow and Sage.

    7) Citrus Salt Soaks

Citrus scents are always so fresh and clean they are appropriate any time of the year. Melinda Barnett came up with three different salt soak recipes for her article in the Autumn 2016 Issue of Willow and Sage. Create these recipes and pamper or self or a loved one!

    8) Mountain Pepper Salt Soak

The exquisite May Chang, or mountain pepper, is reminiscent of ripe lemons; however, it also possesses a woodsy anchoring note, making it an excellent addition to almost any citrus-based salt soak recipe. Read Melinda Barnett’s tutorial inside the Summer 2016 Issue of Willow and Sage.

    9) Rosebud Bath Salts

Mix Epsom salt and rosemary and share the benefit of salt with a friend with this repackaging gift idea inside the Winter 2015 Issue of Willow and Sage. While you are there learn the scoop on salts!

    10) Jackets for Decor

Armed with some yummy collage scraps L. Katherine Roberts decided to collage test tubes with her leftovers. Pair these tubes with a gifted book, serve as a small appreciation gift, or stocking stuffer! Learn more about the project inside the Autumn 2017 Issue of Somerset Life.

    11) Creative Minds Tool Box

Saddened by the thought that some creative minds may be neglecting their calling, L. Katherine Roberts was inspired to put together this tool box featuring items to engage the creative mind. This mini-assortments of sketching supplies is a prompt project that get the imagination going! Read the tutorial inside the Spring 2015 Issue of Somerset Life.

  12) Belle Jardiniere Painted Pallet

Aiming to do something a little different, Jennifer Taylor wanted to create home decor that could also display flowers, fresh or dried. Learn how she created this wonderful piece from a little Milk Paint, a pallet, and some test tubes inside the Spring 2015 Issue of Somerset Life.

    13) Hot Chocolate in a Tube

If you’re short on time during the holidays but want to gift a handmade item this hot chocolate project is for you! Add hot chocolate, marshmallows, a pretty fabric scrap, and gift this cozy project to your loved ones! Pick up the Autumn 2014 Issue of Somerset Life for more creative living ideas.

  We hope you’ve enjoyed this roundup of projects that showcase a variety of projects that feature test tubes.

Have you ever used test tubes in a unique way? Share your project in the comments below or email your ideas to marketing@stampington.com for a chance to be featured on the blog!

The post Romancing the Vial: 13 Artful Test Tube Projects appeared first on Somerset Place: The Official Blog of Stampington & Company.

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How to Get the Most Out of Your Next Art Retreat

Party Like Picasso by Analisa Brookshier, inside Mingle Spring 2016

You’re headed off to your first art retreat — Awesome! You’re excited, your bags are packed, and your creativity is already kicking into high gear. But before you head out to your art retreat, here are a few tips to make sure that you get the most out of your retreat.

Before the Art Retreat

Studio Aprons by Kathleen Lauth, inside GreenCraft Magazine Spring 2016

Supplies to Remember

Always wear clothes that you can paint in. If this is a weekend retreat or requires travel, make sure everything in your suitcase can be paint-stained by the end of the retreat. At one such retreat, I ruined an expensive necklace because I dipped it in paint when I leaned forward to dab my brush in the water glass. Make sure that everything you bring can be a little paint splattered at the end of the day because you don’t want your creativity limited by your designer duds.

Bring an apron. Aprons are not always a given at an art retreat, but if you are used to painting with some protection on, you’ll want to bring one in your bag. An apron can also come in handy when you are taking brushes or supplies home because you can wrap the paint-covered supplies in an apron to separate it from your other materials.

Plastic baggies. There will always be something at an art retreat that is still drying, still wet with paint, or is too dirty to throw in your suitcase. Having a stash of plastic baggies will quickly make you a crowd favorite when everyone is packing up at the end of the trip.

Brushes and other favorites. While they will probably provide the necessary materials at the retreat, it never hurts to bring some of your favorite supplies. If you’ve never made a painting without your favorite brush or you always use book text, bring some along to make sure that you have some comforts of home while you are creating. I never paint without my Little Mermaid water glass for my paint brushes, so I bring it along so that I can get into the art-making zone a little bit easier.

