Identify Paintings By Monet

Identify Paintings by Monet

Unless you have a degree in classic art it's hard to know who created which masterpiece. Monet paintings are distinct representations of the impressionistic period. His paintings seem to catch a moment in time, more like a photograph than a painting. Born in Paris in 1840, Monet brushed the sights and scenes all up and down the Seine river, mastering the capture of light, shadows, water and nature. Read on to learn identify paintings by Monet.

Instructions

1. Look at a piece by Monet and you will notice the interplay of light and shadows. You cannot see the source of the son, yet Monet masterfully painted where it shone. His shadows would contrast the light. He would also use light to draw the eye to a specific place on the painting first, before the viewer would notice other details.

2. Identify a Monet also by the colors that fade into one another. Although he didn't paint any solid lines the images are clear but fluid. Because the paintings have a blurry feel to them, you're able to take in the beauty of the whole landscape.

3. Note that Impressionists were known for capturing the moment. Wind, atmosphere, season and tone are expertly depicted as if the scene were frozen in time.

4. Study his work of women walking with parasols. You'll see his interplay of light, shadows and color fades. Even though the women are in different scenes at different times of day, the style is distinct and can be remembered when trying to pick out a Monet next time your testing your artistic eye.

Make Fake Rocks

Make Fake Rocks

Imagine being able to make fake rocks that look real. You can learn make artificial rocks and use them indoors or out. Fake landscape rocks can be pricey, but making them yourself is easy and fun.

Instructions

Make Artificial Rocks

1. Break apart pieces of Styrofoam to serve as the bulk of your rocks. If you're using sheets of Styrofoam, you can stack them together to make them bigger. Don't worry about the shape; real rocks come in all shapes and sizes, so should fake landscape rocks.

2. Try using spray foam. Used in insulation or roofing repairs, this product expands and dries into a foam and is easy to paint on. Spray some on a sheet of waxed paper for easy removal and a flat bottom surface that's perfect for making a fake rock wall for your fireplace or for climbing.

3. Cover your Styrofoam rocks with self-adhesive plastic or fiberglass mesh so that the grout has a surface to adhere to. You're almost done making your fake landscape rocks.

4. Mix enough grout to cover your fake rocks. Begin slathering the grout on the outside of the rocks. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for tinting your grout. When you're done, everyone will want to learn make artificial rocks.

5. Inspect the outer surface of your fake landscape rocks after they've dried. be sure to fill in any cracks or unsightly pits.

Make A Kaleidoscope Using Cheap Materials

Pringles and sequins are two of the cheap items needed to make a kaleidoscope.

Kaleidoscopes provide simple entertainment for children and adults of all ages. The kaleidoscope's design consists of little more than a tube with a hole for looking at the light shining through objects trapped in the other side of the tube. While as of 2010 kaleidoscopes sell for around $10 in stores, you can make your own using cheap materials you already have on hand. What's more is that you get to reward yourself at the end of your easy work with Pringles chips.

Instructions

1. Remove the Pringles from the can and set them aside. Wipe out any oils from the can with the paper towel.

2. Cup a sheet of wrapping paper the length of the Pringles can. Apply glue in vertical lines along the can and wrap in in the paper. Cut off any excess and leave the glue to dry according to the directions on the glue packaging.

3. Draw a rectangle on the report cover that measures 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Draw a line across the length of the cover every 1 1/3 inches so that there are three sections of equal length and one small section. Cut out the rectangle.

4. Fold the rectangle into a triangle using these lines, with the smallest section on the outside of the triangle. Tape the outside edge of the cover to maintain its triangle shape. Place the triangle inside the can.

5. Use the pencil to poke a hole in the middle of the end of the can. Band the plastic wrap to the other end of the can so that it sags somewhat into the triangle. Pour the transparent and shiny objects onto the wrap.

6. Put glue on the wrap along the rim of the can. Press the lid onto the can and cut the excess wrap from around it. Leave the kaleidoscope to allow the glue to dry.

7. Eat the Pringles while you enjoy your kaleidoscope.

Make Graffiti Stencil

Making a graffiti stencil is a great way to quickly deploy bold, graphic images. Like other graffiti techniques, graffiti stencils are generally used with spray paint. It's relatively easy to get started with graffiti stencils regardless of your level of artistic skill. Besides spraying walls, you can use your stencils to create custom clothing, patches, posters and mixed media art.

Instructions

1. Start with a generously sized piece of lightweight cardboard. This project is a great way to reuse old record covers or cereal boxes, for example.

2. Draw the general outline of the image you would like to stencil on the blank side of the cardboard. Alternatively, glue a photocopied or printed image you would like to stencil onto the cardboard instead.

3. Use pencil lines to break the image up into individual pieces that can be cut out without destroying the image. For example, if you want to stencil the letter "o", you can't just cut around the outer circle, or you'll lose the inner circle. You need to break your "o" (or whatever the shape is) into two or more smaller pieces that can be removed individually, leaving thin strips in between to hold the rest of the image in place.

4. Place the cardboard on the heavier cardboard or cutting mat to protect your work surface, then use the craft knife to carefully cut out and remove the pieces you drew and create your graffiti stencil.

Identify An Original Photograph

With careful examination, you can tell if a photograph is original.

Original, or vintage, photos are generally more valuable than their reprints. You may want to have an old photograph appraised, or you may just be curious about its origins. Identifying an original photo print involves checking whether the print is genuine and dating the photograph to see if it is authentic. With a little knowledge of the photograph's history and the photography process you should be able to spot a fake photograph.

Instructions

1. Look at whether the lighting in the photograph is consistent. A cursory glance can tell you a lot, but you may need to use a magnifying glass to look for inconsistencies. For instance, if the sun in a photograph is to the left of the subject, but the right of the subject appears washed out with light, the photograph may be doctored.

2. Compare the subject to the background if the lighting is inconsistent. With the magnifying glass, look at specific items in the photograph. For instance, if your photo is supposedly a woman who lived in the 1800s, check to make sure there is nothing modern in the background. It may be as obvious as a washing machine or as subtle as an electrical cord.

3. Look at how the photograph was printed. Early photographs were printed on glass or metal, not paper. While paper prints were used in the 1800s and 1900s, Polaroid prints were not invented until 1963, so if your subject in a Polaroid print is something older, the photograph has been reprinted. Find out exactly what your photograph is printed on and compare it to the time period of the photograph.

4. Look at the photograph through a microscope for dots. If the photograph was printed with a computer or modern printer, it will have patterns of dots, either in a color or black-and-white pattern. If you're looking at an older photograph and it has dots, it's almost certainly a reprint.

5. Check the film negatives. If you have the film negatives, chances are you have an original photograph. To be sure, examine the negatives to see if you can find out any information about a manufacturer or serial number.

6. Download and install a computer program like JPEGsnoop (it's free), and load the file in question. For digital photographs it may be harder to tell whether someone has doctored the photograph. Photo analysis software can examine pixel patterns to tell if a photo has been through a program like Adobe Photoshop. The program will analyze the photograph and tell you the likelihood of its authenticity.

Identify An Authentic Andrew Wyeth Print

Identifying an authentic art print takes time and attention to detail.

Andrew Wyeth was an American Contemporary Realist painter who lived from 1917 to 2009. Original works by Andrew Wyeth are available for purchase in art galleries around the world. Wyeth was known for his watercolors depicting natural landscapes and pre-World War II American life. Many of his works are on display at the Brandywine River Museum. Although he passed away in 2009, his works are still sought after. Identifying an authentic Wyeth print involves securing a certificate of authenticity from the seller.

Instructions

1. Look for a reproduction number on the print. All authentic prints are reproductions of original works. In Wyeth's case, the surviving family must approve all requests for reproductions of original Wyeth works. As of November 2010, the family has not approved the reproduction of Wyeth prints on books, T-shirts or other mass-produced items such as posters. An authentic Wyeth print will have a number which identifies it as part of an authorized series, such as 2/400. The limited number of reproductions is what gives a print its value.

2. Look for a signature on your print. Authentic prints include authorized signatures by Andrew Wyeth or his family near the reproduction series number. If your print is missing either a series number or authorized signature, it is not an authentic Wyeth print.

