The Gypsy by Louise Crosbie

This month, I’m sharing an art journal spread as my design team project. 

With a good journal or a well-prepared journal, you can use a lot of mixed media techniques and supplies.

If the paper in your book or journal isn’t really mixed media paper you can use gesso to prepare it before starting. 

I’ve used lots of layers in this project. Some layers got covered up some didn’t but each layer inspired my “next move” so even those I can no longer see are playing their part in the final look. 

I did a coat of clear gesso first to prepare my page before started my journaling. I added some Finnabair tissue paper which I glued on using gel medium. Then I added texture through a stencil. 

Next, I started adding my paint. when it was dry I added torn old paper and book pages along with some butterflies cut from paper napkins.

I’ve used liquid acrylics, rust paste, waxes, Sparks paint (along with a few images and embellishments). 

Here’s a closeup of that lovely stencil texture. 

Mixed Media Place supplies: