Paper and Ink Arts Envelope Contest Guidelines

In response to a customer requests, we have decided to hold an envelope contest once for every season of the year. For each season, we will pick the medium that must be used to create your envelopes. There will be three divisions-Calligraphy and Hand Lettering , Zentangle, and Comic /Drawing Art.  If we find the contest to be so successful that further division is needed (ie-age divisions, more specificity, etc.), we will reserve the right to modify the divisions. There is no purchase necessary to enter and/or win!

Rules and General Contest Information:

1. Your envelope must not exceed 10 inches x 10 inches in size and can be square or rectangular in shape.
2. Our name and address should, of course, appear on the front of the envelope. Please address envelopes to:

Paper and Ink Arts

240 Great Circle Road, Suite 328

Nashville, TN 37228

3.  On the back of the envelope, please include your name, address, division you are entering and the specific materials you used to create your masterpiece. Please note that we are requiring you to use items we sell. Also, your envelope should be created only with the medium(s) required for that particular season.

4. Envelopes must be received at Paper and Ink Arts by the deadline entry date. No exceptions can be made.

5. You may only enter one envelope per contest. This means that you must pick only one division to enter each season.

6. Everything on your envelope must be created by hand and must be your original work. No stickers, stamps, trademarked images, computer generated images, or pre-printed envelopes are allowed.

7. Any person entering an envelope gives Paper and Ink Arts the permission to use the envelope in advertising (online or in our print catalog), as well as permission to post photographs of the envelope on our website, blog, online galleries and/or Facebook and Pinterest pages. Envelopes themselves will be displayed on-site at Paper and Ink Arts and possibly at calligraphy conferences and/or Comic Con or other conventions that Paper and Ink Arts attends. Envelopes will not be returned to sender.

8. Entries may contain no profanity or explicit (ex-violence or nudity) images.

9. All envelopes will be judged by a panel consisting of the Paper and Ink Arts staff, our postal carriers, and independent calligraphers, artists, and/or teachers.

10. Winners in each category will receive a prize from Paper and Ink Arts. Winners will be announced for each season within three weeks of the deadline. Further, we will create an online gallery (of all entries) on both Facebook and another online image gallery accessible to non-Facebook users.

If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Allen by e-mail at: Jennifer@paperinkarts.com

Paper and Ink Arts Envelope Contest

Please see our contest guidelines above before submitting your entry.  Entries that do not adhere to contest guidelines will not be eligible to win. For each contest, we only provide the medium required. You can choose your own theme for your envelope.

Spring 2013

Medium: Pencil

Deadline for Entry: June 10, 2013

Prizes for All Categories:  24 Count Prismacolor Pencils and Finesse Color Blender

Summer 2013

Medium: Paints (Watercolor or Acrylic), Pastels, and/ or Technical Pens/Microns

Deadline for Entry: September 10, 2013

Prizes:

Calligraphy and Hand Lettering: Fintec Gold Palette

Zentangle:  One Zentangle a Day Book

Drawing/Comic Art: Sakura Manga Comic Pro Set of 8

Fall 2013:

Medium: Markers

Deadline for Entry: November 25, 2013

Prizes:

Calligraphy and Hand Lettering: Set of 8 Zig Memory System Calligraphy Markers (choose your colors)

Zentangle:  Set of 8 Pigma Microns (choose your color/size)

Drawing/Comic Art: Set of 8 Zig Art and Graphic Markers (choose your colors)

Winter 2013/2014:

Medium: Pen and Ink

Deadline for Entry: March 10, 2014

Prizes:

Calligraphy and Hand Lettering: Paper and Ink Arts Hourglass Adjustable Oblique or Rosewood Straight Pen Holder

Zentangle: Book of Zentangle by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas

Drawing/Comic Art: One bottle of Kuretake Manga Ink , 1 dozen Hiro 40 nib, Speedball Comfort Grip Holder (blue or red), and one pad of Strathmore Bristol Plate Finish.

