Grand Parent's Gift from DAKRI Sinclair with Mixed Media Photo Frames

Hey everybody, Merry Christmas! Today we're featuring the art of DAKRI Sinclair.  It's her first post as a Creative Team member and I know you are going to love what she's created. 

DAKRI specializes in hand-painted gifts that include piggy banks, wall plaques, Easter baskets, and Christmas ornaments...lots of Christmas ornaments.  At this time of year, she literally hand-paints and personalizes 1000's of ornaments.  She's internationally known,  her work has been featured in publications and department stores like Neiman Marcus, Macy's, Carson Pririe Scot and others...she is a powerhouse and a true inspiration for anyone who aspires to turn their art into a career.  

This Christmas season, DAKRI has received requests for personalized frames...and she's been using my 11"x14" Mixed Media Photo Frames.  The frames are perfect for her art, the board itself is a high density, archival quality board, it doesn't warp with wet media, and the front surface is covered with watercolor paper.

 Today DAKRI is sharing frames that were created as personalized gifts for grandparents.  Each frame has the name of all the grandparent's grandchildren and the frame has a pre-cut beveled 4x6 cut out that will hold a photo of all of the kids!  It's a wonderful gift that is really personal.

DAKRI is known for her whimsical illustrative style...these frames are just too cute!  She uses inks, pens, and a water brush to create her distinctive look. The ultra amooth surface of the Mixed Media Frame is perfect for her art!

I would love to see the look on the faces of the grandparents when they open these on Christmas day! If you'd like to see more of DAKRI's work, please visit her Facebook gallery...I think once you see her art you're going to be a fan too! Leave a comment below as I am sure DAKRI would love to hear what you think. 

Thank you for stopping by today and I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year! 

Ken   

How to Create a Beautiful Christmas Card with Spellbinders Build a Wreath

I know it's only March, but it's never too early to get a head start on making Christmas cards, I can't even say that with a straight face...I am always the last one to get cards sent out...I am vowing that this year will be different...so I started early.  This card turned out so nicely that I wanted to share a couple tips and tricks that will let you create a beautiful, dimensional Christmas card with Spellbinders Build a Wreath die template. 

Layer 4 pieces of coordinating cardstock (Christmas colors). I used 3 solids and 1 patterned paper. For a variation, you could create this card in light blue, white and silver.   

Use the die template to cut 3 layers for the wreath. Tip: for a more realistic wreath, use 3 different shades of green. 

Lightly stencil all the die cut pieces with white ink (to mimic snow or frost). 

Assemble the 3 die cut layers together with foam squares...this adds dimension between the layers.  

Next, build your wreath by layering all the die cut branches that are included in the set.  Layer the pieces on top of the wreath using tape roller to affix them to the wreath. 

Next, affix small clusters of small gem stones or beads to create "holly berries."  

Then, use foam dots to place the wreath on your card base, then finish with a small red bow and a stamped Christmas greeting.  

After, I'd finished the card, I "dusted" it with some additional white ink on the edges of the branches and holly leaves.  This is a fun card to make because it's dimensional, and your friends will love getting this card...it's pretty enough to use as a Christmas decoration.  

Now, will I find the motivation to create more Christmas cards between now and December?  It's doubtful...It's spring outside...I'd rather be outside enjoying the daffodils and dogwoods...When do you usually get started on your Christmas cards? I should develop a plan this year to keep me on track. 

Thanks for stopping by today! I hope you've picked up a couple tricks that you can use when you create your Christmas cards.  

Ken