|
|
Post by mom on Jan 26, 2016 14:25:06 GMT
I have always been a pretty clean scrapbooker. I like straight lines. Balance. I never use mists or anything 'messy' in my scrapbook pages.
I like the idea of Bible Journaling, but can't bring myself to actually color in my Bible. So with the new year I began a new devotional book and started getting messy in a separate art book. It's working for me.
So here is my question: I am really struggling with the messy part. I know how to do it but I also always want to rip out my pages when things don't go the way I want in re: to mists, painting, etc.
How do I get over wanting it to be perfect? Do you ever get over that?
Creatively I am enjoying getting messy. But when I mess up, I want to rip it out (and have done this).
So, how did you evolve with art journaling?
|
|
|
|
Post by katlady on Jan 26, 2016 15:31:25 GMT
I have been art journaling for a long time, even before scrapping. I never get over wanting my pages to be "perfect". If I don't like how something is coming out, I wait awhile, and eventually redo the page or parts of the page. Nothing is permanent. More paint, more collage, more line work, just keep playing with it. Some of my pages have layers and layers of paint on it. I never tear out a page. Good or bad, it is part of my progress.
It is hard to know when you are "finished". I know that most of the times I start a page with a vision in mind, and the end results look nothing like what I envisioned. From taking some classes I have learned to be more free and not so controlling over my process.
I love it! The messy part is part of the fun.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 26, 2016 15:54:20 GMT
I too have been art journaling for a long time. I used to be a perfectionist as a scrapper but no longer, and it is SO awesome. I LOVE imperfections, the messy part, etc. I want to "throw paint" everyday as I call it. As far as learning, watch videos, take classes. There are LOTS of free videos out there. I did something fun this weekend that I have never done before--I copied an artist. I played her video and joined in. I wanted to try her style and I had a massive headache so my brain wasn't working. It was fun, and I learned a few things. Complete details and links are on my blog post I linked below. I highly recommend just watching her 15 minutes of mixed media. They are free, and you will get some fun ideas. Just do it and have fun. It all then translates into my Bible journaling and everything I do! triplethescraps.blogspot.com/2016/01/trying-my-hand-at-raes-style.html |
|
|
|
Post by scrapcat on Jan 26, 2016 16:31:31 GMT
Hmm...I'm a more embrace the mess type. I will cross out and rewrite a mistake on an actual scrap layout. I think the main motivation should be that it is a journal, so it's private and therefore no one will know but you?
I think it's hard to change like that, and it's ok if you like things a certain way. I think as long as you are doing what authentically feels right for you than who cares.
I am a reformed perfectionist, but I know it was a lot of years and changes and reflection to get me to that point. But that was my journey and what worked for me. Not everyone is the same.
I consider myself an "art journaler" but my art journaling isn't in the typical sense with sprays and mists and all those mixed media layers. I just use a black fine tip marker and doodle. That's art journaling for me. And it works for my creative outlet.
I think sometimes as scrapbookers/creators, we buy into what "they" are trying to sell us or tell is the right way to do it. Versus just going on instinct and doing what feels good as an artist.
I think the only way to evolve at anything is to just keep doing it and keep practicing.
|
|
|
|
Post by katlady on Jan 26, 2016 17:19:18 GMT
Beautiful page @patter! I copy artist all the time. It helps me develop my own style.
|
|
|
|
Post by mom on Jan 26, 2016 17:27:23 GMT
scrapcat you mentioning 'being authentic' hit home. Last night as I was reading my devotion, and then translating it into my journal I caught myself wanting to change what I was doing to be more like ' xx artist'. It really bothered me (probably more so than even wanting to rip my pages out). Art journaling isn't something I would have chose to explore (again, I like clean and simple). But I really feel called to explore this side of things. Something so 'not me'. My DH says there is a reason for me doing this and just enjoy the process and mess (its hard). I guess I just needed reassurance that everyone doesn't always love what they make the first time. Thank you!
