Columbia!

Before the United States fell in love with the Statue of Liberty as the feminine icon of our nation, we had another “best girl”. Her name was “Columbia” which honored Christopher Columbus. She is mentioned as early as the 1730’s. A great number of towns, ships and buildings were named for her. She appeared on packaging and lent her name to our nation’s capital and even to a movie studio! So, as Independence Day draws near let’s create a tribute to Uncle Sam’s first love…Columbia.

 

Instructions:

1. Select your background substrate.  I used a 9″x12″ canvas board.  The actual size of your background will depend upon the photo mat you use in your project.  You should plan to have at least 1/2″ to 1-1/2″ beyond your mat for your decorations.  Color the edges of the background board with ink or paint. I used a Metallic Gold paint dabber.

2. Cover the board with paper of your choice.

3. Measure the opening of your photo mat, and select and print out your image in a size that will allow some of the image to extend outside of the mat opening.  PW Royalty images are perfect for this as well as the new Genteel Lady 31/Sheet 309.  I used Royalty07.

4. Cut out image and ink edges, if desired.

5.  Attach the image to the mat.  Having it extend over the edges gives the figure depth.

6. Choose a background to fill the area behind the image. Glue it to the back of the mat, not to the figure itself.

7. Cut elements from the Salmugundi Patriotic sheets and play with them to find a pleasing arrangement around the figure. If you like, make rosettes from some of the long strips on the image sheets.

8. Attach the mat to the background board.Glue the elements around the mat opening and finish with decorative centers.

9. Punch holes about 1/2″ from the top edge and 1″ in from the sides. Thread hanging ribbon through holes and tie in a bow and hang in a prominent place!

Now, go have a happy and safe 4th of July!

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