3. Compare your print to a catalog of Wyeth's work. If your print is an authentic reproduction, it will match an image of the original in a catalog displaying his published works. Wyeth's style is noted for muted colors and soft strokes. If your print does not appear in the catalog, or looks very different in style, it is not an authentic Wyeth print.

4. Demand a certificate of authenticity from the seller of the print. Galleries are the primary sellers of Wyeth works, and they should provide a certificate of authenticity with each print. You may also ask the gallery where they obtained the print. It should have come from the family itself or an authorized dealer. If this information or a certificate of authenticity cannot be provided, you may not have an authentic Wyeth print.

Frank Fowler is an art dealer authorized by the Wyeth family on their website to sell authentic Wyeth prints. These prints are viewable online. If you want to ensure you purchase an authentic print, consider going through Mr. Fowler.

Identify An Authenic Andrew Wyeth Print

Buying or selling a forged Wyeth watercolor can land you in legal hot water.

Even before his death in 2009 at the age of 91, American painter Andrew Wyeth was a victim of art counterfeiters. One well-known fake in circulation since 1998 was openly decried by the artist himself. Four known forgeries have emerged since his death. In early October 2010, the FBI Art Crime Team announced the seizure of a forged 1939 Wyeth painting "Wreck on Doughnut Point," valued at more than $100,000.

Art forgery is a $6-billion industry worldwide, according to the FBI. If you're looking to add an authentic Wyeth print to your collection, follow these steps to better protect yourself against fraud.

Instructions

1. Be wary of Wyeth prints found on Ebay and at small art auctions. Auctions appeal to impulse buying, and often it is difficult or impossible to properly examine a print before placing a bid, especially through grainy photographs on the Internet. Certificates of authenticity cannot always be relied upon unless the auctioneer has a long reputation for selling genuine art prints.

2. Educate yourself on the finer details of Wyeth's work. Examine authentic prints and learn to recognize his hand signature, as well as what his prints look like on the front, back and sides. Don't be fooled by a name or signature that was not actually signed by the artist's own hand. Every authentic Wyeth print is unique -- like a set of fingerprints -- knowing what to look for when analyzing a print is critical.

3. Ask the seller to provide you clear, legible photographs of the print when purchasing long-distance. Expect several photos showing all details: a close-up of the artist's signature, several angles of the frame, as well as the front and back of the print. If a seller will not provide these detailed photographs upon request, this should rightly arouse suspicion.

4. Check with the International Foundation of Art Research if you have suspicions about a particular print. IFAR maintains a stolen art database and publishes alerts of known forgeries. They also offer objective Authentication Research Services on works where the authenticity is in question. IFAR will examine a work for a prospective buyer with the owner's written permission.

5. Contact the Brandywine River Museum in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. Mary Landa, curator of the Andrew Wyeth Collection, is an authoritative source on Wyeth's work. Her trained, keen eye has spotted Wyeth forgeries in the past.

6. Hire a reputable art appraiser. Although art appraisers are not licensed, they must follow strict ethical guidelines. Members of the American Society of Appraisers and the Appraisers Association of America must be certified. Their work is peer-reviewed and tested. This guarantees that the appraiser knows proper authentication procedures. However, it does not mean an appraiser will not make a mistake -- even the world's best curators, appraisers and art experts have been fooled by skillful forgeries.

7. Know the law before you buy. Statutes vary by country and state, so make sure you understand your potential liability if you purchase or sell a fake Wyeth print. Even if you were unaware of the print being a forgery, you may be held financially responsible for the print's return under certain circumstances.

Identify Alexander Calder Paintings

Abstract forms and strong colors are typical of Calder's sculptures and paintings.

Alexander Calder was an American artist who, in the words of the "Los Angeles Times" Culture Monster, "gave sculptural form to currents of air." Calder, who was born in 1898 and died in 1976, was educated as an engineer and was profoundly influenced by the natural world as well. Best known for his mobiles, Calder at first used gears to animate them then realized that air currents alone provided sufficient energy. While Calder was primarily a sculptor, he was also a painter. His works include two airplanes for the now-defunct Braniff Airlines.

Instructions

1. Examine each painting for a signature. Most Calder pieces are signed. Alternatively, a lucrative market exists for forged art and antiques. A signature and even a painting's known history, or provenance, do not guarantee authenticity. Forgeries can be of extraordinary quality.

2. Study each painting's style to determine whether or not it is modern art. If it is an early work by Calder, it may be a slightly surreal representation of a recognizable event or place, such as a circus act or New York cityscape. If Calder painted it after 1930, it will be abstract, often highly so, requiring the viewer to make an imaginative effort to understand the work. Calder's paintings of the 1960s and 1970s are simpler and more representational, but they are also less rich in imagery.

3. Check for the texture of brushstrokes on each painting's canvas, paper or wood. Calder's early paintings are oil, and they share the delicacy for which oil paintings are known. After 1930, when Calder's art became purely abstract, he continued to use oil but with a much more saturated brush. He increasingly worked in gouache, a heavily pigmented water soluble media capable of very intense colors, and ink, which produces a hard, flat line. Many of his works combine media, particularly ink and gouache. Calder also made many lithographs, a printing technique that does not texture paper in the same way as painting.

4. Look for vivid, saturated color. Calder used white and black as colors as well as to define positive and negative space. The rest of his palette was similarly intense but limited mostly to red, blue, yellow, orange and magenta. Green is noticeably rare. Often the color is rubbed or scratched away to reveal traces of underpainting, also in vivid, saturated colors. Equally often, colors, including white, are spattered with black. Occasionally, colors are almost translucent, but this is rare. Also rare in his paintings are pristine fields of a single color.

5. Compare each suspected Calder painting to known Calders of impeccable provenance. If after comparison a painting still seems to be a Calder, contact the Calder Foundation and apply to register the painting with the foundation. If the foundation registers the painting, it will not charge a fee. The foundation, however, does not issue certificates of authenticity or assist with appraisals.

Humiliate Someone

Although it is wrong to humiliate somebody, it can be sweet revenge when a double crossing took place, whether from an ex- lover, friend, family member or a rival. Bring shame to the target. Here's do it in the worst ways.

Instructions

1. Strategize well before degrading someone. Certain methods works well depending on the person being dealt with. Is the person very strong-headed and lets embarrassment roll off his back or is he prone to sensitivity and easily mortified? Consider these questions to get an idea of what kind of action is needed.

2. Make false claims to those closest to her in her circle. One of the best ideas is to spread terrible rumors about the person. Then watch her try to deny all the accusations and prove all the lies aren't true.

3. Create a blog on the Internet exposing her deepest secrets and embarrassing stories. Or go to websites that will gain plenty of visitors such as Myspace and make a fake profile about her so everyone can get all the juicy details about her. To heighten the embarrassment, post pictures of the person so the public can see.

4. Invite the person to a party and get really drunk. Talk loudly so every guest can hear you reveal embarrassing details about her and watch her fuming at your drunken speech. A bad reputation can be hard to live down so make sure to think of ones that will make everyone see her in a different light.

5. Use his biggest flaw against him. If a guy likes to wear women's clothing and makeup, take snapshots of him and show it to all his friends and family or if a woman is known around town as a serial cheater, gather all of her lovers so they will confront each other at the most unexpected time.

Hot Fix Rhinestones

Rhinestones are artificial gems consisting of rock crystal, glass or plastic made especially to imitate precious stones such as diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds. Rhinestones are a simple way to smarten up your look by giving an article of clothing or an accessory a bit of sparkle and color. When it comes to adhering rhinestones to fabric, the hot press method ensures that you attach them easily and securely.

Instructions

1. Select a rhinestone and a metal tip for your hot press wand that is the same size as the rhinestone. Attach the metal tip to the wand and plug the wand in. Wait approximately six minutes for the tool to heat up.

2. Press the tip of the metal wand to the colored side of the rhinestone. Pick the stone up using the wand. The bottom side of the stone should be facing straight up. Allow the stone to sit on the wand in this fashion for around seven to eight seconds. You should watch the glue on the bottom side of the rhinestone. Once it begins to bubble, the rhinestone is sufficiently hot.

3. Press the glue side of the rhinestone down very lightly onto the fabric. Do not press down hard. Light pressure is all you need to secure the rhinestone safely.