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 26, 2016 17:28:58 GMT
Beautiful page @patter ! I copy artist all the time. It helps me develop my own style. Agh, thank you. And I had SO much fun doing it, I may do it more often now. I have tried a single technique that I saw someone do but never "copied" a page before. I rather liked it!  |
|
|
|
Post by lisae on Jan 26, 2016 18:58:19 GMT
It took about 3 goes for me to finally get hooked on art journaling. I, too, would be unhappy with my page and want to rip it out. What helped was finally investing in a good art journal that I could not rip the pages out of (I'd used spiral bound before). I use Strathmore soft cover art journals and I just love the paper. I also didn't start with any purpose for the page other than to do something pretty. It didn't have to mean anything. And with that, I created a pretty page that suddenly 'spoke' to me. I knew what I was saying with my paint and supplies. It's been fun ever since. It was just a process of letting go of expectations. I did a flip through of that first art journal if you'd like to see it - Art Journal Flip Through part 1 There are also several art journal process videos on my channel as well. Good luck, it really is a lot of fun and can be very freeing to play in your art journal. |
|
|
|
Post by miominmio on Jan 26, 2016 19:28:28 GMT
I think sometimes as scrapbookers/creators, we buy into what "they" are trying to sell us or tell is the right way to do it. Versus just going on instinct and doing what feels good as an artist.  If you buy an art journal magazine or watch videos, you will see there are lots of different ways to do it. For me, AJ is much more intuitive than scrapbooking, I use it as a form of art therapy, and the feeling it gives me is much more important than the page I will end up with. |
|
naby64
Drama Llama
Posts: 7,179 
Member is Online
|
Post by naby64 on Jan 26, 2016 20:10:27 GMT
I have only been doing AJ for the past year. But jumped in with both feet last Jan. I am not a perfectionist but I want my scrapbook pages to be a simple, me style. I needed an outlet that didn't need to be perfect. AJ was the outlet.
In my AJ, I just start putting stuff down. I don't even start with a plan or idea. Just pull out my big bag with all of my supplies and the first thing I pull out is the first thing down. I will say I have subbed to Rae Missigman's videos on Youtube. That is who @patter used as a guide on the pages she posted upthread. I find I like her "just throw it down" style. So Sunday night, I also did like Patter and pulled up Rae's channel and did a page. I will say I was very unsure as I started on how it was looking and decided in the end, that it was just how I think it "should" have looked. I find my pages reflect my mood with the colors usually.
I have had the worst 1.5 days at work this week and I think I will tell DH that it is take-out tonight and I won't be around. I need to "throw some paint" as Patter says.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 26, 2016 21:32:29 GMT
Oooh, naby64, have fun. I will try and "throw paint" from 6-7 p.m. tonight. I too am telling dh I am going to my studio for a bit tonight. Praying your week gets better too! |
|
|
|
Post by mom on Jan 26, 2016 22:21:10 GMT
I've spent the better part of the afternoon just being messy. Playing with supplies I have had but never used..it was nice.
I really think I am overthinking this. My goal was to use it in coordination with my devotional book - no one else has to like it or think its good. I just need to use it to reflect on my readings.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 27, 2016 3:47:53 GMT
I think it's perfectly fine to change your style to fit your mood. I've been art journaling for a few years now. Sometimes I want to be more precise and deliberate, while other times I want to be carefree and messy. I don't think it's necessary to place rules on my creativity. I just go with whatever mood I'm in, and I enjoy the process. Sometimes I don't like the results, and then I just paint over it or add other elements. I also find that things often look better the next time I look at them. If I feel like I'm getting frustrated, I stop and call it a day. It's all good. Have fun!
|
|
scrappington
Pearl Clutcher
in Canada
Posts: 3,157
|
Post by scrappington on Jan 27, 2016 14:14:33 GMT
I copy pages. and by copy I mean I get the idea from pinterest. I re create it in my own way. just like scrap lifting. I have done a few pages on my own too. mostly just clean blocks of colour with black lines dividing the colour. I just like to play.
I don't journal though. I just put down stuff and relax.
I have a dylusions journal, canson mixed media pad and a canson water colour pad.
And if you don't like something gesso it and start again.
|
|
scrappington
Pearl Clutcher
in Canada
Posts: 3,157
|
Post by scrappington on Jan 27, 2016 14:19:11 GMT
I think the most issue I have with mixed media is I want to do too much to a page. I think I need to just pick a couple techniques etc and be minimal.
