READERS

Craft Tips & Techniques

www.pioneerthinking.com

BY CHELLA

Glass painting may seem a bit difficult at first and maybe a bit pricey. But it definately doesn't have to be.

 

First you have to remember that glass is sharp. Even when it is cut to shape, so i get round this by using plastic packaging instead. The fronts of present packaging is good as it is thick, but you can use plastic bottles by cutting off the top and bottom then down the edge and then putting the bottle in the oven on a low heat for a few minutes but check it after every minute. This will make it flat, though if left too long it does bubble, but this can also make a good effect.

 

The paints can be bought from most craft/art shops or if working with children you can mix poster paint with pva glue (added benefit- they wash out of clothes easier.)

 

There are books out for patterns but i find most of my subjects as images on the web and also from magazines and story books. To make a really individual card they can be made around the theme of the persons name, favorite pet, flowers or hobbies etc.

We have also made bottle wind chimes by cutting cross sections of different colored plastic bottles and painting them with patterns and hanging them from two lengths of wire crossed and tied in the middle. Have fun with it. It is easy to get inventive with this and difficult to stop!