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milfgyuu · 1 year

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Love of My Life Pairing: Lee Jihoon (Woozi) x Fem!Reader Series: SVT x Harry’s House Tags: 4.4k, Angst, Rekindled Romance Summary: “Maybe you don't know what's lost 'til you find it. It's not what I wanted, to leave you behind. Don't know where you'll land when you fly, but, baby, you were the love of my life.”

Roaring crowds, cheering, chanting, bright lights, crowded walkways, blacked out car windows, sleeping in tour buses, screaming fans, signings, recordings, performances, television shows, interviews, concerts. It was loud, bright, busy, thrilling. It was the feeling of adrenaline coursing through his veins hearing people sing along to his songs, calling out his name - and then it at some point, for at least a brief period, it all stops.

Abandoning his suitcases by the front door, Jihoon shuffles into his home, slippers scuffling along the brilliantly shining floors, lights automatically coming to life as he enters the open space. It’s silent, empty. Such a stark contrast to the life he’s been living non-stop for the past few years and now all he wants is a break.

A moment to breathe.

With the end of his latest tour, Jihoon had decided to take a few months off - go home, re-evaluate things, find inspiration where he’d been burnt out and lacking.

Looking around his barely lived-in space, he huffs inwardly. There is not a speck of life within these walls. A place to eat, sleep, store some of his things but there was nothing more to the white walls and black furniture. There were no stories, no echoes of love and laughter ringing throughout the halls. Not a single thing to re-ignite his drive nor passion.

It seems very ‘woe is me’ for a famous musician to complain. He had wealth, respect, notoriety, and he was loved by people all over the world but there was a hole in Jihoon’s heart that he could never seem to fill and that had been abundantly clear when he’d begun shuffling through some un-opened mail his housekeeper hadn’t attended to.

Leaning against the kitchen counter, he flips through a few things before a cream colored envelope slips from his hand and hits the floor loudly. He bends down to pick it up and notices a familiar scrawl on the front. He blinks and sets everything else back down, staring at the writing in shock.

Carefully opening the seal, he slips a small note and heavy piece of cardstock from the envelope and stares down at it for so long his mouth runs dry and his legs nearly give out on the way over to the couch where he drops down, mindless of his own movements.

The note simply reads, “I thought you should know” signed by his old friend Jeonghan but it’s what is written upon the cardstock that truly stops his heart.

It shouldn’t be a shock given he’s just broken into his thirties and many of his friends were engaged, married, or starting families but he wasn’t ready to see your name on the invitation in his hands. Your name, intimate and ever familiar, elegantly scrawled in gold letters just above the date, time, and address of your wedding to someone that isn’t him.

And he thought that perhaps, after sitting on it for a few days, he could be happy for you. He could be supportive and congratulate you on your upcoming nuptials, send his well wishes but he can’t get rid of the lump in his throat nor the ache in his chest because day and night he sits awake in his empty, lifeless house and he thinks about you.

Jihoon remembers the first time he saw you, sitting across the bar with your friends, twirling the straw in your neglected drink as they all chattered around you. He just so happened to be playing a small gig that night and the moment he’d locked eyes with you as he played his guitar, he knew you were something special.

Just a couple of kids running on store-bought coffee and ambition, the two of you navigated the murky waters of early adulthood at each other's side. There were tough times. Times you both hardly made enough to cover the rent. Times you were both so exhausted those few hours of quality time turned into the two of you passing out on the couch in each other's arms.

But it wasn’t always like that. The good had outweighed the bad tenfold. You laughed until you cried, sang until your lungs gave out, spent quiet afternoons letting Jihoon teach you to play his guitar and long nights tangled in each other’s warm, loving embrace. Those were the times you knew that no matter how hard things got, you would always love Lee Jihoon.

Eventually, things got easier.

You found yourself steadily climbing in your career and Jihoon had been getting more attention for his music. He’d been playing local gigs, and sometimes traveled to play at larger venues and festivals. You were thrilled for him and supported his work, traveling along with him whenever possible, attending every gig you could while trying to balance your own work life.

Then, he was handed a business card for a record label and that’s where things begin to change.

It always starts out as this big, shining opportunity and then the grueling work and the sacrifice come into play. He begins traveling more, coming home later, holing himself in the studio for days on end to meet deadlines, missing date nights, empty beds, empty hearts…empty conversations and then the first tour is announced and you can’t go.

Jihoon remembers the fight so vividly, a whirlwind of hurt and anger. Words spoken without truth, laced with malice and lethal consequences. That was the beginning of the end.

He stares down at the invitation he can’t seem to throw away and grits his teeth, those same feeling bubbling up and out of his control. He hopelessly grapples with the news, spending his evenings in a drunken stupor, his manager and only trusted friend coming in to drag him into bed each night. Sleeping all day to avoid his own reality and then doing it all over again.

In the three weeks leading up to your wedding day, Jihoon has come to one irrevocable conclusion that leaves him gasping awake in the middle of the night, desperately crying out your name and then, he’s on a plane the next morning.

His family and all his old friends are so excited to see him again that he briefly forgets why he’s back home in the first place but the moment Jeonghan lays eyes on him, that sad knowing smile reminds Jihoon that it’s all real. You’re getting married tomorrow and he has to tell you.

It’s incredibly selfish and he hates himself for it but he finds you outside of your café - the one you bought and re-built from the ground up. He stares at you from afar, watching you tidy up the shopfront and hang your beautifully decorated sign on the door that explains the joyous reason your shop would be closed for the next two days.

The way the sunlight touches your skin and the breeze blows the little ties of your apron make his throat close up uncomfortably. You’re so close and if he just took a step forward, called out your name, he could tell you what he’d needed to say so desperately but he can’t.

He can’t do this to you.

You’re glowing, radiant…happy.

His return would do you no good now and what good would it truly do him? You’d have every right to spit in his face and he’d deserve it, the way he gave up on you, selfishly chose himself and his career over you. He takes a step back aiming to leave undetected but it’s too late because as soon as he turns away…

“Jihoon?”

Your eyes meet from across the empty street and the small clay pot in your hands slips through your fingers and goes crashing to the ground. Jihoon nearly bolts out in front of a car in his haste to cross the street and then he’s kneeling in front of you cursing and apologizing, picking up the pieces like he should have done so many years ago.

He doesn’t hear you call his name over and over until your hand falls upon his shoulder and he looks up in astonishment. He hadn’t stopped for one moment to think about what it would feel like to see you again. To look into your face and realize he’s forgotten how to read you when he used to know your pages even better than his own. It’s a stark reminder that he shouldn’t be here and yet…

Jihoon stands, dusting his hands off on his pants and he clears his throat but can’t think of anything to say other than, “Hello.” Genius mind of a song writer.

“What are you doing back in town?”

Your words are short and to the point but the quiver in your voice betrays you and splinters Jihoon’s nerves even further. “I just uh…” his hands wring together as he lies, “I’m done touring and I just wanted to come back home to visit.”

There is a pause and suddenly all the background noise fills your ears and you open the door of the café, silently inviting him inside. He passes you carefully and you follow him a moment later, spinning to ensure your closed sign is hanging properly.

With a respectable distance between your bodies, you still, crossing your arms over your chest protectively. “Just a weekend off then? I’m sure you’re busy trying to fit everything in.”

For some reason it still stings - these brief little visits that last a day or two before he’s back on the road. You hadn’t missed the long lonely days that had always followed.

“Uh, no, actually.”

His words surprise you and your posture borders on being noticeably rigid as he continues.

“I’m done touring.” The words don’t make any sense to you and seem to mix and cross in your brain, making them sound like nonsense. There isn’t any way he could possibly mean it.

“What do you mean you’re…done? As in finished with this tour? Right?”

Jihoon shakes his head slowly, eyes downcast because he isn’t ready for your reaction. His label had a fit but Jihoon was the one pulling in the money, he was the one making the decisions and he was done. He’d continue to make music as he always had but no more would there be months on the road, spending a few days in each city across the map.

“This was my last tour,” he nods, finally looking up to gauge your response. He’s not sure what he was expecting or hoping for but your face is devoid of emotion…at least that’s what someone might think if they didn’t know you as well as Jihoon did. “I’m not retiring or anything…I just feel like I’ve put the work in and now it’s time to…I don’t know…live my life?”

Your nails bite into your arms but you’re numb, unable to release the tension in your fingertips until Jihoon reaches his hands out as if to stop you from hurting yourself and your hands drop to your sides, arms hanging limply. You force a smile to your lips that makes Jihoon uneasy.

“I’m glad to hear you’re taking time for yourself, Ji-” your breath catches on his old nickname and his own does as well but you brush past it, “-Jihoon. Your fans will be sad but I’m sure they’ll get over it when you put out the next hit song or two.”

He smiles and nods his head toward the floor bashfully and it’s quiet for a few minutes. He picks his head up to say something and you speak at the same time causing a fumble and awkward shuffling to decide who should speak first but he takes the lead.

“You uh,” his hand slips up the the back of his neck anxiously, “You look really great,” he compliments and then quickly turns the attention to the space around you, “And the shop…it’s amazing…exactly like what you were day dreaming about back in the day.”

A small smile unfolds and you bite at your lip. “Thank you,” your eyes flit around the quiet space, “Sometimes I look around and I still can’t believe I did it after all this time.”

“It’s been a long time, hasn’t it?”

When your eyes reach Jihoon’s face once more, it’s incredibly nostalgic and a swirl of emotion gathers in the pit of your stomach uncomfortably. “A lot has happened since you left.”

“I know.” He smiles sadly and you tuck your hand behind your thigh with the burning sensation of guilt and shame for feeling compelled to hide it in the first place. Jihoon takes a tentative step forward and reaches around you, tucking a single finger beneath your palm, pulling your hand out of hiding. Your engagement ring shines brilliantly and Jihoon’s eyes meet your own.

“It’s beautiful,” he says softly, thumb lingering on your ringer finger for only a moment. “I’m sorry I’ve missed so many milestones. Wait, don-”

You pull your hand from his and wipe errant tears from your face in embarrassment. Seeing Jihoon so suddenly, the day before your wedding it’s like….a cosmic ‘fuck you’ of epic proportions because as much as you’d like to say your closet isn’t full of skeletons and unresolved emotional bullshit, you can’t and the proof is staring you dead in the face. Looking at you the same way he did all those years ago and you feel lower than ever.

The tears fall faster and Jihoon flounders. He shouldn’t have said anything, he shouldn’t have come inside, he shouldn’t have even come back home in the first place and this is why. He is your ruin and there is no escaping the feeling of guilt and desolation in his chest for the overwhelming amount of hurt he continues to push you through.

“I’m…I’m so sorry for showing up like this,” he apologizes gently and you’re nodding, wiping your face like a small pitiful child. Your eyelids burn and lashes hold on for dear life as you hastily rub your eyes, attempting to laugh things off.

“It’s ok! It’s fine!” you lie, rounding the counter to grab a napkin, “Just a little jittery is all. There is so much to do between now and tomorrow that I’m just…I’m in a little over my head.”

