Necklace bust makeover

by Patty Lakinsmith

If you do shows, and your necklace busts are worn and in need of replacing, you don't have to spring for an expensive, new set of busts just yet.  I want to share a project that I just completed that turned out great, and it didn't cost much.  There are loads of other ideas that could work for this purpose, but I chose this one because of what I had on hand.

Right now I'm moving toward more natural displays that complement the organic, nature-inspired style of my jewelry.  It's hard because I have no real talent in this area, but I was inspired by Kathy Frey's similar journey, and a woodsy-themed booth she once had.  Wood, water, moss and stone are the things that tend to capture my eye when hiking, and I decided to showcase my jewelry among those elements.

I decoupaged my fabric covered busts with several layers of tissue paper (using Mod Podge), followed by several layers of handmade paper I had made several years ago after taking a really fun paper making class with local artist Jeanne Tillman.  The paper encapsulated dried flowers and seeds from my garden, and some was tinted with spices from my kitchen, such as turmeric.  I also made over my black leatherette (and one black velvet) busts with spray on faux stone (a textured paint, actually).

I think this new piece (SOLD) would have faded into dark oblivion on a black bust.

I took them for a trial run at the Sacramento Arts Festival this past weekend, and I liked the effect.  Moss sheeting covered a wooden tray, and lined the compartments of a glass case, and I had a few faux moss-covered rocks (styrofoam) that proved irresistible for browsers.  I think I'll put a tin cup out there with a sign to "Pet my rock for 5 cents" or something - it was quite entertaining.

But there is much left to improve on.  That banner, the lights I completely forgot for the front corner of the booth, the 2 PVC table risers that were a larger diameter than the others and caused my side table to leeeeeean (wooden shims are a very handy thing to keep in your show bins).  But I'm glad I didn't have to go out and buy new busts. 

P.S.  I was ecstatic to learn that Kathy Frey was exhibiting at the Sacramento Arts Festival last weekend too, and ran over to her booth the first day to introduce myself.  Her work is incredible, and so graceful, and I enjoyed chatting with her a few times over the weekend.  If you haven't read her blog, you're in for a treat.

Have you done any art projects for your booth?   Little creative touches that set your booth apart from the others?