Pocket Shrine "Seth-style" with SA {by Ann Barnes}

Hello everyone, Ann here with you today sharing a folded "Seth-style" pocket shrine using the newest Seth Apter Stamp Release for PaperArtsy. 

I was thrilled to receive the three new Seth Apter stamps from PA HQ. Seth's designs never disappoint; and these newest stamps are some of my favorites! It's definitely worth checking out Seth's PaperArtsy Release Blog created for these new sets, it offers insight into the designs as well as inspiration from the designer himself!

Seth's stamp designs are so perfect for incorporating into backgrounds and creating mixed media abstract art. For this project I wanted to create something meaningful that allowed a few of the designs to become focal points. I decided to make a pocket shrine, combining my love for religious art with Seth's unique grungy, layered style. This is a special piece that can be used for prayer or contemplation. I drew color inspiration from the image of Mary, choosing PaperArtsy Fresco  Chalk Acrylic in Castleton (FF231), Admiral (FF233), Tomato (FF229), Buff (FF96), and Gold Rush (FF204).

Using images stamped onto PaperArtsy Printed Tissue - Blank (PT10), I was able to figure out the shrine sizing. I cut the shrine shape from a piece of primed canvas. Working on the outside surface, I began to add layers of paint first with a brayer, and then with a chip brush.

I started with a layer of Buff (FF96) then built up layers with the colors, each time brushing more Buff on top to create a muted and worn look. Partially stamping different images randomly onto the surface added texture. I stamped in Tomato (FF229) along the fold locations to create a binding appearance. I love how this looks when the shrine is folded.

The interplay of this lined image atop the canvas texture gives the surface a linen appearance. It's a good idea to put the stamps into water after using them with paint, they are much easier to clean.

As soon as I saw the frame image in Seth Apter Set 53 (SA053), I knew it would be amazing in 3D. Stamping into air dry clay allows you to create a relief of the image.

I rolled out the clay onto my craft surface. I kept the thickness to about 1/8". The thicker the slab you create, the longer it will take to dry. Also note that if it is very thin, it will be extremely fragile. Stamp directly into the clay with consistent pressure. (Note: spritz the stamp with water before stamping for easier release after impression.)

You can make various versions of the frame by cutting out different sections. The central opening can be removed or remain intact; while the outside can be decorative or square. There are many variations you can try. Adding color to the raised edges or within the recessed areas allows the design to stand out visually.

Once you select the frame style you desire, the rough edges are easily cleaned up with a small piece of extra fine sandpaper or by using a craft knife to scrape away any excess.

When the pocket shrine is unfolded, the beautiful interior is revealed. I chose the mandala style stamp image to balance the central framed piece. I stamped the image with Ranger Archival Ink in Watering Can onto separate papers and allowed it to dry. I colored the image using watercolor paints, then set it aside to dry.

 

I next worked on creating the main background for the interior of the shrine. I painted the entire surface of the canvas with Castleton (FF231). This color complements the watercolored images as well as the framed Madonna. Using a hardened paintbrush, I added streaks of Buff (FF96). This created a textured effect adding interest while also softening the appearance. The patterned areas were created using the repeating diamond shape stamp, and gold embossing powder. This surface makes me think of a wallpaper design.

With the main interior background complete I wanted to focus on the pocket. This is where the outside surface becomes an interior surface. To close the edges securely, I stamped some twill with the tread-like stamp. The twill ribbon was narrower than the stamp, which allowed me to create a unique pattern. I secured this around the right and left sides of the pocket with glue.

I wanted to add a special detail to the top edge of the pocket. This was created by stamping and embossing the DNA-like pattern onto a piece of paper then fussy cutting around the design to create a unique "Ric Rac" piece. This piece was trimmed to the correct length and attached to the pocket just below the red stamped edge.

I stamped out the bubble letter phrases onto paper with Ranger Archival Ink in Cobalt. Then using a small circle punch, I punched out the circled letters to form the word MARIA. These were glued in place along the base of the pocket.

When the two watercolor panels were dry, I added gold details with a metallic pen as well as some gemstones to embellish. I then attached them to each side panel with French knot stitches at all four corners.

I want to make the outside closure flap very special. To do this, I emboss the radial circular stamp in gold. Red stitches follow some of the rays upwards accentuating the design and mimicking the attached flaming heart Milagros.

On the inside of the flap, I added pieces of thread to balance the stitched threads and glued an accent piece at the center.

I love how the different patterns interact, can you spot at least 6 different stamps in the detail image above?

The frames I created are truly beautiful. I am looking forward to using the extras in different projects.

The connections between the "DNA strands" created the perfect spot to attach additional Milagros.

Here is a close up view of the stamped twill used to secure the pocket sides.

I made a few cards that can be tucked into the pocket, for a prayer or special intention. I love the way that the designs look embossed in gold and colored with watercolors.

I love the way this turned out. I have so many ideas for using these new stamp sets from PaperArtsy, and look forward to sharing more! I can imagine creating a pocket shrine to hold a treasured coin or good luck piece to carry with you. I think I might try my hand at making some of the "bits" Seth shares on the blog. There are so many possibilities! If you are interested in grabbing any of the newest stamp sets, there is a list of stockists on the PaperArtsy site where you can find one that's located in your area. Hopefully you are inspired to get creative.

I'm so happy you stopped by,  Ann xx

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