"Roots" Mixed Media Canvas

Hello sweet friends! I hope this week is finding you well--so far, so good for me! I want to share the project I designed to apply for the Faber-Castell Design Memory Craft Guest Design Team Call. They wanted to see a project with step-by-step instructions so I used that as my inspiration and truly went out on a limb--it's a good thing I have strong roots! ;)  I hope you're in the mood for lots of pics today~and here goes!

I began by gathering the supplies I knew I wanted to work with and an 8x8 canvas, then laid down some old book paper and a couple patterned papers. I always let it dry completely in between each layer/step.

I covered the canvas with a layer of Faber-Castell Design Memory Craft® Gel Medium to adhere the papers down--I crumpled and tore them for added interest and texture and added another layer of Gel Medium over the top of the papers as well.

Next, I gave the entire canvas a coat of Faber-Castell Design Memory Craft® Gesso Sampler, then used a plastic card to scrap some off, letting the papers to show through.

Now I'm adding my brand new circles stencil from StencilGirl with shimmer silver paint for more texture.

Next, I colored with Gelatos® and spritzed with water to blend and move the color around. A plastic card assists here to scrap color from one area to another for a really cool effect!

Now my canvas needed some sparkly texture, so I used another fabulous StencilGirl stencil and Faber-Castell Glass Bead Glitter Gel. I just love the effect of this stuff--mmm...so dreamy!

Next I am thrilled to announce that after 6 years, I have found a use for this once 12x12 piece of clear acetate. I've always loved the quote from Maya Angelou and the whole idea of making a scrapbook page from it. I never thought I'd end up cutting it into pieces, but that's what happened--don't you just love that feeling of letting go and feeling a sense of artistic freedom?!?  I do!! :) So, I arranged the acetate phrase the way I liked it and adhered it with Faber-Castell Design Memory Craft® Glaze, then secured the top with a layer of Glaze as well.

Finally, I added a bronzed metal circle charm with 4 butterflies signifying four family members and "b" representing the first initial of the family's last name. I added some white paint and after it dried, some black Gelatos® to frame it and give the piece a more finished look.

Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me share this mixed media canvas with you! Wishing you a most creative and blessed day!!