There's a reason I gush every time I talk about Graphic 45 ... they deserve it.
Being a member of their design team this past year has been an incredible experience. I am so appreciative to have had the opportunity to work with their stunning products (seriously, every box is like Christmas!) but even more than that, to have had the privilege to be in such wonderful company. Truly, I have never met a kinder, more supportive group than my fellow design team members, and the entire Graphic 45 family.
How could I pass up the opportunity to audition for this years team? And so, here are a few of my favourite projects from this past year. (Titles link to the original post with additional pictures and supply lists.)
A small (but mighty!) box altered with Steampunk Spells and embellished with Graphic 45 staples which paired perfectly with those amazing vintage metal feet!
Unable to go to far away places this summer, I created an activity book for my kiddo. Using vibrant G45 papers from a variety of collections and Regular Tag Album, I packed the pages with surprises and prompts for at home adventures.
What can I say? Botanical Tea is just a dream to work with. It's stunning and absolutely perfect for making elegant cards... and even igniting a spark of inspiration!
There were 14 layouts featuring Couture in this 8x8 Easel Album. Not being a layout artist, I found it a huge challenge... but I'm so proud of the results. The vintage black and white photos worked so well with the classic look of the collection.
Using A Secret Garden and A Ladies' Diary I created a little set of ATC's. They aren't big or elaborate, but I think they are terribly sweet and elegant.
Typography is one on my very favourite collections and it was perfect for creating this miniature post office. Again, those Graphic 45 Staples come in handy and are put to good use as windows and doors on this piece.
A pink
and frilly, rather sentimental piece I created with bits of stash and papers from Secret Garden. This piece really just makes me dreamy eyed to look at it.
These projects show off a range of skills and styles, but they also represent some of the projects that I had the most fun creating. It really has been the most amazing year and I hope I'll be lucky enough to take part again. Each of my fingers and toes are crossed!
P.S. If you're thinking about auditioning for the design team... show off your awesomeness, be yourself and GO FOR IT! Here's the link to the Design Team call blog post.
WOW WOW WOW! Nikki- your art pieces are so fabulous- I can see why Graphics 45 has you on the design team!! When will we see your own line of products? (hint hint)
ReplyDeleteI really love your art and you are very inspiring- thanks for sharing! ")
Nicola - your projects are STUNNING! I am just getting started working with G45 stuff . . and am totally addicted to all of it! Thanks for sharing! I'll keep watching for more of your amazing projects! Quick question - when doing 3D items, do you just use the G45 paper "as is" or do you wet it to make it more pliable (to go around corners of stuff) . . . or do you use a glue that makes it more pliable? Do you ModPodge it after it's done, so it won't get "worn"? I just want to make the best use of the gorgeous papers . .. and am not sure of the "techniques"! Thanks so much for responding, if you can!
ReplyDeleteHiya Janice! For many projects I just use a thin, even layer of tacky glue. This dampens the paper just enough to make it a tad workable. I also use rubber cement a lot which is getting harder to find (and stinks to high heaven) but it dried fast and flat. Scoring helps a lot for edges and corners. Priming your object with a closely matching paint can help to hide small flubs too. Inking edges can also be effective at giving a really polished finished look.
ReplyDeleteHoly cow... I've loved seeing your projects over the past year, but seeing several of them altogether is so neat! I'm glad you were able to be part of their design team last year, and I've got my fingers and toes crossed for you this year! =D
ReplyDeleteXOXO
Best of luck to you Nichola! This is a wonderful review of your year with Graphic 45.
ReplyDeleteI found you last year through the G45 Design team call, your entries stuck out as being that mixture of quirky, whimsical, edginess and joy that I love. I sincerely hope you are successful this year. Either way I am here to stay and will continue to be inspired by your art and spirit :) Thank you for sharing with us!
ReplyDeleteYour projects are so inspiring and I can see why you made the team last year!! Thanks for a year of G45 inspiration, and thank you so much for stopping by my blog and wishing me luck on my G45 audition~a girl can dream right? Hugs and good luck to you ~Renea
ReplyDeleteThanks so much everyone! I appreciate all the nice words, truly!
ReplyDeleteNicola - thank you sooo much for answering my question . . . GREAT info for me, as a "rookie"!! I worked for awhile yesterday with ModPodge and was just starting to think I needed to do the paint and ink on corners, and not try to always fold the actual paper around corners! I love your stuff and can't wait to see more! Janice RR
ReplyDeleteI find your creations inspiring and uplifting because no matter which paper collection you seem to design items highlighting all of its best elements. Please let Graphic 45 choose you again for their Design Team so we can continue to be inspired. Mahalo for sharing your talent.
ReplyDeleteNichola dear its in the bag for you! Your creativity knows no limits! you are so original <3 <3
ReplyDeleteYou do Spectacular work. Such talent and so inspiring. Keep smiling and creating
ReplyDeleteBest wishes! Your work is lovely! I know you will be asked back!
ReplyDeleteI just love your work, each piece you've created is beautiful. I know you'll be back :)
ReplyDeletePaula
Always love your style and imagination, Nichola. Here's hoping to see you on the team another year. Best wishes to you!
ReplyDeleteYour post box is fantastic and I love your designs! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteNichola, your work is always so creative, inspiring and fun! Thank you for sharing your many many talents with G45! Happy Unique Papercrafting! -Charee
ReplyDeleteYour projects are gorgeous but I LOVE your postal station! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteSmiles
Jen
Nichola, you are such an amazing artist ... I apologize for not telling you that enough! I love your style and the unique, ethereal touch you bring to your Graphic 45 projects! I have no doubt your name will be on that list tomorrow, and the final list next month. ;) Sending you big hugs and lots of pixie dust!! xoxo
ReplyDeleteyou made it again as if i had any doubts congratulations
ReplyDeleteLove your projects, they are fabulous!! Best of luck!
ReplyDeleteYour work is gorgeous, thanks for your comment on my blog!
ReplyDeleteHey Nick! Of course, I knew you'd make it this far and I feel sure you will have a second happy year with G45.
ReplyDeleteYour work is wonderfully you and I love seeing what you come up with!
Best of luck to you in all your endeavors!
You're work is awesome. Love that first little box. Congrats on making the top 30 and best of luck.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous projects! Congrats on making the top 30!
ReplyDeleteHave always been in love with your fairies and pixies... Congrats in making to the final 30 again!!! Best of luck!!!
ReplyDeleteStunning pieces Nichola, I just love your detailed work! Hoping to see you with Graphic 45 for another year!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your G45 Top 30! I am wishing you the best for the next round!!!!
ReplyDeleteI'm so enjoying your projects! They are all just outstanding. How exciting to be in the top 30 at Graphic 45.....a well deserved honor : ) Wishing you the best of luck in the next round! Ginny from Polly's Paper
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness, your mini post office is AMAZING! Gorgeous projects! Congrats on making the Top 30, and best of luck in the finals.
ReplyDeletecongratulations on making the 2014 team your 2nd year was there any doubt LOL love your work
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