Business cards. Although art retreats are not a place to sell your wares, a business card can be an easy way to hand someone your information. If someone wants to follow you on Instagram or email you some art they think you’ll enjoy, a business card can be a great way to stay in touch. (More on that later)

Do Some Research

You may be attending this retreat because it is hosted by your favorite artist, or you may know nothing about the team teaching at the retreat. Either way, try to find out more about the theme or instructors of the retreat.

If it is a Vincent Van Gogh-inspired class, see if you can find out more about his life and find some more ways to connect with his work creatively. If you know a little bit about the instructor, try searching the internet for some of their earlier works, or find out their background.

It’s not necessary to know anything before attending most retreats, but this little bit of research will help you connect with the instructors and spark your imagination.

Art retreat by Laura McCollough, inside Mingle Summer 2016

During the Art Retreat

At the retreat, it is easy to get lost in the momentum of the event. Here are a few tips to keep you at your creative best:

Keep an open mind. At a creative retreat, it is important to surrender to the process and not get bogged down with self-doubt or self-consciousness. If the instructor suggests dancing like a chicken, try it. You don’t have to adopt any of these experiences into your regular habits, but it is important to experience the retreat to the fullest extent before making any assessments. It is also important to get out of your comfort zone. Who knows what artwork is waiting to be created just beyond your comfort zone?

Find a kindred spirit. Lifelong friendships are formed at art retreats. Be sure to take a moment or two during each class to check out your fellow classmates’ work. You may find someone who’s style is really intriguing or you may connect with an artist whose style is similar to yours. Pull out a business card and exchange information so that you can keep in touch after the retreat. These artist friends can be the encouragement you need during your next creative dry spell, or they can be the sounding board for new art ideas.

Remember to stretch. It’s easy to get into the zone with your artwork and spend hours on end hunched over a work table finishing your masterpiece. Even though a retreat is supposed to be 24/7 art, be sure to take some time to stretch your muscles and take care of yourself. Your back will thank you!

Take the time you need. At any art retreat, it can be easy to feel the pressure to keep up with the others or to produce work that is as good as everyone else’s. Remember that everyone is on their own creative journey. Don’t compare yourself to others. Take a few more minutes to perfect your technique, or fall behind a little if you need to. You will achieve amazing things when you remove the pressure and give yourself room to breathe.

Art Supply Organizer by Ella Wilson, inside GreenCraft Magazine Summer 2017

After the Art Retreat – 3 steps to staying creative and motivated.

Send a thank you note to the instructor. The instructor put their heart and soul into providing you with a great experience. Be sure to send them a quick note letting them know what you gained from the retreat. If the retreat was horrible (gasp), then this note can also include feedback from your experience.

Take some time for assessment.

What did I learn from this retreat?

What was my favorite technique? How can I use that in my future artwork?

What is my favorite memory from the experience?

What should I do differently next time?

Find practical ways to incorporate your experience into your everyday life. After your art retreat, it can be easy to slip back into old habits. Take a moment after the mixed-media workshop or art retreat to hang your artwork around your home. Each time you see it, you will be reminded of the positive experience. Look for ways to incorporate creative practices from the retreat into your everyday life. You may like how the retreat started with 10 minutes of art journaling in the morning, or how the retreat had color boards on the wall to inspire your color palettes. Incorporate that into your everyday life so that each art retreat impacts and grows your artistry in practical and meaningful ways.

Looking for even more art retreat ideas? Check out Mingle Magazine to read about art retreats, mixed-media workshops, and art parties!

The post How to Get the Most Out of Your Next Art Retreat appeared first on Somerset Place: The Official Blog of Stampington & Company.

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Get Published: May Calls and Challenges

Our Stampington publications want your submissions! If you are an artist or writer looking to have your work featured in one of our magazines, here are the May calls and challenges that our editors are looking for. We encourage you to submit your work again even if you have tried before. The following magazines have upcoming deadlines of May 15th (unless otherwise noted), so this is your chance to see your name in print and get published!

Have questions about submitting your artwork? Leave us a comment below!

