How to make a gnome family

I thought it might be fun to share how I go about making a gnome family

But first, let me share that a year ago I would not have considered myself to be crafty creative at all

...seriously, not at all...

But somehow working with wood and letting little gnomies and their homes emerge...

...has got me all crafty-like *silly grin*

 

So... where do I start?

With a sanded piece of wood usually 

{or sometimes paper}

 

And I freehand on the gnome shape and go from there...

Just letting inspiration strike 

{or not, as the case may be}

When I am happy with my design I plug the wood burner in

and draw with it, like it is just a really hot, slightly dangerous pen

{well, as long as you are careful it really isn't dangerous *wink*}

Once the design is wood burned I get the scroll saw running

It is such a fun tool to use, although it did take me awhile to stop being afraid of it!

But now we are good friends, and I know the speed and tension it is happy to run with

{not too slow, middle of the range speed and a tension that provides a good twang}

Next up is sanding...

...if the item is larger than a bread plate I tend to start with the belt sander

and if it is smaller I will start with the dremmel

~ safety gear on ~

 

Sanding by hand is next up

A good task for while you are watching the kids

Or enjoying a good conversation

After the wood is nice and smooth it is time for painting!

I love this stage... choosing the colours and mixing the milk paint up

 

After a bit of trial and error, I have settled on using cheap eye makeup brushes

the foam works really nicely with milk paint and because they are small they are easier to manage

{and I really like the way the paint stains the wood, allowing the grain to show through}

Once the paint is dry {and this doesn't take long}

I heat up my wood polish, I use this tutorial to make it...

And massage it in with my hands

 

 

And then, they are done *smile*

Would you like me to share any more details? 

{this little family has gone to live with Triple T Mum}

Happy crafting,
Kelly