Thursday 10 July 2008

Attempting a Book Cover/Wrap

I thought, as I want a cover for my Altered Garden Book, a piece of fabric tree bark would be just the job! I followed Annette Emms tutorial for a Book Wrap on her blog that she has done recently, using strips of brown paper etc. rubbed with almond oil. When done, I added some texture paint to represent lichen, and when dry, washed it over with walnut ink. I wrapped my book in the piece and it looked brilliant - thanks Annette. The only thing is I think it is a bit big(!) and I like the raw edge look, so I'll make another piece, specially for the book.
I added some green and yellowish acrylic paint to some of the lichen - I think it looks a bit more interesting...
I've also been layering some dyed bits and other stuff under a piece of brown lace, topped off with some chiffon. I free stitched it all around the lace shapes, then blasted it with a heat gun, and finally washed it over with a watery acrylic gold paint. I am quite pleased with the result. It is nice a soft and will be easy to stitch, but I think I'll still make another piece of 'bark' for my Garden book cover.

10 comments:

sharon young said...

What a lovely way to finish off your garden book, it looks superb,and really appropriate. Aren't we lucky to have all these generous bloggers on hand to guide us.

Mandi said...

What a fabulous cover Val. It really looks like the 'real thing'.

Sandy said...

It is a wonderful cover and certainly compliments the book.

Doreen G said...

Wonderful Val and it definitely looks like real bark---well done.

annette emms said...

Val, this is great!I'm so pleased you tried it, just right for your lovely garden book.
I'm sorry the emulsion transfer didn't work,must be the type of paint. You really do need to use the good stuff, Dulux etc.
If you can, pop over to my blog, I've left an award for you. You are such an inspiration and you can pass in on if you like, to ther blogs that inspire you.
best wishes.

dot said...

Val, really like the addition of the green wash over parts of the lichen, it will compliment your book perfectly. Like the other blasted bi too.

Purple Missus said...

What a wonderful effect with the tree bark. Guess what I will be trying today? :))

Jeanette Nord said...

Dear Val!
I think bark is a perfect way to finish of your garden book. And what you did was pretty amazing!

You are a true artist Val!

Take care
Jeanette

Judy Rys said...

Beautiful texture, compliments the book perfectly.

Genie said...

Love the Textures.