denise cerro: Hardware Store Art Supplies

Testing out art supplies...from the hardware store!

I spent an afternoon this week making little 6"x6" samples for my

Mixed Media Friday

classes at Art On 30th...luckily I can use them for all three class lessons.

We talked about different surfaces and making papers in week one...
this next week will be textures.

I enjoy adding textures using household items from the hardware store (though I have Amazons links included here) and wanted to share a few with the class...

turns out its a good subject to blog about this week too.

#1 Caulk

You can buy it in a tube, easy to use and a fun way to add texture. Make sure to buy the paintable caulk so you can add color if desired.
I use it to outline elements in my work, then I do a color wash over it so its not so white.

#2 Ventilation Foil Tape

Good adhesion, you can paint over it, molds to other objects...very workable and moldable.

Try using steel wool or a piece of aluminum foil to burnish it, create impressions and add a few color glazes to catch into the nooks and crannies.

#3 Joint Compound

Used here for stencil relief, you can create impressions by stamping into it and can be used for so many other applications to create texture.

#4 Plaster Cloth

Used to create molds and casts for broken limbs...it also makes a great texture to work into mixed media pieces, get it wet, add paint...and enjoy the fun!

#5 Aluminum Foil

Not actually from the hardware store, and no need to add a link to this one as you probably already have it in the cupboard. Works much like the Aluminum tape for creating impressions and many other textures that can be painted and adhere with matte medium.

#6 Masking Tape

Great all around tool for mixed media and so many uses for it. Here I tore irregular strips of masking tape and just layered them on top of each other to create texture. I then added a few color washes over that, added some aluminum foil, foil tape and a touch of gold leaf with a corner brad for interest.

#7 Drywall Tape

One of my favorite tools for creating texture. It's self adhesive so easy to put onto a surface, can be used as it or as a stamp into wet plaster to create a web impression. I love this stuff...it doesn't even have to have a rhyme or reason as to why you added it in...its just cool.