Inky and Messy Debate

Can you get too messy?

Many people would answer no. Perhaps I am a bit inhibited – but I think you can go too far with things!

I am all for being creative and exploring new ways of using materials – but sometimes you have to look to the key elements of your work and make sure that your fun isn’t getting in the way of good design.

I tend to stick to 3 colours for most of my work – it is harder for me to control things if I go too mad. 2 can be toning with 1 as a contrast or they can all work well as a whole. However I would aim to not be too clashing in my choices.

Now, I am not a minimalist – but there are times when less is more… so I tend not to put too many things into one design otherwise the eye gets confused. Many people use odd numbers of elements to help create balance. Even numbers have to be aligned perfectly to work – whereas with odds you have a lot more freedom.

I guess I follow the KISS principle… Keep It Simple Stupid!

Limit the colour palette to 3

Work with odd numbers of elements

Keep the design clear

Now some may disagree…. Post a comment!

Decoupage Debate

Some of you might get a bit hot under the collar with this next segment!

I have to be honest this is one paper craft that I just don’t get. I can appreciate the work that goes in and I know many people derive a lot of pleasure from it. But in the end, I keep coming back to the question … WHY BOTHER?

I can see with traditional 3D techniques where you – as a crafter – get to choose which elements to cut out and layer. But the advent of step-by-step decoupage and die-cut project sheets means that any real creativity is lost.

I also really don’t understand how a certain leading crafter can say that decoupage is a hot trend. It may sell on tv shopping channels – but it is not a hot trend. It is a craft that has been hanging around for a long time and the buyers for the shopping channels can pick up the materials cheaply from Holland.

If you enjoy decoupage – great. You should only ever do crafts that you enjoy but sorry, I won’t be joining in!

What do you think? Why not post a comment ?