~Artwork by Carrie Todd

In every quarterly issue of Art Journaling, artists open their journals and share creative techniques for capturing their emotions. From stamping and collage art to painting and sketching, each journal is filled with innovative techniques and inspirational stories. If you have an art journal that you would like to share with our readers, we would love to hear from you.

Deadline: May 15th

  ~Artwork by Robyn P. Thayer

How do you carry it? That’s the question Somerset Studio would like to help answer through our new and exciting special publication titled Haute Handbags. Whether we use purses, clutches, totes, portfolios, sacks, bags, or attachés, there are many styles made with an astounding array of materials emerging from all corners of the creative world – all vying to be carried and used with style. You are welcome to construct a bag from scratch, or to purchase one that you embellish and alter with paints, beads, rubber stamps, ribbons, buttons, transparencies, and more. No medium or material is ruled out so use your imagination to make bags of leather, wool, fabric, paper, plastic, wood, glass, or any other materials that you love. Deadline: May 15th 

  ~Artwork by Brooke Bock

For that added touch of glamour without the complexity, Jewelry Affaire is a quarterly publication dedicated to the art of understated, yet extraordinary jewelry. You don’t need to be a master craftsperson to create wearable art that makes a statement. The refashioning of a vintage piece into something new, embellishing a chain, the placing of a pendant, adding beadwork — anything that exemplifies sophisticated chic on an easy to understand level can be submitted.

Here are some of our ongoing departments we feature in every issue:

Whimsical Wares

Jewelry that is out of the ordinary and extraordinary

Natural Revelry

Adornments that are otherworldly

Vintage Jubilee

For lovers of heirlooms and findings, celebrate with classics that make time stand still

Artistic Affaire

Innovative to wear and uncomplicated to share

Black Tie Affaire

Dripping with jewels, pearls, and other sumptuous materials, these sophisticated statements pieces can make every day feel like an occasion

If you’re interested in being our artist for the Feature Article, please email a link or pictures of your jewelry collection.

Deadline: May 15th

  ~Event by Jenny Keller

Unique gatherings take center stage with our now-quarterly publication, Mingle! From intimate art retreats, to creative, one-of-a-kind celebrations, Mingle provides the inspiration you need to plan extraordinary gatherings with an artistic flair. For this publication, we are looking for stunning photographs and stories from unique gatherings such as the following:

Intimate Affaires Do you get together regularly with close friends for a night in of crafts? Perhaps you have a tradition of going to the park for a knitting circle or a picnic.

Art Retreats Do you plan art retreats for others to come participate in? Have you attended one that had a profound effect on you?

Handcrafted Weddings Was your wedding completely crafted by hand? Did it take place somewhere unique?

Birthday Parties & Anniversaries Did you throw a party for a friend that was simply over the top? Maybe you thought of an interesting theme.

Party Details Did you take a couple pictures (or maybe just one) of a stunning aspect of an event that you think Mingle readers need to see?

This is just a sampling of the items we are looking for to publish in each issue of Mingle. Submissions and questions can be emailed to the editor at mingle@stampington.com, or saved on a disc and mailed to our physical address. If selected, we will need hi-res versions of your photographs.

Deadline: May 15th

Click here to download our guide for how to submit photographs. It will also show you how to convert images to the correct size and resolution for this publication.

~Artwork by Melinda Barnett

Handcrafted Projects for Christmas & the Holiday Season  Christmastime is where most crafters truly shine — it is the time to create beautiful handmade gifts, lovely wrapping and cards, and artful decorative pieces. In this upcoming issue of A Somerset Holiday, we are aiming to create an inspirational, instructional companion for the holiday crafter with an abundance of simple projects, covering everything from artwork and gifts, to creating the packaging and tags labeling each memorable gift item. We invite you to join in the celebrations and submit your very favorite holiday-themed artwork, gifts, and more. Projects that might spring to mind are Christmas cards, gift wrapping paper, wreaths, advent calendars, and quick and easy gift ideas (i.e. face scrubs, gift baskets, imaginative gift card holders, stocking stuffers, candles, food/beverage ideas, and so on). Start a lasting tradition by giving gifts straight from the heart and made with your own hands. Please submit your most festive DIY projects to be considered for this stunning, full-color 144-page publication. Deadline: Every May 15th.