DAN MOONEY

Calligrapher Dan Mooney used the pens for detail in his exquisite work. According to him, “Some of the minor differences is that the Isographs don’t ‘blob’ when you first use them as I find aggravating with the Rapidographs. There is a size difference as well. The .25 (3X) rapidigraph makes a thinner-finer line than the .25 (3x) Isograph, which is a bit strange. The Rapidograph seems a bit smoother whereas the Isograph seems just a tad bit scratchier when used on drafting velum. Both pens are stainless points and can not be used on Drafting Mylar which will destroy the points. “

As you can see, Dan put the pens to great use, from drafts to fine detailing:

He further comments, “The biggest difference between the pens is that the Rapidograph can be taken completely apart for cleaning, which is not necessarily a good thing especially with the very fine points because the fine wire that keeps the ink flowing can be easily damaged when it is removed. The Isograph has a protected unit that conceals the wire making it impossible to get at it. This was a smart and innovative move! Any technical pen I’ve ruined (and there have been many) was because of bending that little wire. I strongly recommend these pens.”

ANN KAESE

Calligrapher Ann Kaese also tested the pens for us. She adds, “ My other pens like this have always given me trouble with leaking and this one has not – and I have not been kind to it.  It has been in my purse or jacket pocket for 3 weeks (in a baggy just in case), jiggled around, exposed to extreme climates and it has done just fine.  Once the ink froze when I left it on the dashboard of the car and after it thawed out, it was fine.  There is a nice rubber gasket in the cap where the nib goes in that appears to do a really good job of sealing the pen.”

Ann shared a draft for a customer of a card that she was creating, and we absolutely love what she’s designed!

Ann further shared, “I put watercolor, ink and coloured water through them with no ill effects. The standard ink that came with the pen is just fine for a good black.   I did not try any waterproof inks.  They cleaned up nicely and a little spin in my trusty unltrasonic cleaner got them ready for another spin around the paper. (I think an ultrasonic cleaner is mandatory for the fine pens.) The ink barrel is a good size and is larger than my Koh-i-Noor so less refilling needed with this pen.  These worked fine on hot press, bristol, vellum and copperplate practice paper – and post-it notes when I needed a quick message!

The heft of the pen is light.  The cap does not attach to the back of the pen to add counterweight either like the white Koh-i-Noor does.  It is light and flighty which is good and bad.  I prefer a pen that has more heft.  My trick is to add some putty to the end of the ink barrel to add weight and that worked just fine.

My biggest issue with this pen:  you cannot see how full or empty the ink is.  You also have to be careful when filling it else ink leaks out the nib due to air pressure.  And remember to store them with the nib up else a blob of ink will dry over the tip sometimes and then you have to dissamble and clean it all out really well.  All technical pens need maintenance and this pen is no exception to that.  Ink does accumulate around the base of the nib so keep a paper towel handy when you open the pen.  But the pen is reliable and gave me good clean, even lines.  I grew to really like it (after I added some weight to it) and it was always ready to let me do my work.”

HILARY WILLIAMS

Hilary Williams, also a calligrapher, actually used her pen to create a lovely Zentangle design on a thank-you note she sent to us. Though Pigma Microns are often recommended for Zentangle and work very well, the Isograph allows you to have a tip which will not wear out as easily as the Microns, as well as a pen that is refillable. The rich black ink also lends itself well to Zentangle designs. Hilary commented, “The point seems stronger than the Rapidograph. I love them, and they are still going strong. “

TRACI GREEN

Traci Green, calligrapher and graphic designer, used the Isographs to create lovely maps of Wildberry Farm in SC. After she completed her project, she shared, “I have to say, I liked them just fine. I  think they could give rapidograph a run for the money.  The ink worked well with watercolor. I use them all the time and never would have thought I’d replace my 20 year old set from college!!”

