Cecilia Swatton

Valentine and Romantic Digital Clipart

2012-01-18T16:46:00.001-05:00

Pictured above: three of the digital elements that are included in my 20-piece collection Valentines, Hearts & Romance of Today & Yesteryear. (Click on any image to enlarge it.) Below: the Preview for this collection, which shows more of the art included in this new grouping of digital clipart.

You can purchase and download this Valentine collection at DigiScrapStation, using this link...

http://tinyurl.com/6wun4w5

Asian Clipart for Scrapbookers, Journalists, Cardmakers & Altered Arts Enthusiasts

2012-01-16T10:47:00.000-05:00

Now available for purchase and download at DigiScrapStation: A brand-new digital clipart collection -- an Asian group that includes 36 individual elements/embellishments, 6 scrapbook pages, 3 frames, 6 borders and 5 background pages. This downloadable collection brings you imagery found nowhere else; all images are 300 dpi, for sharp print-outs. Many of the images are in PNG format, with transparent backgrounds, for effortless combinations with other clipart images or your own personal photos. This link takes you to my DSS shop...
http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf
... or, if you prefer, just Google "DigiScrapStation" and do a search on their main Store page using "Asian Clipart." Enjoy!

Click on the above image to enlarge it. This preview does not show all 56 images included in the 56-piece collection.

Asian Clipart

2012-01-06T17:02:00.001-05:00

Pictured below: Three of the elements that are included in my Asian clipart collection, available for purchase and download at DigiScrapStation, via this link...
http://tinyurl.com/7v5l6th

Steampunk Mega-Collection Includes All Earlier Steampunk Kits, plus More

2012-01-05T18:48:00.000-05:00

I've bundled all my Steampunk-themed digital kits into one Mega-Collection of nearly 700 mg (enough to fill a CD!) To the earlier Steampunk groups (described in preceeding posts, below) I have added "Spoonpunk" and "Stellapunk." This makes for 300 images in all. To guarantee clear print-outs, all imagery in the mega-collection is 300 dpi. This "Steampunk Mega-Collection" can be downloaded at DigiScrapStation ...http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

Steampunk Mega-Collection ... Detailed Description

2012-01-04T17:06:00.000-05:00

     My Steampunk Mega-Collection is available for immediate download at Digi Scrap Station.   The collection contains 300 elements: all the digital clipart groups previously sold individually -- Steampunk, Sequelpunk, Dreampunk, Sillypunk, Stillpunk and Stillmorepunk -- along with the new groups Spoonpunk and Stellapunk.
     Sillypunk introduces the vintage hot air balloon imagery that is continued in my Stellapunk group. The Sillypunk group includes 6 ready-to-print 5"X7" greeting cards and 2 notecards in JPG format. Additionally, this group includes 2 pages of ready-to-print JPG collage elements and 26 separate elements, most in PNG format. (The transparent backgrounds of PNG images allow you to easily incorporate this digital clipart into your own digital artwork: digital scrapbooking, digital collage and other applications.)
     Dreampunk includes 3 ready-to-print moo cards and 5 ready-to-print 5"X7" Steampunk-themed greeting cards in JPG format. The individual digital elements that make up these cards' collages are also packed into the kit, for a total of 50 PNG elements. Also included: a bonus JPG background paper.
     My Steampunk group includes 5 JPG collage sheets and 1 background paper in standard printer size, 25 individual PNG elements and 4 pages of illustrated instructions on using the collection's imagery to create altered cigar boxes, fridge magnets and paperclip-topper bookmarks.
     My Steampunk Add-On collection, Sequelpunk, includes 4 standard-printer-size collage papers in JPG format, 45 individual steampunk elements in PNG format, and a bonus JPG background printer-size paper.
     Stillpunk includes 5 ready-to-print ATCs as well as 4 ready-to-print ATC-size background papers, all in JPG format. The 26 individual steampunk elements that go into these designs are also included in the group, in PNG format.
     Spoonpunk I and II contain 10 PNG elements each. Like all the other steampunk groupings, these images have been designed for a specific kind of hands-on artmaking (altering wooden spoons) -- but the images are equally useful for jewelry-making, altered arts, mixed-media collage, scrapbooking, and much more.
     Stellapunk is the never-before-seen group that rounds out the new mega-collection.  A collage from Stellapunk is shown below.
     In all, this Steampunk Mega-Collection contains 300 images. Each of its individual PNG elements measures at least 2" in either height or width; and all the PNG elements, as well as the JPG printable collage sheets and background papers, are 300 dpi, for sharp print-outs.
    To see samples of the clipart contained in this mega-collection, see the right sidebar as well as earlier posts, lower on this page.
     $15 for an instant download at DigiScrapStation via this link... http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

(Below: a collage from the Stellapunk segment of the Steampunk CD; click on the image to enlarge it.)

