Creative Alchemy
From Sketchbook To Artist Book
This course combines the beautiful elements of color, texture, mark-making, textiles, and imagery that can transform a simple sketchbook into a richly layered artist's book.
Through this course, you'll combine elements that reflect your unique creative style, turning ordinary pages into works of art that speak to your vision. Whether you want to explore new techniques or deepen your artistic practice, this course offers the tools and inspiration to create something unique.
Guided by thoughtful exercises, you'll curate an inspiring collection of imagery while experimenting with sketching, stitching, color mixing, and collage. As you bridge the gap between ideas and visual exploration, you'll create textured compositions that tell your story in a way only you can.
Your artist's book will reflect your creative journey—a one-of-a-kind art piece that embodies your vision and artistic voice.
The art supplies I’ll use are listed at the bottom of this page.
Take A Look Inside The Class
Techniques Taught:
1. Color Mixing – Explore the beauty of blending hues to create a personalized palette that reflects your unique artistic vision.
2. Inspired Color Palettes –Take inspiration from the natural world and the palettes of master artists to curate harmonious color schemes that evoke emotion and beauty in the pages of your artist's book.
3. Collaging with Textiles – Incorporate fabric and texture to add depth and tactile interest to your compositions.
4. Stitching – Use stitching as a creative tool to layer or embellish your pages with texture and intricate detail.
5. Abstract Marks with Brushes & Ink– Experiment with loose, expressive mark-making to add movement and energy to your work.
6. Collage – Layer various papers, images, and elements to create a visually dynamic composition.
7. Mono-Printing – Use simple printing techniques to create unique, textured backgrounds and abstract elements.
8. Sketching—Capture the essence of your subject by incorporating personality and storytelling into your artist's book.
My Thoughts On Art Supplies
It is easy to get swept away with art supplies, especially when you begin a new class. Please feel free to substitute any color, brand, or supply for something you already have.
I've made my best discoveries through substitution. I always recommend watching the video first; if there is something new, decide if you want to try it.
Sketchbook (Old or New) I like Handbook Sketchbook
Photographs (Old or New or Copies)
Paper Ephemera - Vintage Papers, Ticket Stubs, Postcards, Old Book Pages, Photographs, Magazine Pages.
Gelli Plate (Optional)
Brayers (Optional)
Brushes (my favorites are listed below)
Paint ( I will use Acrylics, Gouache, and some watercolor)
Gouache (Acrylic Gouache) - Titan Buff, White, Black, Misty Blue & Sepia - Holbein or Liquetex
Gouache - Pure Pigment
Textiles (scraps of fabric, ribbons, and canvas)
Embroidery Thread & Needle
Large sheets of sketch paper or newsprint
Tracing Paper (Optional)
Ink - Iroshizuku Ink (Yellow Green) (Optional)
Ink - Black (Optional)
Ruler
Scissors
Matte Medium or Yes Paste
Pencils, Pens, Stabilo, or water-soluble charcoal pencil (Peel & Sketch)
A Welcome Gift
As a special welcome gift for those who register for the course, you'll receive a delightful packet of vintage papers designed to inspire your creativity. This collection features stunning vintage florals, elegant French maps, charming labels, classic book covers, and beautifully aged letters, among other treasures. Each paper can be downloaded and printed multiple times, allowing you to incorporate these beautiful elements into your artistic projects.
Whether you use them for collaging, creating backgrounds, or enhancing your artist's book, these vintage papers will add a unique touch and rich character to your creations.