The Watercolor Paper Bracelet, Segmented
In this workshop we will create a watercolor paper bracelet. The basic bracelet is composed of five similar shapes that are hinged together using leather chord, and closed with a simple handmade clasp. Techniques used to make the individual bracelet segments are identical to those employed to fabricate the watercolor pendant, and the basic process is as follows: Four layers of 140lb Arches watercolor paper are glued together to build the simple unit forms. After the shapes have thoroughly dried, they are filed and sanded to create refined forms. The surface of both sides is decorated by gluing a layer of exotic banana paper to the back and front of individual shapes. This exotic paper is embedded with a rich variety of naturally occurring textural elements that respond nicely to the application of light watercolor washes. The use of this paper is only one solution from the limitless possibilities that ones imagination can invent. The pieces can also be embellished with abstract watercolor washes flowed directly onto watercolor paper and eventually glued to their surfaces, or painting geometric designs or even realistic images such as flowers or landscapes. Take a look at my botanical series on www.watercolorjewelry.com to see examples of this approach. The final piece is eventually coated with a protective layer of acrylic varnish.
Materials:
140lb cold pressed, Arches Watercolor Paper
75lb Drawing Paper
Glue, Polyvinyl Acetate (P.V. A.)
Pencils
Paint Brushes
Watercolors
Craft Knife
Cutting Surface
Assorted Decorative Paper
Leather or Jewelry Chord
Minwax Polycrylic Clear Gloss Varnish
Time Required:
6 hour workshop
