4.29.2010
Block It Off
Those of us who are happier with paint-splattered fingers rather than a fresh manicure tend to be kindred spirits so I thought you might enjoy a peek at the wrapping paper Elizabeth James makes for herself. With degrees in Art History and Interior Design, Elizabeth is the creative force behind Pacific & Rose hand-blocked textiles.
And I know you've seen various types of rubber stamps applied to paper many times before, but I really like how Elizabeth uses large-scale blocks to achieve a look that resembles fabric. She also experiments on newsprint, as well as butcher paper, for a multi-layered effect.
For Mother's Day, if you have a mom who appreciates art or the unexpected, why not put a new spin on the standard newspaper-as-gift-wrap concept? Or if her taste is more classic, create something unapologetically pretty using pristine craft paper as a base.
A range of Indian woodblocks are available through Pacific & Rose's online shop (along with curtains and those terrific kitchen linens seen in past posts).
Related posts to get the creative juices flowing: The Zucchi Collection and Setting the Mood.
A word of advice: Elizabeth says it is necessary to use a blockprinting ink. She describes it as very tacky and sticky but notes that a regular paint will seep into the crevices of the block. She squeezes a little ink onto a flat surface (piece of tile), then rolls a rubber brayer in the ink to cover the brayer, and then rolls the brayer onto the block. When she places the ink-covered block down on the paper, she gives it a good thwack with a rubber mallet, to better transfer the ink. The blockprinting ink may be purchased at art supply stores, or a site for textile artists, Dharma Trading.
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11 comments:
woodblock are awesome!! i actually have some that i converted into wall hooks!!!!
She is so talented and the blocks themselves are a work of art!
Karena
Art by Karena
How much fun is that! And gorgious!
That is beautiful - stop me! I don't have the time! But, I'll bet my 13-year old could find the time..hmmm....
-Trish
Love this! I recently found a vintage steel block for a comic strip and snatched it up...still trying to find a place to put it, though...maybe I, too, will put it to use for some custom designed wrapping paper!
I love all these fun patterns and great colors. You always have the best finds!
She needs to start a wallpaper line! Such beautiful prints...worthy of more than wrapping paper..I would love to look at them all day...on a wall, in my powder room, or front entry hall..or.......... :)
How much fun. I want a set of blocks now! Am totally inspired. Really!
Thank you for this.
x Charlotta
I've been so obsessed with woodblock printing lately! LOVE the post!
designsketchbook.blogspot.com
I have collected old textile blocks for years! Great idea.
Excellent post, thank you.
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