4. Repeat with all the rhinestones you want to apply. The process can go quickly if you've determined your pattern ahead of time, because the wand is already hot.

Make Rocks With Polyester Resin

You can make any size rock from polyester resin.

Making artificial rocks is an important project for plays, movies and landscaping. Artificial rocks are lighter than real rocks, and usually less expensive. One easy way to make realistic looking rocks is to create the rocks from Styrofoam and polyester resin. After making the rock base you can then paint the rocks as desired to make them look realistic.

Instructions

1. Cut the Styrofoam into the basic shape that you want for the rocks using the utility knife. Use duct tape to hold the pieces together if you want to fit more than one piece together.

2. Cut fiberglass sheets into 4-by-4-inch pieces. Use smaller pieces if you want to build rocks that are smaller than 4 inches. Wear thick work gloves to protect your hands.

3. Mix up a small batch of polyester resin. Only mix up enough for one coat at a time. Add enough catalyst to make the mixture thin enough to spread but thick enough to not drip.

4. Dip the fiberglass sheets into the resin mixture. Press the sheets over the Styrofoam blocks. Overlap the sheets when possible, and press down the edges to create rounded corners. Allow the first coat to dry overnight.

5. Fill in the tops of the fiberglass sheets with another coating of resin applied with a paintbrush. Allow this coat to dry overnight as well. Apply a second coat of fiberglass sheeting and one final resin coat. Allow the rocks to dry for 24 hours.

6. Sand the surface of the rocks with rough grit sandpaper to create a rough surface similar to a real rock. Wipe the rocks clean with a damp cloth.

Make Your Own Movie Sign

Movie signs are a great way to promote a movie or play and can be fun for students to create.

Making a movie sign is a great way to promote movies. Many movie production houses and independent filmmakers use this as a way to advertise their movie to the public. You can create your own movie sign for educational purposes whether you are in college or elementary school or just for fun. Students can create a movie sign for a movie they created or to express themselves about a movie they have seen. Making a movie sign is a great way to announce a play production at schools, churches or youth groups. It is also a way to announce movie night for students.

Instructions

Computer created movie sign

1. Open your brochure creator program.

2. Click your "File" tab then select "New." Select "Brochures" and choose your page size and orientation. A new workspace will appear.

3. Create a rectangle shape to create your background. Click your "Insert" tab and select "Picture." Choose "Auto Shapes." Choose the rectangle shape. Click inside your rectangle shape and select your background color. Your shape will be filled with your color choice.

4. Create a text box to type in your movie title. Click your "Insert" tab and select "Text Box." Click your mouse inside your text box and select your font, font size and color. Type in your text.

5. Repeat the step to create more text boxes to type in more information.

6. Find images to accompany your movie sign. You can find images on the Internet or in magazines.

7. Add your images to your movie sign. Click your "Insert" tab and select "Picture." Choose "Add Image." A pop-up will appear. Choose your image file.

8. Resize your image to make it larger or smaller. Click your image guidelines and drag it with your mouse to resize your image.

9. Repeat the step to add more images. Adjust your images and text boxes to fit your workspace.

10. Save your file once you are finished.

11. Print your movie sign on your bright white paper or brochure paper using your color printer.

Paper and glue movie sign

12. Find images for your movie sign. You can find images on the Internet or in magazines.

13. Cut out your pictures using scissors.

14. Glue your pictures onto your paper.

15. Write your movie title with a pencil or pen, or glue on cut-out letters to your paper.

Make Gift Baskets

Gift baskets make really good presents for any occasion--or even no occasion at all! Stores often sell them around holidays like Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and graduations. However, baskets can be gifts just to show someone you are thinking about them. Baskets can be great for men, too, and if you make them yourself, you can ensure that the basket is masculine enough for his liking. It’s easy to customize and make your own gift baskets for the people that you care about; here's how.

Instructions

1. Decide what kind of basket you want to make. Do you want to make a candy basket filled with all of their favorite treats? Is the person a chocolate lover? Is the recipient a perfume or flower lover? Is she obsessed with a particular character or theme? Perhaps you’d like to make that the focus of the items in your basket. For instance, if someone loves a certain character or superhero, you can design a basket filled with things that represent that character.

2. Purchase the items that focus on your chosen theme, buying things that reflect the receiver’s personality. For instance, if you are preparing a basket for someone who likes a particular character and loves to write, you might want to get a character journal or notebooks to include in that basket. The sky is the limit when it comes to the items you choose. Get your main items first, preferably at least one that is significantly larger than the others, to serve as your centerpiece. Consider buying less expensive items in addition to the main ones you choose, perhaps from a dollar store, which will support your theme and help give your basket more fullness.

3. Prepare your supplies. First, you want to decide what type of base you want to use. This could be a traditional basket, or something non-traditional. As long as it will hold the items you want it to, it really doesn’t matter. You will be using your creativity to design and decorate it anyway. Buy decorative paper to line your basket. You can be creative with this as well. For instance, if you are designing a basket for a comic book lover, you can line the basket with pages from comic books. You can choose colorful tissue paper. Don’t forget to buy cellophane sheets and ribbons to wrap the basket once you have finished filling it.

4. Arrange your basket. This is probably the most fun and creative part. Fill it with all of the wonderful goodies you’ve purchased. When you have finished, center the basket on a piece of cellophane paper large enough to cover it, and tie it at the top with a piece of ribbon.

Fix Latex Paint Drips

Use a utility knife to carefully removed dried latex paint drips.

Drips have a tendency to be discovered when the paint is already dry, a surprise no painter wants when he stands back to survey his handiwork. Maybe it was an overloaded paintbrush or paint that was thinned or poorly mixed. Perhaps the paint roller was the culprit. The key to fixing latex paint drips is to tackle the job as soon as possible. Latex paint cures in 14 to 30 days and once the paint has hardened a little drip becomes a real drag.

Instructions

1. Remove a wet drip immediately. If the drip is on the floor or other surface that you were not painting, use a damp rag to wipe it clean. If the drip is on the surface you are painting and the surrounding paint is still wet, go over the area with your paintbrush or roller to remove the drip. If the surrounding paint has dried somewhat, smooth out the drip so the surface is even and allow the paint to dry fully. If you see lap marks -- areas of uneven paint which form when painters "touch up" an area of drying paint -- give the entire surface another coat of paint.

2. Remove a dry drip on a previously painted wall with a flat razor blade or utility knife, taking care not to cut yourself. If you will be repainting the area, lightly sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper to make sure the drip area is no longer raised. Prime the spot if bare drywall or plaster is visible. Repaint using paint from the same can but thin it 10 to 15 percent with water. If the area was originally painted with a brush, repaint with a brush. If it was painted with a roller, use a trim roller.

3. Remove a latex paint drip from a satin- or glossy-finish surface like wood or vinyl flooring using a flat razor blade. Take care not to cut yourself or scratch the surface below the paint drip. Apply heat to a stubborn drip to soften it and make it easier to remove with the razor blade. Start with hot, soapy water. If this fails to soften the drip sufficiently, try heating the drip using the low-air, high-heat setting of a hairdryer.

Get Free Art At An Art Festival

Get Free Art at an Art Festival

Who can resist art festivals? The open market environment brings out all kinds of artists and art communities with their easels and tents ready to sell their wares. Although most of us can enjoy and appreciate the skill involved with artistic endeavors, not many of us can afford to buy a $500 painting or $300 metal sculpture. Don’t despair. You can still leave the grassy grounds of your favorite art gathering with something to remember it by. If you want some free art from your favorite festival, here’s get it.

Instructions

Get Free Art at an Art Festival

1. Get the promotional poster. Larger art festivals will offer a promotional poster to participants for free in the visitor or information booth. Usually these posters are pieces of art in and of themselves, so a simple frame will give you something to hang on the wall and enjoy. Collect them every year and start a display grouping.

2. Pick up business cards. Artists often use a piece of their own artwork as part of their business card or promotional post card. By picking up the ones that interest you the most, you have the makings for a free magnet art piece. Simply take the postcard or business card home and glue it to some magnet paper (or use those promotional magnets from banks and credit cards) and you have some free art for your fridge.

3. Take some photographs. Dont photograph artists' work, but really the festival atmosphere itself is a work of art. Anyone with a digital camera can capture the colors and textures of a crowd of people at an art show and frame it as artwork for their living room. A nice matte and frame will enhance colors captured in your picture.