Thats why I like to be inspired by someone else's layout.
Next Sunday I have a mixed media class / crop at my lss..its going to be a monthly get together. This is the first one. It was a sold out group though. You could buy the class with a set of beginning supplies or just the class. I had all the supplies so mostly I think this class will be show how to use the products.
Still will be fun, I'm looking forward to it.
|
|
|
|
Post by 3girlsmomma on Jan 27, 2016 17:54:03 GMT
I tried it. i really wanted to do it.
I see the crafters cleaning off their rollers onto a page in their art book for later.
But my stuff just looks like crap. I don't like the way it looks ever.
I like to look at them. But apparently, I do not like to make them.
|
|
|
|
Post by anniefb on Jan 27, 2016 19:54:30 GMT
No, not really into AJ or 'messy' stuff. I've never been big on journaling, except for occasional travel journals. Just not my thing, I guess.
|
|
Chinagirl828
Drama Llama
Melbourne, Australia
Posts: 7,010
Jun 28, 2014 6:28:53 GMT
|
Post by Chinagirl828 on Jan 28, 2016 7:58:14 GMT
I see the crafters cleaning off their rollers onto a page in their art book for later. But my stuff just looks like crap. I don't like the way it looks ever. I like to look at them. But apparently, I do not like to make them. This is totally me. I tried it doing the clean my brushes/mist overspray on clean cardstock to use as a background but I can say those are not my favourite pages. I think I like having more control than I feel like I have in AJ. I attempted Patter's challenge here during the November crop and really like how those smaller cards turned out but I haven't felt compelled to go back and play again. I'm guessing it's just not for me. |
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 28, 2016 11:28:37 GMT
I see the crafters cleaning off their rollers onto a page in their art book for later. But my stuff just looks like crap. I don't like the way it looks ever. I like to look at them. But apparently, I do not like to make them. This is totally me. I tried it doing the clean my brushes/mist overspray on clean cardstock to use as a background but I can say those are not my favourite pages. I think I like having more control than I feel like I have in AJ. I attempted Patter's challenge here during the November crop and really like how those smaller cards turned out but I haven't felt compelled to go back and play again. I'm guessing it's just not for me. Karen, it may be for you. I think you just have to find what you like and don't like. Keep trying free videos. Try new things. I am constantly learning new things--some I like and use; some I don't. I was playing yesterday with my Gelli plate, and I loved part of the page and not the other. I used gesso on the side I did not like and started again. Now I love it. I don't always do that because for me there is no messing up. It's about creating and enjoying but that particular page turned into mud. I don't do mud. LOL! Anyway, I have been so surprised at myself and how I have fallen in love with it all but it took a few years. Hang in there and keep playing! |
|
naby64
Drama Llama
Posts: 7,179
Member is Online
|
Post by naby64 on Jan 28, 2016 14:20:30 GMT
This is must me thinking out loud here but I think a lot has to do with what you know about certain items. What gesso can do to a page. Make it smooth, clean it up, erase what you don't like. How much paint do I need on a gelli plate? That depends. WHAT is a gelli plate? LOL The name just makes me want a sandwich. Why do they use the paper underneath? I use a pad of newsprint that I found at Tuesday Morning for cheap, cheap. I save it. Will I ever reuse it? Who knows? China markers? Really? Why, for what purpose? But I have them ordered from Hobby Lobby as of last night.
There is just so much you can use and unless you get out there and look on the 'net and youtube and all those wonderful free resources, I think it can scare some people. I admit to worrying with my first swish of color and a old gift card for a brush. AND I took art classes all through high school. This wasn't something real new.
