Hi Friends!
I have created this blog as an outlet for all of my crafts to share with you. I recently graduated with a master's degree and I don't start my new job for another two weeks; therefore, I have tons of time to lose myself in all sorts of crafts. If you're interested, I also have another blog:
http://clairescorner1.blogspot.com/. However, this blog is strictly designated for all of my brilliant ideas :)
This is the first craft I attempted during my time off. I call it "My Coiled Masterpiece".... haha. Obviously it turned out a little crooked, but I learned some things along the way that will improve my next attempt, such as using a template for my next design (although, I kinda like that it turned out a little crooked). I am also very proud that my cross cost absolutely $0 to make.
Materials:
Old magazine pages/covers
Ribbon: Because I'm a speech pathologist, I never throw anything away that could be useful later. Therefore, I had pieces of ribbon that worked out well. You can make your ribbon any length depending on how low you want your cross to hang.
Scotch Tape
Glue
Scissors
A hard edger: This is used to make deep folds in the paper. I used a small plastic handle that had broken off of a hand held lantern (again, I never throw anything away!). It essentially gave the same effect as if I had used a bone folder.
Template: I would recommend using a template to make your outline (unless you're just that good!)
Step 1: Make your outline.
I would recommend using the cover pages of a magazine to create your outline because they turn out a little sturdier. The following pictures are from regular pages because the folds will be the same.
- Cut your page into 4 equal strips. Fold it in half lengthwise (hot dog style) and then fold it in half again. This will create 4 creases that you will cut.
- Take one of your cut sections and fold it in half lengthwise. Once you have your middle crease, fold each edge to the center, creating two additional folds on the outside.
- Next, fold the new folds to your middle crease just like you previously did to create new folds. At this point, I would use your hard edge to flatten your creases. This will make your finished product look neater.
- To complete your fold, fold both sides together along your original middle crease. Again, use your hard edge down the middle crease to create a prominent fold. If you are folding your cover pages for the outline, glue the inside together all the way down to keep your fold from opening.
- The next step is important for completing your outline. I used clear scotch tape to put two of my finished folds together. Continue taping your folds together (make sure the open part of your folds face the same way) and create your design as you go.
Step 2: Make your coils.
- This is the easy part. Begin coiling your folds at one end by folding it about 1/8 inch. Continue folding it over and over. It will eventually begin to take on a "coiled" appearance.
- Once you have finished your coil, glue your end down to keep the coil together. I would also recommend gluing the inside fold of your end together (I found it made the coil look nicer because the flap on the end did not come open).
- Tape multiple folded pages together to create different sized coils (just like you did to make your outline).
Step 3: Fill your design.
- Place your coils randomly inside your design or pattern your coils, it's your choice! Add a couple layers of Mod Podge on both sides and.... Ta Da! You have your finished project! It's very time consuming, but it's a great way to make pretty art out of recycled materials! I hung my cross on my bedroom wall :)
Stay tuned for more crafts! I'm currently using this technique to create the state of Alabama!
HAPPY FOLDING!!!!
In Him,
Claire