A Little Bit Handmade  The holidays are a very busy time, so it is not always easy to have the time to make something by hand. In this department, we aim to take a purchased item and personalize it in some way. For instance, taking a thrifted coffee mug and turning it into a hot cocoa kit, making a scarf in 20 minutes or less from a yard or two of fabric, or altering a Moleskine journal for the recipient with their monogram in a faux-calligraphy style. These are creative, inexpensive, simple projects that ideally take 30 minutes or less to make. Deadline: Every May 15th.

  ~Artwork by Melony Miller Bradley

Somerset Life aims to demonstrate how easy it is to add a touch of beauty to our daily lives, whether it is through a simple craft project, or an inspiring essay that shares how to find the beauty that already exists. Our mission is simple: make the ordinary extraordinary. For those looking to be a part of this bestselling publication, we have a number of ways to do so. We are currently looking for artwork submissions in the following categories:

Locales of Intrigue This special department features stories about truly unique stores and boutiques across the globe. Stores that would like to be featured in this department are asked to submit digital images of the store with a brief written query to the Editor-in-Chief at somersetlife@stampington.com. If the submission is accepted, professional hi-resolution digital images (300 dpi at 8″ x10″) will need to be furnished by the store. Deadline: Ongoing.

Life Creative Spaces Where do you create? Whether it’s a small table or breakfast nook, cleared-out closet, or an actual room dedicated as your creative studio, we want to peek inside. If you think your creative space is something that Somerset Life readers would like to learn more about, please submit digital images of your space with a brief written query to the Editor-in-Chief at somersetlife@stampington.com. If the submission is accepted, you will be asked to furnish professional hi-resolution images (300 dpi at 8″ x 10″). Deadline: Ongoing.

Miscellany Sometimes, an image of something lovely is all we need to feel inspired. Have you taken a photo of something that makes you feel inspired? Perhaps it is a photo of your collection of vintage handkerchiefs. Or an old stack of books. Or your treasured stash of ribbons. Please submit your favorite digital images (5″ x 7″ @ 300 dpi) to be considered for Somerset Life’s special Miscellany department to the Editor-in-Chief at somersetlife@stampington.com. Deadline: Ongoing.

Artful Kits We all love to collect papers, ribbons, embellishments, and other bits and bobs. More fun than collecting specific elements is finding creative ways to juxtapose the pieces together to create unique kits. Whether you create them to give away or to sell or offer to students in a workshop setting, we’d like to see your favorite kits. Please send in kit samples directly to the Editor-in-Chief as outlined in the Submission Guidelines. Deadline: Ongoing.

Creative Living Ideas In each issue of Somerset Life we share 10 Creative Living Ideas, and we show quick and easy ways to add a touch of beauty or creativity to your life, or perhaps someone else’s. Maybe you have a clever way of packing a sack lunch, or you have a developed a creative way of saying “Thank You” to a friend. Please send in samples directly to the Editor-in-Chief as outlined in the Submission Guidelines. Deadline: Ongoing.

The Magic of Friendship Bracelets Where would we be without our friends? We all need a tribe with a common goal where the bonds are strong and the friends are amazing. One way to show your friendship is by creating a gift for someone special, and this got us thinking about friendship bracelets. This symbol of friendship given from one friend to another has been around for a long time. They’re often handmade from embroidery floss or thread, but we thought it would be fun to elevate the ordinary friendship bracelet and see what our talented readers can come up with. Maybe add some pearls? How about tying on tiny words of inspiration? We’re looking for beautiful friendship bracelets that celebrate not only friends, but an authentic and creative life! Deadline: May 15, 2018

MICA INSPIRED! Who doesn’t love mica? Johanna Love showed us how some pretty gold mica flakes could add glittery pizzazz to nails in her article in our Jan/Feb/March 2018 issue, but we know the use of mica goes much further! Mica flakes add instant luminosity and sparkle to any project as well as texture and dimension. They come in different colors from silver, white, frosted to mulberry, charcoal, and a range of tones in between. This versatile product can be layered, mixed with paint, incorporated into snow globes, added to cards or mixed-media projects and much more. What can you do with mica flakes? Show us how you can incorporate them into artwork that personifies a Somerset life! Deadline: May 15, 2018

Click here to download our guide for submitting photographs. It will also show you how to convert images to the correct size and resolution for this publication.