“Hey-”

Jihoon attempts your name but he can’t manage it and you’re waving him off as if you’re totally fine though your reflection says otherwise. “Jihoon, really, I’m okay and it’s nothing to worry about. Let me just go clean myself up and maybe we can…catch up?”

Jihoon presses his lips together tightly, like some semblance of a smile and nods his head but there is a moment when you’re just standing there, staring at one another, waiting.

When neither of you speak, you look at the floor and force an amicable smile, excusing yourself to the restroom. Only then do you allow yourself to sink to the ground, knees tucked tightly to your chest, back against the wooden door. You hope it’s far enough away that he doesn’t hear you sobbing into your hands, sniffling and carrying on.

You hate the fact that in that moment, before you walked away, you wished that he might say something. You don’t even know what you had hoped to hear nor what difference it would make because the reality was that Jihoon is a part of your past and you have a future.

You’re getting married in the next twenty-four hours.

You’re settling down and making a life for yourself with someone you love, someone who is good to you. Who treats you right and is a constant support at your side. Someone you were so sure you wanted to spend the rest of your life with for the past two years up until now.

So, why are you suddenly on the bathroom floor wondering if you’re making the wrong decision?

You’re not sure how much time has passed but by the time you drag yourself up and over the sink, fix your face, and walk back out into the empty dining room, he’s gone.

You stare at the space he’d occupied moments ago and tried to convince yourself he hadn’t been there at all but the crisp white envelope on the counter argues otherwise. Taking it between careful hands, you consider not opening it at all. All you have to do is walk around the counter and throw it in the trash and you can put this behind you.

Like a fool you tuck it away in your bag instead. You’ll throw it in a box and keep it in the highest corner in the back of your closet and maybe one day, when this encounter is nothing but a distant memory, you’ll have the courage to read the contents.

You wouldn’t have gotten the chance to open it anyway with the reality of the tasks ahead of you between now and tomorrow afternoon. Last minute catering details, a meeting with the coordinator, a hiccup with the linens. It feels as if the moment you crash into your pillow you’re sitting right back up, hitting the button on your alarm.

It’s surreal to be standing in front of the full length mirror in your bridal suite, the finished product staring back at you like an entirely different woman with silken hair, perfectly set face and painted lips. Your gorgeous white dress elegantly shaping your figure, lace bodice striking and breath taking to behold. Something is missing though and it takes a few minutes to realize you’ve left your earrings in your bag.

With the rest of your bridal party in the middle of photos, you’re alone in your suite and cross the small, crowded room to retrieve your missing jewelry but instead, your fingers recognize the crisp envelope you forgot to hide away and you pull it out slowly, staring down at your name in Jihoon’s ever familiar scrawl.

You can’t force yourself to put it back and your hands move before your mind can catch up and then the seal is broken and you’re slipping the letter from between it’s protective encasement. Falling into the plush armchair, you carefully unfold the thin paper, smoothing it’s delicate creases. Four words in and your hands shake.

Jihoon is accustomed to private flights and being escorted to his gates by body guards and staff around him at all times but right now, he only wants to be alone. It’s quiet in the west wing of the airport and the seating is all but empty with there still being another hour before his flight leaves. He pops in his headphones and shuffles his playlist, tipping his head back against the seat as he closes his eyes.

He tries to think about anything other than you. How beautiful you probably look right now with your dress and your bouquet, walking down the aisle to someone he doesn’t even know. Jihoon hopes he makes you happy. That he loves you fiercely on your good days and bad days. That you will always come first in his eyes and never feel lonely for even a moment in time.

That your husband will love you just as much as Jihoon himself will always love you.

Steadily the seating around him begins to fill up as he gets closer to departure time. He can see the plane and staff are beginning to gather near the gate to check passengers in but he sits and waits until the majority of people have formed a line before finally getting up and joining the queue. He keeps his cap low, mask on and eyes downcast but most everyone is too busy to notice him anyway.

The line shuffles along and he patiently moves with it. Glancing out the towering glass windows, he get’s distracted by a frantic reflection. The ghost of someone moving quickly down toward the terminal, cloak or dress of some sort billowing out behind their figure and then the sound of loud clacking of heels against tile hit his ears just before…

“Jihoon!”

The shout causes heads to turn this way and that but his eyes laser focus in on the sound and he staggers a single step forward, “My god…”

He’s got to be imagining it - the vision of you in your wedding gown running as quickly as you can toward the gate, calling his name with tears streaking down your face. The crowd of people stop moving as the staff get distracted and he hears chattering and whispering, people wondering what’s happening and others recognizing his name excitedly.

Jihoon takes another few steps forward, dropping his bag and calling out your name to make sure it’s really you and you’re really there, and then he’s rushing to meet you halfway. You slam into his chest wrapping your arms around his body so tightly you’d be hurting him had he even the sense to feel such a sensation. He spins his hat around and haphazardly tucks his mask into his back pocket.

His arms automatically come around you, wild eyed in disbelief and then he’s pulling you back to peer into your tearful eyes, cupping your cheeks because the need to touch and feel is so overwhelming it stands to devour him whole. “What on earth are you doing here?”

“How could you write me that letter and then leave again?” you sniffle angrily, wiping carefully beneath your eyes to rid the blurry mess from your sight.

Jihoon stutters, unsure of what to say other than the truth.

“I’m a selfish man,” his fingers are so warm on your face, pads just a little rough from his guitar playing, “I shouldn’t have come back just to turn your life upside down again but I couldn’t help myself. I needed you to know that not a day’s gone by that I haven’t thought about you.”

One of his hands tentatively drop to your waist, keeping you close and your conversation low knowing you have an audience. “You will always be the love of my life and I want nothing more for you to be happy, even if that’s not with me.”

You collapse against him, one hand ringing the back of his shirt and the other in his hair. He holds onto you with all his might, heart shattering in his chest for being the reason you're crying for the millionth time. Over you shoulder in the distance he sees Jeonghan in his suit, leaning against a wall as he watches on. He twirls his car keys around his finger and nods once which explains how you got here but he still doesn’t understand why.

“I called the wedding off.”

Your words shock him and his body shakes with the force of the implications. Surely you can’t mean to tell him that you’ve run out on your own wedding because of…him?

Jihoon shakes his head, cheek brushing against yours as he whispers your name, “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean for this to happen. I don’t want you to throw away your happiness away on me, please-”

“Jihoon,” you lift your head, eyes glistening as a smile spreads over your lips, “You are my happiness. I’ve loved you from the moment I saw you until now and I’ll still love you when we meet again in the next life. I can’t go into a marriage with someone I can’t give my whole heart to. I don’t deserve that and neither does he.”

He can’t help but smile in the moment even though his happiness is another man’s terrible misfortune. “I can’t believe you’re here right now.”

You huff out a small watery laugh, “What? In the middle of the airport in a wedding gown? Can’t say it’s something I had imagined either.”

Jihoon laughs in return and presses you closer by the small of your back, “In my arms,” he gently corrects you, “I never thought I’d get the chance to hold you again.”

As you somewhat expected, there are phones and cameras hidden in the crowd and you sigh bemusedly, “I can already see the headlines now, ‘Famous musician, Lee Jihoon, kisses runaway bride in the middle of hometown airport’.”

“Does he now?”

The joyful grin on his face is so beautiful it takes a moment to answer. “Yeah, he does.”

Forgetting about the world around you, it’s startling when a man’s voice comes over the speaker from the staff podium near the gate check-in and says, “You may now kiss the bride, sir!”

Laughing and cheering fill the terminal and Jihoon blushes before pulling out some of that stage persona and confidence. He pivots and dips you back, eliciting a joyful sound out of the small crowd and then he’s planting the longest overdue kiss upon your lips, grinning into it knowing he’s the luckiest man in the universe in this very moment.

You blink your eyes open as he steadies you back on your feet and hide your face in his shoulder as those around you applaud. Jihoon waves and bows at the crowd politely and takes your hand walking away from the gate to your surprise. You giggle behind your hand, still high off endorphins. “What do we do now?”

Jihoon nods at Jeonghan across the way who winks in return and pushes off the wall silently and walks off ahead of you to pull the car around. “Now, we should probably get you out of that dress and into something more comfortable.”

“Jihoon,” you tease as if you’re scandalized and not thrilled about whatever lies ahead.

He pulls you onto the escalator, sharing a step so he can pull you hard against him with a mischievous smile. “Then, I’m taking you somewhere, wherever you want to go.”

You push forward and kiss him again, already missing his lips on yours. “Take me somewhere pretty enough to write a song about.”

He thinks about the little island he visited for a few days last year when he needed a weekend to hideaway, recharge, refocus. He couldn’t imagine a better place to restart, to spend days on end doing nothing but tracing your outline, relearn everything inside and out.

No one can ever know all that the future holds but he does know that whatever it may offer kindly or throw at you without warning, he would be at your side through it all.

The sunlight that spills upon your faces as you walk outside warms you from the inside out and it’s like a new beginning washing over the two of you. Jihoon looks over and you know this is the way things were always supposed to be when he smiles and parts his lips.

“I think I know a place.”

Thanks for reading! 💗

SVT M.List | Main M.List

→ Please do NOT copy, repost, or translate, any of my works here on tumblr or on any other platforms! All stories are copyrighted, Milfguu, 2019. ©️

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rolangf · 5 months

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OCS as OBSCURE ASSOCIATIONS, pt. 7 slay

hey. doing these again to drown out the Voices tagging the mortal kombat krew for my other gal @shellibisshe ⚜️ @ghostfvcker ⚜️ @loriane-elmuerto ⚜️ @bloodskinandteeth ⚜️ @jendoe ⚜️ @bloodofvalyria ⚜️ and some other besties!! @rosayoro ⚜️ @avallachs ⚜️ @malefiicarum ⚜️ @sikoi ⚜️ @simply-jason ⚜️ @teamhawkeye ⚜️ and you!

ANIMALS: swans. does. crickets. frogs.

COLORS: leaf green, jade. teal. pink.

MONTH: may.

SONGS: it’s all so incredibly loud, glass animals | twins theme (interlude), twin shadow | heaven, i monster.

NUMBER: two.

PLANTS: bamboo. lotus flowers. trailing fuchsia. larkspur.

SMELLS: petrichor. jasmine. vanilla.

GEMSTONE: opal.

TIME OF DAY: early morning.

SEASON: spring.

PLACES: green cemeteries. an open field. meadows. madam bo’s tea house. wrapped up in a moss blanket. in the dream palace.

FOOD: peaches. watermelon. rice bowls. miso soup. dragonfruit. marshmallows.

DRINKS: jasmine tea. coconut water. orange juice.

ELEMENT: air.

ASTROLOGICAL SIGNS: aquarius, pisces.

SEASONINGS: vanilla extract. i know that’s not a seasoning let me live—

SKY: right after a storm, visible rainbows.

WEATHER: sun showers.

MAGICAL POWER: cast speak with dead.

WEAPONS: various kitchen objects.

SOCIAL MEDIA: she would so be an instagram girlie.