4. Buy in bulk. If you are thinking of buying some hand-thrown pottery dishes or a series of photographs by one artist, use your philanthropy as a means of getting a discount or free piece with your large purchase. Most artists appreciate your business, and having their art exposed to others is often worth the price of a dinner plate or small photograph so don’t be afraid to ask for a freebie.

5. Do it yourself. If you are artistically talented or creatively crafty, you can get ideas from art festivals, even if you are unable to reproduce the work in its entirety. Whether it’s a collage technique you hadn’t thought of before, or a sewing project you can put your own spin on, getting inspired at the art festival is worth the price of the ticket and gets you home with some free ideas.

6. Barter. If you have something the artist may need, such as rare fabric or hard-to-find items that they use in their collage work, make a deal. You may not walk out with any art, but you can arrange for a trade off of materials for finished product. Many artists don’t have a lot of money for materials, so if you can make them a deal, they may bite at the chance to beef up their art supplies.

Have A Good Conversation With A Woman

Conversations are not just about talking.

Talking is just one part of making conversation, according to Dr. Norman Markel of the University of Florida. Mastering the art of conversation with a woman requires understanding all the different aspects of what makes a conversation good.

Considerations

Being comfortable when conversing is important for both parties. Achieve this by doing a variety of things. Maintain eye contact when she is talking, as this will show her you are listening. Avoid one-word-answer questions, which can cause the conversation to end. Allow for natural pauses; do not let your nerves try to fill every silence. Even great conversations have pauses.

Types

The type of conversation you have is crucial. If the woman you are talking to is not a friend, you need to stick to comfortable subjects, such as local news, hobbies and interests. Build up the conversation, until it flows naturally. Be careful to avoid potentially controversial subjects such as politics.

Warning

We often talk as much with our body as we do with our mouths. Touching someone on the arm or hand, during conversation, is often a natural mannerism. Avoid this when talking to a woman you do not know. Invading personal space can put her on edge and lead to awkward silences.

Have A Good Conversation On The Phone

In a digital world, it’s easy to forget that there are often times when the importance of a message one needs to deliver should be a priority. It cannot simply be shrugged off and transformed into a line or two of conversation. Instead, it should be handled more professionally and thoroughly with a phone conversation. After spending a day filled with typing your messages and responses--or clipping them into shorter and more “efficient” forms--a good phone conversation can feel foreign and overwhelming. However, you can transform an average conversation into one of depth and meaning.

Instructions

1. Set aside a good two hour span of time for your phone call before placing it. You may find that, even if your message is planned and precise, the response it receives may not be. Just as you wouldn’t want to feel cheated out of all that you feel is important to say, you want to make sure to extend that courtesy to your message's receiver.

2. Pick an appropriate time to call. This would be a time when your contact is most likely not eating a family meal, sleeping or inconvenienced in any other obvious way. Etiquette suggests that you avoid calling between 5 and 7 o'clock in the evening.

3. Start your conversation in a very warm manner. Even if the message that you have to deliver is grim, you want the person to know that you are glad to be speaking with him and that you value and appreciate the time he set aside to talk to you.

4. Ask questions. Inquire about his opinion on all topics you bring up. A curious mind is one capable of the best conversations. All people want to talk about themselves. If it's bad news, you can still ask questions about how the person is doing, what it makes them feel like and how he might like assistance. Asking how he would help a friend going through something similar will give you great insight into what he actually needs.

5. Keep your statements simple and concise. The telephone is not a time for grand elaboration. Without seeing him face to face, the chances of boring someone are really doubled. Say what you need to say. Let him speak after that.

6. Be courteous when concluding the conversation. Keep in mind that you have just taken up a bit of his time. Thank him for his time and thoughts. Make an appointment to see him in person if this is appropriate. Letting someone know that you're done with him after delivering news of any kind is important. Say good-bye with warmth.

Have A Cartoon Published

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Have a Cartoon Published

So you have an idea for a cartoon or comic. Unfortunately, in this day of giants like Marvel Comics and Disney, as well as established characters and authors, it's tricky to get into the cartoon business. But it's not impossible. Develop a strong idea, choose a format, canvass the publishing market for a publisher that fits your vision, and pitch, pitch, pitch. Publishers often have their submission guidelines posted online. Pitching outside of their regular submission process or topics is often a waste of time, so pitch carefully.

Instructions

1. Decide if you want to develop a single panel cartoon, a periodical cartoon (comic strip), cartoon (comic) book or moving picture cartoon. Each variation has different publishing channels.

2. Choose a protagonist and the problems he will face. The cartoon might have topical, political or societal undertones or overtones. Determine the angle you'd like the cartoon to take or if it will be strictly for entertainment. Choose an age group to focus on. Children's cartoons tend to be simplified and purely for entertainment, whereas cartoons for adults tend to focus on a feature of human nature and can use more suggestive language or topics.

3. Draw and write the cartoon or work with an artist to draw out your story. Have it edited by a friend or colleague. Then rework it.

4. Scope out publishers for your cartoon. A single panel cartoon, depending on subject matter, might be right for your local newspaper or a regional magazine. A periodical cartoon strip also might be appropriate for newspaper publication. Contact your local newspaper or submit it to newspaper conglomerates like the Tribune Company or the New York Times Company. A cartoon book should be pitched to publishers like DC Comics or Manuscript Press. If your cartoon is of the moving-picture variety, pitch it to public access television or to your local network stations.

5. Check out the Web sites of publishers to which you plan to pitch. They might accept open submissions or only from published authors. Read the submission guidelines carefully.

6. Look into syndication. If your cartoon has the potential to see months or years of character complications and plot development, consider partnering with a syndicate. Submit to Creators Syndicate or King Features on their Web sites. Or self-syndicate, leaving more money in your pocket, using Syndicate Your Cartoon (syndicateyourcartoon.com). This website offers mass submissions to daily and weekly newspapers, alternative newspapers and college newspapers. All publications listed are open to submissions.

7. Work with a media agent for representation for all publishers listed above. A locally-based agent has pull with local outlets like newspapers, magazines and television stations and can get you hooked up with events like book signings and cartoon expos or conventions.

8. Consider publishing your cartoon in an anthology. Many local writers and publishers plan annual publishings of local artists' material. Talk with a media agent or your local Chamber of Commerce to see if there is an anthology in your area. You might also try more established anthologies like "An Anthology of Graphic Fiction, Cartoons and True Stories," published by the Yale University Press. An anthology might be a one-time publishing venture or it could be annual, like Yale's book.

9. Self-publish. When all else fails, self-publish your cartoon. Work with an online publisher or make several copies at Kinko's. If you work with a print-on-demand online publisher, you can list your cartoon book for sale at sites like Amazon, which will handle the shipping for you or let you know where to ship. Send sample copies to comic reviewers or cartoon magazines to get the word out.

Harden Sculpting Clay

A harder clay surface makes adding detail easier.

Most sculpting clay is fairly soft, allowing you to push it around and create forms quickly. This softness is a benefit when roughing out a sculpture, but can be a problem when it comes time to add fine detail. Fortunately there are two easy ways to temporarily harden the surface of your clay, allowing you to do detail work without the risk of smearing. The first is through the use of powder, the second uses temperature.

Instructions

Baby Powder

1. Pour a small amount of baby powder into a bowl.

2. Load a fluffy makeup powder brush with a generous amount of baby powder.

3. Brush the powder against the clay using small, circular motions. You can be aggressive: the brush is too soft to damage the clay. This works well for water-based clay, and is adequate for oil-based clay.

Freezing

4. Purchase a can of compressed air from a computer shop. This product is typically used to clean electronics.

5. Hold the can upside-down.

6. Squeeze the trigger, allowing the liquid from the can to spray over the clay. This will rapidly cool and harden it for a short time.

7. Reapply this liquid as needed. This technique works well on oil-based clays, but can damage the surface of water-based clays by creating ice crystals in the clay.

Improve Your Conversation Skills

communication skills

In order to improve your conversation skills, you need to remember a few simple steps as outlined in this article. If you are generally shy, it may feel awkward at first but if you keep trying you will become a good conversationalist fairly quickly.