    The post Get Published: May Calls and Challenges appeared first on Somerset Place: The Official Blog of Stampington & Company.

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Glimpse Inside New April Issues + Find Your Exclusive Coupon!

Receive $5 off on new April issues, $14.99 and up. Copy and paste coupon code BLOG0418when prompted at checkout. (Discount code can only be used once per customer.)

Bella Grace New Generation

We’re sharing Bella Grace with a whole new generation of young women.

Bella Grace New Generation features the same inspirational content you love about Bella Grace, but geared toward girls ages 12 to 19.

It’s a positive space for sharing, and we’re delighted to spotlight a number of young writers and photographers within our premier issue.

Like its sister publication, New Generation will continue to discover magic in the ordinary, through its stories, photographs, and interactive, journaling space, while offering up perspectives on everyday life for teenagers and inspiration for embracing your uniqueness.

Sample Content Includes:

How to claim your individuality in a world where so many want nothing more than to fit in

Tips and techniques for balancing the demands of the everyday girl

Suggestions for creating a healthy relationship with social media

Struggles and lessons learned from friendship

Distinctive viewpoints on day-to-day life for teenagers

Artistic photography, life lists, and Instagram Collections

Features:

144 high-quality matte pages

Sturdy cover stock

Thought-provoking prompts

Workbook and journaling space designed for readers to respond directly on its pages

A new compact size! Slightly shorter than Bella Grace, our newest title is designed for you to tuck into your purse or beach bag. Take it with you for whenever inspiration strikes.

Zero outside advertising

Art Journaling

Art Journaling has 150+ beautiful, full-color pages straight from the journals of masters. We can’t wait to share what’s in-store for you within our April installment:

Roben-Marie Smith shares her colorful Artful-Attache journal documenting her trip to California.

Discover Jenni Zmuda’s motivational tag booklet inspired by coping with mental health problems.

Be amazed at Torrie Gass’ eclectic, whimsical journaling style in this issue’s Artist Profile.

In our Bound for Art department, Kate Yetter explains how she made her chipboard steampunk art journal from scratch.

See how a collaboration between five other artists resulted in a one-of-a-kind, eye-catching art journal by Heather Kindt.

    Haute Handbags

This best-of edition of Haute Handbags features 100 of our favorite artfully treated bags.

Stitched

Dyed

Stamped

Painted

Felted

And More!

  Whether you’re a long-time fan, or new to Haute Handbags, you don’t want to miss this special compilation of the most artistic bags we’ve ever featured.

  Jewelry Affaire

Jewelry Affaire Magazine offers 144 pages of handmade, jewelry making projects that are simple, yet elegant.

What’s Inside:

Be enchanted by Nicole Esposito’s dreamy painted portrait bezels and her chic, simple packaging.

Discover Featured Artist Melanie LeGrand’s whimsical collection with hand-stamped metals and tiny details that’ll make your heart swoon.

See how Tatsiana West turns a polished pebble into a celestial pendant with resin and hand-painted artwork.

Learn how Christie Schneider transformed patterned Dixie cups into chic, modern earrings inspired by Project Runway.

Explore a wide variety of jewelry projects from chalk-painted pendants and wire hoop earrings to leather-stamped pieces, multi-strand bracelets, and stitched pouch necklaces.

    Mingle

Get ready to be inspired by spring-themed gatherings that will give you even more creative reasons to celebrate!

Inside Mingle Spring 2018:

Discover Suzi Banks Baum’s backyard art camp.

Misha Perritt throws a stunning terrarium-making birthday bash.

Celebrate Earth Day with Jamie Forsythe.

Tara Berger shares her alfresco dinner party with girlfriends

Peek inside a bohemian baby shower by Angie Kay.