Traci’s maps are not only beautiful, but also delightfully fun. We love the nostalgic aspects of hand drawn maps!

As you can see, the Isograph pens can be used for a variety of projects, and our testers all had positive things to say. If you are ready to purchase your own Isograph pen, you can find them on our website here:

http://www.paperinkarts.com/pens-rotring-technical-pens.html

We also now have the Rotring Art Pens back in stock as well. Though they were temporarily unavailable, they’re back!

“The Zig Art & Graphic Twin marker isn’t that far off from the Copic Sketch markers (in terms of feel), with the exception of the fine point rather than the chisel marker end of the Copic. Both have a nice brush tip; however, I favored the Zig brush tip more,” says Jonathan, “It’s slightly longer and has a really sharp point.”

Jonathan used the markers to do toning on an image he created to try sketching with markers rather than pencils.

“ The Zig felt like I was painting with a brush,” said Jonathan. “I’m looking forward to expanding my color range with these.”

Beyond sketching and lettering, these markers can be used with water brushes to create a watercolor effect. They are also wonderful to use for rubber stamping.  You can check out the full line of Art and Graphics at: http://www.paperinkarts.com/artgrph.html

See more of Jonathan’s work  at: http://www.jonathanglapion.com/ and at: http://jonathanglapion.deviantart.com .

“Using the Miracle Wedge Brush” by Lisa LeBlanc

I learned about the Loew-Cornell Miracle Wedge brush at a recent workshop with Pat Blair, Whitehouse calligrapher extraordinaire.  Pat uses it to great effect in her calligraphy, making ghostly white flowers to accompany her exquisite pointed pen  designs.  I was intrigued by the novel shape and action of this brush,  and after Pat’s workshop, I rushed home to play with it some more.  It took some practice to get the hang of it, but the unique nature of this instrument made it so much fun, I didn’t mind practicing.

I started out experimenting with white on black, like Pat Blair does, using Dr. Ph. Martin’s BleedProof-White:

When I got tired of that, I added some color (Holbein watercolors, Dr. Ph. Martin’s Hydrus inks, more BleedProof-White):

Then I switched to white paper (mostly inexpensive practice sheets):

I love the way the colors can be loaded on the brush, giving each stroke depth and detail.  I also like the sharp edge and fine line it makes possible.  And I just adore the idiosyncratic shapes it can produce.

I’m having so much fun I can’t stop!  I’m looking forward to more experimenting, especially with incorporating these types of images into my calligraphy.  And I would love to see what others have done with this crazy brush.

L. LeBlanc – zephyrus2@aol.com

Board member,  Kalamazoo Pen Dragons Calligraphy Guild

You can find the brush at: http://www.paperinkarts.com/mirac8.html

Heather graciously sent us her video (also available on her website) of a gorgeous Christmas tree she created using Finetec Golds and the new hot foil pen. I enjoyed being able to see the process of creating it from start to finish, and I hope you will, too! Heather’s talent and exquisite work always impress me, and her snazzy nail polish is pretty awesome, too.

You can see learn more about Heather and see more of her enchanting work on her website at:

http://www.heathervictoriaheld.com/website/index.html#/Home/

Kathy also used the Finetec Golds to create a beautiful holiday greeting. I continue to be in awe of her talent! She was kind enough to share the process of creating her piece as well.

“Gold Noel” by Kathy Milici

Reverse writing (light colored or metallic ink/gouache on dark paper) is easy, once you know a few basic tips. The result is always very dramatic, and fun to do.

