Wonderful historic resource now available on-line!

I have referenced this wonderful booklet numerous times in the past, written by Malinda Florian Papp from Florian Papp Antiques in New York City. This brochure was prepared for an art exhibit of historic paper filigree pieces that they arranged in the 80's I believe. The brochure contains beautiful, full-colored photos of antique paper filigree pieces and historical information on the art of paper filigree.

Because of the continued demand for this booklet, which is out of print, Mindy decided to offer it as an electronic document. I received the file in my in-box yesterday and immediately contacted them for permission to upload it to Scribd.com, a file sharing site. Florian-Papp graciously extended permission...and the result is that everybody has instant access to this wonderful resource.


Enjoy!

Rolled Scrolled Crimped & Folded

New Books!

My creative endeavors have been placed on the back burner for several months now.

But, like the green shoots poking up in my flower beds, my creative side is beginning to stir and awaken.

Part of that is due to the sunshine of inspiration, in the form of two new books on card making. Oh my! (I can't bring myself to type the cliche that comes to mind, so I made a graphic instead...can you figure it out?)

So which books have my creative muse a-tremble?


10-Minute Cards to Give and Share

photos from Amazon.com

Cardmakers Sketch Book: Outlines for Fast & Fun Card Designs

Both books are edited by Tanya Fox and has she ever put together a great selection of card designs!
A number of the 10-minute cards would require longer if you have to make some of the elements at the same time. Many use pre-created pieces. Still great, great layout designs and ideas.

I especially love the sketchbook ideas as she takes a card 'sketch' -- which is basically a line-drawn layout pattern as shown on the cover. But she shows 4 or 5 different cards. It is amazing how different colors, embellishments and fonts can take the very same layout and make it sooo different. Each card takes on a totally different personality.

Sometimes more time is invested in finding a pleasing layout than in creating the actual paper filigree elements used in a paper filigree card. I fiddle and fuss, trying to find a layout that suits my mood or the purpose of the card.

But no more!

Thanks, Tanya Fox, for some great resources.

And BTW, those in the quilling world will probably recognize the name of Ann Martin. I did a feature on Ann and her beautiful paper filigree art that was part of a special exhibition at the Brandywine Museum last year (check the archives for the feature.) Ann is a contributor in Tanya's upcoming book titled "Quill It Easy." It is from Annie's Attic (you can even download it instantly). Isn't that exciting? (other major book dealers have still have it listed for pre-order).
(photo from Annie's Attic)

I'm thinking I'd better get Ann's autograph soon! She's making a small dent in the art world with her paper filigree skill. And she creates the most beautiful jewelry --you'd never guess it was fashioned from paper! What a gifted artist and a dear friend. Isn't it lovely to see people you have known for years published in books and magazines? I find it incredibly thrilling and satisfying and am so glad to see her gain some much-deserved recognition and kudos. Hats off to you, Ann!

Oh yeah, the answer to my graphic riddle: "So many cards, so little time." See, it was more interesting in graphic form, wasn't it?