Instructions

1. Be a Good Listener, Show Interest and Then Talk

The best way to get started is to join in on conversation in a group environment. Pay attention to people's conversations around you and then respond with your thoughts and opinions. If you listen to and remember what people are saying, you will gain a sense of what is important to them and have a starting point for your next conversation. As an example, if your coworker mentions her daughter's school activities frequently, the next time you see her, ask her a specific question about one of her daughter's activities. The idea is to show someone you remember and value their conversation.

2. Have Conversation Starters Ready

Start your morning with watching the news. Go to news websites online and glance through the headlines. Listen to a radio talk show on the way to work and keep some amusing anecdotes in mind for conversation starters. When you meet people ask them what they think about the latest news or tell them the amusing anecdote so they can get a laugh out of it and engage in conversation with you.

3. Make Your Conversation Relate-able

Once you have a sense of what is important to the person you are talking to, bring your conversation back to those topics so that the conversation holds meaning for them as well.

4. Take Public Speaking Classes

If you tend to be shy about talking in front of people, invest in a public speaking class and practice your presentation skills so you can gain confidence in your communication skills.

5. Learn to Ask Good Questions

Having conversation is a way to get to know another human being. If you have a sincere interest in getting to know someone, spend more time around them, listen and ask for their opinions and feedback. Good questions are open ended questions that allow the person you're talking to share a story. An example of an open ended question is "How did you spend your weekend?". A closed ended question is "Did you have a good weekend?". A closed ended question results in a "yes" or "no" answer and doesn't help the flow of conversation. An open ended question engages the other person in conversation.

6. Give Genuine Compliments

Be generous with sincere compliments and optimism. People are generally drawn to positive, outgoing people who value the people around them. If you are talking to someone and appreciate a comment or information that the other person is providing, make sure to genuinely tell them what you appreciate. Once people know that you care about their opinions, they will want to talk to you. You can improve your conversation skills by paying attention to the small details and caring about other people.

Make A Nail Rasp

Make a Nail Rasp

A nail rasp is as simple an instrument to make as it is to play. A finished nail rasp will create a soft, beautiful, bell-like sound. It only takes a few minutes to make a nail rasp, but it can be played for a lifetime.

Instructions

1. Draw a line with a pencil in the center of the wood block, beginning at one end and drawing the line the entire length of the wood.

2. Measure and mark where to place the nails, spacing evenly. The nails will be grouped according to their sizes, beginning with the longest and ending with the shortest.

3. Decorate your nail rasp with paint or markers, or even carve designs into the wood block. Have fun decorating your new instrument. If you will be covering the center line with paint or decoration, use a hammer and nail to begin a small hole in each mark, so you don't lose your place.

4. Hammer the nails into the places you have marked along the center line. Be gentle as not to split the wood.

5. Play the nail rasp by rhythmically running the large nail down the row of nails. The different lengths of nails will make a variety of bell-like sounds. You can experiment with different nail sizes and grouping to create new sounds.

Get An Mfa In Sculpture

Sculpture is a wonderful way to express your creative side. If you wish to study further and get an MFA in sculpture, it can assist you in finding teaching jobs, peers with which to learn and grow and mentors that can help you network and find studios. Read on to learn get an MFA in sculpture.

Instructions

1. Obtain an undergraduate degree in art or the humanities. An art form like sculpting requires a concentration on technique. Learning these things outside or inside class will be key to getting admitted to a graduate program.

2. Hone your skills with sculpting, and prepare a professional portfolio. Because sculpting is done with many materials, and in many sizes, a good quality portfolio with professional pictures of your art work will suffice.

3. Search through different programs. Instead of basing your decision on locale or ease of admission, look for a school that will give you what you need to grow as an artist. Look for how much studio space each student is given, and how many different genres you can study.

4. Take the GRE. Not every school will require this test, but it is never a bad idea to take it for the ones that do. In order to get accepted into an MFA program in sculpture you must have all of your materials ready for submission well ahead of time.

5. Apply to different schools. You may want to keep the number of schools to a minimum, but it may be harder to get into an MFA program in sculpture than some other studies. Any art program is going to have a lot of competition.

Hang Photographs At An Art Show Booth

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Sell your photography by displaying matted photos at an art show.

Many photographers earn money from selling their photos at art shows and craft fairs. A large, lightweight and portable display is key to selling photographs, as your display must be eye-catching. Hang the photos with adhesive hooks. They are lightweight and many can be removed and repositioned. A lightweight wire gauge, such as 26 or 28 gauge, is ideal for hanging the matted photographs, as it's light yet durable. The wire will hold up for multiple art shows and the buyer can use it to hang the photo if they prefer to display the work without a frame.

Instructions

1. Mount each photograph on a cardboard photo matting board. The precise mounting method varies according to the matting style. In some cases, you must slide the photo into a pocket that's secured with an adhesive strip, whereas others are secured in place with double-sided tape.

2. Cut a piece of craft wire for each photo. Use wire cutters to snip the wire. The wire should be 3 to 4 inches longer than the width of the photo matting.

3. Bend the ends of each wire into a 1-inch diameter loop. Secure each loop by wrapping the end of the wire around the wire at the base of the loop.

4. Run a 4-inch-long piece of Gorilla tape through each loop and attach the tape to the back of the photo matting. Position the loops on the matting back, one-third of the way down on each side. The wire length will extend across the back of the matted photo.

5. Place a tri-fold cardboard display board flat on a table and arrange the mounted photographs on the display.

6. Attach adhesive hooks to the display board. Mount one hook for each photo. Mount each hook so it will be positioned at the center of the photo, a few inches below the top of the photo mat.

7. Hang the photos on the display board by hooking the wire on the adhesive hook. Stand the display upright and stabilize the board by positioning the two side panels at a 30-degree angle relative to the back panel.

Hang Mobile Art

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Hang Mobile Art

Mobiles are most commonly associated with babies because parents like to hang mobiles above their cribs. However, mobiles may be made into serious art pieces. Artists have built their careers around constructing mobiles for public spaces (one famous example is Alexander Calder). Mobile art can be found online, or mobile artists can be commissioned to make a mobile for your home.

Instructions

1. Determine the placement of the mobile on the ceiling. Keep in mind that if the mobile is placed near a window, it may blow occasionally in the draft. If it is placed in direct sunlight, you may notice fading over time, depending on the material the mobile and art works are made from. Place the mobile far enough from walls and other objects so the mobile's movement will be free and unimpeded.

2. Drill a hole in your ceiling over your chosen location. The hole should be slightly smaller than the screw for the screw hook.

3. Screw the screw-end of the hook into the hole you just drilled, until the hook feels secure.

4. Attach the swivel hook to the screw hook in the ceiling. The swivel hook will allow the mobile to rotate freely in the room. Attach the end of the chain (or tie the end of the fishing line) to the swivel hook.

5. Measure the length of chain (or fishing line) from which the mobile will hang. You may need to try several links on the chain until you find the appropriate height.

6. Cut the remainder of the chain with the bolt cutters, or if you're using a fishing line, cut the leftover fishing line with the scissors.

Hang A Wall Mural

A wall mural can be a beautiful decoration for your home. If you find that perfect image, or have a custom image done, you want to get it on your wall as soon as you can. Two adults should work together to hang a wall mural to minimize mistakes. Make sure you take your time and go through a checklist of needed tools before you start working. One little defect can turn your perfect mural into an average poster.

Instructions

1. Check your mural for defects. If you find any, call the mural's manufacturer and let him know what's wrong. Most likely he'll fix it.

2. Smooth out the wall you plan to hang the mural on. This means you have to remove any wallpaper, extra paste, frame hooks and light fixtures, and fill and sand any cracks or holes in the wall. Walls made of rough surfaces, like cinder block or wood paneling, should be covered with liner paper and two coats of latex paint. Your wall should be primed with latex paint before hanging the mural. If your wall is covered in a glossy paint, use low-grit sandpaper to roughen the surface before applying two coats of latex paint.

3. Lay out all your panels and number them on the back. This will ensure that you hang them in the right order.

4. Make pencil marks on the wall where the first panel will begin and end. Make the marks in the top left corner, then the top right corner. Starting in the top right corner, mark vertical dots down until you reach the floor. Use your level to connect the dots in straight line. Hanging the first panel correctly is the most important step, so make sure everything is even.

