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A STEP AT A TIME
This is a a
sketch of a design
I felt would be great as a pillow for the Holidays. I began by thinking
about Thanksgiving and what were some elements that can go into the
Cornucopia. I gathered a few things from around the house, placed them
together, and added some as I sketched the design on tracing paper. I
always keep a large pad handy and tape 2 pieces together if I need to
for larger designs. Then, I trace the design using a Fine Sharpie
Marker
(which does not bleed through) onto the Zweigart mono deluxe orange
line
mesh. Placement of the design is equaly as important as color
but for now lets focus on drawing the design. For anyone who has ever
wanted a hand painted needlepoint design you will need some items which
are necessary to help you achieve your goal.
Supplies are also very important because if you do not have the
proper
supplies you might be dissapointed in the final project. So, don't
skimp on supplies, buy the best you can afford, and you will be pleased
to display it for years to come.
 Step
#1-Good lighting and an area to work in is very
important to achive quality results. Begin by tracing your design or
sketch onto your tracing paper. Place the mesh on top of the sketch and
using your Fine Sharpie Marker trace it onto the mesh. Your light
source will help you to see your design through the mesh. If you have
difficulty seeing your sketch through the design set your tracing and
mesh on top of a dark surface (this might help) but you should really
be able to view through the mesh if your surface is white such as in a
drafting table. Your trace should be as detailed as you like but
remember your original sketch is what you will use to view all the
details of the design. I do not sketch in the shadows for every design
I work with because it is not necessary.
 Step#2-
For beginners a good sketch is the vital for your design and will guide
you through the painting process. It will allow you to paint the design
the way it should be painted, especially if you are not sure where the
highlights, midtones, and shadows are in the design. I never look at
the overall size of the design when painting but rather, I look at
small areas to begin the project. If, for example, i.e. I wanted to
paint the grapes first, that's where I begin. I look at each area as an
individual painting. When it is completed there is instant
gratification (not to mention I can put it away until another time as I
move along the process of completion). I also know I love to
paint and move quite rapidly painting for hours at a time.
 Step
#3- Remember the rules for painting? No, well here is a tip: always
begin by painting from dark to light. Blending is always a key factor
when painting. If you are having trouble blending or feel you can't do
it, just know that there is a wide variety of paints on the market. You
can select virtually any color you will need for you darks, midtones,
and highlights. This eliminates the guesswork and you will achieve fine
results. If you make a mistake, don't worry you can always paint over
it when it is dry. The idea is to have fun creating your own designs.
It is what keeps designers such as myself striving for something new
and exciting.
As you continue painting along you will finish the
design in no time. This design took me roughly 4 hours to complete from
start to finish. Once you finish your project, you can begin to add the
finishing touches with your favorite traditional stitches or give it
away as a gift for someone special. Whichever you choose to do, know
that you have created something wonderful and now can continue
designing to your hearts content. A word of caution, (always, and I
mean this always, respect the works of art created by others) do not
infringe on copyright laws protecting works of art. Try to come up with
something original (unless ofcourse it is for personal use in which
case, some artist will be happy to give you permission to use their
design).
I hope you are inspired to start painting and
as always make it fun. Include your children in the design process you
will be amazed at how much input they have...... Email me with your
comments.
Happy Painting and God Bless!
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