Mystery Box - Finnabair Inspired

The techniques & creations of Anna Dabrowska (Finnabair) are so inspiring.

Her workshops were a wonderful experience, totally recommended.

I created this 'Mystery Box' using techniques 
learned during these workshops 
for the HobbySew Echuca Creative Team with wonderful Prima supplies.

This gift box with an acetate window has been in my stash for a long time.

The lid was firstly decorated using (Iron Orchid Designs) Paper Clay pieces I molded.

My previous blog post "Antiqued Candle Stick Holders" shares this technique.

The difference on this lid being the use of Black Gesso & Crackle Medium.

Dry brush techniques highlighted the texture. I used Prima Art Alchemy Paints.

The interior of the box was lined with various textured lace.

Held in place with Prima Art Basics 3D Matte Gel.

The lacy interior was painted with Black Gesso & embellishments collected to display.

 The chipboard horse was propped forward on a small lace covered canvas frame.

This really defined it from the background in such a deep box.

White Sand Texture Paste was applied to the horses body.

All the embellishments including Prima Art Stones were applied with 3D Matte Gel

& left overnight to dry properly.

A coat of Black Gesso was applied to cover all surfaces.

A dry brush technique was used to highlight all the beautiful textures.

Prima Art Alchemy Paints & Silks Acrylic Glazes were used for this.

They provided such a rich sheen. I used lots of colours, they blended really well. 

To lighten the background I used Pure Sunshine, Emperor's Gold & Fresh Orange.

The horse was dry brushed with Metallique Black Berry & Steampunk Copper, which really highlighted the Sand Textue Paste.

The leaves & Rocker were painted with Emerald Green, Olive Green, Rich Turquoise & highlighted with Gold & Copper.  Roses in Metallique Royal Red & Gold.

Here are some close up photos:

 It was difficult to take a photo of the closed box due to reflection on the window.

It is much clearer & brighter in real life.

This was quite a whimsical project, just made for fun.

Hope you like it too.

Deb Adams