It really is no secret that I truly love to journal. And while I tend to keep one journal at a time I cannot help myself but to create a fictional journal now and then if for no other reason than to keep the artistic and creative flow constantly moving.

A blank canvas journal is the perfect place to create a story. Layers of paint, ribbons and other textiles come together with an array of resin paper created with 7gypsies wonderful tissue paper. The resin paper becomes somewhat transparent when dry, creating layers that emulate windows of a sort; windows that lead the viewer into a realm of story telling and fictional histories. I hope you will find all of this inspiring and perhaps you too will create your own whimsical journey through a journal such as this.

Market List:

• Canvas Journal
• ICE Resin®
• Oval Hobnail Bezel
• 7gypsies Tissue Paper
• Paper Tape - 7gypsies
• Glassine Envelopes
• White Acrylic Paint - Eco Crafts
• Sand Acrylic Paint – Eco Crafts
• Foam Brush
• Trash Bag or Silicone Craft Mat
• Ribbons – Velvet, Satin, Art Mechanique
• Sewing Machine or Needle and Thread
• Vintage Ledger Paper
• Sheet Music
• Lace Trim
• Buttons
• Rhinestone Trim
• Linen Fabric
• Journaling Pen
• Floral Trim
• Clip Art
• Disposable Gloves

How to Create Resin Paper:

Begin by cutting the 7gypsies tissue paper into quarters, as this will allow you to work with ease. Once you have your sections mix the ICE Resin® per the provided instructions. Lay the paper onto a trash bag (make sure this is not a recycled shopping bag as it will stick), or onto the top of a silicone craft mat. Wearing gloves and using a foam brush apply a layer of resin to both sides of the paper. Set aside and allow to dry over night.

Filling a Bezel:
Place your imagery within the Oval Hobnail Bezel, using a wee bit of paper appropriate adhesive to hold the artwork in place. While the glue is drying mix a batch of resin per the instructions. With the bezel on a flat surface pour the resin into the piece. Allow to dry for 24 hours.

Prepping the Journal:
While the resin is drying create layers within the pages of the canvas journal by adding paint in coordinating shades. To ensure the paint is sufficiently dry before moving on to the next signature of pages I like to apply a little heat with a hair dryer set on low – this way your pages will not stick together.

Creating a Story:
Once your resin paper has dried you are ready to assemble. Start by layering vintage sheet music and ledger paper onto the pages that is then covered with resin paper. In my journal it was all about remaining imperfect. Layers are not cut to a specific size but rather left a bit random. Once all of the paper layers are done proceed by adding a bit of machine stitching and/or hand stitching. Ribbons and other textiles can be added in the same manner.

Onto the top of the resin paper I added a wee bit of white paint – once dry journaling was added as well. Finish embellishing by adding pieces of paper tape as well as trim and buttons.

Tips:
In lieu of sewing everything down create pockets by sewing either just the top and the bottom or three sides. This creates the perfect place to place bits of sheet music glassine envelopes and other found objects.

When filling bezels with resin it is handy to do so in an area that is not disturbed.

For more on Kristen Robinson's technique for creating Resin Paper, don't miss this FREE how-to video tutorial by Jen Cushman!

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