Let’s Flamingle! Harmony Lynn Goodson hosts a festive get-together.

Learn all about the floral-themed graduation soiree by Samantha Leenheer.

    Somerset Life

Welcome spring with this delightful and romantic issue of Somerset Life. In addition to offering 144 pages of authentic and creative living ideas, our latest installment features:

A Template for Love & Friendship by L. Katherine Roberts

A “Possibility” Collage Kit by L. Katherine Roberts

Vintage Bird-Themed Card Making Kit by Diane Adams

Seek Stillness Journal & Wall Hanging by Lynne Moncrieff

My Journey to Romance by Jo-Anne Coletti

A “Blessed Box” for all seasons

Gold painted shells for elegant desk décor

Giving the gift of color

How to elevate an everyday picnic

and much more!

  The Stampers’ Sampler

Welcome to the Spring 2018 Issue featuring more than 200 rubber-stamped projects and cards for every occasion.

What’s Inside:

It’s time to party like a pineapple with our very tropical and sweet Pineapple Tempting Template results.

Our annual Celebration Challenge returns and is packed with page after page of festive cards.

Don’t miss a brand-new Artist Paper and Tempting Template!

Read more about how Guest Artist Rita Perfater cherishes the written word and the immeasurable impact ahandmade card can have on the receiver.

    The post Glimpse Inside New April Issues + Find Your Exclusive Coupon! appeared first on Somerset Place: The Official Blog of Stampington & Company.

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Get Published: March Calls and Challenges

Our Stampington publications want your submissions! If you are an artist or writer looking to have your work featured in one of our magazines, here are the March calls and challenges that our editors are looking for. We encourage you to submit your work again even if you have tried before. The following magazines have upcoming deadlines of March 15th (unless otherwise noted), so this is your chance to see your name in print and get published!

Have questions about submitting your artwork? Leave a comment below!

~Artwork by Brenda Greenfield

A hand-me-down sweater … a raggedy old skirt from the thrift store … a plain T-shirt … all of these items can be repurposed into new, fashionable finds with just a few tools and a little creativity. We invite you to submit your own altered and embellished clothing items to be considered for publication in Altered Couture. Items published in the past include skirts, dresses, pants, tops, jackets, vests, shoes, and accessories.

Please submit a “before” photo along with your altered creation, if available. Photos and illustrations showing your process are also strongly encouraged. We also encourage you to submit to our challenges below. Deadline: March 15, 2018

Challenges

A Monochromatic Palette Monochrome objects, clothing, or personalities can sometimes denote a negative response, lacking in energy and sass. On the contrary, an altered wearable highlighting one specific hue or various shades of one color can inspire artistic creativity and present quite a challenge. And that is exactly what we want you to do! With texture treatments and reconstruction techniques, we challenge you to upcycle garments, accessories, or shoes keeping within the various shades of your favorite color. Or for added difficulty, pick the color you usually shy away from and see where it will take you. We’re talking dip dyes, ombre patterns, patchwork, embellishments, and so forth. We can’t wait to see your designs. Deadline: March 15, 2018

Submission Guidelines

    ~Artwork by Patricia Cozzo

Challenges

Haunted Fairy Tales We love classic fairy tales and we love Halloween, so we challenge you to put a haunted twist on a fairy tale. Stories of handsome princes, beautiful maidens, and lovable forest creatures are common, but the truth is that most fairy tales have macabre origins and plenty of “hauntedness” if you just do a little research or use your imagination. What if Cinderella was a zombie, Rumpelstiltskin was a ghost, or the Big Bad Wolf was actually a werewolf? There are so many ways you can interpret this challenge! There are no hard and fast rules — simply send us your rendition of a Haunted Fairy Tale doll. Results will be published in our August 2018 Issue. Deadline: March 15, 2018

Tips for Getting Published | Submitting Doll Photographs | Submission Guidelines

  ~Photography by Niina Steinke-Schimmer

Let Artful Blogging be your guide as you discover a world filled with visual delights from today’s most inspirational artists, writers, and photographers. In their own words, read how blogging fits into the creative lives of artists and creative souls like yourself. Filled with full-color photography, illustration, mixed-media and assemblage, fabric and vintage artwork — whether or not you have a blog of your own, you will find no richer landscape to spark your own creative fires.