MAKEUP PRODUCT: a subtle eye shadow.

CANDY: hi-chews. lollipops— the really obnoxiously rainbow ones.

METHOD OF LONG DISTANCE TRAVEL: a leisurely stroll.

ART STYLE: impressionism.

FEAR: abandonment.

MYTHOLOGICAL CREATURE: tiktok audio “she was a fairy.”

PIECE OF STATIONARY: a cardstock love letter stained with perfume and written in pink gel pen.

THREE EMOJIS: 🤩🪷✨

CELESTIAL BODY: the moon.

#heaven is so. OUGH #that song fixed me but actually made me worse #anyways here hi #she is the softest oc of all time genuinely #oc: tai li

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encyclopika · 1 year

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Bitter Blades by me! Encyclopika

Ceruledge is best boy in Paldea. I will not be hearing criticism right now or ever.

More under the cut VVV

Just to give some scale of how lorge this boy is. He was made with alcohol markers on water color paper that was cut with an Exacto knife to get those tiny spaces. He's made of 4 different pieces glued together. In fact, his left hand sword is separate, and I had to cut carefully between the leg and hilt to slip the sword between them which is a first for me. Then the highlights on his armor were done in white opaque ink which is SO FUN to use.

The background was done in acrylic paint on cardstock...then I just glued this bad boy on and ta-da!

Second time I've fallen in love with a Fire/Ghost type - my first was Chandelure, who I hope to make a similar art with using this style. :3

#Ceruledge #Paldea #Pokemon #Fire type pokemon #ghost type pokemon #Gen 9 Pokemon #encyclopika art

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repost-this-image · 2 years

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Tips For Aspiring Artists

I'm not an expert by any means, but here are some things I've figured out that I wish someone had told me sooner. 1 - 6 are for traditional artists, but the other tips work for digital artists as well.

Get artist-quality supplies. Crayola is nice, but Crayola costs less than artist-quality supplies for the same reason that Barbie's Dream House costs less than a real house: It's for kids to play around with. By all means feel free to practice with Crayola for now, but start saving up for the real thing. You may have to buy markers one or two at a time as you have funds, or ask a friend or family member to buy you that awesome paint set for your next birthday or whatever. Trust me, once you see and feel the difference, you will never go back. It is night and day.

Buy an artists' pen set if you're using traditional media. You know why professionally-inked art looks so good? Because they use a variety of line thicknesses. You know the easiest way to make that happen consistently? A set of artist's pens in varying thicknesses. This is a good set at a reasonable price, and the ink is phenomenal (read that description--your average writing pen doesn't have those qualities). I am not sponsored by Sakura; this is just the first really good pen set I ever bought and it's served me well.

India ink dries waterproof. Let me repeat that: India ink dries waterproof. It's also not alcohol-soluble, which means it's great for working with water- or alcohol-based markers or watercolor paints/pencils. Just make sure your ink has time to dry before you add color!

Prismacolor, Copic, and Spectrum Noir markers are REFILLABLE. This is why they cost more than the store brand. You are expected to keep the marker casing and buy a bottle of ink in a color you're running out of, and a set of spare nibs for when your marker nibs wear out. This is cheaper than buying all new markers, plus you're gonna run out of one or two of your favorite colors way before the rest and you'll be happy to have that ink on hand. These markers are meant for the long haul, and by George they're gonna make sure you can keep using them for the long haul.

Use the right paper for your tools. Sketch paper is great for pencils and some paints, but horrible for everything else. Marker pads are perfect for alcohol markers, but expensive. (I use white cardstock because of how expensive actual marker paper is. Gold leaf is less expensive per square inch.) Watercolor paper has a rough surface that isn't good for charcoal work but has the perfect amount of "tooth" for watercolor paints and pencils, and is thick enough not to pucker the way regular paper does when wet.

Painters, learn about gesso, thinners, and extenders. These items can make your time painting much happier, especially if you work with acrylics on fine details (like, say, doll customization).

Don't overwork yourself. If you're gonna do a marathon art session, set a timer for one hour. At the end of the hour, STOP. Put your supplies down. Get up and stretch your legs and do some wrist exercises. Then reset your timer and start working on your art again. You do not want to end up with carpal tunnel or chronic wrist pain by the age of 25 because you pushed yourself too hard.

Warm up before you start an art session. Nothing fancy--just get out a piece of regular paper and a pencil, and make some loop-de-loops, zigzags, and doodles for 5-10 minutes to loosen your hands up so you can get them to make the shapes you want.

Learn how to practice drawing That Thing You Suck At Drawing. Let's say you suck at hands, and you want to get better. Find a lot of photos of hands in various positions, shown from various angles. Study the way the light hits them. Trace the photos to get a feel for the shapes. Then and only then does it make sense to start trying to draw them freehand. Always refer back to the original photos, NOT to your earlier drawings, so you're less likely to repeat mistakes from your drawings.

Don't be ashamed to use tools that feel like cheating. Real, professional artists use rulers (or the straight-line tool in an art program) and compasses (or the circle program) and stencils (or the stamp tool) all the time. I hear people say things like "You're so talented--I can't even draw a straight line!" You know who can draw a perfectly straight line without help? NO ONE. Tools are there to help you. Use them. There is no special reward for doing things the hard way or Suffering For Your Art. It isn't morally better or a more "pure" form of artistry; it's just harder.

Break the thing you're drawing down into lines and shapes. You know those sketch layers in Photoshop, or those rough pencil marks in traditional art, or the perspective lines in a scene? Artists are basically using sketch time to plot out the general shapes and structures of their subject before fleshing it out more and making it look all pretty and polished. Everything you look at is basically made of lines, shapes, and regions of color. With time and practice, you get better and quicker at doing the sketching part. But you never really outgrow it.

#art reference #art tips #doll customization #traditional art help #digital art help

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thesecondproject · 4 months

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Metal Business Cards Manufacturers with The Second Project

Tired of flimsy paper cards that get lost in the abyss of wallets and drawers? At The Second Project, we believe your business deserves a lasting impression, and that's where metal business cards come in. These sleek, sophisticated calling cards are more than just a statement piece; they're an investment in your brand identity.

But with so many options and questions, where do you start? We've got you covered! This blog is your one-stop shop for everything metal business cards, including:

What are metal business cards?

Crafted from premium metals like stainless steel, copper, or titanium, these cards are ultra-durable and resistant to scratches, bending, and even water. They're a far cry from their paper counterparts, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on potential clients and colleagues.

Why choose metal business cards?

Stand out from the crowd: Make a statement with a card that's as unique as your brand.

Durability and longevity: Say goodbye to flimsy paper cards that get lost or tossed. Metal cards are built to last.

Professionalism and sophistication: Exude confidence and leave a lasting impression with a high-quality card.

Eco-friendly choice: Ditch the paper waste and opt for a sustainable alternative.

What types of metal business cards does The Second Project offer?

We cater to diverse preferences and budgets, offering a variety of options:

Brushed, polished, or matte finishes: Choose the texture that best reflects your brand personality.

Single or double-sided printing: Showcase your logo, contact information, or even a QR code.

Laser engraving: Add a touch of elegance and permanence with intricate engraving.

Custom shapes and sizes: Go beyond the traditional rectangle and create a truly unique card.

Ready to elevate your networking game? Contact The Second Project today and let us craft metal business cards that truly represent your brand. We'll guide you through the process, ensuring you receive cards that are as impressive as you are.

FAQs About Metal Visiting Cards: Elevate Your Professional Image

Q: What are metal visiting cards?

Metal visiting cards are exactly what they sound like - business cards crafted from durable, sleek metal instead of traditional paper or cardstock. They offer a unique and luxurious feel, making a lasting impression on potential clients and colleagues.

Q: What are the benefits of using metal business cards?

There are several advantages to choosing metal cards over traditional paper ones:

Durability: Metal cards are virtually indestructible compared to paper, lasting for years without bending, tearing, or fading.

Sophistication: The premium material exudes a sense of professionalism and luxury, setting you apart from the competition.

Memorable: The unique feel and weight of metal cards are sure to grab attention and leave a lasting impression.

Branding: Metal cards offer a larger canvas for showcasing your brand logo and colors, making them a powerful marketing tool.

Q: What types of metal are used for business cards?

Stainless steel is the most common material for metal cards, offering a sleek and polished look. Other options include titanium, copper, and even black PVD-coated steel for a truly unique touch.

Q: Can I customize my metal business cards?

Absolutely! Most metal card manufacturers offer various customization options, including:

Laser engraving: This technique allows for precise and permanent etching of your name, logo, contact information, or even intricate designs.

Color printing: Some manufacturers offer direct color printing on metal, adding vibrant pops of color to your cards.

Shapes and sizes: You can choose from standard business card sizes or opt for unique shapes to further personalize your cards.

Q: Where can I get custom metal business cards made in India?

Several Indian manufacturers specialize in crafting high-quality metal business cards. Some popular options include:

The Second Project

Printo

Vistaprint

Metal Cards India

Q: How much do metal business cards cost?

The cost of metal business cards depends on several factors, such as the chosen metal type, size, customization options, and quantity ordered. Generally, expect to pay more than traditional paper cards, but the investment is worth it for the lasting impact they create.

Q: Are metal business cards worth it?

If you're looking to make a strong first impression and stand out from the crowd, metal business cards are definitely worth considering. They offer a unique and professional edge that can give you a significant advantage in networking and building relationships.

#Custom Metal Business Cards #Metal Business Cards Manufacturer #Metal Visiting Card #Customized Visiting Card #Metal Card Maker #Custom Metal Business Card

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realtorjamier · 5 months

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15 Tips to Get Your Home Ready for the School Year

Back to school. Whether you’re a parent who loves or loathes this time of year, it’s inescapable. Beyond back-to-school shopping, creating a study-friendly environment in your house is important to your child’s academic success.

Since most households with school-age children were forced to homeschool in some form or another during the pandemic, you probably have gotten a head start, but even though your children may be returning to an onsite classroom, retaining some form of homeschool space shows the value you place on their education. Here are some ways to create designated study spaces.

Choose a spot and stick with it. Depending on the layout and size of your home, this could be a corner in your kitchen, a desk in their bedroom or a home office. Make sure the area is quiet and free from distractions as much as possible.

Keep noise-canceling headphones or earplugs nearby to minimize disturbances.

Make sure the desk and chair are compatible and are both at a comfortable height to avoid fatigue and/or pain. Keep in mind that your child’s laptop, keyboard, and mouse should be ergonomically set up. Teach your child (and remind yourself) about healthy workplace posture.

Lighting should be bright so your child can focus. Natural light from windows is great, but not always available. Overhead lighting should mimic daylight but shouldn’t be the only form of light in a home office environment. Task lighting should also be available and always be direct, intense illumination.

Stock up on school supplies and keep them plentiful to avoid unnecessary delays in getting to work. Here’s a list to get you started.

