Here is my first attempt at an altered bottle. It is entitled "Jar of Dreams" and was made to donate to "Collage for a Cure" an art event to raise money for the American Cancer Society. I used gesso and cheese cloth to cover an old bottle. I formed the cheese cloth in rough folds and also made a small frame like spot on the front. After it dried, I painted it with various acrylic paints. Using both a wash (very water down paint) and also dry brush (very little paint on the brushes) Used matte medium to collage the image of a young woman. I use Pearl Ex Powdered Pigments to give it all a luster and shine. Used Glossy Accents (glue) to attach some glass beads and a small piece of vintage jewelry. I decorated the cork with some more vintage jewelry. Attached some dangles and a ribbon. I am pleased with it, and look forward to another altered bottle.

My necklace

Here is what I was able to create with my wonderful Bead Soup. I wore it to school today and I received four compliments at various times during the day.~smile~ I used the focal backwards, decided the "wisdom" word would be my secret, I will wear it inward.... I used beads from many thrifted necklaces, love finding necklaces and making new creations with them.

Bead Soup Reveal

Here is a photo of the Bead Soup I received from Astrid in TX. She gave me some of her hand made beads. Great fun.

I received a few of these beautiful books for Christmas last year. I got one more this Christmas. I love looking at them on my shelf. I think they look like candy does to a little girl. Yummy!!