Fast Updates:
We had a lot of fun in Dubuque and are looking forward to participating in the events that we have scheduled for October!
Its almost time to decorate for Halloween!
I decided early in September that I needed some tentacles in my front yard. I had just finished putting the final touches on a short story titled “Bavmorda“ and I wanted to try to bring one of the monsters to my house for the holiday. Naturally, I searched for some related DIY projects and came across Patrick Answers Questions No One Asked.
I ended up creating decorations from two of the videos on his you tube channel and wanted to share them. If you find them interesting, you might want to take time to check out some of the other video’s posted there. I have included a list of the items I used for the projects, the color spray paint I chose, and a link to the tutorial that is posted on Patrick Answers Questions No One Asked.
The weather hasn’t been very nice, so my finished display is not yet up. But here is the start of it. I will update it with a nighttime shot of the lights and fog machine as soon as I am able.
Update: I ended up adding a few coats of mod podge to the tentacles and moving them around a bit after we had some very wet weather.
I have designed new stickers and banners for upcoming events!
Also:
readersfavorite.com will have “Rise” and “Lost” listed as available prizes in the monthly book giveaway. If your interested in winning some amazing books by great authors you can check out the monthly giveaway here: https://readersfavorite.com book giveaway
Upcoming Event Reminders:
2019
Concealed Realms is participating in a day of family fun at the Discovery World Science and Technology Center at 500 North Harbor Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53202. The event takes place on October 5th and can be enjoyed by All Ages! There will be artists, toys, incredible light-saber battles, and a whole lot more. Cost is included with Admission.
Concealed Realms will have a booth at QuadCon on October 19th. The event takes place at the RiverPlex Arena 600 NE Water St. Peoria, IL 61603 from 10am – 4pm. You can find out more about QuadCon here: https://quadcitycon.com/
2020
Concealed Realms will be at the Quad Cities Mighty Con in Rock Island, IL. This Comic Con takes place March 14th and 15th at the Quad Cities Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201
Quotes on craft:
“Work done by you with unconditional love and pure devotion goes straight in the category of divine and immortal craft.”- Seema Brain Openers
“The best craftsmanship always leaves holes and gaps, so that something that is not in the poem can creep, crawl, flash or thunder in”- Dylan Thomas
“For the artisan, craft is an end in itself. For you, the artist, craft is the vehicle for expressing your vision. Craft is the visible edge of art.”- David Bayles
“Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind.”- Johannes Brahms
“It is not enough to know your craft you have to have feeling. Science is all very well, but for us imagination is worth far more. “ – Edouard Manet
“You want to be a bit compulsive in your art or craft or whatever you do.”- Steve Martin
“There are two men inside the artist, the poet and the craftsman. One is born a poet. One becomes a craftsman.”- Emile Zola
“Writing is a craft, being an author is work, and having readers and a following is a gift.” Michael J. Kannengieser
“In crafting ther eare no mistakes just unique creations.”- Anonymous
“We are all apprentices in a craft where no one ever becomes a master.”- Ernest Hemingway
Definition of craft:
Dictionary.com
noun “An art, trade, or occupation requiring special skill, especially manual skill”
verb “To make or manufacture (an object, objects, product, etc.) with skill and careful attention to detail.”- www.dictionary.com
Merriam Webster.com
a. “An occupation or trade requiring manual dexterity or artistic skill…”
Crafting Book charms:
I enjoy making these miniature books that really open and I often get asked about the process. So, I thought it would be fun to share how I create these little book charms using my own book covers.
Supplies & equipment needed:
- Fold-over Crimps
(I chose crimps that have an open ring at the top.)
- Lobster Claw Clasps 10mmX5mm
- Jump Rings
- Your book cover image
- Laminating sheets
- Glue
- Pliers
- Rotary Cutter
- Plain printer paper
Other useful supplies:
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Cutting Mat
Steps:
1.) Scale down your cover image.
Using photo editing software, I scaled down the completed graphic from the hardcover versions of my books to 1.42 x 0.88 (Be sure to check the box to maintain aspect ratio).
2.) Print your graphic out in color.
3.) Laminate the cover image with the laminating sheet.
* Tip: You can use a slim tool such as the edge of a credit card to squeeze any air bubbles out.
4.) Use the rotary cutter to cut the laminated cover as close to the edges as possible.
5.) Prepare the mini book by using a strong bonding glue to attach a fold-over Crimp to the upper spine.
I prefer a fast drying glue for this step. Be sure to keep the the fold-over crimps ring or hook above the top of the book.
6.) Fold the cover over the book to create creases.
7.) Remove the creased cover and apply glue.
I find it’s easiest to apply the glue directly to the inside of the creased, laminated cover. For this step be sure that the type you choose dries clear and remains flexible.
8.) Press the your cover onto the front of the mini book, then the spin, then the back cover.
9.) Apply pressure while the book dries.
10.) Use pliers to open up a jump ring.
Do not pull it open. You can click this link to see how to open it properly: Open-a-Jump-Ring.
11.) Use the jump ring to attach the Lobster Claw Clasp to the fold-over crimps ring.
Voilà!
Keep in mind that these charms are not water proof. I have used my charms on key chains, but I usually offer them attached to a metal bookmark like the ones below.
Learn more about the creative process:
Study.com, productiveflourishing.com, creativesomething.net.
Check out these sites:
Street Art 360
Hollieblog
Charles French on words
Cristian Mihai
thenarwhal.ca
lmgtfy.com
Patrick Answers Questions No One Asked
Renees Author Spotlight
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Contact
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The Blood Inheritance Quartet 
Hey! I’m at work browsing your blog from my new iphone 3gs! Just wanted to say I love reading your blog and look forward to all your posts! Carry on the great work!
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