Paper

Notebook

Graph

Poster board

Printer

Cardstock

Post-it notes

Binders

Paper cutter

Hole punch

Stapler and staples

Glue sticks

Paperclips

Binder clips

Pencils

Pencil sharpener

Colored pencils

Highlighters

Magic markers

Crayons

Pens in different colors

Sharpies

Tape

Printer ink

Rulers

Scissors

File folders

Calculator

Keep supplies organized. Cabinets, shelving, wall-mounted organizers such as storage pockets, over-the-door organizers, under-the-bed storage – choose a clear system and make sure you and your child stick with it.

Mount a calendar to the wall. A large wall calendar can also serve as a family communication center, keeping everyone informed of important deadlines, meetings, practices, events, vacations, etc.

Decorate the area with a few inspiring pieces of artwork based on what will be appealing and motivating to your child.

Create a snack station and keep it supplied with healthy choices. Water bottles, juice boxes, fruit, crackers, etc.

Keep a bulletin board and/or refrigerator space open for prized student work. Rotate out the celebrated achievements so they know you are supportive and aware.

Keep a charging station available in the kitchen or other “public” spot. Establish limits on phone use. During study and sleeping hours, make sure your child’s phone is in your sight and charging.

Check your internet connection and make sure it’s particularly strong in your home’s designated study area.

Limit screen time (watching television, playing video games, using social media). Encourage your child to find other activities to do such as playing outside and spending face-to-face time with family.

Teach your child the 20-20-20 rule. According to the American Optometric Association, for every 20 minutes you spend looking at a digital device – including a computer screen – you should look at something else that is 20 feet away for a period of 20 seconds.

Establish good bedtime habits and a consistent sleeping schedule.

Improving your child’s productivity and focus at home will help with their success at school. By making it clear that you are working to create a space that is both comfortable and conducive to learning, it will be clear to them that you highly prioritize their academic achievements.

#jamierichards #realtorjamier #realestate #realestateagent #realestatetips #school year #school #back to school #tips for school

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cricutsetupmac · 10 months

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What is a Cricut Mat, and How Many Types are There?

If you are dealing with what is a Cricut mat and its types, then you are in the right place. Whether you are a new joiner or a senior crafter, you need to know the cutting mats' basics. All the crafting materials are placed on its surface, helping the user to cut down all the projects. Currently, there are four types of Cricut products available for the DIYers.

Moreover, choosing the correct one is important without risking the craft's quality. Although, it depends upon the material type you'll be using while designing the project. Let's skip to the good part by suggesting details about this supply, its uses, and its varieties.

What is a Cricut Mat and Its Key Features?

First of all, let's focus on what a Cricut mat is and its features. This crafting accessory is a flexible and reusable mat utilized during the crafting process. Additionally, it has a strong adhesive area spread across the mat, which holds the material strongly in place. Some of the common features of this smart cutting mat features are:

Firstly, it is easy to remove the cutting material from it and store it away for the next project.

Secondly, this item can be used multiple times by covering it up from the specific plastic sheet and last long upto 40-50 washes.

Thirdly, this Cricut mat is available in different types and colors with strong adhesive and supports most materials.

Lastly, they are cost-efficient, and the new user can easily purchase them for crafting.

4 Different Cricut Mats Available for Cutting Machines

Apart from learning about the smart cutting machine and its features, let's pay attention to the cutting mat varieties. However, knowing completely about each of them can be a little confusing. Let's break the ice and understand them via the coming pointers:

1. LightGrip Mat (Blue)

In this situation, the Light-Grip mat has a little adhesive designed to work well with light-weighted material. As per the DIYers, this product is highly used with standard paper, scrapbook paper, light cardstock, and many more. Additionally, it clutches down the material in its place during the cutting process. Lastly, it is available in Blue color and supports the Maker & Explore machine.

2. StandardGrip Mat (Green)

Furthermore, this is the best option for what is a Cricut mat. This product is specially developed for medium-weighted materials. Most of the crafters recommend this Cricut product. Other than that, it is one of the reusable mats, which makes it simple to remove finished pieces once the cut is completed. In addition, it is offered to the DIYer in green color.

3. StrongGrip Mat (Purple)

So forth, the StrongGrip mat is developed for heavyweights materials. The materials list includes specialty cardstock, chipboard, mat board, etc. Secondly, this cutting machine ensures the perfect adhesion ratio with the longest possible life. Thirdly, it has been upgraded with water-based paint and adhesive. For the best performance, opt for the correct type of material.

4. FabricGrip Mat (Pink)

Meanwhile, this supply combines increased strength and density plus a little adhesive. Most of the fabrics are cut down with a Rotary blade or Bonded-Fabric blade. Remember, this Cricut cut-die machine product is used with cotton, denim, polyester, etc. With two mats included, one can be loaded to cut down in Cricut. Prepare the next material for further process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can Cricut Cut Without Cutting Mat?

Answer: There is a complete possibility that the crafter can simply cut down the various materials without cutting a mat. However, they need to purchase Smart Materials, which supports some of the smart cut-die models. One must simply load the material and let the machine do the work. It will examine the sensors and cut down the loaded item. However, it should be a DIYer's duty to load the correct product before starting the cut-down method.

Question: How Can I Make Cricut Mat Sticky Again?

Answer: If your respective is losing its stickiness and damaging the project, you must re-stick it for future reference. To maintain the mat quality, keep it covered with the cover sheet, and clean it regularly. However, if you want to make your mat stickier, buy the new best-quality adhesive and spread it equally across the mat. Ensure that you also cover the edges equally without any thickness.

Question: What is a Cutting Mat Cleaning Process?

Answer: Some of the common methods that will help the DIYers in cleaning their respective mat are as follows:

Firstly, you can use the fresh lint roller to remove leftover material or small bits of materials.

Now, wipe with alcohol-free baby wipes by moving them in a circular motion gently using at least 1-2 wipes.

Then, use the tweezers or scraper tool to remove the fuzz or bits of material from the cutting mat.

#cricut.com/setup mac #cricut.com/setup #cricut design space #cricut explore air 2 #design.cricut.com #cricut design space login #cricut setup

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cricutmachinemaker · 11 months

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Which is the Best Cutting Mat for Cricut Your Craft Projects?

Are you confused about which cutting mat for Cricut should be used for projects? Or wondering which mat works which supports which material? We agree that these concepts might be a little confusing for you, so here is the guidance that will help you select the best mat for your respective cut-die machine. Before diving into the depth of the blog, let's understand the basics of the topic.

The craft plotter cutting mat can hold the material in its place while it cuts, writes, or embellishes. Besides that, most of the mats are compatible with the Explore & Maker model, followed by the Joy machine. In addition, there are four types of mats, and each of them has its contribution while designing the craft. Pursue reading the blog till you reach the very end.

1. StandardGrip Machine Mat Pack, 12” x 12” (6 ct)

StandardGrip cutting mat for Cricut is ideal for a wide range of medium-weighted materials. Followed by the interface between the loaded material and the electronic cutting machine, each reusable item grabs the material in its place as it starts cutting down. In addition, this item is made with water-based paint and adhesive. It is also available in green color and cut-down materials such as Vinyl, Iron-On (HTV), Matboard, and many more.

2. LightGrip Mat, 12” x 12” (15 ct)

With the pack of mats, the user will always be ready for craft purposes. The manufacturer specially created this item for handling the light-weighted material chosen by the DIYer while designing the customized project. You'll get around fifteen mats inside the pack and will be saving money for future uses. The user with an Access subscription will get a special discount while adding the product to the cart.

3. StrongGrip Machine Mat, 12” x 12”, 3 Pack

Carefully created by the company's developers, this cutting mat for Cricut has special strength in holding heavyweight materials. Apart from that, each reusable mat helps the user easily clean the finished pieces once the materials are cut down into the desired shape. On the other hand, this specific mat can cut down materials such as matboard, cardstock, and backed fabric. Lastly, this cut-die machine item is compatible with the Explore & Maker machine.

4. FabricGrip Machine Mat, 12” x 12” (4 ct)

On the contrary, this FabricGrip Mat is mostly used with cotton, polyester, denim, and many more fabrics. Besides that, this supply combines increased strength and density even a light adhesive to cut fabrics with Rotary or Bonded-Fabric blades. During the interfacing process, each mat gives its best shot at holding the material to save it from getting ripped.

5. Card Mat-2x2 (2ct)

Further talking about the Cricut Card mat, it can hold upto 4 cards at once and works effortlessly with all the craft plotter models. It can also cut and create 4 customized cards at once. It is recommended as one of the best last-minute birthday hacks, thank you, and many more. The kit provides 2 reusable mats that run effortlessly with Explore & Maker models.

6. Machine Mat Variety Pack, 12" x 12" (3 ct.)

Moreover, you can satisfy all the crafting needs and save a good chunk of change with this respective pack. It covers a range of materials from thinnest to thickest and many more. Inside the pack, you'll find the three foremost items ensuring one of the best adhesions and the longest possible life. Moreover, to add up the mat's longevity, always cover it with a thin plastic sheet and ensure it has been loaded inside the correct craft plotter model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are Cricut Machine Mat Important Tips?

Answer: Some of the important tips needed to be followed about the Cricut machine mat are available below:

Question: What are the Things to Consider While Owning the Cricut Mats?

Answer: Before making the final verdict of owning the Cricut mats, you are supposed to have a look at the pointers shared here:

Question: What to Do if Mat is Too Sticky?

Answer: For any reason, if your Cricut mat is too sticky, then peeling off the materials will be a difficult task. However, you can change the situation by tapping the clean T-shirt on the mat surface. You'll notice that the T-shirt's fibres will stick to the adhesive reducing the stickiness level. Through this action, the stuck material will easily get peeled off.

Visit: cricut design space design.cricut.com/setup explore air 2 cricut.com/setup maker 3 cricut.com/setup app cricut explore air 2 setup

Source: https://cricutdesignapp.wordpress.com/2023/07/12/which-is-the-best-cutting-mat-for-cricut-your-craft-projects/

#design space setup #cricut.com/setup #www.cricut.com/setup #cricut.com/create #cricut design space login #cricut setup #cricut design space #digital design #cricut explore air 2

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dadsprinting90 · 1 year

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What Are The Steps You Should Be Taking Before Printing Apparel?

The garment printing industry is becoming popular in a few years. Also, there are some great methods for fabric printing Canada that have emerged over a few years which have contributed to the ease of getting printed clothes. There are some important considerations that need to be on the checklist!

Pricing

The first thing you should do is look up how much it costs to print a garment. You can do this on Google or other search engines. The cost will vary depending on the size and color of your garment, as well as what type of material you want to use.

The more expensive it is, the better quality the product will be when it's done. If you are going for digital apparel printing, make sure that you write down all of your ideas so that they don't get lost in translation later on down the line!

Fabric for printing

Before printing a garment, you need to make sure that the fabric is ready for printing. You can do this by washing it and then drying it on a rack. This will remove any excess water and help ensure that the fabric is as flat as possible.

Once the fabric has been washed and dried, you can use it to make your pattern. This means that you can transfer measurements from the fabric onto paper or cardstock using a ruler or other specially designed tool.

