Here and There

Time-worn patinas, old frescoes and ancient ruins all have something in common: an aged and incomplete look. We all know how to create a flawless image if we want to, but there is something intriguing and mysterious about providing only a hint of an image.

TECHNIQUE ONE: Over Hill, Over Dale

A heavily textured surface will give you a here-and-there image when stamped on.

When you stamp on a heavily textured surface, the stamp only hits the high points and you get a broken up image.

Build up a textured layer with modeling paste and let dry. Glaze and then rub some of the glaze off. Let dry.

TECHNIQUE TWO: Irresistible

Petroleum jelly creates a removable resist.

Using your fingers or a cotton swab, smear some streaks of petroleum jelly onto your surface. You can then drag tools through the jelly to remove some of it. Paint or stamp on top of this surface. When your paint is completely dry wipe, off the petroleum jelly. You may need to wipe several times to completely remove the jelly. The paint remains where there was no jelly, and the result is an aged look. You can continue to layer this in different colors. And a tip: Baby wipes are good for wiping the surface clean.

TECHNIQUE THREE: Simply Sanded

Stamp or transfer an image to your surface. When it’s dry, sand the image to give it a distressed, aged look.

WAVES AND PARTICLES I

Sandra Duran Wilson

This surface is heavily textured.

WAVES AND PARTICLES II

Sandra Duran Wilson

This surface has been sanded.