5. Take the upper left panel of your mural and lay it blank side up on a clean surface. Take your roller paint brush and apply an even coat of adhesive to the panel.

6. Bring your panel to the wall. Use a ladder or a step stool to reach the top left corner of your wall and slide your panel in place. Attach the top left corner and then the top right corner. Then slowly stick the rest of the panel to the wall.

7. Take a damp sponge or foam brush to gently press the panel against the wall. Work from the ceiling down and use light strokes. Work out all wrinkles and bubbles by gently brushing outward.

8. Repeat steps five, six and seven for your remaining mural panels. Remember that the panels will have about a two-inch overlap, so match the image in the mural rather than the panel edges.

9. Trim excess edges that cover the ceiling or floorboards.

10. Smooth out all air bubbles and wrinkles one last time, and remove excess paste with a clean sponge.

Hang A Metal Picture Collage

How you hang a metal picture depends on the weight of the picture and the construction of your wall. If you have a solidly built wall and and can find studs, then the hanging will go quickly. If the wall is crumbly or if you cannot find strong enough fixtures beneath the drywall or sheeting, you'll need to proceed carefully to ensure a proper installation. If you are building the collage yourself, or have some say in the fabrication, it's a very good idea to attach some hanging hardware such as hooks or loop to the back during the construction process.

Instructions

Install the Picture

1. Ensure that the picture has adequate hanging hardware attached to it, and that it is strong enough to hold the weight of the picture. If not, drill holes in an inconspicuous area on the back and use bolts to attach strong hooks. If you want to string wire across the hooks to facilitate hanging, you can, but you can also hang it directly from the hooks. The wire gives a little leeway for adjustment once it is on the wall.

2. Examine the walls to find solid points to attach anchors. If you can find studs, you can drill screws directly into them, but if the picture is heavy, be careful if the studs in the wall are metal rather than wood, as it can be tougher to get a good hold. If you are working on sheetrock, use expanding plastic anchors rated for the weight of the pieces; if the piece is under 50 lbs., you can use the plastic sheetrock anchors that screw directly into the sheetrock. If the wall is concrete, use concrete anchors.

3. Drill holes in the wall where you will be hanging the picture. The packaging for the anchors should indicate the width of the holes needed. Drill deep enough so the entire anchor can be pushed into the hole up to the hilt. If you are using the sheetrock anchors that screw in directly, put a Phillips head tip on the drill and screw it in.

4. Insert screws into the anchors. Leave enough of the screw hanging out so you have something to attach the metal picture to. Test the screws for a snug fit. If there is any give, re-drill the hole elsewhere and insert a new anchor. Don't reuse the same hole.

5. Hang picture on anchor screws using the hardware on the picture.

Grind Glass With A Dremel

You can use the Dremel rotary tool to grind glass with special bits designed for use with glass, such as the diamond or silicon carbide grinding stones. Apply water to the glass while grinding for safety. This keeps the glass dust from spraying into your eyes and nose and helps cool and lubricate the glass surface during grinding. Use a slow, steady speed and gentle pressure. Do not try to rush the job or you risk breaking the glass.

Instructions

1. Insert the diamond, tungsten carbide or silicon carbide tip into the Dremel rotary tool and tighten the chuck. Make sure it is seated as far into the tool as it can go as this helps reduce vibration.

2. Set the glass to be ground in a tub or on a towel so water can be applied to the surface while grinding.

3. Hold or prop the glass at the best angle to grind the edge or surface that needs grinding. Make sure the glass is stable and will not move while you are grinding.

4. Apply water to the surface of the glass you want to grind and put on the safety glasses. Keep applying water during the grinding process to clean and lubricate the grinding bit. If a paste starts forming, use more water.

5. Start the Dremel and bring the bit gently into contact with the glass that needs grinding. Make sure to keep water supplied to the grinding process by sprinkling or slightly submerging the glass.

6. Wash the glass thoroughly when finished to remove all the grit and glass dust generated by the grinding process.

Make Bottle Cap Magnets

Don't throw away your bottle caps if you like recycled crafts. You can make a variety of neat bottle cap magnets using things around the house. Use these tips to make bottle cap magnets that you can use on your fridge.

Instructions

1. Buy round magnets that fit inside the bottle caps or cut up strips of magnet into pieces that fit inside the back of the bottle caps.

2. Check the magnet to see which side sticks to the fridge. You want to glue the non-magnetic side so to the bottle cap and leave the magnetic side exposed so it adheres to metal.

3. Use your glue gun to attach the magnets to the bottle caps. Add a little dab of glue to each bottle cap and then place the magnet on the glue. Press to adhere. Hold the magnet in place until the glue dries.

4. Set the magnet aside for an hour so the glue has time to set properly. If you stick it to the fridge too soon, the magnet will come away from the bottle cap and you will have to reglue it.

5. Add decorations like stickers, photos or glitter to the bottle cap lid. Or decorate the bottle caps in reverse by adding photos or decorations to the inside of the bottle caps. Then glue the magnets to the back of the cap.

6. Use plastic bottle caps in a variety of colors to make cute fridge magnets. Glue a magnet inside the bottle cap. Glue tiny googley eyes to the top of the plastic bottle cap and draw a small mouth.

Hang A Flagpole

A flagpole can help you easily decorate for any occasion. In addition to the American flag, you can hang a flag for any season or holiday.

Instructions

1. Choose a spot

If you are installing a flag pole on a brick house, make sure you position the screws to go into the mortar and not the brick. If you are working on a sided house, make sure you are in a sturdy area of the wall. Another good option is a porch post.

2. Mark first

Place the bracket where you want it and use a pencil to mark where the holes are. Choose a drill bit that's best (masonry bit for mortar) and pre-drill the holes.

3. Anchor

If you are hanging the flagpole on a brick house, use a plastic anchor in the hole before screwing the bracket in place. For other materials, put a bit of caulking in the hole first to keep out moisture. Most likely, the pole will come screws that are at least 1 ¼ inch long. If not, replace the screws with longer ones to make sure the pole will remain anchored.

4. Hang

Slide the pole with the flag on it into the bracket and you are done.

Engrave A Wood Plaque

You can add color to wood plaques with watercolor pencils.

Homemade wooden plaques can commemorate family events, family records or keepsakes. Wood burning is one way to engrave wood plaques at home. Wood burning tools supply enough heat to burn the top few layers of the wood. By adjusting the pressure you use you can create shaded areas in your wood plaque.

Instructions

1. Sand the plaque with fine sandpaper until the surface is perfectly smooth. Smooth over any cracks or gouges as these may catch the tip of the wood-burning tool and may ruin your design. Wipe away all of the sawdust as it can interfere with the wood burning.

2. Place carbon paper over the piece of wood and then place your design over the carbon paper. Draw over the lines of your design with a sharp pencil. This will transfer the carbon to the surface of the plaque. Remove both pieces of paper and darken the lines with a pencil if needed.

3. Press the blade of your wood-burning tool into the surface of the plaque and move along the lines. Use the same pressure and speed so that the lines are the same darkness and width. Roll the tool between your thumb and forefinger to create curved lines.

4. Shade the design on the wood plaque if necessary. Hold the tool on its rounded side and press it into the surface of the plaque. Shade on one side of the lettering or design to make it look three-dimensional.

5. Add details around the plaque by pressing the tip of the tool into the wood to make dots or very lightly dragging the edge across the wood to make light lines.

6. Color the design with watercolor pencils. Do not push too hard as it can bruise the wood or cause scratches.

7. Dip a paintbrush in water and squeeze most of the water out. Draw it across the colored areas. This will help blend the colored pencil lines. Do not blend one colored area with another as it may cause the colors to mix and get muddled.

8. Coat the plaque with shellac once it is completely dry. Allow the shellac to dry completely.

Hang Art From Picturerail Molding

Picture frame molding provides a versatile way to hang artwork that you intend to change out often.

Picture rail molding is an attractive and relatively inexpensive way to feature various types of hanging art pieces. An advantage of hanging art from picture rail molding is that you can easily switch pieces out to fit a particular season, dinner-party theme or mood. Furthermore, there will be no leftover nail holes, anchors or paint damage to deal with after switching out art pieces. With a little foresight, this gallery trick can be brought into your home.

