Miami Pen Show Weekend

This past weekend I traveled to Miami to teach a Mail Art Workshop at the Miami Pen Show. The show and workshop were so much fun. I am so thankful for the opportunity. Per the request of several viewers, I took the time to vlog (video log) my three day trip. Below are daily videos highlighting the pen show as well as my love of family time, good food, and gardens. A big thank you to those who invited me to the show, attended the workshop, and filled my weekend with joy. 

Make Mail With Me: Painted Envelopes For Miami Pen Show

I've been getting several requests on my YouTube channel to post more process and DIY style videos. This week was the perfect time to give this a shot as I am hand painting envelopes to give away at the upcoming Miami Pen Show in July. If you are in the Miami area stop by the show and join me on July 16 at 2pm for a free Mail Art class. I'd love to see you there. 

Here's my first step by step process video for painting envelopes. For more information on materials used, please scroll to end of this post. If you like this style of video, please be sure to subscribe to my channel. Thank you. 

Materials Used:

For Layers - White Gesso, inexpensive acrylic paints and brushes, water-based sealer (I'm basically using up materials I have around the house. Honestly, I can't recommend any particular brands of these products at the moment because I'm trying out many things and still learning)

Pens and Ink - I used a combination of black and white pens, but for black I recommend the Sakura Micron pens. For white, I recommend the Uni-Ball Signo Broad Gel pens. I love both of these products and use them for multiple projects. 

Please be advised that some of the links provided are affiliate links and I do receive a small commission if you make a purchase using those links.  This does not cost you any extra when you make a purchase. Thank you for your support. 

Take Note: Upcoming Summer Paper Adventures

Summer is around the corner. Want some ideas for things to do? Here's a list of some adventures for my fellow paper lovers: 

• Enroll in a Letter Writers Alliance Initiative Response. As an LWA member, I have enrolled in the "Out of the Box" Initiative Response. I'll be on a mission all summer to complete three assigned tasks in order to be rewarded a new patch for my growing collection. Ever the Girl Scout, I'm a sucker for the patch reward system. I'll be sure to share updates. Stay tuned. 
• Attend a Midori Traveler's Notebook MeetUp. Find your tribe! These types of creative journaling meet ups and gatherings are popping up all over the place. Look for one in your area. Many are listed as Facebook events or on Meetup.com. I'll be attending this one happening in Tampa, FL. 
• Beat the heat with a Fountain Pen Show. Pen shows are a great way to learn more about fountain pens and meet other writing enthusiasts. There are several shows happening over the summer including the big one in Washington, DC. If you are in the south Florida area in mid July, I'll be teaching a Mail Art class at The Miami Pen Show. Check it out and come say hi. 
• #GetOutside with Letter Boxing. Heading to a local, state or national park this summer? Letter Boxing can make your adventure all the more fun. For more information on Letter Boxing check out the video I made earlier this year. 

Stay cool, have fun and continue to create.