Creating pattern

After transferring measurements from one piece of paper to another, use them to create your pattern on the computer screen. You will want to keep track of all measurements so that they can be used later on when making your printed garment.

Check the fit of the piece like custom socks before you print it, using a ruler and measuring tape to ensure that it will work with your printer's settings and features.

#custom socks

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digitalusmarket · 2 years

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Cricut Joy: Best Holiday Gift

There are plenty of reasons that make the Cricut Joy machine the best holiday gift for your loved ones. Finding an appropriate gift is challenging, especially this year when everyone is home more than ever. This crazy year you can give the experience of crafting with the best little device, the Cricut Joy, to your friends and relatives. Continue reading to know who can use the Cricut Joy device, why they love it, and what accessories you can add for a perfect gift.

Introducing Cricut Joy

Cricut Joy is the best companion for everyday crafting, and it is a portable and compact method to enjoy digital writing, drawing, and cutting at home. Simple to use and quick, this device enables users to customize projects for DIY designs best for home decor, custom clothing, card-making, gifting, and more. You can use Cricut Joy with more than 50 materials, such as iron-on vinyl, adhesive vinyl, and cardstock. Generate iron-on transfers, cards, vinyl decals, and more. You will not require a sticky cutting mat with Cricut Smart materials.

The Cricut Joy machine is the tiniest of the Cricut family of electronic cutting machines. It is about 8 inches wide and weighs around 4Ibs. But do not let the device fool you. There is a variety of power behind the device.

The machine can be perfect for:

Business professionals

Teachers

Parents

Small business owners

Homemakers

Child care providers

Auto enthusiasts

Crafters

Hobbyist

Students

Older adults

Restaurant owners and much more

Why Cricut Joy is Best for Gifting

You can create lots of projects with a Cricut Joy device. In this post, you will learn some of the best projects you can make on this machine and what gift recipients will like.

Vinyl Cutting

Vinyl cutting is likely the most evident of functions. The machine can cut all shapes around 4′ long & repeated cuts are approximately 20′ long. This is enough space for most of the vinyl projects.

Perfect for hobbyists, small business owners, carters, and anyone needing to include vinyl on various surfaces.

Card Making

One of the best features of Cricut Joy is the super simple and quick card-making option. You require a Card Mat and the Cricut Insert Card packs & users can create beautiful greeting cards in a few minutes.

Best for older adults, homemakers, and people who utilize greeting cards often.

Label Maker

Users can utilize the Cricut Joy app (Cricut Design Space) to create a huge range of customizable labels, including Label Maker, to the massive list of projects you can complete with Cricut Joy.

It is best for students, business professionals, teachers, and one who values organization.

Perfect Accessories Available for Cricut Joy

If you wish to give your friends and family a perfect gift this year, consider adding additional Cricut accessories and materials. You will find some different bundle ideas in this section based on interests. Whether you purchase one accessory or the complete bundle, your loved ones will love it.

Beginner Starter BundleCricut Joy StandardGrip Mat

When you require a stronger grip for medium-weight materials, this Mat’s you are go-to. Its enduring adherence secures Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets, Adhesive-Backed Quality Paper, and the materials you have at home, such as heavy cardstock for writing and cutting with the Cricut Joy machine.

Users can create various things, from colorful T-shirts and coasters to custom gift tags.

Features

Only for the Cricut Joy machine

Long-lasting adhesive

Created with adhesive and water-based paint

A reusable mat

Starter Tool Set

Make your Cricut Joy projects simpler with these three must-have tools. Utilize a Spatula to lift delicate materials such as paper from the cutting Mat.

Switch to the Weeder to remove unwanted iron-on and vinyl pieces from the design.

Utilize the Scraper to clean material remnants and apply vinyl decals to the Mat.

Best for large and small projects, such as organizational labels, custom cards, and stylized decor.

Features

Three-piece set including the tools one requires for their Cricut Joy projects.

It is an essential companion for the Cricut Joy machine.

It is best for creating different projects like labels, custom cards, and vinyl decals.

Cricut Joy Transfer Tape

Send your custom vinyl cuts to different surfaces with precision and ease.

Transfer Tape is for various kinds of Cricut Smart Vinyl such as Holographic, Matte Metallic, Patterned, Holographic Sparkle, and Metallic.

Utilize it to make labels, custom decals, decor, and others.

Functions

Compatible with the majority of vinyl types.

Not suggested for shimmer and glitter vinyl.

Easily transfer the vinyl designs to different project surfaces.

For Cricut Joy

Cricut Joy Smart Vinyl Glossy Permanent

Customize a bit or a lot. Create more in less time with the Cricut Joy machine and Smart Materials. There is nothing to prepare. The advanced crafting material works appropriately without the cutting Mat so that users can load and go.

Now it’s not a big deal to design a label on a birthday banner or the fly with an enormous impact. You can create a quick decal for a water bottle and decorate the mailbox.

Features

Simple to weed, smooth to apply

Water & UV-resistant

Best to make custom decals on wine glasses, water bottles, mailboxes, etc.

For Cricut Joy

Glossy Finish

Long-lasting adhesive ( lasts for three years)

Smart Iron-On

You can wear your craft on your pocket, sleeve, and pant leg with the Smart Iron-On. This special crafting material functions without the cutting Mat so that users can load and go.

So adding personality to your jean jacket, backpack, and the T-shirt is no sweat. Smart Iron-On works amazingly on various materials and outlasts over 50 washes.

For smooth application, you can use Cricut EasyPress or use household iron. Key instructions.

Enable it 24 hours after applying it before washing.

Wash and dry inside out.

If you wish to iron, only do it on the backside of your garment.

Don’t bleach.

Features

Auto-loads for constant cuts without the cutting Mat.

It shows excellent results on different materials and projects.

Weed quickly and cut beautifully.

Lasts for 50 washes.

Layer 3 colors for standout projects and patterns.

Card Creating BundleInsert Cards, Princess Sampler

Quick, customized greeting cards with a massive impact on fingertips with Insert Cards for a Cricut Joy machine. The inventive glue-free design enables depth-filled, two-tone cards without hassle and mess.

Cut meaningful and intricate images and words into the face of a card to enable attractive insert color to show through.

The A2-size cards, like white envelopes & come in different colors to please your loved ones.

Functions

Twelve cards ( three of each color) in Powder Blue, Whispering Blue, and Tulip. Lavender; 12 White envelopes, 12 Silver Holographic.

Make sparkling two-tone greeting cards without the hassle of glue or mess.

Simple to cut with the specialized Cricut Joy machine Card Mat.

Starter Tool Set

Create Cricut Joy projects more straightforwardly with these essential tools. Utilize the Spatula to lift fine materials like paper from the cutting Mat.

Try Weeder to remove iron-on & unwanted vinyl from the design.

Use Scraper to insert vinyl decals or remove material remnants from the cutting Mat.

Features

The starter tool set is a must-have companion for your Cricut Joy machine.

The three-piece set offers the tools you require for Cricut Joy projects.

Perfect for various projects, such as vinyl decals, labels, and custom cards.

Fine Point Pens

Insert a delicate touch to drawn or written projects, small and big, with the three supportive hues. Write flawless phrases or messages and create intricate designs with a tap.

Add to paper crafts, decor, cards, or draw correct shapes and outstanding coloring pages. They are best for holiday and party invitations too.

Functions

You can use three fine-point pens in Gray, Black, and Brown.

Adorn the projects with personal drawings and notes.

Perfect for decorations for birthday bashes, event invitations, and adding a handwritten message to a project.

Water-based, nontoxic, acid-free, conforms to ASTM D-4236.

Gel Pen Set

You don’t require illustration skills and penmanship to add beautiful line art, exquisite shapes, and flawless lettering to the next project.

Utilize the Cricut Gel Pens on the next papercraft, and get vivid and precise results each time. The gel ink flows effortlessly and looks beautiful.

Allow the Cricut machine to make impeccable letters and lines, and enjoy decorating by hand.

Features

Let the Cricut Joy machine have flawless lettering and perfect shapes.

Draw manually or with the Cricut smart cutting device.

For use with Cricut Explore and Maker.

Colors can differ slightly.

Super smooth gel ink is bold and vibrant.

Organization Bundle

Smart Label Writable Paper

Fine Point Pens

Extra Fine Point Pens

Smart Label Writable Vinyl

Do not forget that the Cricut EasyPress is also an excellent partner for a Cricut Joy machine. Best for different projects that involve Infusible Ink or Smart Iron-On.

Final Verdict

This informative post on why a Cricut Joy machine is a perfect holiday gift is helpful. It is best to purchase someone a crafting machine for people who can or can’t have experience. Still, they will love receiving this machine as they can do everything on a Cricut Joy with vinyl and paper that you can do on a Cricut Maker or Explore device. But it is cheaper than the larger machines. The cards, vinyl, and other materials required for the Cricut Joy are smaller & cost less.

Source:https://hariguide.com/cricut-joy-best-holiday-gift/

#Best Holiday Gift

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qualitygiftboxes · 2 years

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Making Your Own Present Boxes

There are lots of alternatives for making your own present boxes. Some basic products you can utilize to develop your own boxes consist of cardstock, really felt, and welcoming cards. You can additionally utilize adhesive or Mod Podge to connect the items inside. Once you have actually assembled your box, include your favored gift or welcoming card and a bow. If you're looking for a present box that's a little larger, take into consideration folding a luxury swimsuit box. The two-piece design makes them easy to store and transport. They're constructed from water-based inks as well as post-consumer recycled materials. You can pick from a range of design and colors, and the minimum order quantity isn't high. There's no better time to send your enjoyed ones some tasty fruit than with among these special boxes. When selecting the perfect present box, consider its style and feature. The twins box are an excellent option if you're looking to conserve money while still giving your enjoyed ones a personal touch.

When developing a box, bear in mind that it will end up being the initial point of get in touch with between you as well as the receiver. That's why it's vital to select one that cuts a wonderful figure while communicating the ideal perceptions. If you're seeking an attractive box to make a special gift, then choose a lift-off box. These boxes are a wonderful selection for personal presents, as you can include a personalized electronic print to them. When picking a present box, think of what event you're celebrating and who the recipient is. You can pick to include delicious treats as well as home-office products, and also also custom-made boodle. Depending on the occasion, you can locate boxes in all sizes and shapes, as well as you can send one right from the comfort of your very own home. There are also gift boxes that are shaped like birthday cakes or a tv. You can even send them a themed box for their birthday or wedding anniversary! Gift bags have many benefits over gift boxes. Visit twinsboxs.com for more insights on making these gift boxes.

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korva-the-raven · 2 years

Note

Okay wow my ask was kinda rude, considering you have an etsy shop where i can just purchase the prints, i apologize!

I was just very enthusiastic. 😳♥️

Not at all rude! I totally encourage people to make spore prints if they are interested. Mushrooms are interesting and beautiful and I love them. I'm a total mycology nerd, and I love making spore prints. They are easy to make, just take a little practice. And by practice I mean learning how to lift the cap off the paper, because the spore prints are really delicate. If you have mushrooms in your area, I highly recommend trying it.