Instructions

1. Purchase or select the rail hooks. Rail hooks can be found at a variety of online retailers and possibly at local antique shops. You may choose to purchase matching rail hooks or mix and match colors and textures for a unique style. Slip rail hooks onto your picture rail molding where you'd like your artwork to hang.

2. Select the art piece you'd like to hang. Lay the framed art on a flat surface on its face. Most commercially and professionally framed art will come with brackets attached for hanging. However, if your artwork does not have hanging brackets or you wish to move the brackets, use a picture frame hanging kit to do so. If you wish to hang your art in an inverted V formation from the rail hook, you need a bracket on either side. If you simply want it to hang straight, you will just need one bracket centered on the back of the frame.

3. Hold the artwork against the wall approximately where you'd like it to hang. Measure the distance from the top of the art frame to the rail hook. With the artwork lying face down on a flat surface again, measure the distance from the top of the frame to the hanging bracket. If you want to hang your art by a single chain that's centered down the middle, this is how long to make your chain or ribbon. If you'd like to hang in an inverted V formation, double this distance and add a few inches extra to account for side placement of the brackets.

4. Cut your ribbon to the desired length for hanging or use a pliers to separate the chain links to the desired length. If using ribbon, you should be able to thread either side through the existing brackets and tie into a secure knot for an inverted V formation. If using ribbon for a straight hang, secure one side to the bracket and the other side to a metal ring to loop over the rail hook. If using chain, slip an S hook through both sides of the chain and attach to the brackets for a V formation. If using a straight formation, attach one side of the chain to the bracket with the S hook and the other side to a metal ring with another S hook.

5. Hang your art on the rail hook. Loop the middle of the ribbon or chain over the rail hook for an inverted V formation or hook the metal ring over the rail hook for a straight hanging formation.

Light A Stop Motion Animation Movie

DeskLamps Are Essential

The world of "Gumby," "Nightmare Before Christmas" and "The Corpse Bride" have all come alive through stop-motion animation. The miniature figures are placed on a set where filmmakers take frame-by-frame shots for every moment in the story. Make your stop-motion film look more professional with lighting that removes shadows, offers clarity and allows adjustments as needed. Setting up a stop-motion lighting set is like a live movie set except on a smaller scale.

Instructions

1. Analyze the set for your stop-motion production. Where are your main camera angles going to be from? Draw an overhead diagram that includes the camera position and large props.

2. Set up the first clamp-on light as the key light to the left of the camera. The light should point down on the subject at a 45-degree angle. Move the lighting rig back to cover more of the set if needed.

3. Set up the second clamp-on light as the fill light on the right side of the camera. This light should be placed farther back than the camera's position. Look for it to remove shadows on the faces of characters or in props like trees and buildings. Keep the light level with the set or move it up higher if it is too bright.

4. Set up the third light as a backlight in the opposite direction of the fill light, adding more dimension to the lighting and making the character jump out. Adjust the level of the backlight so there is no glare or bright white spots on the set and characters.

5. Hang the fourth light as a background light over the back of the background. Point it directly down to illuminate the backdrop and background objects. Keep this light dimly lit or move it higher to provide less light.

6. Clip wax paper over the front of a light to provide a dim filter, decreasing the intensity of the lights. Use bulbs with lower wattage so they do not shine as bright.

Do A Threecircle Venn Diagram

A Venn diagram uses overlapping circles to display information.

A Venn diagram is a visual means of displaying information. This type of diagram is often referred to as a graphic organizer, as it helps to group data in terms of similarities and differences. You can create a Venn diagram as a way to present information to a group or for your own personal study aid. The process of creating this type of graphic organizer is quite simple once you understand the technique involved.

Instructions

1. Draw two circles. Make the circles overlap with each other so that approximately one third of each circle is contained within the overlapping section.

2. Label each circle. For instance, you might want to compare and contrast spaghetti noodles and macaroni noodles, so you would label one circle "spaghetti" and one "macaroni."

3. Write information that is specific to each of the subjects in each of the circles in the nonoverlapping areas. In the spaghetti circle you could write "long, thin shape." In the macaroni circle you might write, "short, curved tube shape."

4. Write information that is common to both subjects in the overlapping area. For instance, you could write "types of pasta" in the middle of this Venn diagram.

5. Add other circles if you want to add additional categories to your diagram. Any information that is unique to one subject should be contained in nonoverlapping areas of that circle. Information that is shared should be written in areas that overlap between two or more circles (depending on how many of the subjects share a certain characteristic).

Hand Stamp

Use a hand stamp to save time if you need to imprint identical messages on multiple documents.

Using a hand stamp is a very simple skill to learn and it can be applied both in the workplace and at home. Hand stamps are typically made of rubber and come in virtually thousands of different shapes and sizes. You can find hand stamps that contain decorative images or dates, words, or phrases to suit your needs. Hand stamps are beneficial when you want to add a repetitive message, such as a date stamp, onto several documents. They are also used in scrapbooking and other crafts to add decorative shapes without having to draw them by hand. Small hand stamps are quite simple to use. However, applying ink to a large background stamp with a small ink pad requires a different approach.

Instructions

Small Stamps

1. Set your ink pad on a flat surface and press your stamp firmly and evenly into the ink so that the entire stamp is coated. Check the underside of the stamp to make sure the bottom of your stamp is fully coated with ink.

2. Press the stamp down firmly on the paper to imprint the image, making sure all areas of your stamp make contact with the paper. Don't rock or drag the stamp; use a downward motion and press the hand stamp firmly on the paper.

3. Remove the stamp from the paper carefully by lifting upward. Allow it to dry for a few seconds before touching the paper.

Large Stamps

4. Place your large stamp down on a work surface, with the rubber portion facing toward you.

5. Turn your ink pad upside down and press it over the entire surface of the stamp until the rubber is completely and evenly coated with the ink.

6. Press the stamp down firmly on the paper to imprint the image. Don't rock or drag the stamp; use a downward motion, press the hand stamp firmly on the paper, and lift the stamp gently upward after stamping. Don't touch the paper while the ink is drying.

Handle Prank Phone Calls

You answer your phone and hear, "Is your refrigerator running?" You immediately know you are experiencing a prank phone call. These phone calls may occur once or be a larger pattern of harassment, but you do not have to deal with unwanted phone calls anymore; there are several steps that can be taken to cease these obnoxious phone calls.

Instructions

1. Hang up the phone as soon as you realize you are experiencing a prank phone call. If you simply hang up, prank callers don't get the attention they are typically seeking and will often move on to find someone else who will give the reaction they seek.

2. Call your telephone service provider if the harassment does not stop after this first call experience. If the calls continue, the phone company can put a tracer on the phone line to identify the prank caller and will turn this information over to the police.

3. Call the police and file a formal report if the prank phone calls threaten violence or are obscene.

4. Change your phone number if the harassment will not stop and the calls cannot be traced by the phone company or police.

Grow Moss On Clay Sculptures Indoors

Add a bit of character to your sculpture.

Growing moss on a clay sculpture is a great way to add an aged appearance to the piece of art. It can also help accentuate the sculpture's design, particularly if it grows in crevices to act as shading within the single-tone piece. Additionally, moss grows well in the shade, meaning that growing it indoors will not be a problem. However, it needs to remain damp in order to survive. Therefore, it is useful to spray it with a misting bottle to keep its moisture content up to the correct level.

Instructions

1. Procure live moss from the forest or woods, collecting enough to cover the required areas on your sculpture. Remove as much of the moss's dirt and debris as you can. If the dirt is stubborn, try rubbing the underside of the moss gently with a soft toothbrush to assist you.

2. Break the moss down in your hands to create tiny pieces. Do not hesitate to make the moss pieces as small as possible; remember that the moss is still alive at this point, as tearing the structure does not inhibit its ability to grow.

3. Place the moss in a large bowl and pour buttermilk over the top. Use enough buttermilk to make all the bits of moss soggy. In this case, the acidic principles of the buttermilk promote moss growth. Mix the two components together with your hands.

4. Paint the mixture onto the portions of the sculpture that you want covered. Use the sponge brush to accomplish this task. The mixture should be quite runny at this point, so add more buttermilk if it is still too stodgy for painting.

5. Cover the sculpture with an opaque plastic bag, such as a black trash bag. This will give the moss a dark place to begin growing on the sculpture.

