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Saturday 1 February 2014

Artist Trading Block


I'd never heard of an 'artist trading block'
until I saw the one Deb had made on her blog

There is a Sizzix die available to create the block
(if you don't want to cut your own).
The completed block is 3" square.

I used the die with some corrugated cardboard
which I retrieved from my recycling bag.
It is really easy to put together, then I decorated
the block by sticking on some squares cut from scrap paper
I'd previously used to protect my craft table.


As the squares of paper didn't completely
cover the box, I edged it with gold pen.

I rubber stamped some swirls on areas of the
paper that looked a little plain.


I decorated the top with a 'Heart Wings'
die cut (from Tim Holtz/Alterations/Sizzix)
I used 3 layers of mountboard for the heart
so it's nice and sturdy.
The swirl on top of the heart is a scrap of
glossy paper coloured with alcohol inks - from
my scrap box.  I like all the bright clashes of colour.

(sorry about out of focus pic!)

I know it's supposed to be a block, but
I couldn't resist keeping it as a box -
 I just didn't stick down one of the sides.
The corrugated cardboard was a bit flimsy on two 
of the sides,so I re-inforced inside 
with more of the cardboard.

I really enjoyed making this 'artist trading block'
- although I prefer to think of it as just a box.
It'd be lovely to put a gift inside and the box
itself could be a keepsake too -
 not this one though, as it's staying with me!

There is a blog dedicated to Artist Trading Blocks
well worth a look if you're interested.

Thanks for looking at mine :)
 

8 comments:

Deborah said...

Love your first ATB...er...I mean, box :-)I was wondering about corrugated cardboard and now I know it works (great idea to reinforce it inside too). More please!

Алексровер Анна said...

Sherry, it is a wonderful bright box! Great to put in it a little present!

Meggymay said...

Fantastic box Sherry, I think I would have left it opening as well.
Yvonne x

JansArtyJunk said...

Mmmmm. I'd never heard of Artist Trading Blocks either Sherry...your one is very cool & funky...and what a great gift box it makes too....Off to check out your link now TFS! Jan x x

Mrs A. said...

Super Sherry and a nifty idea to change into a box with a hinged lid. Hugs Mrs A.

Jester said...

I haven't heard of Artists Trading Blocks either, but yours looks so good. I love all the layers and the gold edges highlight them perfectly. It's wonderful, Sherry. Jx

Redanne said...

Hi Sherry, I have just seen your ATB featured over at the Artists on the Block. I love your block, it is stunning and the heart on top is beautiful. Anne x

Create Beauty with Laurajo said...

Sherry, Love your ATB that's featured over at the Artist on the Block. It is super pretty and the stamping is fabulous. Winged hearts always make me smile. TFS!