Like most crafters, I have more ideas than time. And I'm coming up with more every day! I love trying new techniques and using new materials. But sometimes it's better to use a technique that you know works well. It's fun to experiment, but it's more productive to go with what works.
I learned this lesson recently when I tried to paint some chevron earrings and magnets. Don't get me wrong, they turned out pretty cute and I love the colors, but they were a lot of work and they were a mess.
All the while I had prepainted wood ready and waiting. I purchased a sample set of several colors of lacquered wood. I've done a few custom pieces with it, but haven't done much for my shop. The other day I got a request for some pieces with the black wood, so I cut out a few extra shapes and I love how they turned out.
I made these into Chevron Cuff Links and I love how the lighter wood (maple vs. alder) really stands out compared to the black. And it was a piece of cake compared to trying to paint each and every zig and zag! I have about 10 other colors, so I'm hoping to get more colors added to my shop and other designs as well.
Have you learned any lessons lately?
I like the contrast of the black and wood, lovely design.
ReplyDeleteWow, the cuff links turned out great! These would make nice groomsmen gifts too!
ReplyDeleteThe cuff links look great, that black really stands out!! Awesome job! I can just imagine how much time and effort went into the ones you painted... Experimenting is fun and I love trying new techniques too. But you're right, I have found in my work too, it's much more productive to go with what you know works.
ReplyDeleteThese look great Edi! It is a relief when you find an easier way to do something. I have things I stopped making for my shop because of the time involved so I know exactly what you mean!
ReplyDeleteI like the dark chevron. Something I learned, if that's the word, is to take a design you already have completed and enlarge that onto another medium. I will try to use one of my index cards on a matt board... we'll see. {:-D
ReplyDeleteI'm not sold on chevron yet but I can see how that technique of using painted wood could have the ideas flowing for you!
ReplyDeleteThe cuff links look great! I'm learning lessons all the time with my businesses. I tend to learn things the hard way. ;)
ReplyDeleteLove the cuff links. And you are one smart cookie (as my grandma would have said) for using the lacquered wood.
ReplyDeleteThis is sage advice that I just can't seem to take! For whatever reason, I always seem to choose the hard/slow way. I love it, but it doesn't make much sense from a business standpoint. I'm trying to find a balance between doing everything by hand and being more productive. It's hard! Anyway, these look great! :)
ReplyDeleteLots of the time we learn as we go, and that's just how it is. If we weren't learning the hard way, it probably wouldn't be as much fun! The cufflinks turned out great, and the lighter wood does look very nice with the black. =0)
ReplyDelete~Kim
Yesterday I reminded myself that I need to use my nylon pliers instead of metal ones when working on wrapped designs with coated wire. Eek! I always learn things the hands on way.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the lighter wood contrasts really well with the dark paint!
How awesome to use the colored wood for these pieces! It looks great.
ReplyDeleteI do love the blackened wood and they are beautiful! I have recently become fond of painting on glassware. I like the idea of having a craft technique that I can use for personal use only and that has nothing to do with my business. Sometimes it's just fun to make things for my house and for my kids.
ReplyDeleteI sure do know what you mean about trying to "re-invent the wheel" I love creating too, but most of the time I am just too broad with all my projects! I've been thinking thru a slim down process and sticking with what works!
ReplyDeleteUgh, I could not imagine trying to paint all of those teensy chevrons. I'm glad you found a faster way to get the same look! My biggest lesson was learning which kind of jewelry cement worked the best. I like a brand that stays flexible for a while so I can wiggle the stones into place if I need to.
ReplyDeleteOh I like that black chevron!
ReplyDeleteWhat if you used permanent ink pads for adding your color?
It seems I learn lessons all the time.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great discovery you made! quite a time saver.
Recently, I had a large number of chamois to dye red only. I thought I'd try the washing machine batch method. Well, after dyeing them this way (time consuming, not so labor intensive) twice, they were still too light. And, I had used quite a lot of (expensive) dye. So I had to hand dye each one anyway. Next time I got those chamois, I just hand dyed them.
lesson learned.