Metallics ~ Stamps and Stencils ~ New Challenge

Hi everybody! It's time for a new challenge over at Stamps and Stencils. This month, Rachel is our fabulous host and for her challenge, she has chosen 'Metallics'.  This is what Rachel has to say...
 ......" I would like you to make a piece involving metallics in some way- It could be metallic paints, rusted metal techniques, actual bits of metal, metal foil.....the possibilities are endless-also please use stamps and/or stencils, Have fun!
Now, excuse me but  is there anyone out there that does not  love a bit of 'metal' faux or otherwise, in their crafting ? So thank you Rachel this challenge certainly hits the spot!
The project I have for you today, is a little canvas. It was inspired by a couple of feathers I found in my garden, I wanted to see whether they would stand up to being painted and guess what?  they did !
I prepared the canvas by firstly collaging, torn book pages to the surface...

I used Deco Art Matte Medium and gave the surface a quick coat of gesso. In order to add some surface texture, I applied pieces of muslin fabric and lace, again using Matte Medium.....

Once this layer was dry, I added some dimensional stenciling to the edges, using Modelling Paste and and one of my favourite harlequin patterned stencils. More drying time, followed by a little Antique Linen Distress spray to the surface allowing it to pool and dribble.....

This really helped to define all the lovely textures. By this point, I had already painted the feathers with Imagination Crafts, Starlight Paint and they were wonderfully metallised.  I really, really love these paints, Here's a close up....

Before assembling the different metallic elements to the canvas, I typed out the little verse onto a piece of deli paper, using a wonderful junk shop find, portable typewriter. Oh my ! Typing is not quite as easy as using a keyboard, I kept making silly mistakes and had to start again about three times! When I had my final, error free verse, I tore it out and adhered it to the canvas with Matte Medium. I then Stamped the word 'Hope' onto a small brass off cut. I used a hammer and a set of metal stamps I've had for ages. I also used an awl to poke a couple of holes in the metal so that I could attach it to the canvas with a couple of brads.....

I added a swirl of tarnished copper wire around the brass tag. I secured it, by poking the ends through the canvas and twisting them on the back. I then attached the feathers with super strong double sided tape. Once all of the elements were secured, I added a little Treasure Gold to the edges of the canvas, applying it with my finger. I also added a few spatters of gold ink here and there.....

I'm so glad I salvaged the feathers as I think they fit really well with the beautiful poem, which I love "Hope" is the thing with feathers- by Emily Dickinson. I feel inspired to read more of her poems, maybe they'll trigger some more art work! Speaking of which....... We would love to see what you make of our September challenge, hop over to the Stamps and Stencils blog, where You'll find Rachel's fabulous project, as well as  some wonderfully inspiring projects by the rest of this fab DT. You'll also find our few simple rules, make it mixed media and use stamps, or stencils or both in your project...... come on..... you know you want to ! x