String Theory

One of the blogs that I read religiously is Lydia Fiedler’s understandblue. I think it’s fair to say that Lydia is a technique junky, a quality that I greatly admire. When I read her entry entitled String Theory back in December, I was determined to have a go – she has a video which makes this very easy to follow. The first thing you need though is an old phone book. Luckily, I’m not the kind of person who is prompt in recycling such things and I found a few lurking around the house. I think my brother is becoming used to me using odd things for crafting!

I used dapper denim ink on some Stampin’ Up! retired gold and cream twine which I think accounts for the almost dotted look of the arcs of the shape. The gold obviously doesn’t absorb the ink. I used cling film/shrink wrap and put some drops of ink onto it and then used a plastic glove covered hand to help rub the twine into the ink. Next I put a piece of card into the phone book and let the twine twist itself onto the card. You then add another piece of card and, ensuring that you have some twine poking out of the book, close the book, put your hand on top and pull the twine out.

As Lydia says, you can use the same twine without reinking – this was the first pull of the inked up twine. I found that if you put too much pressure towards the bottom of the book (and thus card), you can get some very solid colour, so it’s better to keep your hand higher up the book. Also, if you’re planning a sentiment, you might want to consider the direction that you’re pulling the twine and don’t have it lined up in the centre. Be careful about smudging your card layers with your gloved hand – for that reason I found it best to wear only one glove. I did get quite messy on some occasions but washing my hair resolved that.

I finished my card off with a dapper denim base and used the Celebrate You thinlits dies. These will be in the upcoming annual catalog, but they are also available as a freebie in Sale-a-bration until the end of March. Personally, I like free. 🙂

I hope you enjoyed today’s project.