This is Kathy’s process: Her gold “Noel” design was first sketched in pencil on tracing paper, then the pencil lines were made darker. The tracing paper draft was put on the “Phantom Liner” backwards (left side), so the reflection was seen forward (right side). Kathy then placed a sheet of cardstock on the right side, and carefully traced through the image using a soapstone pencil. For the final piece, Kathy chose the Arabic Gold color from the Fine Tec metallic watercolor palette. Using a dropper and distilled water, she put a few drops of water on top of the dry pigment, and started to work the gold paint with a small paint brush. It’s important to note here to take your time and continue to “pull up” the metallic pigment until the desired shade of gold is achieved. Then she fed the color into her pointed pen with the paint brush and “inked in” her design. Kathy used a Nikko G nib on smooth, black card stock. She waited until the ink was completely dry (tick tock, it teaches you patience!), and gently wiped the paper with a tissue to “erase” the white soapstone pencil lines. Merry Christmas!

You can see more of Kathy’s work at:

www.24karatdesigns.com

I hope you enjoy both of these lovely ladies’ work and that it inspires you to spend some time creating over the holidays. On behalf of the entire staff of Paper and Ink Arts, we wish you and your family a joyous Christmas and holiday season!

Warm regards,

Jennifer

Two years ago, Jessica was diagnosed with cancer in her tongue, a very rare disease for someone her age. Faced with two and half months at home, she needed something to keep her busy. She purchased 3-inch canvases and painted flowers and abstracts. When her twin brother requested a mini-version of Van Gogh’s Starry night, Jessica didn’t know if she had the ability to recreate it but found that she was successful in doing so.

From there, she has emulated other artists as well and has added a quill to her tool box to complement her straight pins. “The quill has been a helpful tool for some of the finer details required,” says Jessica.

“I do not actually own any of my own work as I enjoy painting for others mostly.  Making others smile because of my work is what inspires me,” says Jessica. We’re inspired by her creativity and are thankful she shared her talent with us!

If you would like to try a quill, you can find them on our website at: http://www.paperinkarts.com/calligraphy-pens-quill.html

Also, we now have Artist’s Trading Cards in stock in black board and in both watercolor and canvas surfaces. They would be excellent tools for making your own mini-artwork! Find them here: http://www.paperinkarts.com/bookbinding—paper-artist-s-trading-cards.html

Each class provides structured lessons filled with instructional techniques, supervised practice, and relevant videos. In addition, each student receives a full notebook’s worth-and we mean a large three ring binder!- of handouts that can be referred to again and again. The resource created by the notebook can be used for years to come. In fact, guild members who took the class before mentioned how often they still refer back to techniques and information originally learned from Reggie.  Current class member Ann Cobb raves, “The Reggie class has been beyond my expectations.  Reggie is such a patient, giving teacher.  He has taught us so much more than Romans, Italic, and Foundational.  Being able to actually try out and work with stick ink, dry pigments, and vellum has been magical.”

Beyond the teaching, our favorite aspect of the class been seeing the work created by fellow classmates. “Seeing the homework pieces completed in this class has been so inspiring.  I look forward to seeing all the pieces in the exhibit next spring,” says Ann.

We thought you might enjoy seeing a few pieces, too. Here are two pieces created by Ann:

These last two were created by Linda Floyd:

by Linda Floyd

Later this month, we will conclude our 26 Seeds experience. While we will miss our classmates, we are excited to look ahead to next year when Reggie will offer his Primitive to Modern course in Nashville. We will once again host, and we’d love to see you join us! For more information about the class, please contact Ann Cobb at cobbann02@aol.com.

In 2004, June suffered from mercury poisoning, and it was through exploring art and creativity that she experienced healing. From that experience, the idea for her book Soulistry-Artistry of the Soul  was born.  June graciously gave me a copy of the book during the conference, and I’ve been inspired by it ever since.

Soulistry  is designed to prompt you into creating-writing, painting, drawing, etc.  Whatever your medium, Soulistry  will encourage you to explore your creative side while connecting it to your spirituality. Each prompt includes a quote, followed by Soul-Questions to spark ideas and the creative process. Recently adopted by Effy Wild for her Book of Days online art journaling group, June’s book has inspired a wide array of art in response.

