"Inspiration Can Come From the Most Interesting Places!

As many of you know I love to combine jewelry,mixed media and art together to create something unique and fun! This was a small journal project that I did in one of my mixed media videos and had a blast,especially considering it was created from cardboard toilet paper rolls!! Trust me.. you will start saving them all for sweet little projects like this!

~Supplies~

2 cardboard toilet paper rolls

Collage papers

Gel Medium or similar

Ephemera

Stamps/Ink

Patterned scissors

Hole punch

22 gauge copper wire- 6-8 "

Assorted beads

Start by folding the rolls in half lengthwise and crease them well to hold shape. Apply gel medium to the inside and flatten out to create a bond from front to back. Let dry under the pressure of a book to keep a constant contact to create a good seal.

When completely dry punch 3 holes down the left side  to form the binded side. 

Chose whatever types of pages you will want inside.. I added some fun journal tickets,papers,time sheets ect.. just use your imagination!! Make sure you line up the pages you would like to add with the punched holes in the "journal book" and set aside.

Gather the papers and items for the front and back covers.Here I used some fun collage sheets that I had some decorative edges cut with the patterned scissors (for the final piece on the side edge). Apply these sheets how ever you would like with the gel medium and let dry. You can also had splashes of paints and stamps to add interest and textures.

Now it is time to assemble~ Line up all the sheets for the inside of your journal with the front and back covers. Take your wire and thread some beads on. Secure on the bottom of the cover with a couple twists of the wire,a bead and  then conceal the end. 

Start twisting the wire up and through the holes incorporating the beads as you move up, adding fun swirls and twists with the wire and making sure to leave it a bit loose so you can turn the pages as needed,and that is all there is to it.. Isn't that a fun amazing recycled  art project! I love to create something from nothing:)

Have a beautiful and creative day everyone! 

**Don't forget the amazing Art Retreat "ArtBeach 2013" we are hosting in a beautiful beach house on Folly beach SC. Join us Oct 9-11th for 3 days and nights of beach bliss,new creative ideas and techniques by awesome instructors, activities and wonderful surprises! All  the info is on the blog and also Early Bird Registration is available until Feb 23 also with deposit options available to hold your space! Spaces  are limited! You can register at www.indigoearth.artfire.com Come and enjoy a beautiful inspiring 3 days at Art Beach 2013!!

~In love and faith~

Sherri