Plaster Pages

I can hear your reaction to the title of this posting. “Huh?!” or something close to that, right? Well, the answer is another on-line class, this one called Inspired By Lives and Letters with Lendon Noe. Find the class through Seattle artist Carla Sonheim.  Lendon Noe is a native of Jackson, Tennessee, and was a Professor of Art at Lambuth University. Her work includes painting, original prints, mixed media, and installation. This class with six lessons works with paper in many ways.

The first lesson included instructions for folding paper in two different ways to create an envelope. I will share one of those ways here a bit later.

But first, what is a plaster page? Simply put, it’s the application of plaster onto paper, forming a base for creating art. You could use Plaster Patch by DAP, mix your own plaster of paris, or use spackling compound from your local hardware store like I did. I used painter’s tape to secure Stonehenge printmaking paper cut 12″ x 12″ to a paper background (anything to protect your working surface will work here).  Using a putty knife, I applied the spackling compound. Covering the surface is the only goal — an uneven application is best. I left the plastered paper to dry over night. Then I painted the surface using watercolor paint and let that dry. Finally, I used walnut ink to draw on the surface. I like the varied sizes and shapes of the lines I created. I also splattered the ink on the surface to create a bit more interest. Click on an image for a larger view.

Then I cut it, creating 9 distinct pieces.

I left the border created by the painter’s tape to add another layer of interest to the individual pieces. These pieces are ready to use in any way desired. For instance: write a quote on the surface and a dedication to the recipient on the back; add additional paper(s) to the surface or…..your imagination is the limit here.

Now to the envelope. I have cut my plaster pages into 4″ squares specifically so they will fit easily inside the Regency fold envelope that Lendon shared in the class. Here I have used an 8 1/2″ x 11″ piece of copy paper. The long sides of the paper have been brought to meet each other in the center of the paper, then creased with a bone folder. Next, the bottom edge of the paper is brought up about 2/3 of the way and creased with the bone folder. You can see the fold lines in the photo here.

I have placed one of the plaster pages inside to demonstrate how nicely they fit inside the paper folds.

The final fold, which is the closure for the envelope, is created after the object is placed inside. It will take a bit of finagling at first, but you will get the hang of it. Take the top edge of the envelope and insert it into the bottom edge (which now covers the plaster page)  between the folds, persuading it into a secure position, then crease the edge with your finger and the bone folder, sharpening the edge.  Here is the envelope from the side:

During the 19th century and even before, a letter could be composed on paper, then folded in the Regency style and sealed with wax and the writer’s stamp. The same can happen today. Here, my plain-paper envelope sits on top of some decorative papers I have which are destined to become envelopes.

I love the simplicity and the possibility of this Regency envelope! I have wax and seals that will come out of the drawer now. Whether it is used as a folded letter, or a holder for a small piece of art, it’s inspiring. Imagine the delight of your recipient opening one of these envelopes.

A final note about the plaster pages: Because they are constructed of water-soluble materials, I will be sealing mine once I have made final additions to them. I’ll be using the product below but I’m sure you’ll find a product you like at your local art store.

Be strong. Be patient. Be kind.