I've been inspired by the idea of using natural objects as stamps. One afternoon, Kinsey and I did a little experimenting in the studio with different fruits and veggies. Here are the results-
The technique could not be more simple, you chop fruits and veggies and then use them as stamps. We used acrylic paint and a brayer to roll paint on to our stamps. I've wanted to make an apple stamped pillow set (think Autumn decor) or possibly even a dress for a while and I was really pleased with how the prints looked using small granny smith apples.
We chopped the seed area out to define the shape more.
We tried making a flower stamp with an artichoke, but I wasn't blown away by the results (the imprint was very weak). Next, we tried the same concept with the leftover celery stock and it worked really well.
I liked the simple, geometric repeat pattern that this piece of celery created.
Potatoes can be used to create almost any simple shape. I like these natural patterns.
After experimenting with different produce and colors I wanted to make a wearable project. I chose the celery because I liked the small and simple design. I used gold Martha Stewart all surface craft paint with fabric medium mixed in. Here's the final product...
That was fun! Have you tried any other natural stamping methods that you loved? I would like to try a version with dye instead of paint next time. xo, elsie
I think the apple print looks a little too, erm, anatomical for me!
Posted by: Amy | August 20, 2012 at 09:18 PM
My mom is a preschool teacher. Every year around Valentine's Day she takes a whole celery bunch and stamps with the but of it. Imagine having your celery bunch then chopping off most of the stalks. You are then left with this hunk at the end. It makes adorable flowers....:)
Posted by: Jill | August 20, 2012 at 09:23 PM
its perfect! this would make a great Christmas gift too!
Posted by: amanda (simplemittens) | August 20, 2012 at 09:24 PM
I love the idea of using them on scarves. I have a scarf addiction- this would be a great way of adding my own touches. Thanks for such a cool idea!
Posted by: Rebecca | August 20, 2012 at 09:25 PM
I used to to this when I was a kid as part of our school's projuect :)
Posted by: Aryame | August 20, 2012 at 09:25 PM
I love this idea. I am addicted to scarves and this would be such a great way of adding my own touches to my collection. Thanks for such a cool idea!
http://www.rebeccaprato.com/blog/
Posted by: Rebecca | August 20, 2012 at 09:28 PM
I like this idea a lot! Now the only problem is how confused my parents will be when they come home in the afternoon to find me stamping things with celery.
Posted by: Elizabeth M | August 20, 2012 at 09:30 PM
Oh back in high school, I was using apples to stamp in art class and I, like the idiot I was, forgot to put my apron on and I dropped the apple and it rolled down my favorite jacket leaving green pain all over it. It essentially ruined it. But I later covered the stains with star patches so it worked out alright. Very cute idea just don't be stupid like me and forget to wear an apron...or take nice jackets off before you mess with paint. -.- Your stamping however came out really pretty.
Posted by: Kimmy | August 20, 2012 at 09:33 PM
you're amazing! definitely doing this with my class + ill be making myself a custom scarf!
Posted by: amanda | August 20, 2012 at 09:34 PM
The scarf turned out so awesome!! So cute and unique :)
xoxo Sarah
theantiquepearl.blogspot.com
Posted by: Sarah | August 20, 2012 at 09:41 PM
Would love to try this!
http://stainsofpaint.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Viveca Johansen | August 20, 2012 at 09:58 PM
What a great idea! I've seen a bit of DIY stamping and printing floating around on the web and it seems like a really inexpensive way to add a bit of pizzazz. I think I need to give this one a go!
Posted by: Jess | August 20, 2012 at 10:14 PM
I think about this every time I cut celery down to the stalk, thanks for posting! I love the scarf idea...definitely going on my home-made Christmas gift making idea list! :)
Posted by: Ani | August 20, 2012 at 10:17 PM
Super cute! :)
Posted by: LARY @ Inspiration Nook | August 20, 2012 at 10:33 PM
omygosh! that's so cool. a new way to use old vegetables.
http://withlove-janeen.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Janeen Mickayla | August 20, 2012 at 10:42 PM
OMG - the celery stamped scarf is too darling! LOVE it! Where do you come up with this stuff?
XOXO
-Daisy Nguyen from PS BANANAS fashion blog:
http://psbananas.com
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Posted by: Daisy Nguyen | August 20, 2012 at 10:53 PM
You could also carve designs in the veggies. Love this.
www.suspironews.blogspot.com
Posted by: Betsy | August 20, 2012 at 11:38 PM
Hello,
I just stumbled upon your blog yesterday and it's my new favorite. You two are adorable!
Posted by: Jessica | August 20, 2012 at 11:39 PM
That's sooo nice! I like it!
www.ireneccloset.com
Posted by: Irene's closet | August 20, 2012 at 11:43 PM
That is so creative! I love the scarf idea, I want to try that now! Thanks for sharing!
Shera
http://simplyshera.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Shera | August 20, 2012 at 11:50 PM