I also think you have to be willing to accept what the page gives you. It may not be what you had in your mind, what you saw someone else do and what you would think would hang in a gallery. BUT mine is not hanging in a gallery. Mine will stay in my book for me to go back through at some point and know "oh that was a really bad day at the office, that was after the celebration for kiddo # whatever, wow, a mellow day right there". That is why I have paper, paint and ink.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 29, 2016 8:01:41 GMT
I have been art journaling and scrapbooking for a long time. I am a neatnick and I love scrapbooking because it's so clean. Art Journaling is so freeing for me. I think it makes me a better scrapbooker because it makes me let go of things like perfectionist and my neat nick tendencies. I also look at my scrapbooking in a different perspective too. I have been art journaling before it was popular. I really love a lot of the new techniques that many of the new art journalers do. I also think a lot of techniques overwhelm new art journalers. I know it can overwhelm experienced art journalers too. Art journal is your book to do what ever you want. If you just want to throw down some watercolors and add foam stamping to your pages then that is your perfect art. Pages don't have to be gessoed, sprayed, gelatoed, textured, stenciled and every technique on it. What I do when I admire an art journalers technique is adapt the technique for me. This week one of the art journalers I admire made a cute postcard. She added quite a bit to it. I was inspired by three things that she did. I will do those three techniques in my own art journal and then I will add my own things. Don't ever feel afraid if you don't like a technique that your not going to be good at art journaling. If you want a neat art journal go for it. I have a lot of nice linear pages in my art journal. I don't like spray mists and I don't really like gelatos or pan pastels. I know, gasp! I will put a Project Life card in my art journal. |
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 29, 2016 11:21:31 GMT
Well, I am on a roll. I just finished my 3rd page for the week last night, and it all makes me so happy. |
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 30, 2016 20:40:50 GMT
I thought art journaling was something like this: until I got on pinterest. I think it looks amazing but I'm a clean and simple scrapper. A lot of the mediums used are messy and I'd think you need to leave those pages out so they can dry. I can't do that at my house. |
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 30, 2016 20:44:47 GMT
Yes, @coilstrand, the pages do need to dry. Sometimes I am impatient and use my heat tool but other times I leave them for a while. In fact, I have paint drying now. I have a studio so it's thankfully not a problem for me.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 31, 2016 3:21:01 GMT
They don't have to dry if you use dry materials, or materials that dry quickly. For example: pencils, markers, oil pastels, inkpads, alcohol inks, chalks, etc. You also don't have to use messy materials. It's all up to you.
|
|
|
|
Post by mom on Jan 31, 2016 7:04:53 GMT
So I spent this evening playing with all things messy, lol.
Turns out, I have figured out that I enjoy creating when I use papers, inks, etc like Christy Tomlinson. Using just paint completely bored me. I used tissue paper, paints, inks, a stencil. It was good.
One page I love. The other page I did tonight has about 90 million layers on it. I would mess up, cover it with white and start again. It's drying now and tomorrow i will finish it.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 31, 2016 12:24:32 GMT
Sounds like you had fun mom. And see I am the opposite. I LOVE paint. I did another page yesterday, and just had so much fun even painting with my fingers. It's all about what YOU enjoy not what others are doing. Glad you have a page you love! You should share it here! |
|
|
|
Post by mom on Jan 31, 2016 20:10:18 GMT
Sounds like you had fun mom . And see I am the opposite. I LOVE paint. I did another page yesterday, and just had so much fun even painting with my fingers. It's all about what YOU enjoy not what others are doing. Glad you have a page you love! You should share it here! I will share it, but I am almost embarrassed to! I feel like even though I like it now - it 6 months I will hate it because I will have learned so much by then. Kinda like when I look through my old scrapbook pages! |
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:29:48 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 31, 2016 20:50:30 GMT
mom, that is wonderful!! Love the colors and layers. And I love the quote too. Really a great page you should be proud of!
|
|
naby64
Drama Llama
Posts: 7,179
Member is Online
|
Post by naby64 on Jan 31, 2016 22:19:35 GMT
mom , that is a great page. I was coming back to the thread to give you a shot of what I worked on today. I am slow. I did the background last night. Today I was in a mood when I started. So I did one or two things and decided a needed a break. Stood up. Kind of liked it but still not right. Went to TM to grab a coloring book. Boooo, they didn't get them in but hopefully, she said, on the next truck. Got back home and did another layer. Still not what I wanted. Grabbed a cup of tea and some buttered toast. Went back and turned on Pandora and got my Imagine Dragons station going. Finally, a little bit of creative juice flowing. I could probably go back and do a bit of something else but think I will leave it at this. ETA: Woah, that is huge. Let me see if I can work on this a bit.
|
|
If you buy an art journal magazine or watch videos, you will see there are lots of different ways to do it. 
