"It's about time..." was the theme for the FiberAntics January ATC (artist trading card) swap. The first swap of the new year came amidst a major snowstorm here in Chattanooga, but the local ATC artists managed a quick trade before roads became hazardous for driving. The weather forecast says we could be in for 4 to 8 inches of "wintery mix" by tomorrow afternoon. My resident "Nanook of the North" has been out shoveling the walkway, but with not much success as the snow just keeps coming down.Here are the clever and timely interpretations of the theme. Top row l to r: "Time Flies," "It's about time... for Spring!!" and "Time Flies"
Bottom row l to r: "It's about time to finish those UFOs," "It's about time," "Time on my Hands," and, complete with its own pocket, "Its' about time... Grandpa got a new watch!" with a removable watch attached to the watch fob. (I love it when the cards are interactive!)
The card backs are just as interesting as the fronts and provide information on the materials and techniques used to create the cards. In talking with one of the artists at today's trade, she informed me of odorless mineral spirits (found at art supply or craft stores) that can be used to blend colored pencils (such as PrismaColor colored pencils). I haven't tried this technique. I guess I have some experimenting to do.
I hope these ATCs inspire you to experiment with paper, fabric, color and texture. ATCs are fun to create and even more fun to trade! Swap themes and registration dates are posted in the right-hand column above. Let me know if you want to participate in an upcoming ATC swap. You're invited!