“When I first stumbled across the “Soulistry” book by June Maffin, I felt an immediate urge to create art in response to her Soul-Questions which accompanied the over-80 quotations in the book.  This urge led me to wanting to share that process with other women, especially women for whom art was a regular practice. So I started to record my process on video.

Since that time, 170 women have joined me in my art journaling program, and they all agree that the weekly Soulistry With Effy videos and PDFs are a beautiful way to combine self-inquiry (using June’s Soul-Questions) with art journaling! I’ve seen amazing leaps and bounds happen for people as a result of that initial urge to share, and I’m really excited to see that continue as we take on all 80+ prompts in the book!” says Effy.

Here is Effy’s piece based on a quote by Thoreau.

Tammy Dial Gray from Florida created the following piece in response to the quote from Anne Sexton  that is included in her piece.

Michelle McKinley has actually shared several of the pieces she’s created by using the Soulistry book on her blog: http://artconch.blogspot.ca/search/label/Soulistry

The many examples of work being created in response to this gem of a book are inspiring. “The work that is being done on the Soulistry on-line journaling course hosted by Effy Wild continues to delight my heart, humble my soul and challenge my mind,” says June. The online journaling program, Book of Days, is only about ¼ of the way through the book, and you can join at any time at:  http://bookofdays.org

You can also start your own creative journey by simply buying the book yourself. Purchase yours here: http://www.paperinkarts.com/maffin.html

June also offers many different workshop opportunities and maintains a thought-provoking blog on her own website: www.soulistry.com.  Her Cyberscribes facebook page is www.facebook.com/cyberscribes. She can also be found on FB at: www.facebook.com/junemaffin and  www.facebook.com/soulistry.

Among the items Diana purchased during the conference was the 12″x17″ Artograph Lightpad. As far as products go, this has become one of our favorites because of its functionality and practicality. Ranging in size from 6″ x 9″ to 17″ x 24″, the lightpads offer a flat surface,with no raised edges, on which to work. The LED lighting projects perfectly through many papers, allowing you to see your guidelines easily. Even better, it is very lightweight and perfect for travel.

Recently, Diana use the lightpad to create the name tags below. She went on to use a Micron to add the last names on the flourishes, as well as the city and state they were from. She shared with us that the lightpad made the job go much more quickly.

Diana found the lightpad to be one of her favorites as well. “...I love this tool, ” she says, “This Artograph Lightpad is a wonderful investment… saves time and frustration!!! I’m delighted with this purchase!”

If you’d like to purchase an Artograph LightPad for yourself, visit our site at: http://www.paperinkarts.com/tools-of-the-trade-light-boxes-and-lightpads.html

As the week progressed, we were truly amazed by the work being produced. Led by a stellar faculty, the participants created stunning pieces that we viewed on the last day. I couldn’t take enough pictures! Further, market night and the faculty demo night were both fun and inspiring. The level of talent was exceptional.

Calligrapher Angie Vangalis graciously agreed to share her work for our blog. Both pieces beautifully represent Angie’s superb talent while also serving as a fine representation of the work we saw during the show and share session at the end of the week.

“Theses pieces were done in Ewan Clayton’s workshop “The Joy of Movement” where we explored fluent styles of movement,” says Angie, “The piece executed with FineTec Gold gouache on Black Bugra utilized a “wringing” and “pushing” motion. The elemental alphabet piece was done with Higgins Eternal on Gray Bugra using a “whipping” motion.”

She further shares, “I personally went through more than 100 sheets of paper and an entire bottle of Higgins Eternal during the first 3 days of the workshop, exploring these essential styles of movement.  Ewan Clayton has a gift of teaching with a unique understanding of the history of letterforms and calligraphy like no other teacher. I believe he gave us all a new found level of confidence in our abilities to write letters and make marks in our own style.”

We love the style Angie showcase in these pieces. To see more of her work, visit her website at:

http://avgraphics.net/

Visit our website(www.paperinkarts.com) to purchase Finetec golds, Higgins Eternal, and Bugra paper.