New Digital Clipart Collection Available at DigiScrapStation via Instant Download

2011-03-19T19:55:00.002-04:00

Click on the above image to enlarge it.

Backgrounds & Borders delivers a 60-piece collection of backgrounds, borders and frames that you won't see anywhere else! Motifs included: tie-dye, contemporary abstract, nostalgia and flourishes with curling lines. There are 29 background papers, most of which are full-page printer-size. Also included: 6 strip-style borders; 5 circular frames; 19 square frames and 4 rectangular mini-frames. The backgrounds are JPG; the borders and frames are PNG (with transparent backgrounds, for easy digital manipulation and endless combination possibilities.) Every piece is 300 dpi, as well as generous in size. If you like colorful, textured-look trimmings for your digital scrapbooking and other digital art, this collection is for you. It's available at a very wallet-friendly cost at Digi ScrapStation via this link ... http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

Now Available at DigiScrapStation for Instant Download -- "Oldendaze"

2011-03-04T12:02:00.007-05:00

(Click on above image to enlarge it.)

Oldendaze is an eclectic collection:  Here you'll find "instant ancestors" as well as imagery with a contemporary twist. Containing brand-new and newly-revised digital clipart, it's available for instant download at DigiScrapStation, via this link...http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf
     This 300-dpi collection includes 12 printer-sized collage sheets in JPG format and 66 individual elements; a few of these are also JPG, but most are in PNG format (giving them transparent backgrounds for easy digital manipulation -- so you can combine the images with one another or with your own personal work.)
     With this collection you can go pure vintage, or step over into contemporary whimsy.
     Oldendaze has an Angel Policy -- you can use the images in artwork to be sold; my request is that when you do so, you add a credit line showing my name as the original designer.
     Like several other collages in the Oldendaze collection, the vintage/contemporary collage below is included in two forms: not only as the pre-assembled collage seen here, but also as individual PNG elements, ready to be used in collages of your own creation.

(Click on the above image to enlarge it.)

Two of the Groups included in my Steampunk Mega-Collection

2010-08-19T17:34:00.002-04:00

(Click on each Preview to enlarge it.)

My Steampunk-themed digital kit, Sillypunk, features six 5"X7" ready-to-print greeting cards and 2 ready-to-print notecards. In addition, the kit contains 26 separate elements, including three 5"X7" background papers, as well as 2 Printable Collage papers. You'll discover Steampunk imagery seen nowhere else. It's all 300 dpi, for clear, sharp, print-outs; and it can be found at DigiScrapStation via this link: http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

Another group, Stillmorepunk, is created for Steampunk-themed scrapbooking, but is just as great for artfully altering cigar boxes, wooden trays, etc. Lots and lots of frames, as well as 20 additional elements (including 5 borders) make up this totally unique, max-for-your-money collection of one-of-a-kind graphics. It's all 300 dpi and available at DigiScrapStation via this link:
http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

These two digital clipart kits can be purchased separately, or you can buy the Steampunk Mega-Collection which contains these two groups and many more. Scroll up and down for more detailed info. Everything is available for instant download at DigiScrapStation ... http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

Samples of Images included in my Steampunk Mega-Collection

2010-06-24T12:23:00.002-04:00

One of the Steampunk Clipart Kits included in the CD-Length Mega-Collection

2010-06-23T09:27:00.004-04:00

(Click the above image to enlarge it.)

Stillpunk, available at DigiScrap Station, contains downloadable digital imagery that you've never seen anywhere else! Make Steampunk ATCs, refrigerator magnets, and much more! You can buy this as a separate kit, or buy it as part of my Steampunk Mega-Collection. Both options are available for instant download at DigiScrapStation...http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

Steampunk Digital Clipart included in the Mega-Collection

2010-06-03T20:00:00.005-04:00

(Click on the above image to enlarge it.)

This collage is one of many included in my Steampunk Mega-Collection, available for instant download at DigiScrapStation...http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

Steampunk Digital Clipart that is included in the CD-Length Mega-Collection downloadable at DigiScrapStation

2010-05-17T12:18:00.003-04:00

(Click on the above image to enlarge it.)

