So, today started off a little shaky. I accidentally set off the fire alarm at work this morning. It was so very loud, and of course it was the first day of the boss’ vacation. The firemen were very understanding …

But, even that little embarrassing incident couldn’t cloud my enthusiasm to get home and get through dinner so I could post my very first video! I filmed it one day last week and it took a couple more days to figure out editing and then about a week of playing around in the computer to figure out narration – whew! I think I finally got it last night but it was way too late for posting. I wanted a clear head so it looked like I knew what I was doing.

It has been suggested by friends and students that I make some videos. After all, I love to watch how-to videos on YouTube and have learned some very interesting techniques from artists I would never have an opportunity to meet in person. So I set off last week to create my first one not knowing it would take so much time – big learning curve!

Because I am so computer illiterate on certain aspects it has taken me over a week to film, edit, narrate and finally post in hopes of getting some Youtube likes! Figuring out the editing and narrating were the hardest. I pulled many a late night trying to figure out the narration – oh, I knew what I wanted to say, but getting the recording to work and then not to work was tricky to say the least. I’ve gained a whole new respect for all those artists who regularly post new videos. I’m hoping it gets easier and quicker with each one.

The video was filmed with my Flip – I love that little camera. One thing you’ll notice in the video though, is the closeups are a little out of focus. Something I didn’t know – Flip doesn’t auto-focus; I know that now so please excuse the bit of blurry parts this time. I moved the film into MovieMaker for editing and narrating and I had never used that program before so it was a little intimidating and confusing, but I finally caught on – I think.

The technique shared in the video is gesso and alcohol inks on embossed foil. It’s become a favorite of mine since Robin taught it to us during one of our monthly Cracker Jack Stampers meetings.

I really liked the results I got that night (left) and have since used this technique in several of my classes (below) – thanks Robin!

Check out my video to learn how to achieve this technique and leave a comment if you like!