Tuesday, August 30, 2016

How Journaling My Anxiety Put ME in Control

As I am on vacation, this is a repost of an older post that resonated with a lot of people. I hope it still does.

How Journaling My Anxiety Put ME in Control


I have talked before about my sporadic bouts of anxiety and depression.  Many of you experience that too, and have left me the kindest words.  

Since the start of 2016, I have felt overwhelmed by the many obligations I have - and the ones I put on myself.  

The other night, I had lists of my many "to dos" swirling in my head. I had the image of myself slumping down the wall in a long hallway with doors.  Behind each door was an area of my life calling to me.  My inability to prioritize, to eliminate, to say no, threatened to engulf me under the weight of letting people down, not fulfilling expectations.  I quickly sketched it out, writing down, on each of the doors, a list of the things that were "calling" for me.   After I did this, I was able to fall asleep.

When I woke up, I immediately took to painting my page.  The first thing I did was CLOSE THOSE DOORS!  I even stenciled hands on them to hold them shut, and one to stroke my head.  When I was nearly done, I gave the hallway stenciled windows to the outside, to light, sky and fresh air.  I can prioritize, say no, pause and take some deep breaths.  I am in control!


Here's a fast forward video of me painting this page, from start to finish.

 

You can also watch "Journaling My Anxiety" on YouTube here.

Creating this page helped me regain control of my feelings and thoughts.

Do you have a journaling or other practice that helps you with your inner demons?  Please share!


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Your comments make me so happy and let me know you were here. I read and treasure every comment and will happily answer any questions as soon as I can.

Thank You!

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

How to Use Inspirational Quotes in a DIY Envelope Book


This week we're taking a look back at one of my favorite DIY projects - Envelope Books.  I originally posted this back in January 2015 and it was a fan favorite.  I hope you enjoy it today as much as it was enjoyed then!


Do you remember the envelope book I made for my parents for Christmas?  It was featured on StencilGirl Talk.  Here's another one, using a different color palette and featuring some different stencils.  I started out using the Hearts, Flowers and More stencil with gesso on the inside of the book, and some of Pam Carriker's paints on the outside.

Watch this video to see how I used the gesso as a resist, and also how I assembled the book.  You can also watch "Creating Resists with Gesso and Paint" on Youtube.


Here are peeks at the inside pages and links to some of the other stencils and stamps I used.  This is a great way to use up old envelopes and reduce your stash!

Each of the envelopes has it's own tag, that peeks out of the pocket.  


This is the terrific pattern from Maria McGuire's Doodle-It Inchie Stencil, with one of Tim Holtz's chit chat words.  These are great stickers to have on hand, as there's a word for every sentiment and occasion!

Here's more of the "Doodle it Inchie" pattern.  Plus, I used Mary Nasser's Compass Stencil, and Pam Carriker's Borders stencil on these page.   



I love this Mary Oliver quote on a Technique Junkies' stamp.  I always stamp on tissue paper first, and then adhere to my tag or background.  I get a much better impression that way...



This awesome hand stencil is by Lizzie Mayne:


and I love this stamp from Tim Holtz.



The cover of the book features one of the hands from the Namaste stencil.

I hope this post tickled your creativity bone.


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If you haven't already - please connect with me here:
Your comments make me so happy and let me know you were here. I read and treasure every comment and will happily answer any questions as soon as I can.

Thank You!

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

How to Make a Memory Keeper Using Books



I love these memory keepers! This week we're taking a look back on a unique way to showcase memorable moments with your own personal flare and up-cycle old books at the same time.

You can watch the video tutorial here.




What are some of your favorite moments you could showcase in an Altered Book Memory Keeper?

Leave your comments below.  I'd love to hear your ideas!

PS - don't forget, the Facing Faces Online Class is increasing to $44.99 on September 1. 



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If you haven't already - please connect with me here:
Your comments make me so happy and let me know you were here. I read and treasure every comment and will happily answer any questions as soon as I can.

Thank You!

Tuesday, August 9, 2016

Facing Faces Online Class Sale!


Faces demystified!  Faces in different styles! Class includes seven videos, a PDF download with links to lots of resources, a Facebook group to get feedback.  WOW!  Tons of value for only $34.99!



Check out this video and then sign up today!  It's yours forever once you purchase. 
Price goes up to $44.99 on September 1!

Hope to see you in class!



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If you haven't already - please connect with me here:
Your comments make me so happy and let me know you were here. I read and treasure every comment and will happily answer any questions as soon as I can.

If you are entering a GIVEAWAY, please add your email address in the event I need to contact you.

To avoid SPAM, please write it like this: jessicasporndesigns (at) gmail (dot) com

Thank You!

Tuesday, August 2, 2016

Welcome to the 10th Stencil Test Drive Redux!  (See all the test drives here.)






GIVEAWAY ALERT!  Each month, I give away one of the featured stencils to one randomly chosen person.  All you need to do is post a comment below. Comments for the giveaway will close on Monday at 9PM EST, and the winner will be posted in this post by next Tuesday, so make sure to check back!  This Giveaway is now closed.
This week - a look back at the Doors and Windows Stencil Test Drive. Here's a peek at my project and the Doors and Window Stencil itself.

And here are the amazing projects from the artists on that original test drive. Click the names below the images to go to the original blog posts.  The tutorials are fantastic.







I hope you'll check out all of these posts and the great tutorials they have!  Thank you again to all the artists who participated!

AND ... GIVEAWAY ALERT: For a chance to win the Doors and Windows Stencil, make sure to leave a comment below and include your email address. Comments close Monday night at 9PM EST.   Come back to THIS POST next Tuesday to see the winner.

And the winner is....



         Visit Stencil Girl Products and RubberMoon Stamps to see all my designs!


If you haven't already - please connect with me here:
Your comments make me so happy and let me know you were here. I read and treasure every comment and will happily answer any questions as soon as I can.

If you are entering a GIVEAWAY, please add your email address in the event I need to contact you.

To avoid SPAM, please write it like this: jessicasporndesigns (at) gmail (dot) com

Thank You!