Sequelpunk, a digital clipart kit, contains 300-dpi PNG files that can be combined or altered digitally, or printed as-is. The kit is designed so that print-outs can be used to create a wide range of mixed-media art and craft projects. Instructions are included. This kit is available for instant download at DigiScrapStation -- where you have the choice of buying it individually, or as part of the huge Steampunk Mega-Collection... http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

"Dreampunk" -- a digital clipart kit included in the CD-Length Mega-Collection downloadable at DigiScrapStation

2010-05-16T19:31:00.002-04:00

(Click on the above image to enlarge it.)

Dreampunk, a digital kit with a Steampunk theme, is available for instant download at Digi Scrap Station. This kit is designed to create 5 quick and easy greeting cards, size 5"X7", for birthdays and Father's Day, as well as 3 moo cards. The kit contains 50 individual elements, including 12 unique frames, and a bonus background Printable paper. Everything is 300 dpi, for crisp and clear print-outs.

Below is a QuickPage collage that I created using some of the kit's elements; you can click on the image to enlarge it.

(Click on the above image to enlarge it.)

Dreampunk is available for instant download at DigiScrapStation as an individual kit. It's also available there as one of the groups included in my Steampunk Mega-Collection... http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

Ideas for Having Fun with Digital Clipart

2010-04-02T17:12:00.001-04:00

     My digital clipart can be easily reversed left-to-right, either in your photo-processing program or in your printing program; printing them “backward” gives you two sets of images for the price of one! The only exceptions are the images containing text. These cannot be flipped -- unless your creative impulse leads you into trying backward text just for the fun of it!
     You can print in black-and-white, then add your own unique color combinations to the print-out. If your inkjet printer uses dye-based ink, add this personal color with dry media -- colored pencils, rub-ons, oil pastels, etc. If your printer uses pigment ink, you can use wet media like acrylic paint.
     You can print on patterned paper. Best results will come from choosing a pattern that’s light in color.
     Another option: Create a transparency by printing on the “right” (rough) side of a transparency sheet of film (available at office supply stores.)
     Or, use the same transparency film to make transfers: In your photo-processing program or in your printing program, flip an image or text horizontally, making it “backward.” Print this reversed text and/or image onto the “wrong” (shiny) side of a transparency. (Prior to printing, adjust your printer’s ink flow; you want a light flow, since too much ink will create puddles that bleed and blur.) Handling the transparency carefully as it emerges from the printer, immediately place it – wet side down -- onto the receiving surface. Holding it in place with one hand, use the other to burnish from the top of the film, using fingertips or a bone folder.
     Transfer-Making Note 1: Transparency films can be used over and over. Simply clean off the residual ink with rubbing alcohol and allow dry-time. One sheet of film, although it will grow stained, will nevertheless work just as well countless more times.
     Transfer-Making Note 2: If doing several of these transparencies in a row, take a few minutes to clean your printer following manufacturer’s instructions which in most cases can be found on manufacturers’ websites.
***
     For a totally new look, try printing on translucent mulberry paper – here’s how:
     Set up a sheet of ordinary printing paper for use as a “carrier sheet:” Add strips of two-sided removable cellophane along the edge that will feed into the printer.
     If using a flat-feed printer, this should be the only taping necessary. If using a printer that requires the paper to make a U-turn or an L-turn as it’s printed, add one length of tape along each of the long-side edges of the paper, and a third piece of tape down the center of the carrier sheet.
     Cut a sheet of translucent mulberry paper to the size of the carrier sheet and gently press it to the carrier, securing it onto the pieces of tape. As the printing begins, hold one hand gently at the end of the paper opposite the feeding end, to help guide it into the printer just in case this should happen to be necessary.
     After your first print, you will know whether or not you would like to adjust the ink flow for printing on mulberry paper. My personal preference has been to use either the “medium” or “photo” setting. Sometimes the “photo” setting results in the residual image on the carrier sheet (after the mulberry paper is carefully peeled off) becoming background paper to set aside for a future project.
     Mulberry paper prints have a delightful and uneven translucency that make them fun to use in layering techniques for collage. The edges can be left with the original straight-edge cut, or the paper can be torn along the edges, with beautiful frayed edges that increase the areas of texture in a piece of art.
     When using mulberry paper prints in collage, I’ve had the most success using dry adhesives like glue sticks.
***
     I’m sure you’ll enjoy working with these images as much as I enjoyed creating them! Since I own copyright on these images, they are not to be re-sold. However, they can be used on products to be marketed for personal financial gain, if credit for the clipart is given to http://heartworkbycecilia.blogspot.com. Many thanks!

