I recently had surgery on my left foot last month, unable to walk around much I am confined to a chair more often than I like.  I have tried to make jewelry but I just can’t seem to say focused and I neve seem to have the supplies or tools I needed within arms reach so I quickly became frustrated.  I have often admired watercolor painting and thought I’d watch a few videos to get an idea if this was something I thought I could actually do.  I was intrigued by the soft flowy effects by some of the skilled artist.  They made it look so easy… like anyone could do it.  So, I thought why not give it a go.  I borrowed paints and purchased paper and sat down to paint.  Well, as it turns out it’s not so easy.  There are things that ya just don’t know until you invest time and yes, money too.  Like for instance that quality paint, paper, and brushes are essential.  You don’t have to break the bank but if you think this is something you will enjoy it’s worth spending a little extra time and money to get decent supplies.  I did just that.  Not the best but got good enough to learn with without getting frustrated that my painting was working like the demonstrators.

My first painting I started was of bumble bees.  I followed what the demonstrator was doing, making modifications with the colors of paint I had and starting painting a bee! I was so excited that my bees were actually looked like bumble bees.  This was encouraging to say the least.  I had to stop for the day, but I was hooked and I ordered a few more paint colors.  The next time I was able to open my paint set I thought I’d start with something easier for a beginner where I could learn more about brush strokes and how to mix colors.  I found a one hour tutorial on the Michael’s website.  Admittedly it was a fast class for someone with on watercolor experience, but I was able to stop the video till I was ready to proceed.   I’m no Picasso but I think my Eastern Blue Bird looks pretty good for my first bird painting.

I find watercolor painting relaxing and good for the soul. As an instant gratification kind of person, I like that I can finish a painting in one setting, I don’t have to wait too long for the paint to dry before I add another layer. My mind is relaxed and I don’t even notice the pain in my foot.  It certainly keeps me still and occupied which is making my recovery more enjoyable.   As an added benefit it’s easy to take anywhere.  There is little to pack and sets up quickly. 😊
Photos
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If you want to give it a try here is the video I watched. 
Here is a printout of the drawing of the blue bird you can trace if you don't want to free-hand the drawing.
Here is the printed instructions from the video 

I  did not have all the colors or supplies listed on the video but here is a list of the supplies I used:

• Paint: Windsor & Newton Cotman tube watercolor paints set of 12 – purchased at Michaels
• Paper: Strathmore Watercolor paper 140 lb.  purchased at Michaels
• Brushes: watercolor set that starts with size 0, I prefer some sort of hair as they seem to hold more water or a blend of hair and synthetic
• Tim Holtz Mini bottles: Refillable bottles for water, purchased at Michaels
• Paint Pallet: Plastic reusable tray to mix colors, purchased at Michaels
• Masking tape
• Pencil and Eraser
• Clip board with a flat clip, purchased at Walmart

If I do give watercolor painting a try, post a pic on social media and be sure to tag me @crowsnestarts1 #crowsnestarts so I will be able to see it.
I'd enjoy hearing from you drop a comment below.​  Enjoy!

Back in March on a whim, I entered a giveaway through Wubbers University, they were doing a giveaway for Spring.  For those who are not familiar with who or what Wubbers is I will explain.  Wubbers is a jewelry tool manufacturer known for their mandrel shaped pliers.  They make forming wire into various shapes easy.  I own a few of the round plies and use them regularly to shape wire and thin metals.  To enter the giveaway you had to follow their rules/terms and conditions.  It was easy and clearly stated, so I submitted my information along with a photo of a ring I had made using their pliers and turquoise chips.  I kind of forgot about it, because I rarely ever win anything, so I just put it out of my mind.  Needless to say, a few weeks later I received an e-mail of Congratulations YOU WON.  I was so excited and replied immediately with the required information.  A short time afterwards, I received a treasure box of 2 new shaping plies, a couple strands of beads, several loose cabochons, a pair of earrings, and stick-on nail color.  What a fun treasure box that totally brightened my day.   I am excited to try out the new pliers and add those cute beads to a new design.  I’ll keep you posted on what I make.
You can check out the tools and more on Wubbers University on Facebook😊

Have you ever wanted to make jewelry for yourself or as a gift?  I can show you how in a private or small group, or zoom session.  Theses sessions make great gifts too.
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Neighbors encouraging each other.  We invite you to participate and add your painted rock.

After some pretty strong winds our sign had fallen and broken.  I knew I had to get the paints out and make a new one.  I used a recycle floor tile, craft paints, and sealed with several coats of clear acrylic.   It was a fun project.  I made it much brighter in color.  Ed and I designed a frame that now hangs the tile securely in place.  The garden is growing, it's so fun to see others thoughts, art work, and words of encouragement.  For me, it rewarding to have neighbors and park visitors stop and chat about the rocks and brainstorming what they plan to paint on a rock.  I hope to see more painted rock and encourage anyone interested in adding to it.  I look forward to seeing your rock soon.

If you need directions: see this previous post