6. Allow the sculpture to set in this way for three days. Then remove the bag and place it in your home for a lovely, garden-inspired decoration.

Grow A Thick Beard

Growing a thick beard takes patience, but it can give you a whole new look.

Many men decide at one point in their lives to grow a beard. Choosing to have facial hair is a personal decision requiring patience and persistence. If you want to grow a thick beard, eat a healthy diet and avoid shaving prematurely. Genetics and hormones play a part in whether or not you will be able to grow a full beard, but most men can reasonably expect to be able to do so. Be proud of your decision to grow a beard, and don't let any negative comments sway you from your goal.

Instructions

Growing your beard

1. Commit fully to growing a beard. This may be a long and sometimes frustrating process, so make sure you are completely invested in your decision. Allow yourself at least six weeks to grow a thick beard, and stick to your commitment even if you feel like giving up.

2. Eat a healthy diet of protein, fruits and vegetables to ensure your hair grows in nice and thick. Take 2.5 mg of biotin each day. This is a dietary supplement known to help with hair growth.

3. Observe one or two days' worth of stubble. You can check for bare patches and the direction of hair growth to determine if you can grow the type of beard you want. As long as you are satisfied with the amount of cover, you will have more confidence in growing your beard.

4. Stop shaving completely for at least four weeks. Resist the urge to believe that shaving will help your beard grow thicker. "It is not true that shaving makes whiskers darker or coarser or grow faster," according to an April 1972 Science Digest article quoting Herbert Mescon, who was chairman of the Boston University department of dermatology at the time.

5. Use a gentle shampoo to cleanse your face if itching becomes a problem. You can also try a dandruff shampoo, a conditioner, baby oil or facial moisturizer. The itching is temporary, so do not let it deter you from growing your beard.

6. Purchase a beard trimmer after you have let your beard grow for at least four weeks. Familiarize yourself with the trimmer before you use it.

7. Define a neck line along the bottom of your beard. Trim the edges of your beard for a clean, precise look. Always use clean, sharp razors or trimmer blades to avoid pulling hairs or causing infection that can lead to hair loss.

8. Wash your thick beard with the same shampoo you use for your head. Pat it dry gently.

Grow A Good Beard

Growing a new beard requires patience and commitment.

Many men decide to grow their facial hair at some point in life. Whether you find yourself wanting to see what you will look like with a beard, or you just decided to toss your razor for good, you can enhance the appearance of your facial hair with careful planning. Even though your beard hair starts growing as soon as you stop shaving, keeping your beard looking nice and attractive requires some effort and commitment.

Instructions

1. Look through magazines and cataloges of men with beards. Like hairstyles, good beard styles take the shape of your face into consideration. Try to find a picture of an individual with facial features that resemble yours. Consider how well his hair texture matches yours. Keep in mind that the more manicured the style, the more upkeep you may need to perform.

2. Choose a time that you can begin growing your beard. Since your beard may take up to six weeks to take shape, avoid growing your beard right before an important event that requires you to look well groomed.

3. Grow your beard for at least four weeks before you begin shaping it. Put away your razor to avoid premature shaping before this time. Expect to feel itchy during the first few days and weeks. Apply a moisturizing lotion to your skin to minimize your discomfort.

4. Remove the hair on your neck after your beard becomes thick, normally after four weeks. Consult your selected photograph to determine the correct shape of the lower line of your beard. Gradually shave away the hair from your neck to the area near the undersides of your jaw line. Take your time to avoid removing more hair than you require. You can always trim off additional amounts if your beard line seems a little low. Continue shaving your neck regularly to avoid new growth in this area.

5. Trim your mature beard with a beard trimmer. Select an attachment that will keep your beard at your desired length. Use your beard trimmer every few days to keep your beard looking manicured.

Grow A Full Beard

While it may seem as easy as putting a halt to your morning shave, growing a full and healthy looking beard requires proper grooming technique and a bit of patience. With commitment and a few simple tips, you are sure to be looking more handsome than ever in a new beard in no time.

Instructions

1. Choose the right time to grow a full beard, for example, after that important job interview or during vacation. Because the transition period can be awkward both because of your appearance and the comments of friends and coworkers, getting some time away can really help get things started.

2. Stop shaving completely for at least four weeks. While it may seem tempting to just clean things up or sculpt the neckline, you risk trimming more than you really want to and then starting back at square one. The difference in just 1/4 inch can really change the appearance of your beard and change the sculpt lines. If you wait for full length, you can very slowly trim and groom until you get the perfect look.

3. Trim a bit after four weeks, starting with the neck line along your chin and neck. After four weeks of endurance, you may be more comfortable seeing a barber or stylist who can help place the sculpt lines just right for your beard and facial features. If you feel daring, go for it, but trim a little at a time to avoid sad accidents.

4. Leave the upper line of your beard, along the cheeks, untrimmed unless it is particularly messy. If you do trim the cheeks, cut only what grows above the natural growth line, as trying to sculpt the line will only look strange.

5. Be prepared for itchy skin both during the growth period and for a few months afterwards as your skin adjusts to the new experience. It is best to shampoo and condition your beard as you do your hair to help keep it looking healthy, soft and to prevent itch. If the itching just won't stop, massage vitamin E oil into your beard each night before bed to keep your skin moisturized and to soothe irritation.

Grow A Beard

For men, the beard is the fastest growing hair on the body. This advantage allows men to grow a beard within just a few weeks. Wearing facial hair can complement a man's facial structure, conceal imperfections on his face or completely change the way he looks and presents himself. Growing a beard is no mystery, but some helpful tips can make the experience an enjoyable one.

Instructions

1. Decide why you want to grow a beard. Determine if your pursuit of facial hair is to change the way you look, because you hate to shave or because you just feel like it. The reason for your decision to grow a beard will influence the process and the style you choose during the growing phase as well as during maintenance.

2. Make a commitment. First and foremost, you must be devoted to the process of beard growing. Once you decide to grow your beard, you must commit to stay with it for the long haul. Considerations when deciding to grow a beard include compatibility with workplace dress codes, comfort, the weather and your ability to maintain your beard's appearance and style.

3. Stop shaving. Of course, you'll need to discontinue shaving the parts of your face on which you plan to grow your beard. It's a good idea to let your beard grow in for approximately four weeks before attempting to groom or style your growing whiskers. Allow a few weeks' growth to accumulate so that when you're ready to style and trim your beard, you'll have enough facial hair to work with to get the look you're after.

4. Choose a style. There are several choices when it comes to beard size, shape and length. Style options include the full beard, moustache and goatee, extended goatee, chin-strip, chin-curtain and mutton-chops. You can even invent your own style, if you're so inclined.

5. Groom and maintain. Whether you choose to have a professional groom your beard, groom at home or don't groom at all, you'll need to keep it clean. Wash your beard just like your hair, using a mild shampoo and conditioner. Pat it dry and comb it to reap shiny results. To groom your beard at home, you'll need to invest in some proper trimming tools. Remember, growing a beard is a commitment, and daily maintenance will keep your beard looking and feeling great.

Hang A Flag On A Wall

The stars and stripes have been a time-honored representative of the United States for centuries and should always be treated with the utmost respect and care. There are specific rules for the flag, from cleaning to folding it. Many feel that they show their patriotism by displaying a flag on the wall. This process requires some particular attention, but when the proper flag hanging etiquette is followed, it is an effective way to visually display pride in America.

Instructions

1. Assess the condition of your flag. If it is torn, dirty or otherwise tattered it should be retired instead of displayed (unless it is an official antique in which case, it should be taken to a professional to be restored before being displayed.)

2. If you are hanging the flag from a window or the edge of a wall, it should be hung vertically with the stars on the left hand side (as you view it). The stars should also be on the viewer's left as well when hanging the flag horizontally.

3. Hang the flag flush against the wall. Do not let it touch the ground or any other object on the wall or around it.

4. If hanging the flag on an outside wall, it should only be displayed from dawn until dusk unless you have the option of illuminating it overnight. The flag should always be taken down during inclement weather unless specifically designed to withstand it.

5. When displaying the flag with other flags, the American flag should be hung in the center and at a higher point than the others.

6. Never hang a flag upside down except to signal emergency or distress.