A Book You'll Want!

2010-01-21T22:28:00.007-05:00

Clever, creative ideas from fourteen artists pack the 90 pages of Exploring the Latest Trends in Mixede Media Art, Vol. II, by Sherre Hulbert and Cynthia Powell.

This collection of projects -- 46 in all -- includes titles like Garden Glamor Apron, Flowerful Crocheted Hat, Gone Are the Days Altered Coffee Table, and Shop in Style Market Bag ... and this is only a sample!

Bright, large photos led the way as the book invited me to make old wooden hangers look gorgeous; to jazz a garment way up with a lush neckline of silkscreened peacock feathers under beaded lace and loops of ribbon; to create a plethora of unique wall-hanging and shelf-sitting artworks; even to create an eye-catching, weatherproof sculpture for the garden.

The ideas in this book can keep an artist productive, creative and happy for years!

To order, click here: http://tinyurl.com/4akmegm

Tutorial: One of the Bonus Projects in my "Steampunker" Kit

2010-01-15T16:24:00.002-05:00

jumbo paperclip with print-outs

Tutorial: JUMBO PAPERCLIP PERSONALIZED BOOKMARK

supplies:

Steampunk digital hybrid kit for hands-on artmaking

Rub-on letter, or use the text-writing tool in your digital imagery program

fine-detail scissors or a circle punch

jumbo paperclip (available at office supply stores)

white cardstock

Pop Dots by All Night Media (double-sided peel-and-stick dimensional adhesive dots)--½” diameter and 1/8” thick.

directions:

(1.) If using the text-writing tool in your digital imagery program for the personalization, add the letter of your choice to both of the rusty circles in the upper right corner of Printable Collage Sheet 2. (If this bookmark is to be a gift, you may choose to add a photo of the recipient, rather than the initial-letter.)

(2.) Print Collage Sheet 2 on cardstock. If using rub-on letters, add them now.

(3.) Using a circle punch or fine-detail scissors, cut out the circles.

(4.) Place 2 self-adhesive dots on the back of one circle, leaving space between them for the top loop of the paperclip. Add the paperclip. Visually line up the two circles, then add the second circle, back-to-back with the first, encasing the end of the paperclip between the two.

(To watch a video on assembly of this type of bookmark, visit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2ww9DDaKA8&feature=related)
or just Google “paperclip topper bookmark.”)

the finished bookmark

(Click on the above image to enlarge it.)

The digital clipart collection Steampunk is available for instant download at DigiScrapStation as an individual kit. It's also available there as one of the groups included in my Steampunk Mega-Collection... http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

A Sample Collage from my Steampunk Mega-Collection

2010-01-13T10:15:00.003-05:00

Here is one of the collages in my digital hybrid kit Steampunk -- "digital hybrid" meaning that the kit contains digitally-created images and letters which can be inexpensively downloaded and printed, then used by artists in creating their own hands-on, 3-D mixed-media artworks, for wall hangings or shelf decorations. In the step-by-step instructions that come with Steampunk, I show photos and give directions as guides in using this kit to create an altered cigar box, a personalized paperclip topper bookmark, and a refrigerator magnet.
This is available for instant download at DigiScrapStation as an individual kit. It's also available there as one of the groups included in my Steampunk Mega-Collection... http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf

A Digital Clipart Collection downloadable at DigiScrapStation

2010-01-02T19:45:00.004-05:00

Anne and Friends, pictured here, is a friendship-themed collection of digital clipart containing 50 elements as well as a background paper; everything is ready to print as-is, or you can choose to manipulate the images in creative unique ways in your PC's photo-processing program.

Everything in the kit/collection is 300 dpi, for sharp print-outs.

Many of the kit's elements are in PNG format, with transparent backgrounds, making them easy to combine with one another and/or with your own digital imagery.

This kit/collection, like all my other groups of digital clipart, was created for scrapbookers, greeting card makers, artists who are into the altered arts, and collage artists.

The kits are sold by download here... http://tinyurl.com/25cn7wf ... or, if you choose, you can simply Google "DigiScrapStation" and do a search of their main home page using my name, "Cecilia Swatton."