Dark Journal

I've got that centipede bug again.   I have been experimenting with different cover treatments and discovered a technique that works really well to create a very durable and interesting surface.   It's a process of layering papers, mediums and pigments onto heavy book boards.   The results: an intriguing leather-like finish.  

The materials used on these covers are vintage clothing patterns, satin varnish and a variety of brown pigments.  

I can hardly wait to try out some other types of paper with this method.  Oh the possibilities!

Initially the book covers were unembellished, but somehow the black waxed linen jumped into my hands and before I knew it, a centipede was marching across the covers.
You can find this journal and other similar ones for sale at my Etsy Shop.

A Valentine

I know that if I ever to looking for my heart's desire, I'll never go any further than my own back yard.  For if it isn't there, I never really lost it.  -Wizard of Oz

Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart.  Who looks outside, dreams.  Who looks inside, awakens.  -Carl Jung

Keep love in your heart.  A life without it is like a sunless garden when flowers are dead.  The consciousness of loving and being loved brings a warmth and richness to life 

that nothing else can bring. -Oscar Wilde

Heart Upon Sleeve

February's theme is 'hearts' of course.  I chose this line from Othello as my prompt....  "But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve for daws to peck at: I am not what I am."
The bird Shakespeare referred to is a Jackdaw, an annoying species of black bird.   Here it looms larger than life, ready and no doubt eager to take a peck at the heart in question.
Love is in the air.....