Artful Blogging is a quarterly publication. If you are the creator of a blog or know of one that you think other creative minds would like to know about, please send a letter of interest to the Managing Editor, at artfulblogging@stampington.com.

Deadline for submissions to be received: March 15th

Click here to download our guide for submitting photographs. It will also show you how to convert images to the correct size and resolution for this publication.

Submission Guidelines

    Repurposing Vintage Thrift-store shoppers and junkers everywhere: We challenge you to reuse vintage in a fresh, upcycled manner. Adding paint or embellishments are just a couple examples of ways you can breathe new life into vintage items. Why not stop into your local thrift store or secondhand shop for inspiration? Deadline: Ongoing.

Create With Me Showing children the value of recycling can be one of the most rewarding and fun green projects of all. We challenge you to explore the many ways that repurposed and recycled materials can be used to make chic and artistic projects for kids. This is a fun and playful challenge, and we encourage you to let your inner child shine! Toys and games made from recycled materials are fantastic, as well as easy-to-follow crafts for seasonal projects like holiday ornaments or Valentine’s gifts. Just remember to keep it simple for small hands. Deadline: Ongoing.

Green Living This department is dedicated to showcasing projects that promote a green lifestyle. These items do not have to be made from recycled or repurposed materials, but they do have to be eco-friendly. Reusable fabric towels, homemade household cleaners, and reusable sandwich bags are some examples of what we’re looking for. Deadline: Ongoing.

Feature Articles Finding creative and cost-effective uses for old items is nothing new to artists, but the spirit of preserving the planet is more important than ever before. That’s why GreenCraft Magazine is here — to honor and inspire those who find artistic applications for normally discarded resources. GreenCraft features articles about repurposing trash to treasure and showcases projects where waste is upcycled into ecologically chic creations. Have you found a use for cardboard rolls left over from paper towels? Have you cut up an old T-shirt and knitted it into a purse? Have you taken a burned-out light bulb and made it into a beautiful flower vase? Have you transformed old board games into notebooks? Then we want to hear from you! Submit your recycled, reused and repurposed items to GreenCraft Magazinetoday! Deadline: March 15th

Submission Guidelines

    ~Artwork by Agata Dimmich

You are cordially invited to submit artwork to be considered for this special publication showcasing handcrafted items to decorate the home. Somerset Home features items from every room in the home – from the bedroom, the kids’ room and the bathroom, to the kitchen and the living room. And don’t forget the backyard and the front porch! We are looking for a variety of items including but not limited to: embellished pillows, wall art, hooked rugs, altered lamp shades, quilts, table top items, aprons, embellished chandeliers, garlands for the mantle, decorations for the front door, slipcovers, and more! Pictures of artfully decorated or lived-in spaces are also most welcome in the highest resolution possible. Deadline: March 15th

Furniture Transformations This section features upholstered and redecorated furniture, inspiring you to look twice before tossing out an unwanted or worn item, or even to try your hand at creating the furniture you’ve always wanted to have. Deadline: March 15th

Submission Guidelines

    ~Artwork by Melinda Barnett

Launched in 2014, Willow and Sage features natural, handmade products that soothe both body and soul. We’re paying special attention to unique packaging and the art of presentation, and we want YOU to be a part of the next issue!

Here’s what we’re looking for: • bath salts and soaks • solid perfumes • natural scents • homemade soaps • chemical-free lotions and make-up • toiletries (such as deodorant and toothpaste) • hair treatments, spray-in conditioners, and dry shampoos • face masks • sugar scrubs • soy and wax candles • unique spa kits • gift bundles • handmade bath and body products in beautiful packaging • lifestyle stories that touch on adopting a natural lifestyle • and more

Deadline for Submissions: For February issue: September 15th  For May issue: December 15th For August issue: March 15th For November issue: June 15th

  The post Get Published: March Calls and Challenges appeared first on Somerset Place: The Official Blog of Stampington & Company.

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