street art inspiration

I'm currently gearing up for one of my largest freelance projects yet. I am so excited about this opportunity, and the freedom I have within the given direction, but I'm also a little intimated by the scale and installation itself. I have actually been asked to create a few installations within a kids' bonus room. The intimidating part is a large wall mural inspired by Mr. Brainwash. So, I've been heavily researching and prepping images and ideas these past few weeks. While the inspiration, and likely direction, is very specific to the client's desired aesthetic, I've stumbled across a few images that make me melt a little. I wanted to share them with you! What makes you melt at it's site?

Holly Dolly

Would this not be dreamy behind your headboard?

source

I love the feminine & detailed line-work, as well as the teal in this!

Hubby and I stumbled upon this one while honeymooning in San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

a little bubbly in a sparkly glass

I was a co-maid of honor for my dear friend's wedding. To make sure she felt as super special as she truly is, we planned a sparkly evening of festivities for her bachelorette! I can't wait to share photos with you of the fun that ensued, but for now I have some fun little projects I created for the night. Inspired by my mother's work I painted the bride, and each bridesmaid a special glass, of course marked with their initial to be sure we knew who's was who's!

Have a variety of paint bush sizes at the ready! I like working with smaller brushes, because it is easier to control, or rather, squiggled less of a mess for me to later correct.

You can find Gloss Enamels at Hobby Lobby, or most craft stores. There are other brands available, just be sure to read the directions for baking or curing the glassware. There are some available that require it to sit for 21 days before using! Gloss Enamels can bake in less than an hour in your own oven.

Chose a font and print out the initial you wish to paint. Cut it into a small piece that will fit into the glass.

Tape paper to the inside of glass, making sure it's positioned straight before you start painting. You can just trace the printout with the paint.

Make sure to keep you brush wet before dipping in paint, this will help for a smooth application on the glass.

Dip only the tip of the brush in paint, you do not want globs.

 

I lined the top rim of the glass, to finish it off. 

I coated the base and stem as well, this took two applications to make sure it wasn't streaky.

It's looking good, but not quit done! I think some polka-dots will do the trick!

Using a flat round cylinder object, such as an eraser, is perfect for the little detail!

Gently press it against the glass. You may need to twist it slightly as you pull away, to keep the edges crisp and clean. I alternated between silver and black dots.

Let the glass dry a bit before handling. You can place multiple on the oven rack, just make sure none are touching! Follow the paint's label instructions for baking. 

Check back, and I'll have some final shots to share of our festive setup to celebrate my friend and her soon-to-be nuptials!