Basically, you find a mushroom you like, collect it, bring it home, remove the stem from the cap, place the cap on a piece of paper, cover it with a bowl or Tupperware container or something and leave it for a few hours to overnight. The spores will rain down from the gills and leave a print. Let the print dry overnight and spray with fixative (art spray).

https://namyco.org/spore_prints.php

Basic materials:

Mushroom, Paper, Something to cover mushroom caps, fixative.

I use whatever paper I have. At the moment, I have water color paper and black art paper. I've used printer paper and cardstock.

Also, I recommend learning a bit about mushrooms, because some species are poisonous. They are safe to handle, just don't eat mushrooms you don't know and wash your hands.

And thank you for noticing I have an Etsy shop! Yes, I sell spore prints, but no you don't have to buy them, you can totally make your own if you want! Spore prints are unique, no two are the same, unless you use the same mushroom for multiple prints. I use one mushroom per print and leave them overnight, so my prints are thick AF. So if someone does purchase a print from me, they get a unique piece of art, and I put all the time and materials into the art piece.

I've gotten better at identifying mushrooms, and with the all the rain we've had in my area, the mushroom have emerged EVERYWHERE; it's beautiful. So I've been busy making more prints.

Cheers!

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adventuresofclever · 3 years

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CleverMax: SDCC 2021 Masquerade Entry

Comic-Con@Home Masquerade Entry: Adventures of Clever Costume Title: CleverMax - Mr. Clever as a Borderlands boss Costume Description: Recreation of Mr. Clever from the Doctor Who episode Nightmare in Silver, written by Neil Gaiman, done in the style of the video game, Borderlands. Bio: They/He pronouns

Greetings all!

I realized that I never wrote about how I made my CleverMax mashup cosplay, so when SDCC posted about their At Home masquerade, I figured this was the perfect time to do so! Most of you know that I cosplay exclusively as Mr. Clever from Doctor Who, with the random mash up thrown in here and there. I’ve always wanted to be a Borderlands cosplayer, and the following is how I managed to combine the two together.

As always, enjoy the blog and if there are any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Let’s step into the TARDIS and jump back to October 20, 2009, when the first Borderlands game was released. It was my first foray into FPS (First person shooters) and I was hooked from day one. In 2012 they released Borderlands 2 which is, in my not so humble opinion, the best video game ever created. We got some of the most iconic charcters and storylines in that game. Including the best DLC ever, Bunkers and Badasses. And my second favorite villain of all time – Handsome Jack.

Jack’s sass, sarcasm and charm fits well with Mr. Clever’s personality. And in the pre sequel you get to play a version of him called the Dopplegnager. I mean, this pretty much wrote itself.

Handsome Jack from Borderlands 2 and Mr. Clever from Doctor Who

Borderlands cosplayers have aIways left me in a state of awe and admiration. The style of the game is so unique and seeing it recreated in person is nothing short of incredible. I’ve always wanted to figure out a way to be a Borderlands cosplayer. For the past eight years I have only ever cosplayed as Mr. Clever from Doctor Who. In the summer of 2019 I decided that was the perfect time to try to make this happen before NYCC.

When I initially decided to do this, it was going to be more of a mash up between Handsome Jack and Mr. Clever. I had planned on wearing Jack’s basic outfit, but in Clever’s colors with the a few add ons. Namely the bow tie and the cybernetics.

After much research and drafting, I decided against that. I ended up just turning Mr. Clever into a Borderlands boss. Same basic outfit as Mr. Clever/11th Doctor, but cel shaded and with weapons, cause Borderlands.

I made the accessories, chess set, and obviously the working cyberplanner piece itself for my Nightmare in Silver version of Clever, but I have never tackled anything this ambitious. An entire costume from scratch? Not something I thought I could do. Not knowing how to sew and being visually impaired were both challenges that I had to work around.

I started with looking around my house for various items that I thought I could use. I figured if I messed up, might as well mess up on something I hadn’t spent money on yet! I was going to toss a pair of my old paddock boots as they had some rips in the leather. Ripped leather? How very Pandora. They were the first thing I tackled.

Old paddock boots that I refurbished for the cosplay

This was my first time using leather paint and I have to say I am very pleased with the Angelus brand of leather paint. I have worn these in the rain and through puddles, and they have held up 100%.

After the boots were done, I started on the vest. I had an old black vest lying around the house that was sort of the shape and size I wanted. I don’t have a dress form, so I put it on myself, inside out, and used safety pins to make it the size I needed, then hand sewed around the safety pins. Not ideal, but it works.

I had a spare pair of black jeans, button down light blue shirt and a plain bow tie that I just ended up cel shading.

The only item that I really couldn’t figure out was the purple frock coat. Try as I might, I couldn’t find one to modify. So the coat was actually made by my friend Heather Long. I did alter the length after NYCC.

With the clothes themselves all set, for the most part anyay, it was time to paint. This was my first time trying to recreate the art style of Borderlands, often referred to as cel shading. I have a few “art of Borderlands” style books that I poured over before I sat down to attempt this.

Other than the accessories and anything leather, I used the same materials and techniques for each article of clothing. Instead of describing each seprate piece, I’ll just explain what I did to achieve the overall look.

When you look at a Borderlands character on screen, it can be a bit overwhelming. So many colors, and so many nuances of each color. I did my best to visually sift through all that, and try to establish what I thought was the base color.

Once the base color was determined, I just added blotches, blobs, shading, low lights, highlights and other variations of the base color itself throughout each piece. I recommend keeping your fabric wrinkled and using those wrinkle as guidlenes for where the lines and shading would fall naturally.

Once all of that dried, I then went over different sections of the fabric with white and black lines. To get that crisp, almost comic book looking outline of each piece I used black sharpie, and white fabric pens as well as white fabric paint.

When I sat down to do the coat, I wanted something a little different than just cel shading. During a second playthrough of Tales from the Borderlands, I noticed Rhys and other characters had interesting logos and designs on the back of their jackets. I ended up putting a chessboard pattern on the back as a homage to the chess game between the 11th Doctor and Mr. Clever in the episode.

Great shot of the chess board and my Judd Nelson pose

The materials that I used for all of the clothing items were craft paints that I had around the house. Any brand works, but I prefer Americana paints. I then added an additive that you use to make the paint water proof and used various sized brushes. Dry brushes are also very useful if you have them.

Black sharpies of different sizes and any fabric markers are also very helpful. Heat setting is required to make the paint waterpfoof, so if you mess up before you add sharpies, you can wash the clothes and start over.

A few tips if you decide to undertake cel shading clothing: Until now I hadn’t noticed that there aren’t many thing in Borderlands that are true black. Due to the art style most things that appear black are in reality shades of grey, with a grey base colr. This makes it easier to add the lines, shading, and what not. Looking back, I should have bought GREY clothes. It was a ton of work to make the pants look like they were a mixture of greys. And as a result of so many laers of paint, they are stiff, lost their stretch and feel an entire size smaller! So I would recommend grey fabric as a base for black clothing and buy a size larger.

The pants are so stiff that I think they will stand up on their own

This entire process was way more fun than I thought it would be and I’ve since become addicted to cel shading anything I can. I may or may not have started cel shading my guest room.

After the clothing was finished, I started on some accessories and props. The first being the easiet – a wee little cybermite that I cel shaded. My cosplay of Mr. Clever always has a cybermite on my lapel, so I took one of my older ones and repainted it.

You can’t have a Borderlands character without some sort of weapon, so I painted a nerf gun that looks similar to the one that Clara Oswald holds in the episode.

I have never had to carry a gun for my Mr. Clever cosplay before so weapon checks are sort of new to me. I didn’t want to go through that at NYCC so I came up with a clever, no pun intended, way around it.

I took a photo of each side of the gun. Went to Staples and had them printed on heavy cardstock. Then I cut around the guns, glued them together between a piece of cardboard then added some black electical tape around the edges. Viola. Instant weapons check approved gun that is lightweight, and also acts a fan when it gets hot. It was a huge hit at the con. A few security guards were like “ we have to check your…wait..is that flat?” And they proceeded to play with it. I highly recommend doing this!

Gun and its flat counterpart

I am holding the flat gun in this picture from NYCC

In the actual game, you can equip your characters with mods that give them certain abilities and bonuses. In the Pre-Sequel, you can play as a Dopplganger of Handsome Jack so I searched for some of his mods and found one in purple which seemed perfect. I made the mod with cardboard, covered it in craft foam, modge podge to set, and installed led lights. The first time I wore it I put it on my belt which didn’t work. It kept falling off. I eventually put it on my lapel and wore it like Jack does. Unfortunately, someone glomped on me at a con and broke it, so I recently had to remake it all over again.

No Borderlands costume would be complete without cel shading on yourself. This was a huge challenge for me for a few reasons. One, I’m visually impaired so doing line work like this was challenging. Two, I am highly allergic to so many materials and ingrediants that finding a make up brand that I could wear was a trial and error process that ended up with many break outs and rashes before I found the perfect combination.

I used mostly eye liner pencils and liquid eye liner to achieve the look. The Wet n Wild liquid eye liner lasts forever, and is actually difficult to remove, but that is not a bad thing as it stood up to the heat of a very crowded venue.

As for the cel shading itself, I relied on many refernce photos of various characters in the game. I started with the eyebrows first as that seemed to frame the face nicely and give me a nice mischvieous look. I then just outlined the bones of my face, adding some random lines here and there. It never looks the same way twice, but that’s ok. Playing with different angles, lines, shading etc is half the fun!

The only real challenge were my hands. The make up didn’t last that long on my hands so I had to touch it up throughout the con. I also eventually started to use band aids that I cel sahded to cover up a tattoo on my inner wrist.

Figuring what to do with my hair is an on going process that I still haven’t 100% mastered. I opted to not use a foam wig as I have over heating issues on a cool day let alone trying to wear one if it gets warmer. I have had adverse reactions to craft foam in the past, so I don’t want it touching my skin, and lastly, I think a wig AND a facial prosthetic would be too much for me. So I decided to just cel shade my hair.

This takes forever to do, and I’m still figuring out better techniques every time I wear it.

I have a really great brand of colored gel, called Mofajang which I apply with a baster brush that you would find in the kitchen gadgets aisle. I also use a clean mascara brush to add some finer lines here and there. Set with way more hair spray than I ever used in the 80’s and it becomes fairly waterproof.

I have learned that due to how hard the make up and hair color is to remove, I really need to wear this on the LAST day of a con. I made the mistake of wearing it on day one of Long Island Who one year, and spent hours scrubbing my skin and hair for the next day. Far better to just leave the con with a tad bit of left over cel shading. Which makes it very interesting when you stop at a roadside bathroom on the trip home.

With the entire costume done it was time to work on the actual cyberplanner appliance.

Next time I make a variation of Clever, I will make this FIRST. Making these pieces is the bane of my existence – I love wearing them, hate making them. It’s a long process.

