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A few years ago I became interested in Parchment Craft, which dates back to the 14th -- 15th centuries, prior to the printing press. What really drew me to this craft is the versatility and combinations of techniques used. A single card may include embossing, perforating, cutting, dorsing (coloring with oil based crayons), pen & ink, magic markers, acrylic paints, colored pencils (dry or water based), watercolors. I think you get the drift. :-) The possibilities of combining techniques are endless. Don't forget to check out the galleries to see exactly what I mean. :-) The history of Parchment Craft dates back to the 14th or 15th century, beginning in Europe and the Netherlands where the Catholicism was most prominent. It began with communion and devotional pictures, all done by hand. Biblical themes were most often portrayed. A change in the style of parchment cards was seen 19th century Paris, where they became more romantic and personal. Embossing, creating the raised effect, was added. Machines were creating borders and perforations. Parchment craft is enjoying a revival today, with cards, wall hangings, and other decorative pieces (such as lamp shades, gift boxes/bags, ornaments, etc.) all done by hand. To receive a handmade card is to truly receive a labor of love. There are several styles, as well as companies that provide tools and patterns, you can find some of them in the ParchmentLinks page. (Please note that I have found varying accounts to this, I have given you the sequence of events that I have seen portrayed most often.) |
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