Junk to Art WORKSHOP - creating unique stationary
Do you get weary of that mass of junk mail that comes to you every week? Here’s an idea to put some of that stuff to good use. Save flyers, postcards and envelopes from the deluge, and transform them into unique stationary to send to your friends and family.

In this age of electronic emails, texting and twittering, there is something special about a hand written letter on pretty stationary. Here’s how to do it:

NOTE: Shown above are 3 envelopes made with junk mail. The same technique can be applied to a typed (and printed) or hand written letter, such as along the bottom of the page or in one of the margins.

Collect what ever "junk"catches your eye. Printed letters, envelopes, flyers, postcards, catalogs, etc.

Gather your supplies: craft paints, brushes, crayons, colored pencils and glue. These items can be purchased inexpensively at any craft store, or you can raid your child's coloring box. Oh, don't forget scissors!

Apply paint in random strokes across the surfaces of the papers. Cover with enough paint to obscure the original image while letting part of the colors and text to show through for interest. Let dry. Add scribbles and marks using crayons and/or colored pencils.

Cut out shapes as desired from your new "art" papers. Arrange and glue the shapes to your letters and envelopes.

A sketch to use as a guide for cutting out shapes.