I just looked to see if this blog I thought I was going to write was still here, and was surprised to find it. I discovered I din't have much time to say anything much less have anything to say. Since the blog is here, guess I will think about using it for something!
I mentioned in my last post 6 years ago that I loved painting; I still do, but have hardly done much the last several years. I have, however, weeded down my patterns and a some books, but since many are new, it is rather disheartening to have to list them for much less than I paid for them. . Used ones I can understand, of course.
When I began decorative/tole painting, classes were always full and you had to sign up as soon as the sheets went up if you wanted in. Over the years the painters' numbers began to dwindle, and there were fewer classes available . It's sad, really, but understandable. Classes were mostly female, many in the day, and over the last 15 years it seems to me that more & more women are working as well as raising a family, and cannot attend in the day, and are probably too busy & tired at night to haul their supplies to a craft store, shop, or someone's home to paint for a couple of hours. I am hoping those interested are painting at home when they can. Most painting magazines are no longer published, but there are books & patterns on the internet , so sources are still out there. Craft stores still carry paint and other supplies, as well as the stores on line.
If interested, I would suggest visiting the Society of Decorative Painters on line. There are sources there, as well as information on local Chapters (you may be near one!) and information on teachers, conventions, where to get supplies, etc.. If you decide to join, you will receive 4 absolutely beautiful magazine issues that are stuffed with information & lessons. There is also the annual Convention issue that shows classes available, accommodation suggestions, entertainment & restaurants available, etc..
I also was oil painting, and there are teachers out there, too. A rather interesting thing has happened in the last couple of years; I have no idea who-how-when it started, but there are some bars / lounges
that are offering wine & a painting class on some evenings...they say you will have a completed oil painting when the lesson and evening is over. Maybe they offer that combo where you are, too.
Hmmm, guess I found something to write about tonight, anyway!
