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~ CRAFTYNESS ~
December 1, 2004

You have attended a few painting classes and discovered you would like to try a few more decorative painting projects in the comfort of your own home. Classes are excellent for learning new techniques but there are times when you would like to try your hand at that great project you saw in this month's decorative painting magazine. Sure they give you a list of everything you need but you're ready to paint now! Maybe it is time to start your own painting kit. It does not have to be elaborate.

  1. Find a box, basket, or bin with a solid bottom, something to hold all your supplies. Nothing too large or fancy – remember we are just beginning, keep it simple.
  2. A jar or tin can (soup or veggie can) to hold your brushes. An extra can is also handy to have on hand.
  3. Plastic container, yogurt or dessert cup, small margarine tub, or a small glass jar to hold your water. Two containers would be better – one for rinsing your brush the other to hold clean water for wetting your brush.
  4. Copy and tracing paper – again a simple solution, wax paper or gift wrapping tissue (be sure to press gently). No graphite or carbon paper for tracing, try chalk or pencil lead. Once the picture has been copied onto your wax or tissue paper, gently rub the backside with chalk or pencil. Lay paper on the piece to be painted, picture facing up, and trace over the drawn lines.
  5. Paint palette, just as easy. A styrofoam plate or egg tray, lid from margarine tub, or a ceramic tile
  6. Paper towels

Now for the best part – Brushes:
Sponge or sponge brush – to apply basecoat Flat brush - #4 or #6 Liner
And Paints:
Start with the basics. All colours are created from three primary colours (red, yellow, blue) and two neutral colours (black and white).

Now you are ready to paint. Gradually add to your kit and if you find it is not your “thing”, you haven't spent too much money.

Need a quick project to get you started – how about painting a glass jar to hold your brushes or pencils. Paint a clean jar with the colour of your choice. Allow to dry. Trace a pattern from a magazine or something you designed, onto the jar. Have fun painting. When project is finished and dry use a sealant to protect your work (must be water based). I have used a jam jar and painted the fruit – great for practicing your strokes

HAVE FUN!