I am allergic to latex, silocone, scuply, most clays, and so many other things that seem to be every cosplayers go-to. When I made my first cyber piece back in late 2013, I spent weeks trying to find a substance that would keep attached to my face all day without causing a rash. Like an alchemist in a fantasy novel, I submerged myself into creating the perfect concoction. It took 22 days to finish the final product.

I admit that I rushed a bit on the Borderlands one. As a result, it doesn’t quite fit as well as my others, and is a bit heavier than I expected. I only added two working lights, instead of the usual four, to hopefully balance the piece out. It lasted through two full days of a con, despite the heat of a crowded venue, but I did end up tweaking it a bit after. Even with the tweaks, it still doesn’t fit as well as I would like. It is too heavy and brings down the entire left side of my face, making it difficult to keep my eye open at times. I really need to sit down and force myself to make a new one.

There are a few more things that I would like to add to this costume eventually. Like a belt of grenades, and maybe another gun. But aside from that, I am incredibly pleased with how this costume turned out. It is by far, my favorite Clever variation that I have done.

I hope this post gives you the inspiration to go off and cel shade something, and possibly even play some Borderlands!

#doctorwho #misterclever #mrclever #nightmareinsilver #cosplay #borderlands cosplay #doctor who cosplay #comic-con #comic-conathome #comic-conathome2021 #comic-conathomemasquerêde #cyberplanner #borderlands

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rosy-cheekx · 3 years

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I Want To Be A Real Fake

@kaiserkorresponds said: Black and White + "I want to be a real fake" + formal clothing <3

Prompted fic that I haven’t been able to stop thinking about since I received it! Hope you like it, Kaiser!

Jon would not consider himself fashionable. He has a distinct sense of style, yes, but that style lately has been Tired-Academic-Works-in-a-Cold-Office,-Steals-Sweaters-When-Necessary-core. Not exactly suitable for the business casual dress code The Magnus Institute “requires” (no one seemed to pay attention to the Archive staff’s choices of attire), but certainly not suitable for the small rectangle of cardstock Elias Bouchard hands him, on a quiet spring morning in the Archive.

“What’s…what’s this?” Jon asked, staring at the neat, printed text as if it was Greek. (If it were Greek, at least, he could decipher parts of it. He was an English Lit student, after all, and he had really enjoyed etymology.) The card was a stiff black and white, with the black owl logo, the symbol of the Magnus Institute, printed in the top middle. Glancing down at it, he saw a date, and the words: “black-tie.” Shit.

“My apologies, I forgot how tired your position tends to leave you.” Elias’s voice was prim and polite, but Jon still winced inwardly. “As a head of a department, you are now strongly encouraged to attend the fundraiser I host in April each year. Our donors are fascinated by our departments, and especially the Archives. Gertrude’s disappearance has raised questions as to her successor, and I trust you can assuage the concerns of our donors at your accomplishments in the position.” Jon chose to believe that Elias’s keen eye didn’t sweep the mountains of paperwork that surrounded his desk as he surveyed the small, poorly lit office. “I’m certain you’ll be able to find appropriate attire for the occasion.”

He turned on a heel, halfway to the door before seemingly considering something. “Ah, and Jon, one more thing. Gertrude always requested she bring an assistant. Would you like to do the same? I am happy to accommodate one more for the catering count.”

Jon snapped his mouth shut, utterly dumbfounded by the responsibility just thrust upon him, and nodded mutely, before clearing his throat. “Ah-um, yes, I would appreciate that. Does it matter which one?”

“Someone who can make a pleasant impression, please.” Elias raised an eyebrow, nodded almost imperceptibly, like he had made a decision, and rapped his knuckles on the doorframe on the way out. “I trust your judgement.”

Jon counted to thirty, to be certain Elias wasn’t coming back, and slouched into his office chair, scanning the save-the-date again, without the immense pressure of Elias’s eyes on him.

“The Magnus Institute Fundraiser Gala,” it read below the embossed owl, within a thin black border. “23 April, 7-10 pm. Black tie. Catered.” Jon traced the owl with the pad of his finger, flipping the card over to see, in Elias’s thin cursive: Make a good impression, Jon.

God, this is going to suck.

“Sasha, come on.” Jon wasn’t one to beg, but desperate times and all that. He had cornered her in the breakroom, while Martin was on a research trip and Tim was getting takeaway from the chippie down the street. “It’s only three weeks away, and you’re the one I trust the most. Please.”

“Jon,” Sasha sighed, smoothing her skirt patiently. “I would if I could, I swear to you. But my sister’s wedding has been planned for months, I’ve already requested time off, and I can’t undo all that for a work party.”

“Fundraiser,” Jon corrected instinctively, even as he signed in resignation. “Fine. I just really didn’t want to go alone.”

Sasha scoffed, shaking her head to herself as she opened the fridge and pulled out her bagged lunch. “You have two other assistants you know. What about Tim? Or Martin?”

Jon wrinkled his nose at the thought of bringing nervous, rambling, doe-eyed Martin to the gala. “God no. Martin would be too much; I need someone who can handle themselves and hold a decent conversation. I need someone who can attend a black-tie gala and look more at-home than me.” A withering look from Sasha.

“So why not Tim, then? He can do all those things.”

“Do all what things?” Jon jumped and spun around to see Tim, carrying a grease-spotted bag in one hand and a paper soda cup in the other. He surveyed Tim in a moment: the button-up shirt, red and printed with tiny black balloons, sleeves rolled to the elbows. Sunglasses pushed to the top of his head, dark black hair artfully mussed. High cheekbones dotted with freckles, and what Jon swore could be the faintest bit of eyeliner.

“Tim, would you like to go to a fashionable, catered work party with me?”

“Boss,” Tim lowered himself to a knee and held out his soda solemnly. “I thought you’d never ask.”

“Tim, that’s backwards. The kneeler isn’t the one who accepts,” Sasha chuckles helpfully.

“You’re just jealous of our love, Sash!”

Good Lord.

Jon was really hoping the food would be good. He was in Tim’s flat, in the toilet, checking himself in the mirror one final time. His hair was carefully braided, courtesy of Tim’s deft hands and coiled into a thick bun at the base of his skull, gold and emerald hairpin snugly in place. His suit was nice: a respectable white shirt, dotted with tiny lime-colored flowers he had to strain his eyes to see, under a dark green suit jacket and matching trousers. The suit itself was cut in a rather androgynous style, pulling tight at Jon’s waist in a way he rather liked, and contrasted beautifully, he thought, with the smooth brown of his skin. He flicked an invisible piece of lint from his thigh and, satisfied, stepped into the hall to tell Tim he was ready to go.

“Tim, I’m all-woah,” the exhale was accidental. Tim’s suit was certainly not subtle. He was wearing a deep blue turtleneck, hair perfectly coiffed. Over the turtleneck, the suit jacket was white, a spray of water-color flowers in all shades of blue and purple shifting with every movement. The navy blue heeled suede boots on his feet accentuated his already-tall frame “Tim, you look good,” Jon breathed.

“Ouch. No need to sound all surprised. I know I clean up well; I dirty pretty damn good too.” Tim chuckled and adjusted his sleeves. “You don’t look so bad yourself, Mr. ‘I don’t want anything too crazy.’”

Jon grinned shyly, rocking on his heels of his own, less intimidating dress shoes. “I like it, I think. It feels nice.” The excitement over how good he felt in the clothes had, all too briefly, suppressed the impending doom he was feeling about the evening’s events. “Are you ready for tonight?” he asked for what must have been the fiftieth time, spinning the solid black ring he wore around his finger.

“Yes, Jon. Talk about the reorganization process as a structural renovation, converting files to audio formatting for future accessibility, don’t talk about artefact storage even a little, don’t get caught up with anyone too pretty, I get it.” His voice was flat, bored by the repetition. “This is going to be fine.”

“What-what if it isn’t, though, Tim? What if they ask about Gertrude or how their money is being used, o-or how the restructuring is going? I can’t bloody well tell them I’m using a tape recorder that’s probably older than I am.”

“Jon,” Tim’s well-manicured hand was on his shoulder, nails the same blue of his turtleneck. “Take a deep breath. For Gertrude: be honest. It was a tragedy, and you hope she’s found, but until then you’re doing your best to act on her wishes as her replacement. And for the rest, be vague. Restructuring is going ‘as well as can be expected’ or ‘is running quite smoothly with the help of your three wonderful assistants.’” He winked. “And tell them you’re using a multimedia system, that’ll confuse those old boomers enough to move topics. And it is technically true. Laptops and a tape recorder are multiple medias. Anything else we can riff, you know? I can talk with the best of them.” He eyed Jon meaningfully. “This will be fine. It’s one night. And we’ll get chips after. Promise.”

Jon nodded and closed his eyes, breathing steadying. He was grateful Tim had been available. Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad.

“So, how did you know what black tie meant?” Jon asked, eyeing Tim across the seat of the cab. They’re on their way now and Jon’s hands are steepled tightly, pressing his fingertips against each other until it hurts to do so. “I had to Google it last week when I went shopping, in case we had to wear literal black ties.” He needed to talk about anything, anything but this stupid fundraiser they drove steadily towards.

Tim grew silent for a moment, considering his words. “My brother was an extra in a movie once and started dating a stylist for one of the leads. He fibbed his way into getting us tickets for premieres, so I’ve made my way through a few high-fashion events.” He shrugged, fiddling with a thin silver bracelet along his wrist, were Jon knew the letter D was carved in delicate cursive. “I like it, too, you know? Dressing up for events. It makes me feel debonaire, like a spy.”

Jon shook his head in disagreement. “Makes me feel fake,” he mumbled, eyeing the lorry floor beneath them. “Like everyone knows I don’t belong. I hate having their eyes on me and knowing they’re better than me.”

Tim prodded Jon with his elbow gently, raising his eyebrows in a comforting manner. “That’s it though, isn’t it? We aren’t fake. We worked our way here. Hell, you’re the boss of an entire department, Jon. We’ve gotten to where we are in the Institute because we deserve to be here. And anyways, everyone at that party next week is gonna be fake. They’re pretending to care about our jobs, and we pretend to care about their money, and they pretend they’re even the ones who write the checks and not some snooty financial advisor in Wales.”

Jon shrugged, trying to keep himself from biting back that he wasn’t enough, didn’t earn this spot, that Sasha deserved it more than he did and was doing nothing to prove to Elias he was up to the monumental task of being the Head Archivist. He didn’t, though, and instead took a steadying breath, nodding to Tim’s comforting words.

“And anyways,” Tim continued, shrugging. “Even if we have to be fake for a night, it’ll be fun. We get to be a part of ‘the queen’s high society,’” he added in a high-pitched, overly fake RP accent, eliciting a chuckle from Jon. “And Rosie said the catering Elias orders is divine. Apparently we should keep an eye out for tiny samosas?”

As if on cue, the cab shuddered to a stop. Jon thanked the driver, paid, and followed Tim out.

