Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Playing with Pens



For my next project I broke out my Tsukineko inks and pens. I collected most of these while taking a class with Lura Schwarz Smith, one of the best teachers I've ever had. In truth, I had no idea what I was signing up for. If I had realized how much drawing we would do (I can't draw, only artists can draw!), I would have never chosen that class. But Lura was a delightful teacher, and I learned a lot.



The tools are very simple, a tiny bottle of ink (which goes a really long way), Fabrico markers (which have both a pen and brush nib), and Fantastix (pointed for drawing or bullet shaped for shading.) I love the fantastix. Just dip them into the ink, rub on a bit of waste cloth until you have the intensity you desire, and then color away. It feels a lot like using crayons, but not as streaky as crayons or pencils.

I did a couple of samples, trying to remember all the terrific stuff I learned from Lura.



On my blue sample, in addition to the pens and ink, I used an ink called Champagne Mist. Applied with a brush, it adds just the tiniest hint of sparkle. We all need a little sparkle, right?



Here it is in all its glory. I free handed the basic outline (it's what my friends call a Beth flower.) I tried to pay attention to what would be in shadow, and what would be highlighted. I have a thing for dotted centers, it sort of makes it look fluffy or textured.



Here's my second try. A little less streaky, especially in the leaves and buds.



I really like how this bud came out, and the curvy leaf. Exactly what I was going for! Have you ever played with art supplies? Did you like it?

2 comments:

  1. It`s fabulous!!.I`d love draw

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  2. Anonymous9:41 AM

    Years ago I saw Trish Stuart on maybe Simply Quilts and bought Tsuekeniko inks then of course without lessons I played a little but not making anything, the books pens and inks got put away with all the other junk I have collected and don't know how to use. The secret is classes and lessons. Joan

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