Mixed Media Technique Book

Mixed Media Technique Book

It's been a little while since my last post, I've been quite busy, it's good to be back in my studio. 

As mentioned in my previous post The Rainbow...Keeping it Simple, my technique book is now complete. 

Sometimes creativity arrives in finished projects. Sometimes it arrives in experiments.

This little book was created to give those experiments a home.

For years I've collected ideas, techniques, snippets of inspiration, and small creative discoveries. A new texture here. A background technique there. A unique way to combine materials. Often these ideas end up on scraps of paper, tucked into folders, or hidden away somewhere and they are eventually forgotten.

This time I wanted something different.

I decided to create a handmade mixed media technique book, 

a place where creative exploration can grow over time.

The covers were built with layers of texture and fabric, worn edges, soft ribbons, 

and vintage-inspired details. I wanted the book itself to feel like an inspiration piece 

before a single technique was added to its pages.

First technique: Embossed fabric. 

I mixed water and glue (50/50) and added to the fabric, I 

let it dry and ran it through the die cutting machine with an embossing folder. 

I then added ink, paint and metallic waxes to make the raised areas pop.

Inside, each page has room for experimentation, 

but what makes this book especially useful are the envelopes attached throughout. 

As I try new techniques, create samples, test products, or discover unexpected combinations, 

I can tuck those pieces directly into the envelopes alongside notes and observations.

Rather than creating a book that is already finished, 

I created one that will continue to evolve.

Some envelopes may eventually hold painted papers, texture samples, color combinations, gel print experiments, collage ideas, stencils, embossing techniques, or discoveries I haven't even imagined yet.

That is my favorite part.

This book isn't meant to be perfect.

It's meant to be used.

It's a place to play, learn, explore, and document the creative journey along the way.

The book was bound together with a lark's head knot, 

accompanied by some charms, metal embellishments and jewels.

I love the thought that sometime from now, 

I will be able to flip through these pages and revisit techniques that inspired me, 

rediscover forgotten ideas and see how my creative style has grown.

This is only the beginning.

The envelopes are waiting.

The pages are waiting.

And so are countless creative possibilities.

Every possibility begins with the courage to imagine...

your dreams are worth it.

🌿 Designs by Maria Emilia 🎨 Like any good piece of art, this website is still a work in progress. Thank you for bearing with any minor design hiccups.