The Institute looked different under the pretense of wealth and success. It was still the same building of course, but the floor was clear of the rain mats and the smooth marble floor paved the way to the library, the main sitting room of which had been cleared as a rather respectable grand hall to host a party. Tables lined the cordoned off books, hot plates and silver trays steaming slightly. Bottles of wine lined a bar, behind which a vested individual with slicked-back hair was pouring small glasses and taking orders. A quiet orchestra completed the scene, cello and piano in a delicate duet. Before tonight, Jon couldn’t have imagined this many people in the Institute alone, least of all the library. Not that it’s packed. There’s maybe thirty or so well-dressed individuals milling about, the din of conversation white noise in comparison to the floating of the music.

Tim’s hand is on his back, pressing kindly into his spine. Oh yes, he remembers dimly, and nods, allowing Tim to guide him into the library and hand him a glass of wine. They stand out a little, two beacons of color around what is a pretty drab spectrum of black and grey, save for a few spectacular dresses in the crowd. Jon finds he doesn’t mind it, except that it may lead to unwanted conversation. It’s not his looks he fears being judged on, but that he be found wanting when it came to his capabilities. He was always selectively self-conscious like that, some things utterly meaningless, others inexplicably important.

Jon isn’t a huge fan of wine, but he finds himself clinging to the glass as a lifeline as he and Tim meander through the crowds, largely ignored. The music is intoxicatingly simple; he finds himself caught up in the deep reverberations of the cello as they walk, feeling it deep in his chest. There were, in fact, samosas, as well as small cannoli, and he and Tim piled plates as high as they could without garnering stares.

There weren’t many people Jon recognized; he didn’t even see Elias as he scanned the crowd for faces. Wine in one hand, a plate in the other, he thought maybe the night wouldn’t be too bad.

Jon shivered, the sensation of being stared at prickling the back of his neck. He spun around, trying to appear casual, and spotted Elias at last. He was standing with a large man, broad and wearing a deep blue suit, scruffy beard a mix of tawny and white. Elias crooked his finger, smiling primly. As Jon made his way over to the pair-who he could’ve sworn he hadn’t seen previously, he was intercepted by a short bald man in a plum velour suit, leaning heavily on a cane.

“Ah, Archivist,” he smiled warmly, extending a hand to shake before seeing Jon’s hands were full, and nodding his head instead. “Congratulations on your promotion. Elias has told me he expects great things from you.”

Jon smiled politely, glancing over to see Elias and the other man gone again. Regretfully, he turned his attention back to the man. “It’s a shame about Gertrude, yes, but I’m hoping I can do her proud,” he said in a practiced tone. He glanced over his shoulder. Where was Tim? He was just with him.

“Of course, of course. I was hoping I could have a word?”

“W-with me?”

“Yes, you see, I was rather concerned when I heard Gertrude’s position had been left open. When Elias said you yourself where at the junction to take over, I wanted to meet you for myself. I worry about the Archivists in your institute, so many of you do such monumental work for so little recognition. Do you worry your work to be meaningless? Your name insignificant when it is all said and done?”

(It is this conversation he remembers, months later, when he demands to record Prentiss’ attack. He refuses to be another mystery, a name on a placard to be wondered about.)

“I-ah, yes? No?” What was the right answer here? Jon stammered out a half-assed reply about doing his best, midway through when he felt a hand firmly on his shoulder, where his neck and collarbone met. Glancing to his peripheral, he saw a golden ring, an eye, and was frustratingly grateful to hear the cool tones of Elias Bouchard over his shoulder.

“Now Simon,” he said, voice even, “you aren’t trying to scare my dear Archivist, are you?” He gave the shoulder a squeeze but remained put. “Jon, I believe you’ve heard of Simon Fairchild, a significant donor to our establishment.”

Jon nodded wordlessly, not really listening to the two bureaucrats delve off into some topic or other, craning his neck to look for Tim. The music had picked up, he registered dimly, a orchestral melody led by a violin, sharp and whimsical.

“Jon?” Another squeeze to his neck, and Jon tried not to wince. “Wouldn’t you agree,” Elias asked, voice patient at surface level. “That the best way to move forward is to restructure the Archive?”

Jon nodded, trying to recall the answer he had rehearsed. “Yes, ah—my team and I have worked quite hard at recording the statements a-and organizing them in a way that will last long-term.”

“Ah, what a delight,” Simon—Mr. Fairchild—said warmly. Jon was reminded of the voices adults would use when they spoke to him as a child, when his inane facts about space or etymology had moved from endearing to obnoxious.

The conversation lasted for what felt like days, Jon feeling rather like Mr. Fairchild’s cane: a statement piece, contributing nothing to the conversation but unable to find a smooth exit. Leading questions from Elias led to thankfully rehearsed answers before Simon found his own exit and walked away smoothly, eyes wide and taking the room in.

“I-I really should find Tim,” Jon muttered, glancing around the room anxiously.

“Nonsense. He’ll be back,” Elias said, releasing Jon’s shoulder and taking his elbow in turn, “I would like to introduce you to a few dear friends of mine. I believe Tim is keeping one occupied at present.” Jon sighed inwardly (and maybe outwardly as well) and allowed himself to be led around the room. His wine glass was empty, as was his plate and he found it snatched away by a member of catering. He had nothing to cling to, to keep his hands busy, and was struggling not to pull out his delicately-placed hair pin just so he could fiddle with something.

Jon was taken on a tour of old rich people of England. Names flew past him, conversation buzzed around him, and still Jon felt like nothing more than a well-dressed trophy to be ogled at. Did Gertrude do this every year, he wondered dimly. No wonder she disappeared. He fiddled with the ring on his finger, nodding and smiling at the appropriate times, speaking when needed, and feeling the swirl of the orchestra build up in pressure behind his eyes. The music was beautiful but hard to listen to. Something about it was ugly, hiding a dark secret behind the innocent melodies.

Eventually, the evening was so much of a blur that he couldn’t even begin to fathom how much time had passed. It may have been weeks, may have been merely twenty minutes. Jon glanced down for his watch before realizing he had taken it off at Tim’s flat and never strapped it back on. Pity. It only added to the dreamscape reality he seemed to be participating in.

At last, Elias led him towards the large burly man that was suddenly in view (hadn’t he always been? Jon wasn’t quite sure. The wine must have affected him more than he thought with the nerves) and Jon saw Tim, similarly trapped in conversation as he had been. He smiled apologetically as Jon and Elias approached and the larger man smiled warmly at the newcomers.

“Ah, Archivist. I hope you don’t mind I stole your companion away briefly. I was curious about the nitty-gritty of your Archive. Timothy here was very informative.” Tim winced at the use of his full name and a part of Jon smirked, relating to the sentiment of being called Jonathan or worse, John.

“I’m glad he can answer your questions.” Elias spoke before Jon could open his mouth. “I’m quite proud of the Archive staff. Jon chose well and I am sure the four of them are going to do great things together. Jon, you remember the Lukas family?”

Jon nodded, confused for a second before the man in front of him extended his hand. “Peter Lukas, at your service.” The hand was cold, and a feeling of dismay washed over Jon as he shook it. He couldn’t help the feeling that the shake of that hand was a seal of his fate.

The orchestral music had picked up, a swirl of strings and piano, ascending in pitch until it grated at Jon’s ears. No one else seemed to react to it, however, as the manic notes pulling at something inside Jon’s brain, something he couldn’t explain. It was almost like a migraine, but sharper and deep in his spine and in his ears. Elias let go of Jon’s arm at some point during the conversation with Peter Lukas, a discussion about boats, maybe? Travel? This was the conversation Elias was so keen on Jon being a part of?

As Jon felt that grip relax, the glint of the ring on Elias’ finger seeming to wink at him, Jon took a staggered step backwards. “Mr. Lukas, ah-Peter, it’s been a pleasure. Elias, ex-excuse me.”

Jon turned and dashed out of the library, feet carrying him on instinct through the winding halls and down the stairs of the institute, deep into the Archives. He stopped when he felt his feet echo against the cold, solid lino of the archival storage and bent over, hand on the wall, gasping in shallow, rapid bursts. It was too much, it was too much, he thought he could do this but it was too much and he wasn’t enough for them-

“Woah-boss.” Tim was there. When did Tim get here? Was he speaking out loud? Shit. “Jon, yeah-hey, Jon. I’m here. You’re okay. Take some deep breaths, okay? You’re going to black out if you’re not careful.”

Jon felt his suit jacket being shrugged off of him and the newly allowed freedom of his shoulder helped. He took a deep, sputtering breath, the sweet oxygen flooding his system and sharpening his thoughts.

“The-the music and the talking,” he said under his breath, Tim craning to listen without infringing on his personal space. “Too-too much.”

“The music? Jon, hey, hey, just focus on calming down, okay? That was a dick move of Elias to separate us immediately. I was talking to that Lukas guy for way too long. Not even sure what we talked about. I think he’s just one of those guys.” Jon smirked to himself as he focused on the floor beneath his feet, breathing slowly until his heart rate had resumed a normal rhythm.

“Says you,” he mumbled, eyes closing as he pressed his warm cheek to the cold wall.

“You bastard!” Jon felt a light swat on his shoulder. “I listen to people! I have meaningful conversation; just ask Martin and Sasha and Alexa from Library and Calvin from Artefact Storage. I am practically a professional listener.”

Jon smirked, satisfied with his jab and turned around, now pressing his back to the wall. “God, Tim, I do not want to go back in there.” It was hard to admit out loud, even if the evidence was written all over his face.

“Okay. So, we won’t.”

“What?” the answer was so mind-bogglingly simple, Jon reeled.

“We don’t want to be here. We’ve talked, we’ve eaten. Let’s just leave. I can tell Elias I had an emergency and you had to escort me home, like a true gentleman.”

“Lie to Elias? I feel like that cant end well.” The offer was tempting, Jon hadf to admit.

“I mean, Sasha has keys to my flat. I could ask her to start a fire, if you think that’s sufficient?”

Jon barked out a laugh at that. “Ah, no, lets save a fire for something big. Yes. Let’s-let’s go, Tim. And-er, I suppose I should thank you. For coming tonight. I know its not an ideal way to spend an evening.”

“Are you kidding?” Tim did a twirl, Jon’s own jacket slung over his shoulder. “I look hot. You think I’d pass up an opportunity to dress up like this? You’re dreaming.” He smirked and took Jon’s arm, leading him back up the stairwell. It felt different than Elias’s touch. That had been a cold tug, directional and leashed. This felt…snug, more like a link in a chain than anything else. Comforting, reassuring.

(Luckily, they weren’t laughed out of the Nando’s they popped into late at night. Lemon and herb and spices covered their hands, but they were careful to keep their jackets clean. Jon, when looking back on the evening; remembers this moment, talking and laughing and letting the fresh night air was over them. Elias, Lukas, and Fairchild be damned. He’d deal with that tomorrow.)

#the magnus archives #tma #tma fanfic #fanfic to a tea #jonathan sims #tim stoker #prompt fic #black-tie #elias bouchard #still a dick #peter lukas #simon fairchild #sasha james #me? write everyone BUT martin>#amazing

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