Media Techniques
Colored Pencil Drawing
Evelyn’s technique uses layer upon layer of colored pencil in different combinations to give the desired look, detail, and texture. She begins with several layers of pencil together with a specific amount of mineral spirits to blend the surface base. More blended layers are then applied, each using a reduced amount of spirits as the images become more defined. The last several layers are overlaid with little or no blending to bring together the final detail and texture. A normal picture will take 15 – 20 layers of media to achieve the desired look.
Wood Burning
Similar to colored pencil, Evelyn’s pyrographic technique involves a layered approach. First, the area to be burned on the work piece is sanded meticulously for setup. Then, an outline of the subject matter is laid down and traced lightly on this surface. That surface is burned and reburned several times into the piece in layered depths, with a wood burning pen. Different tips and temperature settings are used in this process, depending on the desired effect as well as the type of wood being burned. The final piece is then sealed, using the appropriate varnish, epoxy, or wax.
Painted Furniture
The media used by Evelyn for painting furniture is always acrylic. We choose pieces that are unique either in shape or purpose, which quite often will dictate the picture or design. New or used items can be subjects, and items for “young folk” are a specialty. The piece chosen will be stripped, if needed, then sanded again and again to produce a workable surface. The design, subject, or scene is put down on the object and painted, using acrylics. The piece is then sealed with a varnish.