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Search the archive, three years of Inklings.
Ask the Artist
Our Artist in Residence, Dina Kowal, answers your questions
May 22, 2024
Q: Carla asks: "I brought home a large quantity of used file folders in white, black and red that were going to be thrown out. What would you use them for besides a folder for paper?"
A: What a great find! We actually have several site tutorials using file folders:
Altered File Folder
Accordion File Folder
File Folder Notebook
They can also be die cut into tags or other shapes for card fronts, and they make great surfaces for gel printing.
Altered File Folder
Accordion File Folder
File Folder Notebook
They can also be die cut into tags or other shapes for card fronts, and they make great surfaces for gel printing.
May 15, 2024
Q: Lani writes: "I see the term acid-free. I really don't know what that means."
A: Lignin is a natural part of plant cells in paper that becomes acidic as it deteriorates. If this is not removed in the paper-making process, the acid will cause the paper to break down more quickly. It may also react with photos or adhesives to break them down or cause them to yellow. People who are working with or making anything archival will want to use acid-free papers to preserve their work. Some acid-free archival papers can last over 1000 years!
May 8, 2024
Q: Julie wants to know: "When I make Paper Beads, why does my paper darken when I seal it with the glaze?"
A: Darkening is more likely to happen when the papers are dyed rather than printed (like solid core cardstock or construction papers). Those papers are made more absorbent in order to soak up and hold the dye. They will absorb the sealant too, which causes them to darken. Printed papers are usually coated, so they hold the ink on the surface and the coating prevents the glaze from permeating the paper.
May 1, 2024
Q: Jennifer asks: "Can you use watercolor pencils on a damp watercolor panel?"
A: You can. The result will be very bold strokes that will be difficult to blend out. If your intention is to blend the color out evenly, wait until the paper is completely dry to apply the pencil.
April 24, 2024
Q: Rowena asks: "Do you stamp sentiments inside your cards?"
A: I usually leave them blank inside when I make them. Sometimes I'll even leave a sentiment off the front. That way when I need a card, I can customize it to the recipient and the occasion. If I have a sentiment that's appropriate for the inside I'll add it when it's ready to send.
