GenCon 2014

We went to GenCon again this year and I took some more crafting classes.  I enjoyed each one this year.


Embellished Applique
-class description: Applique is a great way to quickly add shapes, texture, and spice to your fiber project. In this workshop we will use applique to create an image as well as learn techniques to embellish it.
-instructor: Many Falco (Indy Upcycle)

In this class I learned how to make different embroidery stitches and different techniques on how to add fabric to help create an image.  The class very open, creativity was welcomed and encouraged.  Many different colored materials were provided, and if you didn't finish in the duration of the class you were able to take what you need home.  I wasn't sure what to do for my composition.  I settled for some type of dragon applique and using stitches to represent flames.  I haven't completed it yet but I have a good start.



Etch 4 Tall Glasses with Geeky Designs
-class description: Turn 4 tall glasses into the perfect drinking vessel with symbols you choose. Choices include styles complementary to a variety of gaming and TV show themes, including Doctor Who, Magic The Gathering or Gen Con.
-instructor: Joe Rotella (Create & Craft, LLC)

 
   

 

 

I had a hard time getting clear photos,  the glasses were too reflective even with the blue water.  The technique was incredibly easy.  We used stencils and a non toxic reusable cream to etch the images onto the glass.   I just had to apply the stencil, put the cream on top, wait twenty minutes, scrap off cream, and then rinse the glass clean.  I choose Doctor Who images for one glass, Star Wars rebel and empire logos for another, a sun and a moon graphic for another, and a Gen Con text for the last one.



Poseable Baby Dragon Bracelet
-class description: Create a cute baby dragon you can wear. You will get everything you need to hand stitch your creature. The best part is, you can learn how it’s made to make more of your own.
-instructor: Many Falco (Indy Upcycle)

Unfortunately I can't find the finished project or a picture of it, I will add a photo when I find it. 

When I signed up for this class I wasn't sure how we were going to make this bracelet.  We used a resin head made by Mandy on an electric wire, thick and bendable.  We then taped foam around the wire to soft it.  Last we added fabric to give it color and texture, many different options were offered.   It's not the greatest looking thing but I can paint it and add some embellishments, also it would have cost more and taken more time to do this in the class.  It was fun to make and a great new technique to learn.

Creating and Using Custom Molds

-class description: Ever thought about reproducing something on a small scale? In this workshop we will make a custom silicone mold and experiment with different casting materials.
-instructor: Many Falco (Indy Upcycle)

 

In this class we learned about different kinds of silicone molds we can make.  We did a simple one so we would be able to complete within the class time.  I didn't realize we could bring something to imprint but luckily she had different objects we could use.  I choose this snowman pin.  We used a two part silicone with a fast dry time, around 5 minutes.  Then we used a two part resin that had about 15 minute dry time.  I learned a lot from this class and hope to make more.