The Last Prize

I saved Kelli Perkins until last because I have followed her work longest.  I discovered her book Stitch Alchemy long before I decided to take this new creative path.   I checked it out of the local library a bizillion times and just looked and looked and was amazed at her versatility.    Since receiving her prize, I stepped up and bought my own copy.

The first thing that interested me was the Day of the Dead cards in the book.  I really love the concept of the Day of the Dead celebration and have been collecting and planning my own wall hanging.  Someday!  You know how creepingly fast I work.  Anyway, this shows you her sense of fun and joy that permeates so much of her work.  So much lovely color.

While pursuing my watercolor skills, I have painted many exercises to learn new techniques.  The cheap side of me wonders what to do with these pieces–after all, watercolor paper isn’t cheap.  Kelli has shown me what a clever and resourceful artist can do—this note was written on the back of a previous work.   Loved it.

Kelli’s business cards illustrate her diversity.  Whether brilliantly colored or the subtlety of vintage looks (and yes, that is her face on the left), there is always wit.  Check out the back of the vintage card.

Now about my prize—-Beads!!!!!

I have made some beads, but not like these. They are paper beads, but they are as hard as stone. Still weigh nothing which would be great for my ears, but they are durable. Not to mention being just plain beautiful.  Even some embossing.  Never done that.

The use of text is right up my alley and just reading the bits on the larger beads is great fun.  I can think of stories these words might be important to.  I love the organic, not perfect circle look as well.

Naturally, my first thought was “How can I make some of these?” and would you believe it?

The  directions are in Stitch Alchemy!  I am so glad I bought the book.  The link will take you to an in depth description of the book.

You have to check out her blog.  (click on her name at the beginning of this post)  This woman can make a book out of spoons.  Really.  And you don’t want to miss her fabric postcards.  At the very least she will make you smile—all day.

My Australian friends come Wednesday morning, so I may be off the blog until after the holidays.  Maybe I’ll get some knitting done under Liz’s influence.  Have the Happiest of Holidays and may all of you and yours be safe and well.

More later–

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